How to protect your home

7/12/2022 (Permalink)

• Increase grade:  The earth around the home should be sloped away from the house to divert water away. Very simply, borrow earth from three feet away from the structure, and toss it against the side of the house thus creating the slope.
• Clean rain gutters:  Schedule a licensed professional to clean gutters annually. A clogged rain gutter can send water cascading down the exterior wall, which can result in water entering the interior walls.
• Divert down spouts: In a quick run to the local hardware store, homeowners can find a black, plastic corrugated 6-inch hose that fits around the base of the downspout. This device carries water away from the house, preventing it from seeping down into the foundation.
• Roof maintenance: Where rain is concerned, the roof is the first line of defense. One small tear in a rubber membrane or crack in a tin roof, or compromise in the plywood structure of the roof can prove disastrous for the entire interior of the home. But regular maintenance can preserve the life of the roof. Have a roofer check out your home every five years.
• Window repairs:  Proper window installation and maintenance is imperative. Modern windows are fitted with wells and drains designed to help direct water outside the house. Improper caulking can prove disastrous by sending water into the house that should be draining away from the window.
• Sweep away debris:  Especially during spring and fall seasons, when the area’s great trees emit pollen in tumble weed fashion and drop their leaves in mass, it is critical to diligently sweep outdoor surfaces weekly, especially patios and door wells to prevent the collection of debris clogging exterior drains

Do you know what to do if a pipe breaks?

7/7/2022 (Permalink)

A broken pipe, and the water damage cleanup it causes is a nightmare for every homeowner or office manager.  Even a broken sink pipe with a small amount of water can do significant damage in a short -period of time.  Do you know what to do?

The first thing that you should do is find the source of the water damage and stop the flow of additional water from entering your home.  The more water the bigger the water damage cleanup and more extensive the problem.  It's easy to figure out when you've left a faucet on or the supply line on the toilet broke. What if you have a broken pipe that has burst that can’t be seen, you must turn off the water supply to your home as quickly as possible.  The water main is often in your front yard under a cement plate designated “Water”. 

 Then call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest to begin the mitigation. 559-261-9765

Thunder Storm Safety

7/7/2022 (Permalink)

A thunderstorm is considered severe if it produces hail at least 1 inch in diameter or has wind gusts of at least 58 miles per hour. Every thunderstorm produces lightning, which kills more people each year than tornadoes or hurricanes. Heavy rain from thunderstorms can cause flash flooding, and high winds can damage homes and blow down trees and utility poles, causing widespread power outages.

Know the Difference

Severe Thunderstorm Watch - Severe thunderstorms are possible in and near the watch area. Stay informed and be ready to act if a severe thunderstorm warning is issued.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning - Severe weather has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar. Warnings indicate imminent danger to life and property.

Every year people are killed or seriously injured by severe thunderstorms despite advance warning. While some did not hear the warning, others heard the warning and did not pay attention to it. The information in this section, combined with timely watches and warnings about severe weather, may help save lives.

What to do until help arrives

7/7/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage on property can happen from blocked drains, broken pipes, malfunctioning appliances, storms, sewage backups and flood waters. In every scenario, the nature of the damage will dictate the appropriate treatment. But whatever the cause of the water damage, the promise of restoration will depend largely on the speed with which the premises and personal property can be dried. Some emergency restoration services may be carried out by property owners themselves until professional help arrives.

• Remember that water does not have to be contaminated to cause damage but that even clean water can generate mildew, mold and other bacterial growth if neglected. Therefore, it becomes very important to ventilate the wet areas as soon as possible. The safest way of doing this is to open all windows for maximum airflow. This will help remove some of the moisture and circulate air around the premises.
• Shut off the electrical supply to the affected area to prevent the risk of electrical hazards such as getting electrocuted.
• Carefully start removing standing water from flat surfaces by sponging, mopping or blotting. When doing so, it is absolutely crucial to wear protective covering especially if the water is contaminated. This includes rubber gloves, boots as well as face masks. Remove saturated rugs, carpets and other porous materials. In case of clean water, carpets may be saved when cleaned and disinfected professionally but will need to be discarded if water damage is from contaminated water.
• Open drawers and cabinet doors for interior drying without forcing to open any stuck surfaces.
• A useful tip is to freeze important documents and books to retard mildew growth until proper drying can be performed.
• Call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest to help.

When a storm hits call FRESNO or Clovis SERVPRO

7/7/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of  Fresno Northwest 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 Fresno or Clovis, 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 are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest, 559-261-9765

When a storm hits call FRESNO or Clovis SERVPRO

7/7/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of  Fresno Northwest 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 Fresno or Clovis, 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 are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest, 559-261-9765

What you can do to help

7/7/2022 (Permalink)

• Increase grade:  The earth around the home should be sloped away from the house to divert water away. Very simply, borrow earth from three feet away from the structure, and toss it against the side of the house thus creating the slope.
• Clean rain gutters:  Schedule a licensed professional to clean gutters annually. A clogged rain gutter can send water cascading down the exterior wall, which can result in water entering the interior walls.
• Divert down spouts: In a quick run to the local hardware store, homeowners can find a black, plastic corrugated 6-inch hose that fits around the base of the downspout. This device carries water away from the house, preventing it from seeping down into the foundation.
• Roof maintenance: Where rain is concerned, the roof is the first line of defense. One small tear in a rubber membrane or crack in a tin roof, or compromise in the plywood structure of the roof can prove disastrous for the entire interior of the home. But regular maintenance can preserve the life of the roof. Have a roofer check out your home every five years.
• Window repairs:  Proper window installation and maintenance is imperative. Modern windows are fitted with wells and drains designed to help direct water outside the house. Improper caulking can prove disastrous by sending water into the house that should be draining away from the window.
• Sweep away debris:  Especially during spring and fall seasons, when the area’s great trees emit pollen in tumble weed fashion and drop their leaves in mass, it is critical to diligently sweep outdoor surfaces weekly, especially patios and door wells to prevent the collection of debris clogging exterior drains.

How to beat the heat

6/27/2022 (Permalink)

The Fresno heat can be unbearable during the summertime.  Here are some helpful tips and advice from SERVPRO to help stay cool during those hot days!

1. Plan time inside:

-Go to lunch with a friend in a cooled restaurant

-Walk through the mall

-Check out the Fresno Art Museum

-See a movie!

2. Stay covered:

-Find a place to relax under a tree

-Use an umbrella when walking outdoors

-Use fans

3. Hydrate properly:

-Drink water every 15 minutes

-6-12oz at a time to total at least a gallon of water a day

4. Stay near water:

-If a pool is not accessible at your home, find a local public pool

-Take a short drive to Millerton Lake

5. Recognizing signs of heat illness:

-Profuse/excess sweating

-Confusion or mumbling

-Chills or feeling cold

-Vomiting

*Never take signs lightly, illnesses can increase drastically and become life threatening. Seek medical attention immediately

SERVPRO'S quick response to water damage

6/27/2022 (Permalink)

If water damage of any kind has occurred in your home, it is important to take action as soon as possible. When it comes to plaster and drywall becoming wet, some problems arise. Mold growth can begin, framing wood splits and swells, and the structural integrity of your home weakens. Even if you see just minor bubbling, spots, or peeling, you want to move fast, so the problem does not become much larger.
 
When you need water removal in your Fresno home, no wall is safe from damages that can occur if they got wet during the disaster. In particular, drywall is at risk to weaken and even collapse. It also many times needs to be replaced, as it is not always repairable. The structure around drywall can also be affected in cases where the damage is severe.
 
SERVPRO, a professional water removal and restoration company, is always standing by to help when you need. In a situation that involves water, we understand that time is of the essence and arrive at your home quickly so we can assess the damages and begin cleanup right away.
 
Water ruins plaster as well. It is not resistant to dampness and therefore is easily affected. It is fortunately easy to remove and replace when needed. 
 
At SERVPRO, we also check any brickwork in your home for signs of water damage. If it has not been correctly sealed, the porous cement used can absorb excess water and start crumbling. If it has been compromised, we extract the water before we repair it.
 
To extract the water from the various surfaces and walls, we bring in industrial strength equipment including truck-mounted pumps, dehumidifiers, moisture meters to find hidden water in your walls, and fans. After the standing water is out we take care of placing the equipment around the affected areas to ensure optimal drying time.
 
SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest is experienced in finding hidden water damage inside walls. If your home or business has suffered from a water disaster, contact us right away at (559) 261-9765 so we can extract the water and thoroughly dry and repair what is necessary

We'll get the water out

6/27/2022 (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 Fresno Northwest is experienced in helping business owners and managers bring their businesses back from disaster, no matter how large or small the business. 
 
In Fresno businesses affect by commercial 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 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 Fresno Northwest to help.

We'll Get The Water Out!

5/18/2022 (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 Fresno Northwest is experienced in helping business owners and managers bring their businesses back from disaster, no matter how large or small the business. 
 
In Fresno businesses affect by commercial 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 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 Fresno Northwest to help.

Picking up after a Fire

5/18/2022 (Permalink)

Your own and your family’s emotional care and recovery are just as important as rebuilding a home and healing physical injuries. You may be surprised at how you and others may feel after a disaster. Disasters can stir up many different feelings and thoughts. People may experience fear concerning their safety or that of a loved one, shock, disbelief, grief, anger and guilt. Memory problems, anxiety and/or depression are also possible after experiencing a disaster. Disasters are upsetting experiences for everyone involved. Children, senior citizens, people with disabilities and people for whom English is not their first language are especially at risk. Children may become afraid, and some elderly people may seem disoriented at first. People with disabilities may require additional assistance. It is important to let children and elderly people know that they are safe and that you will help them find a safe place to stay. It is also important that you try to talk with them in a calm way.

Call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest to take care of all the cleanup 559-261-9765

Faster to Any Size Disaster

3/29/2022 (Permalink)

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  Fresno Northwest arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 559-261-9765

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.

What to do when there's a fire

3/29/2022 (Permalink)

• Know how to safely operate a fire extinguisher. 
• Remember to GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL 9-1-1 or your local emergency phone number.
• Yell "Fire!" several times and go outside right away. If you live in a building with elevators, use the stairs. Leave all your things where they are and save yourself.
• If closed doors or handles are warm or smoke blocks your primary escape route, use your second way out. Never open doors that are warm to the touch.
• If you must escape through smoke, get low and go under the smoke to your exit. Close doors behind you.
• If smoke, heat or flames block your exit routes, stay in the room with doors closed. Place a wet towel if possible under the door and call the fire department or 9-1-1. Open a window and wave a brightly colored cloth or flashlight to signal for help.
• Once you are outside, go to your meeting place and then send one person to call the fire department. If you cannot get to your meeting place, follow your family emergency communication plan.

Results Matter

2/7/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest understands your situation as a Insurance agent, adjustor or Property Manager. It is your responsibility to keep claim cost down while still providing the best services to your customers. SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest is uniquely qualified to help. Our results create a measurable difference, giving you many competitive advantages, including:

Emergency response, electronic Commerce to provide information and proof of results.

Call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest, the Mitigation Company you can trust.

Restoring your Fresno Commercial Property after a Flood

2/7/2022 (Permalink)

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

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

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

About SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest

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

Commercial Fire Loss

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

Unfortunately, late one night there was a fire at a local sandwich shop in Clovis, California. The fire ended up being caused by a stove that was left on accidently by an employee. The fire caused the sprinkler system to go off, which caused the water damage. 

SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest received the call at 11:30 am and was on site within 30 minutes.  SERVPRO worked alongside the employees to clean up as much as possible the night the loss occurred. A complete cleaning of the kitchen area was performed. Which included wiping down all walls, ceilings, floors, counters, shelves, and any contents that were affected during the loss.  It took three SERVPRO employees four hours to clean the kitchen. After inspection from the health authority, they were up and running “Like it never even happened.”

Don't forget...

SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any size disaster. Our highly trained technicians can respond immediately to your residential or commercial emergency.

• Highly trained Technicians

• 24- hours services 

• Faster to Any Size Disaster

• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry

• Locally Owned and Operated

• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment

Fire Damage Restoration

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

Fire engulfs an automotive supply shop, destroying inventory consisting of mainly shocks, struts, starters, alternators, and batteries. The fire ignited due to a chemical container failure affecting surrounding items. 
 
You may think that fire damage like this would put them out of business, but you'd be wrong. Replacing inventory is relatively easy, the hard decision here is locating a quality company to perform the services you need to restore the structure of your building. There are several unique challenges faced during different fire situations, and we have experience dealing with all of them.
 
SERVPRO technicians overcome various cleaning challenges, daily. A burning building consists of several complex reactions between different elements. We learn that fire damage presents different cleaning and restoration situations that depend greatly on how these different elements interact during the progress of a fire. When dealing with the removal of smoke residues, we consider several factors. 
 
Type - More porous surfaces allow particles and odors to penetrate further and are harder to clean. Non-porous surfaces such as those covered in enamel paint are easier to clean than a flat latex paint would be. While synthetic fibers attract more residue than natural fibers, synthetics are easier to clean. 
 
Age - As time progresses, old paint, fabrics, and carpeting become more porous, and adhesion to surfaces become weaker, making old surfaces harder to clean. 
 
Heat - Generally, hotter fires make surfaces expand, allowing residue and odors to penetrate more efficiently. While heat also chars materials or melts the finish on a surface, making refinishing required to restore the surface properly. 
 
Moisture - The right conditions help residues set faster and permanently stain surfaces. Fire suppression systems and Firefighting efforts, along with damp weather and normal condensation on various surfaces combine with smoke residues, causing surfaces to become discolored. 
 
Material - Different materials produce different kinds of residues. Synthetic materials such as plastics and rubber create a wet, smeary residue that stains surfaces. Wood and other natural materials leave behind a dry residue that is easier to clean. 
 
Air Pressure - As the temperature of fire increases, air expands, creating pressure systems that force smoke and soot into cracks and crevices. 
 
Impingement - During a fire, the surrounding air becomes hotter, causing increased movement. This fast-moving air collides with surfaces throughout the structure, causing residues to collide with vertical surfaces, leaving behind more difficult stains. 
 
With knowledge of these different factors that cause changes during a fire event, SERVPRO technicians work hard to deliver the services you need to restore your business to a quality preloss condition. 
 
Contact SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest 559-261-9765

The Effects of Biohazards

1/25/2022 (Permalink)

Untreated biohazards and residues found on your property put your family in danger, while also posing serious threats to the structure of your home. Human waste, bodily fluids, animals, insects, and hoarding can all result in costly repairs.

The results of biohazards on your Fresno property can make biohazard cleanup services vital to your houses recovery. It may be hard to imagine, or something you want to avoid altogether. However, when decomposition begins, whether it is from an accidental refrigerator mishap, or a case involving unattended death, nature takes over.
 
Corrosion leads to damages; damages lead to rot; rot leads to corrosion, and the circle continues. Animal droppings often contain various types of acid, including human feces, while animal and human urine contain varying amounts of ammonia. These chemicals often lead to additional damages, especially when left unattended for too long.
 
Simply having a pet or accidental deposits on your property does not pose much of a problem, they are something you can clean up yourselves. However, when you consider situations concerning the unattended death of a pet hoarder, sewer backups, or instances of massive animal infestations, the effects become more of a concern. 
 
SERVPRO responds to the hoarding and it can be the most damaging to the structure of your home. Hoarding gives way to circumstances involving neglect and decay, exposing your home to rodent infestation, rotten food sources, sanitation issues, and critical fire hazards.  
 
SERVPRO’s biohazard cleanup team consists of everything from a crime scene to sewage overflow. These cause odors and stains to become a huge problem. Getting rid of these odors often involves removing the source, leading to reconstruction, cleaning, and deodorization services in order to get the job done right.  
 
Expertly trained technicians at SERVPRO deal with many cases involving biohazard cleanup. Our technicians train hard and receive quality corporate certifications to ensure you get the help necessary to return your home to a quality pre-damage condition. As part of our community, we strive to relieve the trauma and emotional stress of our neighbors, as we restore the property.
 
Get the help you need today and call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest for assistance with biohazards on your property, we are here to help. (559) 261-9765

Water Damage in our Fresno Commercial Building

1/25/2022 (Permalink)

As a small shop owner, you would benefit from taking a little time to educate yourself about the information and services that our company provides concerning commercial water damage restoration. Doing so could mean the difference between getting the services that you need to save a majority of your inventory from total loss and obtaining the incorrect services that simply don't do you any good. 

Our professional technicians will make sure that you are properly informed throughout your repair and work hard to get it done right. It is our goal to limit any possible downtime and inconvenience to your daily customers. 

• 24-hour emergency services
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• Highly Trained Water Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Water Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Water Inspection, Extraction, and Drying Equipment

Winter Storms

12/15/2021 (Permalink)

Winter storms can range from a moderate snow over a few hours to a blizzard with blinding, wind-driven snow that lasts for several days. Some winter storms are large enough to affect several states, while others affect only a single community. Many winter storms are accompanied by dangerously low temperatures and sometimes by strong winds, icing, sleet and freezing rain.

Regardless of the severity of a winter storm, you should be prepared in order to remain safe during these events.

Know the Difference

Winter Storm Outlook - Winter storm conditions are possible in the next 2 to 5 days.

Winter Weather Advisory - Winter weather conditions are expected to cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous. When caution is used, these situations should not be life threatening. 

Winter Storm Watch - Winter storm conditions are possible within the next 36 to 48 hours. People in a watch area should review their winter storm plans and stay informed about weather conditions. 

Winter Storm Warning - Life-threatening, severe winter conditions have begun or will begin within 24 hours. People in a warning area should take precautions immediately.

Trust SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest for your restoration needs. 

Why SERVPRO for mold damage.

12/15/2021 (Permalink)

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

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce health effects.
• 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.

How does an ozone eliminate odors?

11/29/2021 (Permalink)

Ozone reacts with odor molecules by transferring the “extra” oxygen atom of the ozone molecule to the odor molecule, changing its composition so it no longer has the same chemical makeup. This chemical reaction is called oxidation. In a nutshell, through the oxidation process, what was formerly an odor-causing molecule is now an entirely different compound, and therefore does not possess the odor of its preceding form. To compare the difference between odor treatment using deodorizers and ozone, pretend we have two foul smelling odor molecules, think of them as two bad guys. Let’s treat the first bad guy with a spray-on deodorizer. This can be represented by locking him in a jail cell so he can’t affect anybody or anything. He is harmless, but he is still a bad guy. Once he is released, he can be a bad guy again…or in our case a stinky odor molecule.

Now let’s take the second bad guy and treat him with ozone. During the oxidation process, his very molecular structure is altered; he is no longer the same thing. This can be represented by waving a magic wand and “poof-he’s a rabbit”! Since the bad guy has been turned into something completely different/harmless, he can no longer be a bad guy-he is now a permanent rabbit, or in our case, a molecule without an unpleasant odor.

Do you have an odor molecule? Don’t despair, call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest 559-261-9765.

Commercial Business

11/10/2021 (Permalink)

Fire engulfs an automotive supply shop, destroying inventory consisting of mainly shocks, struts, starters, alternators, and batteries. The fire ignited due to a chemical container failure affecting surrounding items. 
 
You may think that fire damage like this would put them out of business, but you'd be wrong. Replacing inventory is relatively easy, the hard decision here is locating a quality company to perform the services you need to restore the structure of your building. There are several unique challenges faced during different fire situations, and we have experience dealing with all of them.
 
SERVPRO technicians overcome various cleaning challenges, daily. A burning building consists of several complex reactions between different elements. We learn that fire damage presents different cleaning and restoration situations that depend greatly on how these different elements interact during the progress of a fire. When dealing with the removal of smoke residues, we consider several factors. 
 
Type - More porous surfaces allow particles and odors to penetrate further and are harder to clean. Non-porous surfaces such as those covered in enamel paint are easier to clean than a flat latex paint would be. While synthetic fibers attract more residue than natural fibers, synthetics are easier to clean. 
 
Age - As time progresses, old paint, fabrics, and carpeting become more porous, and adhesion to surfaces become weaker, making old surfaces harder to clean. 
 
Heat - Generally, hotter fires make surfaces expand, allowing residue and odors to penetrate more efficiently. While heat also chars materials or melts the finish on a surface, making refinishing required to restore the surface properly. 
 
Moisture - The right conditions help residues set faster and permanently stain surfaces. Fire suppression systems and Firefighting efforts, along with damp weather and normal condensation on various surfaces combine with smoke residues, causing surfaces to become discolored. 
 
Material - Different materials produce different kinds of residues. Synthetic materials such as plastics and rubber create a wet, smeary residue that stains surfaces. Wood and other natural materials leave behind a dry residue that is easier to clean. 
 
Air Pressure - As the temperature of fire increases, air expands, creating pressure systems that force smoke and soot into cracks and crevices. 
 
Impingement - During a fire, the surrounding air becomes hotter, causing increased movement. This fast moving air collides with surfaces throughout the structure, causing residues to collide with vertical surfaces, leaving behind more difficult stains. 
 
With knowledge of these different factors that cause changes during a fire event, SERVPRO technicians work hard to deliver the services you need to restore your business to a quality preloss condition. 
 
Contact SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest 559-261-9765

Start your week with this news

11/10/2021 (Permalink)

Imagine you had a great weekend. You & your family went on a quick getaway trip. You walk into the office, and squish squish is what you hear under your feet. Oh no….. there is water EVERYWHERE! It appears a pipe busted, & by the amount of water, it didn’t just happen. No fear SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest to the rescue. Our team of highly trained professionals at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest has the expertise that is needed to restore small, midsize, and large commercial size buildings to their pre-flood waters condition. The training that our team receives, and the equipment that we use can get these jobs done effectively and efficiently so that there will be no unnecessary delays.  Here is some information about our commercial water damage clean up restoration services.

When a Storm Hits.

9/27/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of  Fresno Northwest 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 weather your in Fresno and Clovis, or in the mountains of Oakhurst and Coarsgold, 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 are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest, 559-261-9765

Winter is Coming

9/27/2021 (Permalink)

Winter storms can range from a moderate snow over a few hours to a blizzard with blinding, wind-driven snow that lasts for several days. Some winter storms are large enough to affect several states, while others affect only a single community. Many winter storms are accompanied by dangerously low temperatures and sometimes by strong winds, icing, sleet and freezing rain.

Regardless of the severity of a winter storm, you should be prepared in order to remain safe during these events.

Know the Difference

Winter Storm Outlook - Winter storm conditions are possible in the next 2 to 5 days.

Winter Weather Advisory - Winter weather conditions are expected to cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous. When caution is used, these situations should not be life threatening. 

Winter Storm Watch - Winter storm conditions are possible within the next 36 to 48 hours. People in a watch area should review their winter storm plans and stay informed about weather conditions. 

Winter Storm Warning - Life-threatening, severe winter conditions have begun or will begin within 24 hours. People in a warning area should take precautions immediately.

Trust SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest for your restoration needs. 

How to protect your home

9/27/2021 (Permalink)

• Increase grade:  The earth around the home should be sloped away from the house to divert water away. Very simply, borrow earth from three feet away from the structure, and toss it against the side of the house thus creating the slope.
• Clean rain gutters:  Schedule a licensed professional to clean gutters annually. A clogged rain gutter can send water cascading down the exterior wall, which can result in water entering the interior walls.
• Divert down spouts: In a quick run to the local hardware store, homeowners can find a black, plastic corrugated 6-inch hose that fits around the base of the downspout. This device carries water away from the house, preventing it from seeping down into the foundation.
• Roof maintenance: Where rain is concerned, the roof is the first line of defense. One small tear in a rubber membrane or crack in a tin roof, or compromise in the plywood structure of the roof can prove disastrous for the entire interior of the home. But regular maintenance can preserve the life of the roof. Have a roofer check out your home every five years.
• Window repairs:  Proper window installation and maintenance is imperative. Modern windows are fitted with wells and drains designed to help direct water outside the house. Improper caulking can prove disastrous by sending water into the house that should be draining away from the window.
• Sweep away debris:  Especially during spring and fall seasons, when the area’s great trees emit pollen in tumble weed fashion and drop their leaves in mass, it is critical to diligently sweep outdoor surfaces weekly, especially patios and door wells to prevent the collection of debris clogging exterior drains

What to do if your office floods?

7/28/2021 (Permalink)

Imagine you had a great weekend. You & your family went on a quick getaway trip, maybe up to Bass Lake Ca., or Coarsegold Ca. peddlers fair. Come Monday morning you walk into the office, and squish squish is what you hear under your feet. Oh no….. there is water EVERYWHERE! It appears a pipe busted, & by the amount of water, it didn’t just happen. No fear SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest to the rescue. Our team of highly trained professionals at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest has the expertise that is needed to restore small, midsize, and large commercial size buildings to their pre-flood waters condition. The training that our team receives, and the equipment that we use can get these jobs done effectively and efficiently so that there will be no unnecessary delays. 

Fire Restoration For You

7/28/2021 (Permalink)

Having a fire event on your property can produce some pretty destructive and violent results. Regardless of how large or small the damage is, you never hear a property owner say that they are glad it happened to them. 
 
What you need is a team that can respond quickly to your request and start taking care of the fire damage to your Fresno property immediately. Our technicians arrive on site quickly and give you the benefit of having a company with certified technicians working for you. 
 
Due to the extensive damage received throughout the duration of a fire, professional restoration services is your best choice. Here at SERVPRO Fresno Northwest we make sure to return your home to a quality pre-damage condition in the quickest most efficient way possible. 
 
Heat alone does a significant amount of damage to your structure; it can warp your flooring and cause extensive damage. The contents of your home may be affected in various ways as well, requiring specialized item restoration services only available at SERVPRO. 
 
Smoke can reach into cracks and crevices throughout your home, leaving soot residues behind, staining surfaces and causing odors to damage a variety of materials within your home. We use different deodorization and cleaning methods specifically designed to return things back to normal quickly. 
 
SERVPRO gives you access to technicians with the experience and training required to present you with the quality services you need to make your fire damage disappear "Like it never even happened." 
 
We help you manage your insurance paperwork and communicate with your insurance company. Taking care of you and your family along the way to ensure a smooth restoration process. 
 
SERVPRO technicians can answer any questions you have about our services and only present you with those that you need. We have certified technicians to handle every aspect of your restoration.
 
Give us the opportunity to provide you with a unique solution to your problem by calling SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest today. (559) 261-9765

Who are we?

7/27/2021 (Permalink)

You may know us as the Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration Company. But did you know that there are over 20 services that we can provide. The team at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest is ready to help you at a moment’s notice 24/7/365.  A few of the other services that we provide include…

• Mold Mitigation

• Document Restoration

• Duct Cleaning

• Deodorization                  

• Reconstruction

• Vandalism Cleanup

• Forensic Remediation

• Storm Response

Our team here at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest can help you with whatever disaster that you may have. We are locally owned and operated, and ready to serve you.

Whether you are a homeowner, business owner, property manager, or first responder we are here for you. There is no disaster that is too large or too small that we can't handle. From our trained and uniformed crews to our professional restoration consultants, the cleanup team at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest is here to help make your disaster, "Like it never even happened." For more information on how we can help you be prepared or for a consultation please call us at (559) 261-9765

Restoring your commercial property

7/27/2021 (Permalink)

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

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

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

About SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest

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

Fire Damage

7/27/2021 (Permalink)

Fire engulfs an automotive supply shop, destroying inventory consisting of mainly shocks, struts, starters, alternators, and batteries. The fire ignited due to a chemical container failure affecting surrounding items. 
 
You may think that fire damage like this would put them out of business, but you'd be wrong. Replacing inventory is relatively easy, the hard decision here is locating a quality company to perform the services you need to restore the structure of your building. There are several unique challenges faced during different fire situations, and we have experience dealing with all of them.
 
SERVPRO technicians overcome various cleaning challenges, daily. A burning building consists of several complex reactions between different elements. We learn that fire damage presents different cleaning and restoration situations that depend greatly on how these different elements interact during the progress of a fire. When dealing with the removal of smoke residues, we consider several factors. 
 
Type - More porous surfaces allow particles and odors to penetrate further and are harder to clean. Non-porous surfaces such as those covered in enamel paint are easier to clean than a flat latex paint would be. While synthetic fibers attract more residue than natural fibers, synthetics are easier to clean. 
 
Age - As time progresses, old paint, fabrics, and carpeting become more porous, and adhesion to surfaces become weaker, making old surfaces harder to clean. 
 
Heat - Generally, hotter fires make surfaces expand, allowing residue and odors to penetrate more efficiently. While heat also chars materials or melts the finish on a surface, making refinishing required to restore the surface properly. 
 
Moisture - The right conditions help residues set faster and permanently stain surfaces. Fire suppression systems and Firefighting efforts, along with damp weather and normal condensation on various surfaces combine with smoke residues, causing surfaces to become discolored. 
 
Material - Different materials produce different kinds of residues. Synthetic materials such as plastics and rubber create a wet, smeary residue that stains surfaces. Wood and other natural materials leave behind a dry residue that is easier to clean. 
 
Air Pressure - As the temperature of fire increases, air expands, creating pressure systems that force smoke and soot into cracks and crevices. 
 
Impingement - During a fire, the surrounding air becomes hotter, causing increased movement. This fast moving air collides with surfaces throughout the structure, causing residues to collide with vertical surfaces, leaving behind more difficult stains. 
 
With knowledge of these different factors that cause changes during a fire event, SERVPRO technicians work hard to deliver the services you need to restore your business to a quality preloss condition. 
 
Contact SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest 559-261-9765

What can you do until help arrives.

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

• Increase grade:  The earth around the home should be sloped away from the house to divert water away. Very simply, borrow earth from three feet away from the structure, and toss it against the side of the house thus creating the slope.
• Clean rain gutters:  Schedule a licensed professional to clean gutters annually. A clogged rain gutter can send water cascading down the exterior wall, which can result in water entering the interior walls.
• Divert down spouts: In a quick run to the local hardware store, homeowners can find a black, plastic corrugated 6-inch hose that fits around the base of the downspout. This device carries water away from the house, preventing it from seeping down into the foundation.
• Roof maintenance: Where rain is concerned, the roof is the first line of defense. One small tear in a rubber membrane or crack in a tin roof, or compromise in the plywood structure of the roof can prove disastrous for the entire interior of the home. But regular maintenance can preserve the life of the roof. Have a roofer check out your home every five years.
• Window repairs:  Proper window installation and maintenance is imperative. Modern windows are fitted with wells and drains designed to help direct water outside the house. Improper caulking can prove disastrous by sending water into the house that should be draining away from the window.
• Sweep away debris:  Especially during spring and fall seasons, when the area’s great trees emit pollen in tumble weed fashion and drop their leaves in mass, it is critical to diligently sweep outdoor surfaces weekly, especially patios and door wells to prevent the collection of debris clogging exterior drains.

It's the water you do see.

7/13/2021 (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 Fresno Northwest 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. Your local SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest will answer your call with fast action and a full arsenal of drying equipment. From evasive & non-evasive moisture meters, air movers and dehumidifiers, too  Ultra Low-Volume (ULV) Foggers that  atomize liquid deodorizing agents, producing a fine mist that can easily penetrate the site where odor-causing residues may accumulate. This device can also be used to inject fungicides and disinfectants into wall cavities and other hard-to-reach areas.

When a storm hits Fresno or Clovis call SERVPRO!

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of  Fresno Northwest 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 Fresno or Clovis, 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 are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest, 559-261-9765

What to do until help arrives

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage on property can happen from blocked drains, broken pipes, malfunctioning appliances, storms, sewage backups and flood waters. In every scenario, the nature of the damage will dictate the appropriate treatment. But whatever the cause of the water damage, the promise of restoration will depend largely on the speed with which the premises and personal property can be dried. Some emergency restoration services may be carried out by property owners themselves until professional help arrives.

• Remember that water does not have to be contaminated to cause damage but that even clean water can generate mildew, mold and other bacterial growth if neglected. Therefore, it becomes very important to ventilate the wet areas as soon as possible. The safest way of doing this is to open all windows for maximum airflow. This will help remove some of the moisture and circulate air around the premises.
• Shut off the electrical supply to the affected area to prevent the risk of electrical hazards such as getting electrocuted.
• Carefully start removing standing water from flat surfaces by sponging, mopping or blotting. When doing so, it is absolutely crucial to wear protective covering especially if the water is contaminated. This includes rubber gloves, boots as well as face masks. Remove saturated rugs, carpets and other porous materials. In case of clean water, carpets may be saved when cleaned and disinfected professionally but will need to be discarded if water damage is from contaminated water.
• Open drawers and cabinet doors for interior drying without forcing to open any stuck surfaces.
• A useful tip is to freeze important documents and books to retard mildew growth until proper drying can be performed.
• Call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest to help.

Do you know what to do if a pipe breaks?

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

A broken pipe, and the water damage cleanup it causes is a nightmare for every homeowner or office manager.  Even a broken sink pipe with a small amount of water can do significant damage in a short -period of time.  Do you know what to do?

The first thing that you should do is find the source of the water damage and stop the flow of additional water from entering your home.  The more water the bigger the water damage cleanup and more extensive the problem.  It's easy to figure out when you've left a faucet on or the supply line on the toilet broke. What if you have a broken pipe that has burst that can’t be seen, you must turn off the water supply to your home as quickly as possible.  The water main is often in your front yard under a cement plate designated “Water”. 

 Then call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest to begin the mitigation. 559-261-9765

Thunder Storm Safety

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

A thunderstorm is considered severe if it produces hail at least 1 inch in diameter or has wind gusts of at least 58 miles per hour. Every thunderstorm produces lightning, which kills more people each year than tornadoes or hurricanes. Heavy rain from thunderstorms can cause flash flooding, and high winds can damage homes and blow down trees and utility poles, causing widespread power outages.

Know the Difference

Severe Thunderstorm Watch - Severe thunderstorms are possible in and near the watch area. Stay informed and be ready to act if a severe thunderstorm warning is issued.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning - Severe weather has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar. Warnings indicate imminent danger to life and property.

Every year people are killed or seriously injured by severe thunderstorms despite advance warning. While some did not hear the warning, others heard the warning and did not pay attention to it. The information in this section, combined with timely watches and warnings about severe weather, may help save lives.

SERVPRO's quick response to water damage

6/29/2021 (Permalink)

If water damage of any kind has occurred in your home, it is important to take action as soon as possible. When it comes to plaster and drywall becoming wet, some problems arise. Mold growth can begin, framing wood splits and swells, and the structural integrity of your home weakens. Even if you see just minor bubbling, spots, or peeling, you want to move fast, so the problem does not become much larger.
 
When you need water removal in your Fresno home, no wall is safe from damages that can occur if they got wet during the disaster. In particular, drywall is at risk to weaken and even collapse. It also many times needs to be replaced, as it is not always repairable. The structure around drywall can also be affected in cases where the damage is severe.
 
SERVPRO, a professional water removal and restoration company, is always standing by to help when you need. In a situation that involves water, we understand that time is of the essence and arrive at your home quickly so we can assess the damages and begin cleanup right away.
 
Water ruins plaster as well. It is not resistant to dampness and therefore is easily affected. It is fortunately easy to remove and replace when needed. 
 
At SERVPRO, we also check any brickwork in your home for signs of water damage. If it has not been correctly sealed, the porous cement used can absorb excess water and start crumbling. If it has been compromised, we extract the water before we repair it.
 
To extract the water from the various surfaces and walls, we bring in industrial strength equipment including truck-mounted pumps, dehumidifiers, moisture meters to find hidden water in your walls, and fans. After the standing water is out we take care of placing the equipment around the affected areas to ensure optimal drying time.
 
SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest is experienced in finding hidden water damage inside walls. If your home or business has suffered from a water disaster, contact us right away at (559) 261-9765 so we can extract the water and thoroughly dry and repair what is necessary.

How to Beat Fresno Heat!

6/29/2021 (Permalink)

The Fresno heat can be unbearable during the summertime.  Here are some helpful tips and advice from SERVPRO to help stay cool during those hot days!

1. Plan time inside:

-Go to lunch with a friend in a cooled restaurant

-Walk through the mall

-Check out the Fresno Art Museum

-See a movie!

2. Stay covered:

-Find a place to relax under a tree

-Use an umbrella when walking outdoors

-Use fans

3. Hydrate properly:

-Drink water every 15 minutes

-6-12oz at a time to total at least a gallon of water a day

4. Stay near water:

-If a pool is not accessible at your home, find a local public pool

-Take a short drive to Millerton Lake

5. Recognizing signs of heat illness:

-Profuse/excess sweating

-Confusion or mumbling

-Chills or feeling cold

-Vomiting

*Never take signs lightly, illnesses can increase drastically and become life threatening. Seek medical attention immediately.

We'll Get The Water Out!

6/24/2021 (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 Fresno Northwest is experienced in helping business owners and managers bring their businesses back from disaster, no matter how large or small the business. 
 
In Fresno businesses affect by commercial 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 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 Fresno Northwest to help.

Picking up the pieces after a fire.

6/24/2021 (Permalink)

Your own and your family’s emotional care and recovery are just as important as rebuilding a home and healing physical injuries. You may be surprised at how you and others may feel after a disaster. Disasters can stir up many different feelings and thoughts. People may experience fear concerning their safety or that of a loved one, shock, disbelief, grief, anger and guilt. Memory problems, anxiety and/or depression are also possible after experiencing a disaster. Disasters are upsetting experiences for everyone involved. Children, senior citizens, people with disabilities and people for whom English is not their first language are especially at risk. Children may become afraid and some elderly people may seem disoriented at first. People with disabilities may require additional assistance. It is important to let children and elderly people know that they are safe and that you will help them find a safe place to stay. It is also important that you try to talk with them in a calm way.

Call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest to take care of all the clean up 559-261-9765

A Flood of Concerns

6/24/2021 (Permalink)

We've all seen images of people walking through flood waters. Many times they have no choice as they're trying to escape to higher ground. Sometimes we see pictures of kids, even adults, playing in floodwaters. There is something tempting about playing in water in places it's usually never seen. No matter who you are, here are some reasons why you never want to walk or work (or play) in floodwaters:

Creature Features – some of your playmates may include poisonous snakes, insects, leeches, disease-carrying rodents and decaying animal carcasses. 

Shock Value – a live power line could give way (which is not unusual in disaster areas) and land in the water you're standing in. No description necessary.

Junk in the Funk – flood waters can carry and hide all sorts of debris that can harm you – broken glass, torn metal, splintered wood, etc.

The Force is Not With You – it only takes the force of 6" of rapidly moving floodwaters to knock you off of your feet and only 2' of it to carry away a vehicle.
Toilet Water – many floods can cause sewer overflows, resulting in dispersal of dangerous chemical waste and also the proliferation of harmful microbes. Unless you're the Ty-D-Bol man, stay out.

They Suck – when flood waters cover storm drains or sink holes, powerful whirlpools can form that may not be visible from above. They can pull you under and won't let you go.

We Care

3/9/2021 (Permalink)

Yes we are a part of a major corporation, however we here at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest feel it's important to not forget where we've come from and that in order to be successful we need to remember it's all about you our client and the personal touch. Why do people often go back to the same small business or refer their friends and family to it? It's simple the quality of service that you receive and the time they take to make sure YOU the client are taken care of and that they don't just meet but exceed your expectations and needs! We here at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest go that extra mile as it is our goal to not just meet but exceed your expectations in every way possible. From making sure your questions and concerns are addressed from the first time we arrive on site to making sure your home or business is put back together in every way that matters to you. No matter how big or small the job, SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest is here to help every step of the way! Whether assisting you with your home, or your large commercial building SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest is here with a level of care and customer service you normally find in a small business.

We like to say Small business attitude and personal touch at a corporate level. Give us a call at 559-261-9765 today to see the difference

Faster to any Disaster

3/9/2021 (Permalink)

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  Fresno Northwest arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 559-261-9765

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.

Water can create many damages to your business

3/3/2021 (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 Fresno Northwest is experienced in helping business owners and managers bring their businesses back from disaster, no matter how large or small the business. 
 
Fresno businesses affect by commercial 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 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 Fresno Northwest to help.

SERVPRO Fresno Northwest experts mitigate smoke damage

3/3/2021 (Permalink)

Fire and smoke damage can be very destructive even in your home? In such an event, your home or work property is likely to sustain damages. It is advisable to hire experts to restore your home rather than do it on your own. Take a look at the benefits you get when you hire professionals.  

Experts like us at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest have numerous years of field experience. Over the years, we have seen various types of fire damage in Fresno.  This gives us ample knowledge to tackle unique problems. We work with expediency to get your business or residence back to normal. "Like it never even happened."

When dealing with the expense in a fire and smoke damage restoration process, you often have to deal with the insurance company. In most cases, the company may not be congenial of the situation you are in and rather than being helpful, they can bury you with loads of paperwork. As a result, the process becomes long and frustrating. When you hire us, we can work with your insurance adjuster to lessen the burden on you by helping with the claims process.

What to do when there's a fire.

3/3/2021 (Permalink)

• Know how to safely operate a fire extinguisher. 
• Remember to GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL 9-1-1 or your local emergency phone number.
• Yell "Fire!" several times and go outside right away. If you live in a building with elevators, use the stairs. Leave all your things where they are and save yourself.
• If closed doors or handles are warm or smoke blocks your primary escape route, use your second way out. Never open doors that are warm to the touch.
• If you must escape through smoke, get low and go under the smoke to your exit. Close doors behind you.
• If smoke, heat or flames block your exit routes, stay in the room with doors closed. Place a wet towel if possible under the door and call the fire department or 9-1-1. Open a window and wave a brightly colored cloth or flashlight to signal for help.
• Once you are outside, go to your meeting place and then send one person to call the fire department. If you cannot get to your meeting place, follow your family emergency communication plan.

Why SERVPRO for mold remediation for your home

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

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

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

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

Commercial Business

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

Fire engulfs an automotive supply shop, destroying inventory consisting of mainly shocks, struts, starters, alternators, and batteries. The fire ignited due to a chemical container failure affecting surrounding items. 
 
You may think that fire damage like this would put them out of business, but you'd be wrong. Replacing inventory is relatively easy, the hard decision here is locating a quality company to perform the services you need to restore the structure of your building. There are several unique challenges faced during different fire situations, and we have experience dealing with all of them.
 
SERVPRO technicians overcome various cleaning challenges, daily. A burning building consists of several complex reactions between different elements. We learn that fire damage presents different cleaning and restoration situations that depend greatly on how these different elements interact during the progress of a fire. When dealing with the removal of smoke residues, we consider several factors. 
 
Type - More porous surfaces allow particles and odors to penetrate further and are harder to clean. Non-porous surfaces such as those covered in enamel paint are easier to clean than a flat latex paint would be. While synthetic fibers attract more residue than natural fibers, synthetics are easier to clean. 
 
Age - As time progresses, old paint, fabrics, and carpeting become more porous, and adhesion to surfaces become weaker, making old surfaces harder to clean. 
 
Heat - Generally, hotter fires make surfaces expand, allowing residue and odors to penetrate more efficiently. While heat also chars materials or melts the finish on a surface, making refinishing required to restore the surface properly. 
 
Moisture - The right conditions help residues set faster and permanently stain surfaces. Fire suppression systems and Firefighting efforts, along with damp weather and normal condensation on various surfaces combine with smoke residues, causing surfaces to become discolored. 
 
Material - Different materials produce different kinds of residues. Synthetic materials such as plastics and rubber create a wet, smeary residue that stains surfaces. Wood and other natural materials leave behind a dry residue that is easier to clean. 
 
Air Pressure - As the temperature of fire increases, air expands, creating pressure systems that force smoke and soot into cracks and crevices. 
 
Impingement - During a fire, the surrounding air becomes hotter, causing increased movement. This fast moving air collides with surfaces throughout the structure, causing residues to collide with vertical surfaces, leaving behind more difficult stains. 
 
With knowledge of these different factors that cause changes during a fire event, SERVPRO technicians work hard to deliver the services you need to restore your business to a quality preloss condition. 
 
Contact SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest 559-261-9765

How Does Ozone Destroy Odors

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

Ozone reacts with odor molecules by transferring the “extra” oxygen atom of the ozone molecule to the odor molecule, changing its composition so it no longer has the same chemical makeup. This chemical reaction is called oxidation. In a nutshell, through the oxidation process, what was formerly an odor-causing molecule is now an entirely different compound, and therefore does not possess the odor of its preceding form. To compare the difference between odor treatment using deodorizers and ozone, pretend we have two foul smelling odor molecules, think of them as two bad guys. Let’s treat the first bad guy with a spray-on deodorizer. This can be represented by locking him in a jail cell so he can’t affect anybody or anything. He is harmless, but he is still a bad guy. Once he is released, he can be a bad guy again…or in our case a stinky odor molecule.

Now let’s take the second bad guy and treat him with ozone. During the oxidation process, his very molecular structure is altered; he is no longer the same thing. This can be represented by waving a magic wand and “poof-he’s a rabbit”! Since the bad guy has been turned into something completely different/harmless, he can no longer be a bad guy-he is now a permanent rabbit, or in our case, a molecule without an unpleasant odor.

Do you have an odor molecule? Don’t despair, call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest 559-261-9765.

Winter Storms

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

Winter storms can range from a moderate snow over a few hours to a blizzard with blinding, wind-driven snow that lasts for several days. Some winter storms are large enough to affect several states, while others affect only a single community. Many winter storms are accompanied by dangerously low temperatures and sometimes by strong winds, icing, sleet and freezing rain.

Regardless of the severity of a winter storm, you should be prepared in order to remain safe during these events.

Know the Difference

Winter Storm Outlook - Winter storm conditions are possible in the next 2 to 5 days.

Winter Weather Advisory - Winter weather conditions are expected to cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous. When caution is used, these situations should not be life threatening. 

Winter Storm Watch - Winter storm conditions are possible within the next 36 to 48 hours. People in a watch area should review their winter storm plans and stay informed about weather conditions. 

Winter Storm Warning - Life-threatening, severe winter conditions have begun or will begin within 24 hours. People in a warning area should take precautions immediately.

Trust SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest for your restoration needs. 

Commercial Business

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

Fire engulfs an automotive supply shop, destroying inventory consisting of mainly shocks, struts, starters, alternators, and batteries. The fire ignited due to a chemical container failure affecting surrounding items. 
 
You may think that fire damage like this would put them out of business, but you'd be wrong. Replacing inventory is relatively easy, the hard decision here is locating a quality company to perform the services you need to restore the structure of your building. There are several unique challenges faced during different fire situations, and we have experience dealing with all of them.
 
SERVPRO technicians overcome various cleaning challenges, daily. A burning building consists of several complex reactions between different elements. We learn that fire damage presents different cleaning and restoration situations that depend greatly on how these different elements interact during the progress of a fire. When dealing with the removal of smoke residues, we consider several factors. 
 
Type - More porous surfaces allow particles and odors to penetrate further and are harder to clean. Non-porous surfaces such as those covered in enamel paint are easier to clean than a flat latex paint would be. While synthetic fibers attract more residue than natural fibers, synthetics are easier to clean. 
 
Age - As time progresses, old paint, fabrics, and carpeting become more porous, and adhesion to surfaces become weaker, making old surfaces harder to clean. 
 
Heat - Generally, hotter fires make surfaces expand, allowing residue and odors to penetrate more efficiently. While heat also chars materials or melts the finish on a surface, making refinishing required to restore the surface properly. 
 
Moisture - The right conditions help residues set faster and permanently stain surfaces. Fire suppression systems and Firefighting efforts, along with damp weather and normal condensation on various surfaces combine with smoke residues, causing surfaces to become discolored. 
 
Material - Different materials produce different kinds of residues. Synthetic materials such as plastics and rubber create a wet, smeary residue that stains surfaces. Wood and other natural materials leave behind a dry residue that is easier to clean. 
 
Air Pressure - As the temperature of fire increases, air expands, creating pressure systems that force smoke and soot into cracks and crevices. 
 
Impingement - During a fire, the surrounding air becomes hotter, causing increased movement. This fast moving air collides with surfaces throughout the structure, causing residues to collide with vertical surfaces, leaving behind more difficult stains. 
 
With knowledge of these different factors that cause changes during a fire event, SERVPRO technicians work hard to deliver the services you need to restore your business to a quality preloss condition. 
 
Contact SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest 559-261-9765

Start your week with this news

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

Imagine you had a great weekend. You & your family went on a quick getaway trip. You walk into the office, and squish squish is what you hear under your feet. Oh no….. there is water EVERYWHERE! It appears a pipe busted, & by the amount of water, it didn’t just happen. No fear SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest to the rescue. Our team of highly trained professionals at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest has the expertise that is needed to restore small, midsize, and large commercial size buildings to their pre-flood waters condition. The training that our team receives, and the equipment that we use can get these jobs done effectively and efficiently so that there will be no unnecessary delays.  Here is some information about our commercial water damage clean up restoration services.

How to Protect your Home.

10/27/2020 (Permalink)

• Increase grade:  The earth around the home should be sloped away from the house to divert water away. Very simply, borrow earth from three feet away from the structure, and toss it against the side of the house thus creating the slope.
• Clean rain gutters:  Schedule a licensed professional to clean gutters annually. A clogged rain gutter can send water cascading down the exterior wall, which can result in water entering the interior walls.
• Divert down spouts: In a quick run to the local hardware store, homeowners can find a black, plastic corrugated 6-inch hose that fits around the base of the downspout. This device carries water away from the house, preventing it from seeping down into the foundation.
• Roof maintenance: Where rain is concerned, the roof is the first line of defense. One small tear in a rubber membrane or crack in a tin roof, or compromise in the plywood structure of the roof can prove disastrous for the entire interior of the home. But regular maintenance can preserve the life of the roof. Have a roofer check out your home every five years.
• Window repairs:  Proper window installation and maintenance is imperative. Modern windows are fitted with wells and drains designed to help direct water outside the house. Improper caulking can prove disastrous by sending water into the house that should be draining away from the window.
• Sweep away debris:  Especially during spring and fall seasons, when the area’s great trees emit pollen in tumble weed fashion and drop their leaves in mass, it is critical to diligently sweep outdoor surfaces weekly, especially patios and door wells to prevent the collection of debris clogging exterior drains

When a Storm Hits.

10/27/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of  Fresno Northwest 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 weather your in Fresno and Clovis, or in the mountains of Oakhurst and Coarsgold, 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 are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest, 559-261-9765

Winter is Coming!

10/27/2020 (Permalink)

Winter storms can range from a moderate snow over a few hours to a blizzard with blinding, wind-driven snow that lasts for several days. Some winter storms are large enough to affect several states, while others affect only a single community. Many winter storms are accompanied by dangerously low temperatures and sometimes by strong winds, icing, sleet and freezing rain.

Regardless of the severity of a winter storm, you should be prepared in order to remain safe during these events.

Know the Difference

Winter Storm Outlook - Winter storm conditions are possible in the next 2 to 5 days.

Winter Weather Advisory - Winter weather conditions are expected to cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous. When caution is used, these situations should not be life threatening. 

Winter Storm Watch - Winter storm conditions are possible within the next 36 to 48 hours. People in a watch area should review their winter storm plans and stay informed about weather conditions. 

Winter Storm Warning - Life-threatening, severe winter conditions have begun or will begin within 24 hours. People in a warning area should take precautions immediately.

Trust SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest for your restoration needs. 

SERVPRO Fresno Northwest provides 24 hour emergency water damage sevice

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest today

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest

SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest 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.

Restoring your commercial property

7/24/2020 (Permalink)

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

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

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

About SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest

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

Who are we?

7/24/2020 (Permalink)

You may know us as the Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration Company. But did you know that there are over 20 services that we can provide. The team at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest is ready to help you at a moment’s notice 24/7/365.  A few of the other services that we provide include…

• Mold Mitigation

• Document Restoration

• Duct Cleaning

• Deodorization                  

• Reconstruction

• Vandalism Cleanup

• Forensic Remediation

• Storm Response

Our team here at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest can help you with whatever disaster that you may have. We are locally owned and operated, and ready to serve you.

Whether you are a homeowner, business owner, property manager, or first responder we are here for you. There is no disaster that is too large or too small that we can't handle. From our trained and uniformed crews to our professional restoration consultants, the cleanup team at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest is here to help make your disaster, “Like it never even happened." For more information on how we can help you be prepared or for a consultation please call us at (559) 261-9765

Fire Damage

7/24/2020 (Permalink)

Fire engulfs an automotive supply shop, destroying inventory consisting of mainly shocks, struts, starters, alternators, and batteries. The fire ignited due to a chemical container failure affecting surrounding items. 
 
You may think that fire damage like this would put them out of business, but you'd be wrong. Replacing inventory is relatively easy, the hard decision here is locating a quality company to perform the services you need to restore the structure of your building. There are several unique challenges faced during different fire situations, and we have experience dealing with all of them.
 
SERVPRO technicians overcome various cleaning challenges, daily. A burning building consists of several complex reactions between different elements. We learn that fire damage presents different cleaning and restoration situations that depend greatly on how these different elements interact during the progress of a fire. When dealing with the removal of smoke residues, we consider several factors. 
 
Type - More porous surfaces allow particles and odors to penetrate further and are harder to clean. Non-porous surfaces such as those covered in enamel paint are easier to clean than a flat latex paint would be. While synthetic fibers attract more residue than natural fibers, synthetics are easier to clean. 
 
Age - As time progresses, old paint, fabrics, and carpeting become more porous, and adhesion to surfaces become weaker, making old surfaces harder to clean. 
 
Heat - Generally, hotter fires make surfaces expand, allowing residue and odors to penetrate more efficiently. While heat also chars materials or melts the finish on a surface, making refinishing required to restore the surface properly. 
 
Moisture - The right conditions help residues set faster and permanently stain surfaces. Fire suppression systems and Firefighting efforts, along with damp weather and normal condensation on various surfaces combine with smoke residues, causing surfaces to become discolored. 
 
Material - Different materials produce different kinds of residues. Synthetic materials such as plastics and rubber create a wet, smeary residue that stains surfaces. Wood and other natural materials leave behind a dry residue that is easier to clean. 
 
Air Pressure - As the temperature of fire increases, air expands, creating pressure systems that force smoke and soot into cracks and crevices. 
 
Impingement - During a fire, the surrounding air becomes hotter, causing increased movement. This fast moving air collides with surfaces throughout the structure, causing residues to collide with vertical surfaces, leaving behind more difficult stains. 
 
With knowledge of these different factors that cause changes during a fire event, SERVPRO technicians work hard to deliver the services you need to restore your business to a quality preloss condition. 
 
Contact SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest 559-261-9765

Restoring your Fresno commercial property

7/24/2020 (Permalink)

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

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

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

About SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest

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

Flood Safety

7/23/2020 (Permalink)

There is always potential for flood damage no matter where you live. According to the American Red Cross, floods cause more damage in the United States every year than any other weather related disaster. The American Red Cross offers these flood safety tips:

-Stay away from floodwaters. If you come up on a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around and go another way. Six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off of your feet.

-If you approach a flooded road while driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are riding rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.

-Keep children out of the water. They are curious and often lack judgment about running water or contaminated water. 

If a flood occurs and affects you, call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest at (559) 261-9765.  Even minor floods have potential to cause major damage. Let us help you get your life back on top.

What can you do to help?

7/23/2020 (Permalink)

• Increase grade:  The earth around the home should be sloped away from the house to divert water away. Very simply, borrow earth from three feet away from the structure, and toss it against the side of the house thus creating the slope.
• Clean rain gutters:  Schedule a licensed professional to clean gutters annually. A clogged rain gutter can send water cascading down the exterior wall, which can result in water entering the interior walls.
• Divert down spouts: In a quick run to the local hardware store, homeowners can find a black, plastic corrugated 6-inch hose that fits around the base of the downspout. This device carries water away from the house, preventing it from seeping down into the foundation.
• Roof maintenance: Where rain is concerned, the roof is the first line of defense. One small tear in a rubber membrane or crack in a tin roof, or compromise in the plywood structure of the roof can prove disastrous for the entire interior of the home. But regular maintenance can preserve the life of the roof. Have a roofer check out your home every five years.
• Window repairs:  Proper window installation and maintenance is imperative. Modern windows are fitted with wells and drains designed to help direct water outside the house. Improper caulking can prove disastrous by sending water into the house that should be draining away from the window.
• Sweep away debris:  Especially during spring and fall seasons, when the area’s great trees emit pollen in tumble weed fashion and drop their leaves in mass, it is critical to diligently sweep outdoor surfaces weekly, especially patios and door wells to prevent the collection of debris clogging exterior drains.

It's the water you don't see

7/23/2020 (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 Fresno Northwest 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. Your local SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest will answer your call with fast action and a full arsenal of drying equipment. From evasive & non-evasive moisture meters, air movers and dehumidifiers,too  Ultra Low-Volume (ULV) Foggers that  atomize liquid deodorizing agents, producing a fine mist that can easily penetrate the site where odor-causing residues may accumulate. This device can also be used to inject fungicides and disinfectants into wall cavities and other hard-to-reach areas.

What to do before help arrives

7/23/2020 (Permalink)

If you have a water damage from a clean source such as water supply lines, sink overflows, tub overflows, or appliance malfunctions, here are some things to do before SERVPRO Fresno Northwest arrives.

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

SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any size disaster. Our highly trained technicians can respond immediately to your residential or commercial emergency.

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

Fire Restoration for You

7/23/2020 (Permalink)

Having a fire event on your property can produce some pretty destructive and violent results. Regardless of how large or small the damage is, you never hear a property owner say that they are glad it happened to them. 
 
What you need is a team that can respond quickly to your request and start taking care of the fire damage to your Fresno property immediately. Our technicians arrive on site quickly and give you the benefit of having a company with certified technicians working for you. 
 
Due to the extensive damage received throughout the duration of a fire, professional restoration services is your best choice. Here at SERVPRO Fresno Northwest we make sure to return your home to a quality pre-damage condition in the quickest most efficient way possible. 
 
Heat alone does a significant amount of damage to your structure; it can warp your flooring and cause extensive damage. The contents of your home may be affected in various ways as well, requiring specialized item restoration services only available at SERVPRO. 
 
Smoke can reach into cracks and crevices throughout your home, leaving soot residues behind, staining surfaces and causing odors to damage a variety of materials within your home. We use different deodorization and cleaning methods specifically designed to return things back to normal quickly. 
 
SERVPRO gives you access to technicians with the experience and training required to present you with the quality services you need to make your fire damage disappear "Like it never even happened." 
 
We help you manage your insurance paperwork and communicate with your insurance company. Taking care of you and your family along the way to ensure a smooth restoration process. 
 
SERVPRO technicians can answer any questions you have about our services and only present you with those that you need. We have certified technicians to handle every aspect of your restoration.
 
Give us the opportunity to provide you with a unique solution to your problem by calling SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest today. (559) 261-9765

We'll get the water out!

7/16/2020 (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 Fresno Northwest is experienced in helping business owners and managers bring their businesses back from disaster, no matter how large or small the business. 
 
In Fresno, 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 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 Fresno Northwest to help.

Water doesn't belong there.

7/16/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest provide emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and even 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 Fresno Northwest 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.

Please don't hesitate to call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest immediately if you suspect any damage or have any questions. Contact us at (559) 261-9765

Pro's Know Best

6/30/2020 (Permalink)

When water damage resulting from sewage issues or some other problem affects your property, you need to take effective action immediately. Although the water issue may seem minor, it can cause substantive damage to your house if it is not eliminated quickly and correctly. And while you may be inclined to start the water removal process on your own, it is important always to have this work completed by a team of professionals from SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest.

Here are several reasons why:

Water Damage Is Progressive

Water damage can worsen with each passing moment. The longer you postpone calling water damage restoration experts to fix the problems, the greater the damages will be. Apart from obvious damage to contents and building materials, you may also be victimized by a mold infestation if the water is not removed promptly. Exposure to fungi may cause health effects as well as increase restoration costs.

Sewage Water is Dangerous

If the excessive water on your property contains sewage, it is very dangerous. In fact, sewage water contains pathogens, pesticides, and waste matter. Black water causes health implications if you come in contact with this type of water. Contact professionals who can remove the sewage water quickly and safely. Don't attempt to do it yourself. Training, specialized equipment, and hazmat clothing are required for a return of safety to your property.

Electrical Hazards

Water, being a conductor of electricity, can send shocks powerful enough to cause electrocution under some circumstances. Whether you're dealing with black, gray or clean water, the extraction process brings with it electrical hazards. Don't subject yourself to the risk of electrocution. Instead, allow the experienced professionals from SERVPRO Fresno Northwest to complete the process for you. These individuals possess the knowledge and hands-on experience necessary to complete the process in a safe manner that precludes you and them from experiencing illness or injury.

Call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest now at (559) 261- 9765.

Although water damage can disrupt your well-being and cause inconveniences within your daily life, it doesn't have to drain all your energy and assets. To restore your property and resume your way of life, contact the water damage restoration experts of SERVPRO Fresno Northwest. Our certified technicians will clean and dry your property with remarkable speed, and we'll also provide you with complete customer service that keeps you calm throughout the remediation process. We will document, invite you for a final walk-through, and guarantee that your home is dry and safe. "Like it never even happened."

Highly-Trained Water Restoration Specialists

As water damage specialists, SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest has the experience, expertise, and the advanced training that enables us to get your property dried quickly and thoroughly. We use scientific drying principles and provide validation and documentation that your property is dry and the job is complete. Learn about our water damage training and certificates. Call us 24/7 for help. (559) 261- 9765

What to do after a fire

6/30/2020 (Permalink)

A house fire is one of the most frightening and disruptive events that can impact a family. After surviving a fire, it is crucial to remain calm and take the steps that will help you recover from this traumatic event. Enlisting the prompt support of family and emergency service professionals, like SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest can really make a difference in the recovery process.  Here are a few things you can do until help arrives:

Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet.

Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork,

What you don’t want to do:

Attempt to clean walls or any painted surfaces

Turn on A/C or heater, ceiling fans.

Let the professionals at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest make it "Like it never even happened.”

Faster to any Disaster

6/30/2020 (Permalink)

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  Fresno Northwest arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 559-261-9765

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.

Faster to any Disaster

3/9/2020 (Permalink)

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  Fresno Northwest arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 559-261-9765

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.

We Care

3/9/2020 (Permalink)

Yes we are a part of a major corporation, however we here at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest feel it's important to not forget where we've come from and that in order to be successful we need to remember it's all about you our client and the personal touch. Why do people often go back to the same small business or refer their friends and family to it? It's simple the quality of service that you receive and the time they take to make sure YOU the client are taken care of and that they don't just meet but exceed your expectations and needs! We here at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest go that extra mile as it is our goal to not just meet but exceed your expectations in every way possible. From making sure your questions and concerns are addressed from the first time we arrive on site to making sure your home or business is put back together in every way that matters to you. No matter how big or small the job, SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest is here to help every step of the way! Whether assisting you with your home, or your large commercial building SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest is here with a level of care and customer service you normally find in a small business.

We like to say Small business attitude and personal touch at a corporate level. Give us a call at 559-261-9765 today to see the difference

Smoke and Soot

2/24/2020 (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 Fresno Northwest 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.

We would love to help you and make a difficult time less stressful. Call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest at (559) 261-9765 for more information.

Why SERVPRO for Mold in Your Home

2/24/2020 (Permalink)

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

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

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

Commercial Business

2/20/2020 (Permalink)

Fire engulfs an automotive supply shop, destroying inventory consisting of mainly shocks, struts, starters, alternators, and batteries. The fire ignited due to a chemical container failure affecting surrounding items. 
 
You may think that fire damage like this would put them out of business, but you'd be wrong. Replacing inventory is relatively easy, the hard decision here is locating a quality company to perform the services you need to restore the structure of your building. There are several unique challenges faced during different fire situations, and we have experience dealing with all of them.
 
SERVPRO technicians overcome various cleaning challenges, daily. A burning building consists of several complex reactions between different elements. We learn that fire damage presents different cleaning and restoration situations that depend greatly on how these different elements interact during the progress of a fire. When dealing with the removal of smoke residues, we consider several factors. 
 
Type - More porous surfaces allow particles and odors to penetrate further and are harder to clean. Non-porous surfaces such as those covered in enamel paint are easier to clean than a flat latex paint would be. While synthetic fibers attract more residue than natural fibers, synthetics are easier to clean. 
 
Age - As time progresses, old paint, fabrics, and carpeting become more porous, and adhesion to surfaces become weaker, making old surfaces harder to clean. 
 
Heat - Generally, hotter fires make surfaces expand, allowing residue and odors to penetrate more efficiently. While heat also chars materials or melts the finish on a surface, making refinishing required to restore the surface properly. 
 
Moisture - The right conditions help residues set faster and permanently stain surfaces. Fire suppression systems and Firefighting efforts, along with damp weather and normal condensation on various surfaces combine with smoke residues, causing surfaces to become discolored. 
 
Material - Different materials produce different kinds of residues. Synthetic materials such as plastics and rubber create a wet, smeary residue that stains surfaces. Wood and other natural materials leave behind a dry residue that is easier to clean. 
 
Air Pressure - As the temperature of fire increases, air expands, creating pressure systems that force smoke and soot into cracks and crevices. 
 
Impingement - During a fire, the surrounding air becomes hotter, causing increased movement. This fast moving air collides with surfaces throughout the structure, causing residues to collide with vertical surfaces, leaving behind more difficult stains. 
 
With knowledge of these different factors that cause changes during a fire event, SERVPRO technicians work hard to deliver the services you need to restore your business to a quality preloss condition. 
 
Contact SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest 559-261-9765

Start Your Week With This News

2/20/2020 (Permalink)

Imagine you had a great weekend. You & your family went on a quick getaway trip. You walk into the office, and squish squish is what you hear under your feet. Oh no….. there is water EVERYWHERE! It appears a pipe busted, & by the amount of water, it didn’t just happen. No fear SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest to the rescue. Our team of highly trained professionals at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest has the expertise that is needed to restore small, midsize, and large commercial size buildings to their pre-flood waters condition. The training that our team receives, and the equipment that we use can get these jobs done effectively and efficiently so that there will be no unnecessary delays.  Here is some information about our commercial water damage clean up restoration services.

Fire Damage From a Dirty Rag!

2/20/2020 (Permalink)

During the summer, we got a call from a laundry mat shop in Fresno. There was a fire in the shop that was cause by a dirty rag that was put in the dryer. The rag has flammable substance in it that cause the fire inside the dryer. The fire burnt the dryer and damage two more additional dryers. When the fire grew, it affected and burnt the drywall above the dryer. Sprinklers went off and the fire department came and distinguish the fire. Smoke went all over the store, it damage the ceiling, the vent and left soot on the other machines. The owner called SERVPRO Fresno Northwest, we went there as soon as possible to asses the situation. This was major clean up disaster. We remove the wall that has the fire damage, HepaVac the ventilation, cleaned the windows and remove soot out of all the washer and dryer. Also treated all the walls to remove the smoke stain and the smell. We cleaned the ceiling and remove a huge lint. The lint was accumulated thru the years behind the dryer wall. The restroom has smoke damage that we end up cleaning as well. It took us days to get this shop back to normal. After we were done the owner was pleased with the job that we have accomplished. 

Call the Professionals

2/18/2020 (Permalink)

After a fire, your house is left with lingering smoke that can be harmful to your health and property. The best thing to do in such a situation is to clean the smoke immediately because if you ignore it, the smoke will cause massive damage on your property which will require more money to clean than if you had cleaned it sooner. If the smoke is not cleaned as soon as possible, the items that will be mostly affected by smoke includes drapes, carpets, upholstery and walls because they will become permanently discolored. Glass will become extremely etched, and metals will tarnish which will result in having to replace these items.

You might think that you can do a good job at cleaning smoke by yourself without any basic knowledge and skills on how to go about it, but this can lead to you causing further damage on the items. The best thing to do will be to hire experienced professionals from a reputable company to do the cleaning and restore the home to the state it was in before the fire disaster struck. That is where SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest comes into play.

One of the advantages of using experts to clean soot is that they have specialized tools which are crucial in eliminating smoke. These are tools such as extractors, rotary scrubbers, and wet cleaning tools. Another advantage is that we have a lot of experience in doing such work; therefore, we will know the right steps to take in cleaning your home and preventing further damage on the property.

When we come to your home, the first thing we will do is to assess the extent of the damage and determine where the odors are coming from. We will then vacuum the whole house to remove any traces of soot. Soot is dangerous because it can cause breathing complications besides damaging property. After we finish vacuuming, we will cover the carpets and furniture to prevent more dirt from settling on them. We will also identify what can and cannot be replaced and advise you accordingly. Once we find the source of the odor we will use specialized detergents to treat it and eliminate the smell completely.

Indeed, bringing in a professional on site will save you a lot of headaches and ensure that you get rid of the smoke efficiently. If you live in Fresno, call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest for reliable smoke removal services at an affordable cost. For more information call us at (559) 261- 9765.

Emergency Preparedness Planning for Your Business

2/18/2020 (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 Fresno Northwest a call today for a No-cost Assessment on your building 559-261-9765.

How Does Ozone Destroy Odors

1/6/2020 (Permalink)

Ozone reacts with odor molecules by transferring the “extra” oxygen atom of the ozone molecule to the odor molecule, changing its composition so it no longer has the same chemical makeup. This chemical reaction is called oxidation. In a nutshell, through the oxidation process, what was formerly an odor-causing molecule is now an entirely different compound, and therefore does not possess the odor of its preceding form. To compare the difference between odor treatment using deodorizers and ozone, pretend we have two foul smelling odor molecules, think of them as two bad guys. Let’s treat the first bad guy with a spray-on deodorizer. This can be represented by locking him in a jail cell so he can’t affect anybody or anything. He is harmless, but he is still a bad guy. Once he is released, he can be a bad guy again…or in our case a stinky odor molecule.

Now let’s take the second bad guy and treat him with ozone. During the oxidation process, his very molecular structure is altered; he is no longer the same thing. This can be represented by waving a magic wand and “poof-he’s a rabbit”! Since the bad guy has been turned into something completely different/harmless, he can no longer be a bad guy-he is now a permanent rabbit, or in our case, a molecule without an unpleasant odor.

Do you have an odor molecule? Don’t despair, call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest 559-261-9765.

Winter Storms

1/6/2020 (Permalink)

Winter storms can range from a moderate snow over a few hours to a blizzard with blinding, wind-driven snow that lasts for several days. Some winter storms are large enough to affect several states, while others affect only a single community. Many winter storms are accompanied by dangerously low temperatures and sometimes by strong winds, icing, sleet and freezing rain.

Regardless of the severity of a winter storm, you should be prepared in order to remain safe during these events.

Know the Difference

Winter Storm Outlook - Winter storm conditions are possible in the next 2 to 5 days.

Winter Weather Advisory - Winter weather conditions are expected to cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous. When caution is used, these situations should not be life threatening. 

Winter Storm Watch - Winter storm conditions are possible within the next 36 to 48 hours. People in a watch area should review their winter storm plans and stay informed about weather conditions. 

Winter Storm Warning - Life-threatening, severe winter conditions have begun or will begin within 24 hours. People in a warning area should take precautions immediately.

Trust SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest for your restoration needs. 

Water Damage in Your Fresno Commercial Building

11/4/2019 (Permalink)

As a small shop owner, you would benefit from taking a little time to educate yourself about the information and services that our company provides concerning commercial water damage restoration. Doing so could mean the difference between getting the services that you need to save a majority of your inventory from total loss and obtaining the incorrect services that simply don't do you any good. 

Our professional technicians will make sure that you are properly informed throughout your repair and work hard to get it done right. It is our goal to limit any possible downtime and inconvenience to your daily customers. 

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• Highly Trained Water Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Water Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Water Inspection, Extraction, and Drying Equipment

What if Your Office Floods

11/4/2019 (Permalink)

Imagine you had a great weekend. You & your family went on a quick getaway trip, maybe up to Bass Lake Ca., or Coarsegold Ca. peddlers fair. Come Monday morning you walk into the office, and squish squish is what you hear under your feet. Oh no….. there is water EVERYWHERE! It appears a pipe busted, & by the amount of water, it didn’t just happen. No fear SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest to the rescue. Our team of highly trained professionals at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest has the expertise that is needed to restore small, midsize, and large commercial size buildings to their pre-flood waters condition. The training that our team receives, and the equipment that we use can get these jobs done effectively and efficiently so that there will be no unnecessary delays.  

When a Storm Hits

10/24/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of  Fresno Northwest 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 weather your in Fresno and Clovis, or in the mountains of Oakhurst and Coarsgold, 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 are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest, 559-261-9765

How to Protect Your Home

10/24/2019 (Permalink)

• Increase grade:  The earth around the home should be sloped away from the house to divert water away. Very simply, borrow earth from three feet away from the structure, and toss it against the side of the house thus creating the slope.
• Clean rain gutters:  Schedule a licensed professional to clean gutters annually. A clogged rain gutter can send water cascading down the exterior wall, which can result in water entering the interior walls.
• Divert down spouts: In a quick run to the local hardware store, homeowners can find a black, plastic corrugated 6-inch hose that fits around the base of the downspout. This device carries water away from the house, preventing it from seeping down into the foundation.
• Roof maintenance: Where rain is concerned, the roof is the first line of defense. One small tear in a rubber membrane or crack in a tin roof, or compromise in the plywood structure of the roof can prove disastrous for the entire interior of the home. But regular maintenance can preserve the life of the roof. Have a roofer check out your home every five years.
• Window repairs:  Proper window installation and maintenance is imperative. Modern windows are fitted with wells and drains designed to help direct water outside the house. Improper caulking can prove disastrous by sending water into the house that should be draining away from the window.
• Sweep away debris:  Especially during spring and fall seasons, when the area’s great trees emit pollen in tumble weed fashion and drop their leaves in mass, it is critical to diligently sweep outdoor surfaces weekly, especially patios and door wells to prevent the collection of debris clogging exterior drains.

Flood Safety

10/22/2019 (Permalink)

There is always potential for flood damage no matter where you live. According to the American Red Cross, floods cause more damage in the United States every year than any other weather related disaster. The American Red Cross offers these flood safety tips:

-Stay away from floodwaters. If you come up on a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around and go another way. Six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off of your feet.

-If you approach a flooded road while driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are riding rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.

-Keep children out of the water. They are curious and often lack judgment about running water or contaminated water. 

If a flood occurs and affects you, call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest at (559) 261-9765.  Even minor floods have potential to cause major damage. Let us help you get your life back on top.

Fire Restoration For You.

7/16/2019 (Permalink)

Having a fire event on your property can produce some pretty destructive and violent results. Regardless of how large or small the damage is, you never hear a property owner say that they are glad it happened to them. 
 
What you need is a team that can respond quickly to your request and start taking care of the fire damage to your Fresno property immediately. Our technicians arrive on site quickly and give you the benefit of having a company with certified technicians working for you. 
 
Due to the extensive damage received throughout the duration of a fire, professional restoration services is your best choice. Here at SERVPRO Fresno Northwest we make sure to return your home to a quality pre-damage condition in the quickest most efficient way possible. 
 
Heat alone does a significant amount of damage to your structure; it can warp your flooring and cause extensive damage. The contents of your home may be affected in various ways as well, requiring specialized item restoration services only available at SERVPRO. 
 
Smoke can reach into cracks and crevices throughout your home, leaving soot residues behind, staining surfaces and causing odors to damage a variety of materials within your home. We use different deodorization and cleaning methods specifically designed to return things back to normal quickly. 
 
SERVPRO gives you access to technicians with the experience and training required to present you with the quality services you need to make your fire damage disappear like it never even happened. 
 
We help you manage your insurance paperwork and communicate with your insurance company. Taking care of you and your family along the way to ensure a smooth restoration process. 
 
SERVPRO technicians can answer any questions you have about our services and only present you with those that you need. We have certified technicians to handle every aspect of your restoration.
 
Give us the opportunity to provide you with a unique solution to your problem by calling SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest today. (559) 261-9765

What to do Before Help Arrives.

7/16/2019 (Permalink)

If you have a water damage from a clean source such as water supply lines, sink overflows, tub overflows, or appliance malfunctions, here are some things to do before SERVPRO Fresno Northwest arrives.

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

SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any size disaster. Our highly trained technicians can respond immediately to your residential or commercial emergency.

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

What you can do to help

7/9/2019 (Permalink)

• Increase grade:  The earth around the home should be sloped away from the house to divert water away. Very simply, borrow earth from three feet away from the structure, and toss it against the side of the house thus creating the slope.
• Clean rain gutters:  Schedule a licensed professional to clean gutters annually. A clogged rain gutter can send water cascading down the exterior wall, which can result in water entering the interior walls.
• Divert down spouts: In a quick run to the local hardware store, homeowners can find a black, plastic corrugated 6-inch hose that fits around the base of the downspout. This device carries water away from the house, preventing it from seeping down into the foundation.
• Roof maintenance: Where rain is concerned, the roof is the first line of defense. One small tear in a rubber membrane or crack in a tin roof, or compromise in the plywood structure of the roof can prove disastrous for the entire interior of the home. But regular maintenance can preserve the life of the roof. Have a roofer check out your home every five years.
• Window repairs:  Proper window installation and maintenance is imperative. Modern windows are fitted with wells and drains designed to help direct water outside the house. Improper caulking can prove disastrous by sending water into the house that should be draining away from the window.
• Sweep away debris:  Especially during spring and fall seasons, when the area’s great trees emit pollen in tumble weed fashion and drop their leaves in mass, it is critical to diligently sweep outdoor surfaces weekly, especially patios and door wells to prevent the collection of debris clogging exterior drains.

Pro's Know Best!

7/9/2019 (Permalink)

When water damage resulting from sewage issues or some other problem affects your property, you need to take effective action immediately. Although the water issue may seem minor, it can cause substantive damage to your house if it is not eliminated quickly and correctly. And while you may be inclined to start the water removal process on your own, it is important always to have this work completed by a team of professionals from SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest.

Here are several reasons why:

Water Damage Is Progressive

Water damage can worsen with each passing moment. The longer you postpone calling water damage restoration experts to fix the problems, the greater the damages will be. Apart from obvious damage to contents and building materials, you may also be victimized by a mold infestation if the water is not removed promptly. Exposure to fungi may cause health effects as well as increase restoration costs.

Sewage Water is Dangerous

If the excessive water on your property contains sewage, it is very dangerous. In fact, sewage water contains pathogens, pesticides, and waste matter. Black water causes health implications if you come in contact with this type of water. Contact professionals who can remove the sewage water quickly and safely. Don't attempt to do it yourself. Training, specialized equipment, and hazmat clothing are required for a return of safety to your property.

Electrical Hazards

Water, being a conductor of electricity, can send shocks powerful enough to cause electrocution under some circumstances. Whether you're dealing with black, gray or clean water, the extraction process brings with it electrical hazards. Don't subject yourself to the risk of electrocution. Instead, allow the experienced professionals from SERVPRO Fresno Northwest to complete the process for you. These individuals possess the knowledge and hands-on experience necessary to complete the process in a safe manner that precludes you and them from experiencing illness or injury.

Call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest now at (559) 261- 9765.

Although water damage can disrupt your well-being and cause inconveniences within your daily life, it doesn't have to drain all your energy and assets. To restore your property and resume your way of life, contact the water damage restoration experts of SERVPRO Fresno Northwest. Our certified technicians will clean and dry your property with remarkable speed, and we'll also provide you with complete customer service that keeps you calm throughout the remediation process. We will document, invite you for a final walk-through,  and guarantee that your home is dry and safe. "Like it never even happened."

Highly-Trained Water Restoration Specialists

As water damage specialists, SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest has the experience, expertise, and the advanced training that enables us to get your property dried quickly and thoroughly. We use scientific drying principles and provide validation and documentation that your property is dry and the job is complete. Learn about our water damage training and certificates. Call us 24/7 for help. (559) 261- 9765

Restoring Commercial property

6/21/2019 (Permalink)

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

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

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

About SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest

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

Please contact SERVPRO Fresno Northwest at (559) 261-9765 for your commercial property needs.

What to do After a Fire

6/21/2019 (Permalink)

A house fire is one of the most frightening and disruptive events that can impact a family. After surviving a fire, it is crucial to remain calm and take the steps that will help you recover from this traumatic event. Enlisting the prompt support of family and emergency service professionals, like SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest can really make a difference in the recovery process.  Here are a few things you can do till help arrives:

Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet.

Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork,

What you don’t want to do:

Attempt to clean walls or any painted surfaces

Turn on A/C or heater, ceiling fans.

Let the professionals at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest make it "Like it never even happened.”

Tips to help prevent a flood

6/21/2019 (Permalink)

When going on vacation, either for 2day’s or 2 months, turn water main off to house.

Keep sandbags on hand in case you need to stop any flood water coming into house.

Install “French Drains” in flower beds to drain water properly & prevent water from seeping in, Stucco absorbs water.

Keep your gutters & roof valleys clear.

Look into possible installing a back flow valve on your sewer system to help prevent sewage back up.

Check supply lines & angle stops under sinks & toilet. Also check the toilet float. Run your hand along pipes to check for any moisture. If you use a “sink sprayer” check the line often. They get a lot of use & could crack & blister.

Check your washing machine hoses often.

Check weather striping on doors. If the rain is strong enough and the weather strips are worn, rain could seep through.

How does ozone destroy odors.

6/21/2019 (Permalink)

Ozone reacts with odor molecules by transferring the “extra” oxygen atom of the ozone molecule to the odor molecule, changing its composition so it no longer has the same chemical makeup. This chemical reaction is calledoxidation. In a nut shell, through the oxidation process, what was formerly an odor-causing molecule is now an entirely different compound, and therefore does not possess the odor of its preceding form. To compare the difference between odor treatment using deodorizers and ozone, Pretend we have two foul smelling odor molecules, think of them as two bad guys. Let’s treat the first bad guy with a spray on deodorizer. This can be represented by locking him in a jail cell so he can’t affect anybody or anything. He is harmless, but he is still a bad guy. Once he is released, he can be a bad guy again…or in our case a stinky odor molecule.

Now let’s take the second bad guy and treat him with ozone. During the oxidation process, his very molecular structure is altered; he is no longer the same thing. This can be represented by waiving a magic wand and “poof-he’s a rabbit”! Since the bad guy has been turned into something completely different/harmless, he can no longer be a bad guy-he is now a permanent rabbit, or in our case, a molecule without an unpleasant odor.

Do you have an odor molecule? Don’t despair, call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest 559-261-9765.

How to Cool Off

6/21/2019 (Permalink)

1. Choose cotton.

Save the ooh-la-la satin, silk, or polyester sheets for cooler nights. Light-colored bed linens made of lightweight cotton (Egyptian or otherwise) are breathable and excellent for promoting ventilation and airflow in the bedroom.

2. Get cold comfort.

Here’s a four-seasons tip for keeping utilities charges down: Buy a hot water bottle. In winter, fill it with boiling water for toasty toes without cranking the thermostat. During summer, stick it in the freezer to create a bed-friendly ice pack.

3. Get loose.

Less is definitely more when it comes to summertime jammies. Pick a loose, soft cotton shirt and shorts or underwear. Going full nudie during a heat wave is (unsurprisingly) controversial. Some people believe it helps keep them cool, while others claim going au natural means sweat stays on the body instead of being wicked away by fabric. We’re going to chalk this one up to personal preference.

4. Go old-school

Remember when refrigerators were iceboxes that contained actual blocks of ice? Me neither. This stay-cool trick is straight out of the icebox era, though. Make a DIY air conditioner by positioning a shallow pan or bowl (a roasting pan works nicely) full of ice in front of a fan. The breeze will pick up cold water from the ice’s surface as it melts, creating a cooling mist.

5.Pamper your pulses. Need to cool down, stat? To chill out super-fast, apply ice packs or cold compresses to pulse points at the wrists, neck, elbows, groin, ankles, and behind the knees.

Should you have your air ducts in your home cleaned?

6/21/2019 (Permalink)

Knowledge about the potential benefits and possible problems of air duct cleaning is limited. Since conditions in every home are different, it is impossible to generalize about whether or not air duct cleaning in your home would be beneficial.

If no one in your household suffers from allergies or unexplained symptoms or illnesses and if, after a visual inspection of the inside of the ducts, you see no indication that your air ducts are contaminated with large deposits of dust having your air ducts cleaned is probably unnecessary. It is normal for the return registers to get dusty as dust-laden air is pulled through the grate. This does not indicate that your air ducts are contaminated with heavy deposits of dust or debris; the registers can be easily vacuumed or removed and cleaned.

On the other hand, if family members are experiencing unusual or unexplained symptoms or illnesses that you think might be related to your home environment, you should discuss the situation with your doctor.

When storms or flood hit Fresno or Clovis SERVPRO is ready?

6/21/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of  Fresno Northwest 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 Fresno or Clovis, 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 are strategically located throughout the United States.

SERVPRO of Fresno NorthWest provides 24 hour emergency water damage service.

6/21/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest today

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest

SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest 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.

Restoring your Commercial Property

6/20/2019 (Permalink)

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

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

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

About SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest

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

Thunderstorms and Lighting

6/6/2019 (Permalink)

A thunderstorm is considered severe if it produces hail at least 1 inch in diameter or has wind gusts of at least 58 miles per hour. Every thunderstorm produces lightning, which kills more people each year than tornadoes or hurricanes. Heavy rain from thunderstorms can cause flash flooding, and high winds can damage homes and blow down trees and utility poles, causing widespread power  outages.

Know the Difference

Severe Thunderstorm Watch - Severe thunderstorms are possible in and near the watch area. Stay informed and be ready to act if a severe thunderstorm warning is issued.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning - Severe weather has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar. Warnings indicate imminent danger to life and property.

Every year people are killed or seriously injured by severe thunderstorms despite advance warning. While some did not hear the warning, others heard the warning and did not pay attention to it. The information in this section, combined with timely watches and warnings about severe weather, may help save lives.

Water Damage and Mold

6/4/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage can be a harrowing ordeal to go through. If not handled by a professional, these situations can lead to secondary damages that can be hard to see or detect right away.

The biggest and most frightening of these damages is mold.

At the first sign of mold, most homeowners become concerned about how it will affect the structure of their houses as well as their family's health. Mold is a serious matter, and being proactive about fixing the problem will save you time, money, and stress.

If your Fresno home has mold damage, it's wise to work with a professional instead of trying to clean up the problem on your own. Give the Professionals at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest a call 559-261-9765

We'll Get The Water Out

6/4/2019 (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 Fresno Northwest is experienced in helping business owners and managers bring their businesses back from disaster, no matter how large or small the business. 
 
Fresno business, affected by commercial 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 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 Fresno Northwest to help.

Who are we?

6/4/2019 (Permalink)

You may know us as the Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration Company. But did you know that there are over 20 services that we can provide. The team at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest is ready to help you at a moment’s notice 24/7/365.  A few of the other services that we provide include…

• Mold Mitigation

• Document Restoration

• Duct Cleaning

• Deodorization                  

• Reconstruction

• Vandalism Cleanup

• Forensic Remediation

• Storm Response

Our team here at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest can help you with whatever disaster that you may have. We are locally owned and operated, and ready to serve you.

Whether you are a homeowner, business owner, property manager, or first responder we are here for you. There is no disaster that is too large or too small that we can't handle. From our trained and uniformed crews to our professional restoration consultants, the cleanup team at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest is here to help make your disaster, “Like it never even happened." For more information on how we can help you be prepared or for a consultation please call us at (559) 261-9765

Smoke and Soot Cleanup

6/4/2019 (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  Fresno Northwest  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 – 559-261-9765

What Constitutes a Bio-hazard

6/4/2019 (Permalink)

Bio-hazard -- You’ve heard the term, you’ve seen the symbol, but do you know what actually constitutes a bio-hazard? Do you have an understanding of what materials and substances are considered to be bio-hazards and what measures you can take to prevent the spread of infection? A biological hazard (bio-hazard) is any organism that constitutes a hazard to other living things, especially humans.

Potential bio-hazards are commonly found in hospitals and health care settings in the form of blood, body fluids, used syringes, glass culture slides, and other medical waste. These substances, among others, can carry blood-borne pathogens and spread disease from person to person.

It is important to mention that bio-hazards are not only found in hospitals, doctor’s offices, and medical research labs. The blood that is found at the site of a violent crime or accident, the body fluid that is left after an unattended death -- these are all bio-hazards that should be handled with the same care and attention as those found in a lab or hospital.

Faster to any Disaster

3/22/2019 (Permalink)

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  Fresno Northwest arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 559-261-9765

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.

We Care

3/22/2019 (Permalink)

Yes we are a part of a major corporation, however we here at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest feel it's important to not forget where we've come from and that in order to be successful we need to remember it's all about you our client and the personal touch. Why do people often go back to the same small business or refer their friends and family to it? It's simple the quality of service that you receive and the time they take to make sure YOU the client are taken care of and that they don't just meet but exceed your expectations and needs! We here at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest go that extra mile as it is our goal to not just meet but exceed your expectations in every way possible. From making sure your questions and concerns are addressed from the first time we arrive on site to making sure your home or business is put back together in every way that matters to you. No matter how big or small the job, SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest is here to help every step of the way! Whether assisting you with your home, or your large commercial building SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest is here with a level of care and customer service you normally find in a small business.

We like to say Small business attitude and personal touch at a corporate level. Give us a call at 559-261-9765 today to see the difference

Picking up the pieces after a fire

2/11/2019 (Permalink)

Your own and your family’s emotional care and recovery are just as important as rebuilding a home and healing physical injuries. You may be surprised at how you and others may feel after a disaster. Disasters can stir up many different feelings and thoughts. People may experience fear concerning their safety or that of a loved one, shock, disbelief, grief, anger and guilt. Memory problems, anxiety and/or depression are also possible after experiencing a disaster. Disasters are upsetting experiences for everyone involved. Children, senior citizens, people with disabilities and people for whom English is not their first language are especially at risk. Children may become afraid and some elderly people may seem disoriented at first. People with disabilities may require additional assistance. It is important to let children and elderly people know that they are safe and that you will help them find a safe place to stay. It is also important that you try to talk with them in a calm way.

Call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest to take care of all the clean up 559-261-9765

Fire Damage from a Laundry Mat Shop in Fresno

2/8/2019 (Permalink)

During the summer, we got a call from a laundry mat shop in Fresno. There was a fire in the shop that was cause by a dirty rag that was put in the dryer. The rag has flammable substance in it that cause the fire inside the dryer. The fire burnt the dryer and damage two more additional dryers. When the fire grew, it affected and burnt the drywall above the dryer. Sprinklers went off and the fire department came and distinguish the fire. Smoke went all over the store, it damage the ceiling, the vent and left soot on the other machines. The owner called SERVPRO Fresno Northwest, we went there as soon as possible to asses the situation. This was major clean up disaster. We remove the wall that has the fire damage, HepaVac the ventilation, cleaned the windows and remove soot out of all the washer and dryer. Also treated all the walls to remove the smoke stain and the smell. We cleaned the ceiling and remove a huge lint. The lint was accumulated thru the years behind the dryer wall. The restroom has smoke damage that we end up cleaning as well. It took us days to get this shop back to normal. After we were done the owner was pleased with the job that we have accomplished. 

What to do after a surviving a fire in your home or office

2/8/2019 (Permalink)

A house fire is one of the most frightening and disruptive events that can impact a family. After surviving a fire, it is crucial to remain calm and take the steps that will help you recover from this traumatic event. Enlisting the prompt support of family and emergency service professionals, like SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest can really make a difference in the recovery process.  Here are a few things you can do until help arrives:

Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet.

Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork,

What you don’t want to do:

Attempt to clean walls or any painted surfaces

Turn on A/C or heater, ceiling fans.

SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest is here to help.

Commercial Business

2/8/2019 (Permalink)

Fire engulfs an automotive supply shop, destroying inventory consisting of mainly shocks, struts, starters, alternators, and batteries. The fire ignited due to a chemical container failure affecting surrounding items. 
 
You may think that fire damage like this would put them out of business, but you'd be wrong. Replacing inventory is relatively easy, the hard decision here is locating a quality company to perform the services you need to restore the structure of your building. There are several unique challenges faced during different fire situations, and we have experience dealing with all of them.
 
SERVPRO technicians overcome various cleaning challenges, daily. A burning building consists of several complex reactions between different elements. We learn that fire damage presents different cleaning and restoration situations that depend greatly on how these different elements interact during the progress of a fire. When dealing with the removal of smoke residues, we consider several factors. 
 
Type - More porous surfaces allow particles and odors to penetrate further and are harder to clean. Non-porous surfaces such as those covered in enamel paint are easier to clean than a flat latex paint would be. While synthetic fibers attract more residue than natural fibers, synthetics are easier to clean. 
 
Age - As time progresses, old paint, fabrics, and carpeting become more porous, and adhesion to surfaces become weaker, making old surfaces harder to clean. 
 
Heat - Generally, hotter fires make surfaces expand, allowing residue and odors to penetrate more efficiently. While heat also chars materials or melts the finish on a surface, making refinishing required to restore the surface properly. 
 
Moisture - The right conditions help residues set faster and permanently stain surfaces. Fire suppression systems and Firefighting efforts, along with damp weather and normal condensation on various surfaces combine with smoke residues, causing surfaces to become discolored. 
 
Material - Different materials produce different kinds of residues. Synthetic materials such as plastics and rubber create a wet, smeary residue that stains surfaces. Wood and other natural materials leave behind a dry residue that is easier to clean. 
 
Air Pressure - As the temperature of fire increases, air expands, creating pressure systems that force smoke and soot into cracks and crevices. 
 
Impingement - During a fire, the surrounding air becomes hotter, causing increased movement. This fast moving air collides with surfaces throughout the structure, causing residues to collide with vertical surfaces, leaving behind more difficult stains. 
 
With knowledge of these different factors that cause changes during a fire event, SERVPRO technicians work hard to deliver the services you need to restore your business to a quality preloss condition. 
 
Contact SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest 559-261-9765

Start your week with this news.

2/8/2019 (Permalink)

Imagine you had a great weekend. You & your family went on a quick getaway trip. You walk into the office, and squish squish is what you hear under your feet. Oh no….. there is water EVERYWHERE! It appears a pipe busted, & by the amount of water, it didn’t just happen. No fear SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest to the rescue. Our team of highly trained professionals at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest has the expertise that is needed to restore small, midsize, and large commercial size buildings to their pre-flood waters condition. The training that our team receives, and the equipment that we use can get these jobs done effectively and efficiently so that there will be no unnecessary delays.  Here is some information about our commercial water damage clean up restoration services.

Why SERVPRO for mold removal at your home.

2/8/2019 (Permalink)

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

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

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

Why SERVPRO for Emergency Preparedness Planning for your business.

2/8/2019 (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 Fresno Northwest a call today for a No-cost Assessment on your building 559-261-9765.

Why SERVPRO for water damage cleanup at your home.

2/8/2019 (Permalink)

A broken pipe, and the water damage cleanup it causes is a nightmare for every homeowner or office manager.  Even a broken sink pipe with a small amount of water can do significant damage in a short -period of time.  Do you know what to do?

The first thing that you should do is find the source of the water damage and stop the flow of additional water from entering your home.  The more water the bigger the water damage cleanup and more extensive the problem.  It's easy to figure out when you've left a faucet on or the supply line on the toilet broke. What if you have a broken pipe that has burst that can’t be seen, you must turn off the water supply to your home as quickly as possible.  The water main is often in your front yard under a cement plate designated “Water”. 

 Then call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest to begin the mitigation. 559-261-9765

Why SERVPRO Should Be the Only Company You Call for Water Damage

1/21/2019 (Permalink)

Don't work in knee deep water

Water is a devastating force that can affect your Fresno residence or office. Moisture quickly infiltrates and begins to disintegrate porous building materials including drywall, ceiling tiles, and some types of flooring. It can migrate from the original damaged space into other rooms, levels, and hidden cavities between walls, under floors, and above ceilings. In just 24 to 48 hours secondary damage such as mold growth begins. Homeowners need to reach out to professional restoration experts right away.

When an overflowing tub or sink becomes a waterfall, your Fresno home requires a comprehensive water damage recovery plan. Unfortunately, it is rarely enough to mop up the water you see, as moisture is notorious for moving into any absorbent material or flowing into neighboring spaces. Intensive training in moisture metering and infrared scanning is useful to trace the path of water. The typical homeowner lacks that skill, which is why working with a trustworthy water restoration company is so important.

SERVPRO can arrive as soon as practical after your call, ready to assess the extent of the damage and to devise a plan to remove the water and dry all affected spaces. Our service vehicles carry an equipment stock that anticipates a range of water removal and drying tasks. The submersible pumps, extractors, air movers, heaters, and dehumidifiers are set to manage the challenges, clearly supporting why SERVPRO delivers fast and effective services when water damages your home.

Our technicians cover a broad range of water damage scenarios during the time they spend on IICRC training. This background helps speed the process of restoration. Why SERVPRO is an industry leader is our expectation that every project we accept stands on its own. We carefully evaluate the specific circumstances of your water damage crisis so that we miss nothing, including unexpected seepage or harm to vulnerable building materials or contents others might not consider. When we respond our mission is to leave your property “Like it never even happened.” Working with you and your insurance company to achieve this end is always our goal.

Why SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest should rank first in your search for reputable water damage restorers is clear -- we have the trained technicians and appropriate equipment to get the job done. Contact us at (559)261-9765 when water flows outside of its lane for a fast and efficient response

When a Storm hits Fresno or Clovis call SERVPRO!

1/15/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of  Fresno Northwest 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 Fresno or Clovis, 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 are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest, 559-261-9765

Restoring your Fresno Commercail Property after a water damage event

11/8/2018 (Permalink)

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

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

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

About SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest

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

Mold Damage Tips

11/8/2018 (Permalink)

In as little as 48 hours, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business when there’s a water intrusion, like a roof leak or leaking water line. Mold can cause health effects and can also cause significant damage to your property. SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest Professionals have the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem.

If you have a mold problem in your home or business, your primary focus should be safety:

Mold may present a greater risk to children, the elderly, and anyone with respiratory problems.

A strong, musty odor may indicate hidden mold behind drywall or under carpeting.

What to Do:

Stay out of affected areas.

Turn off the HVAC system and fans.

Contact the Professionals at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest 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.

Protecting your Commercial Property from a fire

11/8/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial fires in your Fresno or Clovis business are often the most devastating reality that a property owner will have to oversee. In addition to wreaking havoc on your property, fires can 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: 

Conduct Fire Emergency Escape plan

As kid’s we practice an emergency escape plan at school, why don’t we as adults in the work pace.

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 operate the fire extinguisher. 

Other issues that should be involved in the training include:

• Breathing Apparatus Training

• First Aid 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 Fresno Northwest where we have extensive industry experience and a passion for restoring offices to their original condition. We're ready to assist you immediately, 559-261-9765

Thunderstorm Time

10/9/2018 (Permalink)

A thunderstorm is considered severe if it produces hail at least 1 inch in diameter or has wind gusts of at least 58 miles per hour. Every thunderstorm produces lightning, which kills more people each year than tornadoes or hurricanes. Heavy rain from thunderstorms can cause flash flooding, and high winds can damage homes and blow down trees and utility poles, causing widespread power outages.

                                                            Know the Difference

Severe Thunderstorm Watch - Severe thunderstorms are possible in and near the watch area. Stay informed and be ready to act if a severe thunderstorm warning is issued.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning - Severe weather has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar. Warnings indicate imminent danger to life and property.

Every year people are killed or seriously injured by severe thunderstorms despite advance warning. While some did not hear the warning, others heard the warning and did not pay attention to it. The information in this section, combined with timely watches and warnings about severe weather, may help save lives.

What if your office flooded?

10/9/2018 (Permalink)

Imagine you had a great weekend. You & your family went on a quick getaway trip, maybe up to Bass Lake Ca., or Coarsegold Ca. peddlers fair. Come Monday morning you walk into the office, and squish squish is what you hear under your feet. Oh no….. there is water EVERYWHERE! It appears a pipe busted, & by the amount of water, it didn’t just happen. No fear SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest to the rescue. Our team of highly trained professionals at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest has the expertise that is needed to restore small, midsize, and large commercial size buildings to their pre-flood waters condition. The training that our team receives, and the equipment that we use can get these jobs done effectively and efficiently so that there will be no unnecessary delays.  

How to Prepare for a Storm

10/9/2018 (Permalink)

Things to do:

• Winterize your vehicle and keep the gas tank full. A full tank will keep the fuel line from freezing.
• Insulate your home by installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic from the inside to keep cold air out.
• Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected every year.
• If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55° F.

SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest can handle storm damage to your business or home. Storm are unpredictable and so scary when your home is being affected. You can count on us help help get your home back and feel safe knowing when storms hit we can make it look like it never happened.

Winter is Coming!

10/9/2018 (Permalink)

Winter storms can range from a moderate snow over a few hours to a blizzard with blinding, wind-driven snow that lasts for several days. Some winter storms are large enough to affect several states, while others affect only a single community. Many winter storms are accompanied by dangerously low temperatures and sometimes by strong winds, icing, sleet and freezing rain.

Regardless of the severity of a winter storm, you should be prepared in order to remain safe during these events.

Know the Difference

Winter Storm Outlook - Winter storm conditions are possible in the next 2 to 5 days.

Winter Weather Advisory - Winter weather conditions are expected to cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous. When caution is used, these situations should not be life threatening. 

Winter Storm Watch - Winter storm conditions are possible within the next 36 to 48 hours. People in a watch area should review their winter storm plans and stay informed about weather conditions. 

Winter Storm Warning - Life-threatening, severe winter conditions have begun or will begin within 24 hours. People in a warning area should take precautions immediately.

Trust SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest for your restoration needs. 

Pro's Know best?

7/13/2018 (Permalink)

When water damage resulting from sewage issues or some other problem affects your property, you need to take effective action immediately. Although the water issue may seem minor, it can cause substantive damage to your house if it is not eliminated quickly and correctly. And while you may be inclined to start the water removal process on your own, it is important always to have this work completed by a team of professionals from SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest.

Here are several reasons why:

Water Damage Is Progressive

Water damage can worsen with each passing moment. The longer you postpone calling water damage restoration experts to fix the problems, the greater the damages will be. Apart from obvious damage to contents and building materials, you may also be victimized by a mold infestation if the water is not removed promptly. Exposure to fungi may cause health effects as well as increase restoration costs.

Sewage Water is Dangerous

If the excessive water on your property contains sewage, it is very dangerous. In fact, sewage water contains pathogens, pesticides, and waste matter. Black water causes health implications if you come in contact with this type of water. Contact professionals who can remove the sewage water quickly and safely. Don't attempt to do it yourself. Training, specialized equipment, and hazmat clothing are required for a return of safety to your property.

Electrical Hazards

Water, being a conductor of electricity, can send shocks powerful enough to cause electrocution under some circumstances. Whether you're dealing with black, gray or clean water, the extraction process brings with it electrical hazards. Don't subject yourself to the risk of electrocution. Instead, allow the experienced professionals from SERVPRO Fresno Northwest to complete the process for you. These individuals possess the knowledge and hands-on experience necessary to complete the process in a safe manner that precludes you and them from experiencing illness or injury.

Call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest now at (559) 261- 9765.

Although water damage can disrupt your well-being and cause inconveniences within your daily life, it doesn't have to drain all your energy and assets. To restore your property and resume your way of life, contact the water damage restoration experts of SERVPRO Fresno Northwest. Our certified technicians will clean and dry your property with remarkable speed, and we'll also provide you with complete customer service that keeps you calm throughout the remediation process. We will document, invite you for a final walk-through,  and guarantee that your home is dry and safe. "Like it never even happened."

Highly-Trained Water Restoration Specialists

As water damage specialists, SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest has the experience, expertise, and the advanced training that enables us to get your property dried quickly and thoroughly. We use scientific drying principles and provide validation and documentation that your property is dry and the job is complete. Learn about our water damage training and certificates. Call us 24/7 for help. (559) 261- 9765

Cleaning Tips 101

7/13/2018 (Permalink)

Below are some helpful tips on how to keep your home clean and safe from your neighborhood friendly SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest.

Clean a Mirror

You don’t have to buy glass cleaners and paper towels to clean your mirrors.  Just some vinegar and an old newspaper is all you need to keep your mirrors shining as new. Your house will look cleaner if the mirrors are clean.

Cleaning the Oven

Does your oven get used every day?  Someday if you’re not using your oven, give it a quick spray of oven cleaner and keep it like that till the next day. Before you turn on your oven the next day, give it a quick wipe down. The baked on stuff comes off much easier than ever.

Cleaning the Microwave

Cleaning a microwave is easy. Fill up a cup of water and put it in there on high for a few minutes. The steam from the cup will loosen any stuck-on food, and then you can just wipe it away. It’s that simple.

Cleaning the Fridge

A fridge looks big and cleaning it looks even bigger. Follow my steps and the work will be a bit easier. First toss out any bad food. Then start with wiping down the top shelves and work down. Baking soda and water make a great cleaner and won’t leave your fridge smelling like a harsh cleanser. After you wipe out the crispers, line them with paper towels for easier cleaning next time. Cleaning the fridge was never this easy.

Cleaning your Bathroom

You can use lemon oil to shine the tiles of your bathroom. Lemon oil will also prevent mold and mildew. Use a false teeth bubbling tablet to avoid rings. Sometimes the problem with shower is that hard water gets build up there. Fill a plastic bag with vinegar and place it over shower head to remove hard water buildup. You can use alcohol to  shine bathroom faucets.

Toilet Hygiene

One of the most hated things to do but fortuitously, it can be done very fast if you follow the way I do, few steps to follow to get it done quickly. First pour some cleaner in the bowl to soak. Then wipe down the seat and outside of the bowl with an antibacterial wipe or spray cleaner. After that scrub the bowl with a toilet brush and finally wipe down everything again with a dry cloth to make it shine.

Bathtubs can be cleaned too EASILY

To clean bathtubs here are a few things that may help:

Use a cleanser that will foam or bubble. This allows you to “soak” your tub or shower, even if it’s a vertical wall. Get a scrubber that fits your needs, a long-handled one or an extra firm one, pick a scrubber that will be easiest for you to use. Moreover, spraying the tub or shower down after each use can make deep cleaning easier.

With any other questions, don't hesitate to call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest at 559-261-9765.

Call The Professionals

7/13/2018 (Permalink)

After a fire, your house is left with lingering smoke that can be harmful to your health and property. The best thing to do in such a situation is to clean the smoke immediately because if you ignore it, the smoke will cause massive damage on your property which will require more money to clean than if you had cleaned it sooner. If the smoke is not cleaned as soon as possible, the items that will be mostly affected by smoke includes drapes, carpets, upholstery and walls because they will become permanently discolored. Glass will become extremely etched, and metals will tarnish which will result in having to replace these items.

You might think that you can do a good job at cleaning smoke by yourself without any basic knowledge and skills on how to go about it, but this can lead to you causing further damage on the items. The best thing to do will be to hire experienced professionals from a reputable company to do the cleaning and restore the home to the state it was in before the fire disaster struck. That is where SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest comes into play.

One of the advantages of using experts to clean soot is that they have specialized tools which are crucial in eliminating smoke. These are tools such as extractors, rotary scrubbers, and wet cleaning tools. Another advantage is that we have a lot of experience in doing such work; therefore, we will know the right steps to take in cleaning your home and preventing further damage on the property.

When we come to your home, the first thing we will do is to assess the extent of the damage and determine where the odors are coming from. We will then vacuum the whole house to remove any traces of soot. Soot is dangerous because it can cause breathing complications besides damaging property. After we finish vacuuming, we will cover the carpets and furniture to prevent more dirt from settling on them. We will also identify what can and cannot be replaced and advise you accordingly. Once we find the source of the odor we will use specialized detergents to treat it and eliminate the smell completely.

Indeed, bringing in a professional on site will save you a lot of headaches and ensure that you get rid of the smoke efficiently. If you live in Fresno, call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest for reliable smoke removal services at an affordable cost. For more information call us at (559) 261- 9765.

Residential Services here at Fresno Northwest

7/13/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest 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. Here are some examples of what we offer:

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

Below are some examples of residential services we offer.

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

If you have any questions, call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest anytime, 24/7/365 at 559-261-9765.

Fire Damage to Your Business

7/13/2018 (Permalink)

Many businesses and homes are at risk for a fire, especially when they lease older buildings in need of repairs. We know how costly and devastating a fire can be to a business or home, so it is always our goal to get you back up and running right away. SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest is committed to working around the clock to get your business or home restored as quickly and seamlessly as possible. 

What to Expect When We Arrive After a Fire Loss:

1. Detailed scope of the effected areas to determine the extent of the loss.

2. Pretest affected surfaces is always performed to determine the type of smoke and which products will help us recover the area most effectively.

3. Equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.

If a fire has damaged your business or home, call us right away at 559-261-9765. SERVPRO at Fresno Northwest will treat you with empathy, respect and care for your property.

Commercial Restoration Presents Unique Challenges

Fire damage is especially devastating for a business or commercial property. In addition to the fire and smoke damage, significant water damage from firefighting efforts and fire suppression systems may occur. SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest has the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial fire damage emergencies. Whether your fire emergency occurs in a restaurant, motel, office building or your personal home, we will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project through to its completion.

We at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest are available 24/7/365. 

Water Doesn't Belong There

7/13/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest provide emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and even 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 Fresno Northwest 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.

Please don't hesitate to call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest immediately if you suspect any damage or have any questions. Contact us at (559) 261-9765

Clutter Free

7/13/2018 (Permalink)

With fall just around the corner, we here in Fresno try to accomplish new goals, get a new fresh start and tidy up our homes. Getting healthy, organizing and bettering our lives' always seems to be at the top of the list. One space to start cleaning and organizing is the garage! That extra storage area that easily becomes a catchall for excess items.  We have compiled a list of items that should not be stored in your garage for not only the better of the item, but also for safety. Get them out and reclaim your space.

1. Paint- Because the garage is prone to extreme temperature changes, paint should not be stored in the garage.  Recycle paint according to your county guidelines or donate it.
2. Electronics- If you are putting electronics out in the garage, you must not be using them.  Donate these items because they can’t withstand the temperature fluctuations and will easily break.
3. Propane and Hazardous Chemicals- Proper ventilation is key for storage of propane and hazardous chemicals.  For safety reasons, these items need to be stored outside.  
4. Food- Keeping food in the garage is an open invitation to rodents and insects.  Although shopping in bulk can save money, storing extra food in the garage will cause problems. The moisture and humidity will spoil the food. Find room in the house for food storage.
5. Cardboard boxes- Insects, mice and other rodents love cardboard.  Invest in waterproof plastic bins to store your items.

Hope these tips will better assist you when cleaning up your Fresno home!

If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to call your local SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest at (559) 261-9765 

Faster To Any Size Disaster

7/10/2018 (Permalink)

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  Fresno Northwest arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 559-261-9765

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.

What's a Biohazard?

7/9/2018 (Permalink)

Biohazard -- You’ve heard the term, you’ve seen the symbol, but do you know what actually constitutes a biohazard? Do you have an understanding of what materials and substances are considered to be biohazards and what measures you can take to prevent the spread of infection? A biological hazard (biohazard) is any organism that constitutes a hazard to other living things, especially humans.

Potential biohazards are commonly found in hospitals and health care settings in the form of blood, body fluids, used syringes, glass culture slides, and other medical waste. These substances, among others, can carry bloodborne pathogens and spread disease from person to person.

It is important to mention that biohazards are not only found in hospitals, doctor’s offices, and medical research labs. The blood that is found at the site of a violent crime or accident, the body fluid that is left after an unattended death -- these are all biohazards that should be handled with the same care and attention as those found in a lab or hospital

Fire Restoration for You.

7/9/2018 (Permalink)

Having a fire event on your property can produce some pretty destructive and violent results. Regardless of how large or small the damage is, you never hear a property owner say that they are glad it happened to them.
 
What you need is a team that can respond quickly to your request and start taking care of the fire damage to your Fresno property immediately. Our technicians arrive on site quickly and give you the benefit of having a company with certified technicians working for you.
 
Due to the extensive damage received throughout the duration of a fire, professional restoration services is your best choice. Here at SERVPRO Fresno Northwest we make sure to return your home to a quality pre-damage condition in the quickest most efficient way possible.
 
Heat alone does a significant amount of damage to your structure; it can warp your flooring and cause extensive damage. The contents of your home may be affected in various ways as well, requiring specialized item restoration services only available at SERVPRO.
 
Smoke can reach into cracks and crevices throughout your home, leaving soot residues behind, staining surfaces and causing odors to damage a variety of materials within your home. We use different deodorization and cleaning methods specifically designed to return things back to normal quickly.
 
SERVPRO gives you access to technicians with the experience and training required to present you with the quality services you need to make your fire damage disappear like it never even happened. 
 
We help you manage your insurance paperwork and communicate with your insurance company. Taking care of you and your family along the way to ensure a smooth restoration process.
 
SERVPRO technicians can answer any questions you have about our services and only present you with those that you need. We have certified technicians to handle every aspect of your restoration.
 
Give us the opportunity to provide you with a unique solution to your problem by calling SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest today. (559) 261-9765

What's that Smell?

7/9/2018 (Permalink)

Mold often produces a distinctive scent that many would describe as a 'smelly odor' that rarely goes away. This odor might decrease when the humidity decreases or the temperature is cooler, but the moldy smell never truly goes away. Spores from growing mold are often released, and it is the chemicals that these spores carry with them that can cause an otherwise very clean home, to have a musty smell.

Your home can develop mold damage when moisture levels are high enough to support mold colonies. Fungi require a steady supply of moisture to continue to grow and SERVPRO crews use this to find where mold is lurking in your home. Our fully trained microbial remediation technicians use building moisture thermography, also known as BMT,  to detect higher levels of moisture that could be a source of water for the mold. Not every area that has greater than normal levels of moisture has mold, but drier areas are less likely to be able to support living mold colonies.

Removing drywall and other materials from your home that have been damaged by mold is part of the remediation process. Sometimes, replacement of these materials with new materials is sufficient, but other items can be cleaned and then returned depending on the severity.

Carpeting is one type of material in your home that needs to be examined before deciding to replace or restore. Changing your carpeting when remediating mold can be a low-cost way to remodel areas of your home. It 's hard to remove mold and spores from carpeting because of the fibrous nature of the carpeting and its backing in cases of severe infestations.

Other types of flooring are often restored as well. Wood floors can be sanded and resealed and our technicians can clean linoleum floors when the damage is not extensive.

SERVPRO knows that every part of your home is important, and we make sure that every area where mold exists in your home is remediated. We easily and accurately locate where water may be entering into your home so that we eliminate future problems before they begin.

Call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest at (559) 261-9765 to rid your home of the moldy smell for good. We take your calls at any day or night and are prepared to help you. 

SERVPRO's Quick Response to Water Damage.

7/9/2018 (Permalink)

If water damage of any kind has occurred in your home, it is important to take action as soon as possible. When it comes to plaster and drywall becoming wet, some problems arise. Mold growth can begin, framing wood splits and swells, and the structural integrity of your home weakens. Even if you see just minor bubbling, spots, or peeling, you want to move fast, so the problem does not become much larger.
 
When you need water removal in your Fresno home, no wall is safe from damages that can occur if they got wet during the disaster. In particular, drywall is at risk to weaken and even collapse. It also many times needs to be replaced, as it is not always repairable. The structure around drywall can also be affected in cases where the damage is severe.
 
SERVPRO, a professional water removal and restoration company, is always standing by to help when you need. In a situation that involves water, we understand that time is of the essence and arrive at your home quickly so we can assess the damages and begin cleanup right away.
 
Water ruins plaster as well. It is not resistant to dampness and therefore is easily affected. It is fortunately easy to remove and replace when needed. 
 
At SERVPRO, we also check any brickwork in your home for signs of water damage. If it has not been correctly sealed, the porous cement used can absorb excess water and start crumbling. If it has been compromised, we extract the water before we repair it.
 
To extract the water from the various surfaces and walls, we bring in industrial strength equipment including truck-mounted pumps, dehumidifiers, moisture meters to find hidden water in your walls, and fans. After the standing water is out we take care of placing the equipment around the affected areas to ensure optimal drying time.
 
SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest is experienced in finding hidden water damage inside walls. If your home or business has suffered from a water disaster, contact us right away at (559) 261-9765 so we can extract the water and thoroughly dry and repair what is necessary.

Summer Duct Cleaning

7/9/2018 (Permalink)

The last thing you want to happen during the scorching Fresno temperatures is to lose your air conditioning unit.  SERVPRO is here to help prevent this. 

As the weather heats up here in the Central Valley, we will all begin to utilize our air conditioners more often.  Before the summer heat arrives, call a service professional from SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest to inspect your air conditioner's duct work.

Keeping your duct work clean can extend the life of your heating and cooling equipment and prevent any problems that may arise. This can in the long run save you money and give you cleaner air to breathe.

With that being said, duct cleaning is not always necessary. However,  SERVPRO Professionals will make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. This can save you money and provide peace of mind on the health of your system and your family.

For more information on duct cleaning contact SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest at (559) 261-9765.

Flooding Safety

7/9/2018 (Permalink)

There is always potential for flood damage no matter where you live. According to the American Red Cross, floods cause more damage in the United States every year than any other weather related disaster. The American Red Cross offers these flood safety tips:

-Stay away from floodwaters. If you come up on a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around and go another way. Six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off of your feet.

-If you approach a flooded road while driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are riding rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.

-Keep children out of the water. They are curious and often lack judgment about running water or contaminated water. 

If a flood occurs and affects you, call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest at (559) 261-9765.  Even minor floods have potential to cause major damage. Let us help you get your life back on top.

The Effects of Biohazards

7/9/2018 (Permalink)

Untreated biohazards and residues found on your property put your family in danger, while also posing serious threats to the structure of your home. Human waste, bodily fluids, animals, insects, and hoarding can all result in costly repairs.

The results of biohazards on your Fresno property can make biohazard cleanup services vital to your houses recovery. It may be hard to imagine, or something you want to avoid altogether. However, when decomposition begins, whether it is from an accidental refrigerator mishap, or a case involving unattended death, nature takes over.
 
Corrosion leads to damages; damages lead to rot; rot leads to corrosion, and the circle continues. Animal droppings often contain various types of acid, including human feces, while animal and human urine contain varying amounts of ammonia. These chemicals often lead to additional damages, especially when left unattended for too long.
 
Simply having a pet or accidental deposits on your property does not pose much of a problem, they are something you can clean up yourselves. However, when you consider situations concerning the unattended death of a pet hoarder, sewer backups, or instances of massive animal infestations, the effects become more of a concern. 
 
SERVPRO responds to the hoarding and it can be the most damaging to the structure of your home. Hoarding gives way to circumstances involving neglect and decay, exposing your home to rodent infestation, rotten food sources, sanitation issues, and critical fire hazards.  
 
SERVPRO’s biohazard cleanup team consists of everything from a crime scene to sewage overflow. These cause odors and stains to become a huge problem. Getting rid of these odors often involves removing the source, leading to reconstruction, cleaning, and deodorization services in order to get the job done right.  
 
Expertly trained technicians at SERVPRO deal with many cases involving biohazard cleanup. Our technicians train hard and receive quality corporate certifications to ensure you get the help necessary to return your home to a quality pre-damage condition. As part of our community, we strive to relieve the trauma and emotional stress of our neighbors, as we restore the property.
 
Get the help you need today and call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest for assistance with biohazards on your property, we are here to help. (559) 261-9765

How to Beat Fresno Heat

7/9/2018 (Permalink)

The Fresno heat can be unbearable during the summertime.  Here are some helpful tips and advice from SERVPRO to help stay cool during those hot days!

1. Plan time inside:

-Go to lunch with a friend in a cooled restaurant

-Walk through the mall

-Check out the Fresno Art Museum

-See a movie!

2. Stay covered:

-Find a place to relax under a tree

-Use an umbrella when walking outdoors

-Use fans

3. Hydrate properly:

-Drink water every 15 minutes

-6-12oz at a time to total at least a gallon of water a day

4. Stay near water:

-If a pool is not accessible at your home, find a local public pool

-Take a short drive to Millerton Lake

5. Recognizing signs of heat illness:

-Profuse/excess sweating

-Confusion or mumbling

-Chills or feeling cold

-Vomiting

*Never take signs lightly, illnesses can increase drastically and become life threatening. Seek medical attention immediately.

Biohazar and Crime Scene

7/9/2018 (Permalink)

Biohazard, Vandalism and Crime Scene Cleanup and Restoration Services

Recognized as a leading fire and water cleanup and restoration provider by hundreds of insurance companies nationwide, SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest offers fast, reliable biohazard and crime scene cleanup and restoration services to residential and commercial property owners.

Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences for building occupants, employees, customers and owners. A failure to properly handle and safely remove such hazardous substances can contribute to unhealthy and even dangerous environments. Your local SERVPRO professionals are trained to safely and effectively remove biohazard substances and prepare waste for proper disposal. Equipped with the necessary safety equipment and cleaning products, SERVPRO professionals help turn unsafe environments into clean, safe homes and offices.

SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest can help with:

• Blood borne Pathogens
• Methamphetamine Labs
• Crime Scene Residues
• Arson
• Vandalism
• Sewage Backups
• Black Water Intrusions
• Mold Mitigation and Remediation

If you have any questions or concerns, please call SERVPRO Fresno Northwest at (559) 261-9765 for your biohazard needs.

Smoke and Soot

7/9/2018 (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 Fresno Northwest 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.

We would love to help you and make a difficult time less stressful. Call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest at (559) 261-9765 for more information.

Who We Are.

7/9/2018 (Permalink)

You may know us as the Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration Company. But did you know that there are over 20 services that we can provide. The team at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest is ready to help you at a moment’s notice 24/7/365.  A few of the other services that we provide include…

• Mold Mitigation

• Document Restoration

• Duct Cleaning

• Deodorization                  

• Reconstruction

• Vandalism Cleanup

• Forensic Remediation

• Storm Response

Our team here at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest can help you with whatever disaster that you may have. We are locally owned and operated, and ready to serve you.

Whether you are a homeowner, business owner, property manager, or first responder we are here for you. There is no disaster that is too large or too small that we can't handle. From our trained and uniformed crews to our professional restoration consultants, the cleanup team at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest is here to help make your disaster, “Like it never even happened." For more information on how we can help you be prepared or for a consultation please call us at (559) 261-9765

Being Prepared for Anything

7/9/2018 (Permalink)

Most storm, fire, and water damage happens unexpectedly and emergencies can catch residents unprepared. You’re smart to have an emergency supply bag or container already stocked with the basics you need should an emergency happen. When the New Yorker published an article in 2015 called ‘The Really Big One” many people began re-evaluating their personal preparedness. SERVPRO is a national partner of the American Red Cross, an organization that advises all of us to have an emergency supply kit or evacuation pack that includes the following:

Emergency survival kit

• Store a kit at home, at work and at each child’s school or daycare facility.
• Dry or canned food and drinking water for each person
• Can opener
• First aid supplies and first aid book
• Copies of important documents such as birth certificates, licenses, and insurance policies
• "Special needs" items for family members such as infant formula, eyeglasses and medications
• A change of clothing
• Sleeping bag or blanket
• Battery powered radio or television
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Whistle
• Waterproof matches
• Toys, books, puzzles, games
• Extra house keys and car keys
• List of contact names and phone numbers
• Food, water and supplies for pets

Additional items you can store at home for use during an emergency

• Cooking supplies
• Barbecue, camp stove
• Fuel for cooking, such as charcoal or camp stove fuel
• Plastic knives, forks, spoons
• Paper plates and cups
• Paper towels
• Heavy-duty aluminum foil

  Sanitation supplies

• Large plastic trash bags for trash, water protection
• Large trash cans
• Bar soap and liquid detergent
• Shampoo
• Toothpaste and toothbrushes
• Feminine and infant supplies
• Toilet paper
• Household bleach with no additives, and eyedropper (for purifying drinking water)
• Newspaper — to wrap garbage and waste

  Comfort

• Sturdy shoes
• Gloves for clearing debris
• Tent

  Tools

• Ax, shovel, broom
• Crescent wrench for turning off gas
• Screwdriver, pliers, hammer
• Coil of one-half inch rope
• Plastic tape and sheeting
• Knife or razor blades
• Garden hose for siphoning and fire fighting

• In flood, earthquake and other natural disasters, recovery will be much easier if you’re prepared with emergency survival tools and supplies like these.

If you have any other questions or concerns, please do no hesitate to call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest at (559) 261-9765.

Restoring your Commercial Property

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

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

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

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

About SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest

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

Mold in your home?

6/12/2018 (Permalink)

The adverse effects of mold growth inside your home can be catastrophic and can cause health effects.  It can cause debilitating problems to the value of a home and remediation can be costly. With that being said, it is no wonder that one of the most dreaded four letter words you can utter in any home is mold. Detecting mold, however, is not as daunting as many may think. It can sometimes be as easy as looking at you’re A/C vents, smelling the air when you return from the grocery store, or even spotting discoloration underneath cabinets or on walls.

SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest specializes in:  water remediation, flood mitigation, carpet cleaning,  mold removal, fire damage, and smoke clean up, disaster restoration,  and air duct cleaning. SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest

What is a Biohazard?

6/12/2018 (Permalink)

Biohazard -- You’ve heard the term, you’ve seen the symbol, but do you know what actually constitutes a biohazard? Do you have an understanding of what materials and substances are considered to be biohazards and what measures you can take to prevent the spread of infection? A biological hazard (biohazard) is any organism that constitutes a hazard to other living things, especially humans.

Potential biohazards are commonly found in hospitals and health care settings in the form of blood, body fluids, used syringes, glass culture slides, and other medical waste. These substances, among others, can carry bloodborne pathogens and spread disease from person to person.

It is important to mention that biohazards are not only found in hospitals, doctor’s offices, and medical research labs. The blood that is found at the site of a violent crime or accident, the body fluid that is left after an unattended death -- these are all biohazards that should be handled with the same care and attention as those found in a lab or hospital.

Do you have mold in your home?

6/12/2018 (Permalink)

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

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

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

Fire Restoration for You

6/12/2018 (Permalink)

Having a fire event on your property can produce some pretty destructive and violent results. Regardless of how large or small the damage is, you never hear a property owner say that they are glad it happened to them.
 
What you need is a team that can respond quickly to your request and start taking care of the fire damage to your Fresno property immediately. Our technicians arrive on site quickly and give you the benefit of having a company with certified technicians working for you.
 
Due to the extensive damage received throughout the duration of a fire, professional restoration services is your best choice. Here at SERVPRO Fresno Northwest we make sure to return your home to a quality pre-damage condition in the quickest most efficient way possible.
 
Heat alone does a significant amount of damage to your structure; it can warp your flooring and cause extensive damage. The contents of your home may be affected in various ways as well, requiring specialized item restoration services only available at SERVPRO.
 
Smoke can reach into cracks and crevices throughout your home, leaving soot residues behind, staining surfaces and causing odors to damage a variety of materials within your home. We use different deodorization and cleaning methods specifically designed to return things back to normal quickly.
 
SERVPRO gives you access to technicians with the experience and training required to present you with the quality services you need to make your fire damage disappear like it never even happened. 
 
We help you manage your insurance paperwork and communicate with your insurance company. Taking care of you and your family along the way to ensure a smooth restoration process.
 
SERVPRO technicians can answer any questions you have about our services and only present you with those that you need. We have certified technicians to handle every aspect of your restoration.
 
Give us the opportunity to provide you with a unique solution to your problem by calling SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest today. (559) 261-9765

Flooding Stafety

6/12/2018 (Permalink)

There is always potential for flood damage no matter where you live. According to the American Red Cross, floods cause more damage in the United States every year than any other weather related disaster. The American Red Cross offers these flood safety tips:

-Stay away from floodwaters. If you come up on a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around and go another way. Six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off of your feet.

-If you approach a flooded road while driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are riding rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.

-Keep children out of the water. They are curious and often lack judgment about running water or contaminated water. 

If a flood occurs and affects you, call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest at (559) 261-9765.  Even minor floods have potential to cause major damage. Let us help you get your life back on top.

How to Beat Fresno Heat

6/12/2018 (Permalink)

The Fresno heat can be unbearable during the summertime.  Here are some helpful tips and advice from SERVPRO to help stay cool during those hot days!

1. Plan time inside:

-Go to lunch with a friend in a cooled restaurant

-Walk through the mall

-Check out the Fresno Art Museum

-See a movie!

2. Stay covered:

-Find a place to relax under a tree

-Use an umbrella when walking outdoors

-Use fans

3. Hydrate properly:

-Drink water every 15 minutes

-6-12oz at a time to total at least a gallon of water a day

4. Stay near water:

-If a pool is not accessible at your home, find a local public pool

-Take a short drive to Millerton Lake

5. Recognizing signs of heat illness:

-Profuse/excess sweating

-Confusion or mumbling

-Chills or feeling cold

-Vomiting

*Never take signs lightly, illnesses can increase drastically and become life threatening. Seek medical attention immediately.

We Care!

5/21/2018 (Permalink)

Yes we are a part of a major corporation, however we here at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest feel it's important to not forget where we've come from and that in order to be successful we need to remember it's all about you our client and the personal touch. Why do people often go back to the same small business or refer their friends and family to it? It's simple the quality of service that you receive and the time they take to make sure YOU the client are taken care of and that they don't just meet but exceed your expectations and needs! We here at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest go that extra mile as it is our goal to not just meet but exceed your expectations in every way possible. From making sure your questions and concerns are addressed from the first time we arrive on site to making sure your home or business is put back together in every way that matters to you. No matter how big or small the job, SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest is here to help every step of the way! Whether assisting you with your home, or your large commercial building SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest is here with a level of care and customer service you normally find in a small business.

We like to say Small business attitude and personal touch at a corporate level. Give us a call at 559-261-9765 today to see the difference

How does an ozone kill the smell?

5/21/2018 (Permalink)

Ozone reacts with odor molecules by transferring the “extra” oxygen atom of the ozone molecule to the odor molecule, changing its composition so it no longer has the same chemical makeup. This chemical reaction is called oxidation. In a nut shell, through the oxidation process, what was formerly an odor-causing molecule is now an entirely different compound, and therefore does not possess the odor of its preceding form. To compare the difference between odor treatment using deodorizers and ozone, Pretend we have two foul smelling odor molecules, think of them as two bad guys. Let’s treat the first bad guy with a spray on deodorizer. This can be represented by locking him in a jail cell so he can’t affect anybody or anything. He is harmless, but he is still a bad guy. Once he is released, he can be a bad guy again…or in our case a stinky odor molecule.

Now let’s take the second bad guy and treat him with ozone. During the oxidation process, his very molecular structure is altered; he is no longer the same thing. This can be represented by waiving a magic wand and “poof-he’s a rabbit”! Since the bad guy has been turned into something completely different/harmless, he can no longer be a bad guy-he is now a permanent rabbit, or in our case, a molecule without an unpleasant odor.

Do you have an odor molecule? Don’t despair, call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest 559-261-9765. 

We'll get the water out

5/18/2018 (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 Fresno Northwest is experienced in helping business owners and managers bring their businesses back from disaster, no matter how large or small the business. 
 
In Fresno businesses affected by commercial 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 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 Fresno Northwest to help.

When it rains it pours!

5/18/2018 (Permalink)

We've recently received a job in Oakhurst and it was a hot water heater leaking throughout an elderly woman's house.  This woman had just suffered from a stroke so she had been away from from her home.  She returned to find out her hot water heater had been leaking and the whole house was affected.  We are in process of packing her out to get everything dry and her house livable again, but she is supposed to be going out of town in 3 days for a week.  SERVPRO strives to make sure everything can get done in a timely manner and make sure the customer has as little stress as possible.  We are there to make sure you are taken care of and make it look "Like it never even happened."  

This Day in History

5/16/2018 (Permalink)

1927 U.S.A. Charles Lindbergh 20th May 1927 : Charles Lindbergh who many called the "flying fool" has set off from Roosevelt Field in Long Island, NY, today flying the "Spirit of St. Louis" on an epic flight from New York to Paris and is a milestone in flying aviation history, he is expected to arrive in Paris sometime late tomorrow. His plane A Ryan is expected to travel up to 125 MPH as the fuel load decreases. 

He completed the 33-hour, 30-minute flight and landed at Le Bourget Airport, Paris on the evening of 21 May. 

1862 U.S.A. The Homestead Act 20th May : President Abraham Lincoln signs into law the original Homestead Act on May 20th,1862. The Homestead Act gave an applicant freehold title to up to 160 acres (1/4 section, 65 hectares) of undeveloped federal land outside the original 13 colonies. 

1944 Germany Assassination Attempt On Adolf Hitler 20th May 1944 : A group of officers from the German Army attempt an assassination attempt on Adolf Hitler by exploding a bomb in his headquarters during a staffing meeting

Should you have your air ducts cleaned?

5/16/2018 (Permalink)

If no one in your household suffers from allergies or unexplained symptoms or illnesses and if, after a visual inspection of the inside of the ducts, you see no indication that your air ducts are contaminated with large deposits of dust having your air ducts cleaned is probably unnecessary. It is normal for the return registers to get dusty as dust-laden air is pulled through the grate. This does not indicate that your air ducts are contaminated with heavy deposits of dust or debris; the registers can be easily vacuumed or removed and cleaned.

On the other hand, if family members are experiencing unusual or unexplained symptoms or illnesses that you think might be related to your home environment, you should discuss the situation with your doctor.

Call Us!!

5/16/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest understands your situation as a Insurance agent, adjustor or Property Manager.  Not only do you have to deal with customers who need help and giudance but it is your responsibility to keep claim cost down while still providing the best services to your customers.  You are the main contact for the customer and very important. SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest is uniquely qualified to help. From duct cleaning to fire and water damage we are able to make it look like it nevr happened. Our results create a measurable difference, showing the customer you care,and giving you many competitive advantages, including:

Emergency response, electronic Commerce to provide information and proof of results.

Call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest, the Mitigation Company you can trust.

Do you have mold in your home?

5/16/2018 (Permalink)

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

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

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

Biohazard and Crime scene

5/16/2018 (Permalink)

Biohazard, Vandalism and Crime Scene Cleanup and Restoration Services

Recognized as a leading fire and water cleanup and restoration provider by hundreds of insurance companies nationwide, SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest offers fast, reliable biohazard and crime scene cleanup and restoration services to residential and commercial property owners.

Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences for building occupants, employees, customers and owners. A failure to properly handle and safely remove such hazardous substances can contribute to unhealthy and even dangerous environments. Your local SERVPRO professionals are trained to safely and effectively remove biohazard substances and prepare waste for proper disposal. Equipped with the necessary safety equipment and cleaning products, SERVPRO professionals help turn unsafe environments into clean, safe homes and offices.

SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest can help with:

• Blood borne Pathogens
• Methamphetamine Labs
• Crime Scene Residues
• Arson
• Vandalism
• Sewage Backups
• Black Water Intrusions
• Mold Mitigation and Remediation

If you have any questions or concerns, please call SERVPRO Fresno Northwest at (559) 261-9765 for your biohazard needs.

Commercial fire loss

5/1/2018 (Permalink)

Unfortunately, late one night there was a fire at a local sandwich shop in Clovis, California. The fire ended up being caused by a stove that was left on accidently by an employee. The fire caused the sprinkler system to go off, which caused the water damage. 

SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest received the call at 11:30 am and was on site within 30 minutes.  SERVPRO worked alongside the employees to clean up as much as possible the night the loss occurred. A complete cleaning of the kitchen area was performed. Which included wiping down all walls, ceilings, floors, counters, shelves, and any contents that were affected during the loss.  It took three SERVPRO employees four hours to clean the kitchen. After inspection from the Health authority they were up and running “Like it never even happened.”

Don't forget...

SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any size disaster. Our highly trained technicians can respond immediately to your residential or commercial emergency.

• Highly trained Technicians

• 24- hours services 

• Faster to Any Size Disaster

• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry

• Locally Owned and Operated

• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment

Memorial Day

5/1/2018 (Permalink)

Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who have died in service of the United States of America. Over two dozen cities and towns claim to be the birthplace of Memorial Day. While Waterloo N.Y. was officially declared the birthplace of Memorial Day by President Lyndon Johnson in May 1966, it’s difficult to prove conclusively the origins of the day.

Regardless of the exact date or location of its origins, one thing is clear – Memorial Day was borne out of the Civil War and a desire to honor our dead. It was officially proclaimed on 5 May 1868 by General John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, in his General Order No. 11. “The 30th of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village and hamlet churchyard in the land,” he proclaimed. The date of Decoration Day, as he called it, was chosen because it wasn’t the anniversary of any particular battle.

Spring Cleaning

5/1/2018 (Permalink)

You may think that you don’t have time to organize your office, but if you really knew how much time that disorganization cost you, you’d reconsider. Rearranging and moving piles occasionally doesn’t count. Neither does clearing off your desk, if you swipe the mess into a bin, or a desk drawer. A relatively neat and orderly office space clears the way for higher productivity and less wasted time.

Organizing your office doesn’t have to take days, it can be done a little at a time. In fact maintaining an organized office is much more effective if you treat it like an ongoing project, instead of a massive assault. So, if you’re ready to get started, here are a couple of tips that will help you transform your office into an efficient workspace.

Purge your office – De-clutter, empty, shred, get rid of everything that you don’t need or want. Look around. What haven’t you used in a while? Take one area at a time. If it doesn’t work, send it out for repair or toss it. If you haven’t used it in months and can’t think of when you’ll actually need it, out it goes. This goes for furniture, equipment, supplies, etc. Don’t forget about knick-knacks, plants (real or artificial), and decorations – if they’re covered with dust and make your office look shabby, they’re fair game.

Gather and redistribute – Gather up every item that isn’t where it belongs and put it where it does. 

Establish work “zones” – Decide what type of activity happens in each area of your office. You’ll probably have a main workspace (most likely your desk,) a reference area (filing cabinet, shelves, binders,) and a supply area (closet, shelves or drawers.) Place the appropriate equipment and supplies are located in the proper area as much as possible.

Once you have your work place orginized, call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest to schedule your carpet to be cleaned. 559-261-9765

Water Damage, what to do before helps arrives.

5/1/2018 (Permalink)

If you have a water damage from a clean source such as water supply lines, sink overflows, tub overflows, or appliance malfunctions, here are some things to do before SERVPRO Fresno Northwest arrives.

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

SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any size disaster. Our highly trained technicians can respond immediately to your residential or commercial emergency.

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

If Your Home Has Mold

3/14/2018 (Permalink)

Water damage can be a harrowing ordeal to go through. If not handled by a professional, these situations can lead to secondary damages that can be hard to see or detect right away.

The biggest and most frightening of these damages is mold.

At the first sign of mold, most homeowners become concerned about how it will affect the structure of their houses as well as their family's health. Mold is a serious matter, and being proactive about fixing the problem will save you time, money, and stress.

If your Fresno, Coarsegold,or Oakhurst home has mold damage, it's wise to work with a professional instead of trying to clean up the problem on your own. Give the Professionals at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest a call 559-261-9765

Mold in your Home?

3/14/2018 (Permalink)

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

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

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

Give SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest a call today 559-261-9765

Water Damage in your Commercial Building?

3/14/2018 (Permalink)

As a small shop owner, you would benefit from taking a little time to educate yourself about the information and services that our company provides concerning commercial water damage restoration. Doing so could mean the difference between getting the services that you need to save a majority of your inventory from total loss and obtaining the incorrect services that simply don't do you any good. 

Our professional technicians will make sure that you are properly informed throughout your repair and work hard to get it done right. It is our goal to limit any possible downtime and inconvenience to your daily customers. 

• 24-Hour Emergency Services
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• Highly Trained Water Restoration Technicians 
• A Trusted Leader in the Water Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Water Inspection, Extraction, and Drying Equipment

Water can create many kinds of damage to your business

2/12/2018 (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 Fresno Northwest is experienced in helping business owners and managers bring their businesses back from disaster, no matter how large or small the business. 
 
Fresno businesses affect by commercial 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 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 Fresno Northwest to help.

Mold in your home or condo?

2/12/2018 (Permalink)

Mold damage can be a problem in your Fresno home even without storm damage or an appliance malfunction or leak. Mold needs moisture and organic materials to grow, and the humid conditions often present in our community, with or without severe weather, can encourage the growth of this family of fungi inside your home.

If you discover mold growth in your Fresno condo or home contact SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest for an expert consultation followed by an effective remediation plan to eliminate the musty odors and damaging effects these organisms can have on your home’s structures, furnishings, and personal belongings. 

• 24-hour emergency services
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• Highly Trained Mold Remediation Technicians 
• Specialized Mold Remediation Equipment
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated

Protecting your Business

2/12/2018 (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 Fresno Northwest a call today for a No-cost Assessment on your building 559-261-9765.

Picking up the pieces after a fire.

2/12/2018 (Permalink)

Your own and your family’s emotional care and recovery are just as important as rebuilding a home and healing physical injuries. You may be surprised at how you and others may feel after a disaster. Disasters can stir up many different feelings and thoughts. People may experience fear concerning their safety or that of a loved one, shock, disbelief, grief, anger and guilt. Memory problems, anxiety and/or depression are also possible after experiencing a disaster. Disasters are upsetting experiences for everyone involved. Children, senior citizens, people with disabilities and people for whom English is not their first language are especially at risk. Children may become afraid and some elderly people may seem disoriented at first. People with disabilities may require additional assistance. It is important to let children and elderly people know that they are safe and that you will help them find a safe place to stay. It is also important that you try to talk with them in a calm way.

Call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest to take care of all the clean up 559-261-9765

What to do when there is a fire?

2/12/2018 (Permalink)

• Know how to safely operate a fire extinguisher
• Remember to GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL 9-1-1 or your local emergency phone number.
• Yell "Fire!" several times and go outside right away. If you live in a building with elevators, use the stairs. Leave all your things where they are and save yourself.
• If closed doors or handles are warm or smoke blocks your primary escape route, use your second way out. Never open doors that are warm to the touch.
• If you must escape through smoke, get low and go under the smoke to your exit. Close doors behind you.
• If smoke, heat or flames block your exit routes, stay in the room with doors closed. Place a wet towel if possible under the door and call the fire department or 9-1-1. Open a window and wave a brightly colored cloth or flashlight to signal for help.
• Once you are outside, go to your meeting place and then send one person to call the fire department. If you cannot get to your meeting place, follow your family emergency communication plan.

When Storms Hit!

1/4/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of  Fresno Northwest 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 weather your in Fresno and Clovis, or in the mountains of Oakhurst and Coarsgold, 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 are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest, 559-261-9765

How to protect your home

1/2/2018 (Permalink)

• Increase grade:  The earth around the home should be sloped away from the house to divert water away. Very simply, borrow earth from three feet away from the structure, and toss it against the side of the house thus creating the slope.
• Clean rain gutters:  Schedule a licensed professional to clean gutters annually. A clogged rain gutter can send water cascading down the exterior wall, which can result in water entering the interior walls.
• Divert down spouts: In a quick run to the local hardware store, homeowners can find a black, plastic corrugated 6-inch hose that fits around the base of the downspout. This device carries water away from the house, preventing it from seeping down into the foundation.
• Roof maintenance: Where rain is concerned, the roof is the first line of defense. One small tear in a rubber membrane or crack in a tin roof, or compromise in the plywood structure of the roof can prove disastrous for the entire interior of the home. But regular maintenance can preserve the life of the roof. Have a roofer check out your home every five years.
• Window repairs:  Proper window installation and maintenance is imperative. Modern windows are fitted with wells and drains designed to help direct water outside the house. Improper caulking can prove disastrous by sending water into the house that should be draining away from the window.
• Sweep away debris:  Especially during spring and fall seasons, when the area’s great trees emit pollen in tumble weed fashion and drop their leaves in mass, it is critical to diligently sweep outdoor surfaces weekly, especially patios and door wells to prevent the collection of debris clogging exterior drains.

Simple Step to Prevent Commercial Electrical Fires

11/7/2017 (Permalink)

As industry experts know, commercial electrical fires can be very dangerous and costly. When a commercial fire occurs, it can lead to the injury or death of the employees or customers present. Additionally, electrical fires can result in major property loss. SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest, a premier fire damage restoration company, will respond immediately to get you back in business. Luckily, most of these fires are preventable and can also be contained through maintenance of fixtures, employee training, and the facilitation of greater awareness regarding work hazards. Learn more about how to identify electrical hazards and reduce the incidence of a commercial fire by reading the following information: 

Recognizing the Warning Signs 

Electrical distribution systems contain several complex elements. These elements are capable of exposing commercial buildings to fire risks. Some of the areas of concern are:

• Corroded Wiring: Wiring that is old or defective can cause electrical fires. Although all wiring can start to break down at some point, the wiring exposed to corrosive substances or the outdoor environment is subject to faster degradation. Industrial facilities, multi-tenant warehouses, and farms should be attentive to their wiring given that it can be subject to extreme exposure to the elements.
• Circuits and Fuses: Tripped circuits and blown fuses are signs of overloaded outlets or circuits. These circuits and outlets can generate overheating and result in combustion leading to commercial electrical fires. 
• Hot Spots: Overloaded circuits, corroded wires or connectors, loose connections, faulty fuses, imbalanced electrical loading, short circuits, switches, and breakers can generate "hot spots". This is the result of the excessive heat that builds up within the electrical panels.  Infrared thermal imaging can be operated to locate these hot spots, repairs can then be done preventing electrical shortages or breakdowns that lead to fires. Small business owners can hire licensed electricians to complete the inspection. 

Electrical Distribution Equipment

Periodically, electrical distribution equipment needs to be inspected and tested. The equipment should also periodically undergo thermal imaging. This work should be completed by a licensed professional. Some of the equipment requiring inspection includes:

• electrical panels, switchboards, and switchgear    
• fuses
• circuit breakers
• relays and contactors
• disconnect switches
• motors
• motor controls
• transformers

The Fire Marshall periodically visits commercial buildings checking the fire extinguishers' expiration dates. The overhead sprinkler system, fire exit lighted signs and safe egress from the commercial building are all inspected. Prevention is the key.

Conclusion

Fire damage can be especially devastating for a business or commercial property. Significant water damage can be an unintended result of extinguishing a commercial fire. The fire suppression system of a commercial building (overhead fire sprinkler system) can also cause a large amount of water damage. Commercial business owners know that electrical fires negatively affect their property, the operation of the business, and the loss of revenue. However, the information above can help you take strides towards preventing these fires from happening. In the event that you find your commercial space affected by a fire, electrical or otherwise, you should know who to call to help facilitate the remediation process. As a company with extensive experience in restoring property affected by electrical fires, the professionals of SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest can provide you with the detailed assistance necessary to get your business space in working order. Contact us today for professional, personalized service. 

Commercial Building Restoration Services

SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest responds quickly to your Fresno or Clovis water, fire or mold damage emergency, 24 hours a day. Whether the damage occurs in a small business building or a big box store, we have the training, experience, and equipment to handle the situation.

protecting your Commercial Property from A Fire

11/7/2017 (Permalink)

Commercial fires in your Fresno or Clovis business are often the most devastating reality that a property owner will have to oversee. In addition to wreaking havoc on your property, fires can 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: 

Conduct Fire Emergency Escape plan

As kid’s we practice an emergency escape plan at school, why don’t we as adults in the work pace.

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 operate the fire extinguisher. 

Other issues that should be involved in the training include:

• Breathing Apparatus Training

• First Aid 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 Fresno Northwest where we have extensive industry experience and a passion for restoring offices to their original condition. We're ready to assist you immediately, 559-261-9765

Mold Damage tips

11/7/2017 (Permalink)

In as little as 48 hours, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business when there’s a water intrusion, like a roof leak or leaking water line. Mold can cause health effects and can also cause significant damage to your property. SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest Professionals have the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem.

If you have a mold problem in your home or business, your primary focus should be safety:

Mold may present a greater risk to children, the elderly, and anyone with respiratory problems.

A strong, musty odor may indicate hidden mold behind drywall or under carpeting.

What to Do:

Stay out of affected areas.

Turn off the HVAC system and fans.

Contact the Professionals at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest 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.

Winter is coming!!

10/24/2017 (Permalink)

Winter storms can range from a moderate snow over a few hours to a blizzard with blinding, wind-driven snow that lasts for several days. Some winter storms are large enough to affect several states, while others affect only a single community. Many winter storms are accompanied by dangerously low temperatures and sometimes by strong winds, icing, sleet and freezing rain.

Regardless of the severity of a winter storm, you should be prepared in order to remain safe during these events.

Know the Difference

Winter Storm Outlook - Winter storm conditions are possible in the next 2 to 5 days.

Winter Weather Advisory - Winter weather conditions are expected to cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous. When caution is used, these situations should not be life threatening. 

Winter Storm Watch - Winter storm conditions are possible within the next 36 to 48 hours. People in a watch area should review their winter storm plans and stay informed about weather conditions. 

Winter Storm Warning - Life-threatening, severe winter conditions have begun or will begin within 24 hours. People in a warning area should take precautions immediately.

Trust SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest for your restoration needs. 

Know how to Prepare

10/24/2017 (Permalink)

• Winterize your vehicle and keep the gas tank full. A full tank will keep the fuel line from freezing.
• Insulate your home by installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic from the inside to keep cold air out.
• Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected every year.
• If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55° F.

SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest can handle storm damage to your business or home. Storm are unpredictable and so scary when your home is being affected. You can count on us help help get your home back and feel safe knowing when storms hit we can make it look like it never happened.

What if your office flooded?

10/24/2017 (Permalink)

Imagine you had a great weekend. You & your family went on a quick getaway trip, maybe up to Bass Lake Ca., or Coarsegold Ca. peddlers fair. Come Monday morning you walk into the office, and squish squish is what you hear under your feet. Oh no….. there is water EVERYWHERE! It appears a pipe busted, & by the amount of water, it didn’t just happen. No fear SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest to the rescue. Our team of highly trained professionals at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest has the expertise that is needed to restore small, midsize, and large commercial size buildings to their pre-flood waters condition. The training that our team receives, and the equipment that we use can get these jobs done effectively and efficiently so that there will be no unnecessary delays.  

Thunderstorm time

10/24/2017 (Permalink)

A thunderstorm is considered severe if it produces hail at least 1 inch in diameter or has wind gusts of at least 58 miles per hour. Every thunderstorm produces lightning, which kills more people each year than tornadoes or hurricanes. Heavy rain from thunderstorms can cause flash flooding, and high winds can damage homes and blow down trees and utility poles, causing widespread power outages.

                                                            Know the Difference

Severe Thunderstorm Watch - Severe thunderstorms are possible in and near the watch area. Stay informed and be ready to act if a severe thunderstorm warning is issued.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning - Severe weather has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar. Warnings indicate imminent danger to life and property.

Every year people are killed or seriously injured by severe thunderstorms despite advance warning. While some did not hear the warning, others heard the warning and did not pay attention to it. The information in this section, combined with timely watches and warnings about severe weather, may help save lives.

Clutter Free

7/30/2017 (Permalink)

With fall just around the corner, we here in Fresno try to accomplish new goals, get a new fresh start and tidy up our homes. Getting healthy, organizing and bettering our lives' always seems to be at the top of the list. One space to start cleaning and organizing is the garage! That extra storage area that easily becomes a catchall for excess items.  We have compiled a list of items that should not be stored in your garage for not only the better of the item, but also for safety. Get them out and reclaim your space.

1. Paint- Because the garage is prone to extreme temperature changes, paint should not be stored in the garage.  Recycle paint according to your county guidelines or donate it.
2. Electronics- If you are putting electronics out in the garage, you must not be using them.  Donate these items because they can’t withstand the temperature fluctuations and will easily break.
3. Propane and Hazardous Chemicals- Proper ventilation is key for storage of propane and hazardous chemicals.  For safety reasons, these items need to be stored outside.  
4. Food- Keeping food in the garage is an open invitation to rodents and insects.  Although shopping in bulk can save money, storing extra food in the garage will cause problems. The moisture and humidity will spoil the food. Find room in the house for food storage.
5. Cardboard boxes- Insects, mice and other rodents love cardboard.  Invest in waterproof plastic bins to store your items.

Hope these tips will better assist you when cleaning up your Fresno home!

If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to call your local SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest at (559) 261-9765 

Water doesn't belong there!

7/27/2017 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest provide emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and even 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 Fresno Northwest 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.

Please don't hesitate to call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest immediately if you suspect any damage or have any questions. Contact us at (559) 261-9765

Fire Damage to your home or business

7/27/2017 (Permalink)

Many businesses and homes are at risk for a fire, especially when they lease older buildings in need of repairs. We know how costly and devastating a fire can be to a business or home, so it is always our goal to get you back up and running right away. SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest is committed to working around the clock to get your business or home restored as quickly and seamlessly as possible. 

What to Expect When We Arrive After a Fire Loss:

1. Detailed scope of the effected areas to determine the extent of the loss.

2. Pretest affected surfaces is always performed to determine the type of smoke and which products will help us recover the area most effectively.

3. Equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.

If a fire has damaged your business or home, call us right away at 559-261-9765. SERVPRO at Fresno Northwest will treat you with empathy, respect and care for your property.

Commercial Restoration Presents Unique Challenges

Fire damage is especially devastating for a business or commercial property. In addition to the fire and smoke damage, significant water damage from firefighting efforts and fire suppression systems may occur. SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest has the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial fire damage emergencies. Whether your fire emergency occurs in a restaurant, motel, office building or your personal home, we will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project through to its completion.

We at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest are available 24/7/365. 

Residential Services here at Fresno Northwest

7/25/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest 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. Here are some examples of what we offer:

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

Below are some examples of residential services we offer.

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

If you have any questions, call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest anytime, 24/7/365 at 559-261-9765.

Call the professionals!

7/25/2017 (Permalink)

After a fire, your house is left with lingering smoke that can be harmful to your health and property. The best thing to do in such a situation is to clean the smoke immediately because if you ignore it, the smoke will cause massive damage on your property which will require more money to clean than if you had cleaned it sooner. If the smoke is not cleaned as soon as possible, the items that will be mostly affected by smoke includes drapes, carpets, upholstery and walls because they will become permanently discolored. Glass will become extremely etched, and metals will tarnish which will result in having to replace these items.

You might think that you can do a good job at cleaning smoke by yourself without any basic knowledge and skills on how to go about it, but this can lead to you causing further damage on the items. The best thing to do will be to hire experienced professionals from a reputable company to do the cleaning and restore the home to the state it was in before the fire disaster struck. That is where SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest comes into play.

One of the advantages of using experts to clean soot is that they have specialized tools which are crucial in eliminating smoke. These are tools such as extractors, rotary scrubbers, and wet cleaning tools. Another advantage is that we have a lot of experience in doing such work; therefore, we will know the right steps to take in cleaning your home and preventing further damage on the property.

When we come to your home, the first thing we will do is to assess the extent of the damage and determine where the odors are coming from. We will then vacuum the whole house to remove any traces of soot. Soot is dangerous because it can cause breathing complications besides damaging property. After we finish vacuuming, we will cover the carpets and furniture to prevent more dirt from settling on them. We will also identify what can and cannot be replaced and advise you accordingly. Once we find the source of the odor we will use specialized detergents to treat it and eliminate the smell completely.

Indeed, bringing in a professional on site will save you a lot of headaches and ensure that you get rid of the smoke efficiently. If you live in Fresno, call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest for reliable smoke removal services at an affordable cost. For more information call us at (559) 261- 9765.

Cleaning Tips 101

7/25/2017 (Permalink)

Below are some helpful tips on how to keep your home clean and safe from your neighborhood friendly SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest.

Clean a Mirror

You don’t have to buy glass cleaners and paper towels to clean your mirrors.  Just some vinegar and an old newspaper is all you need to keep your mirrors shining as new. Your house will look cleaner if the mirrors are clean.

Cleaning the Oven

Does your oven get used every day?  Someday if you’re not using your oven, give it a quick spray of oven cleaner and keep it like that till the next day. Before you turn on your oven the next day, give it a quick wipe down. The baked on stuff comes off much easier than ever.

Cleaning the Microwave

Cleaning a microwave is easy. Fill up a cup of water and put it in there on high for a few minutes. The steam from the cup will loosen any stuck-on food, and then you can just wipe it away. It’s that simple.

Cleaning the Fridge

A fridge looks big and cleaning it looks even bigger. Follow my steps and the work will be a bit easier. First toss out any bad food. Then start with wiping down the top shelves and work down. Baking soda and water make a great cleaner and won’t leave your fridge smelling like a harsh cleanser. After you wipe out the crispers, line them with paper towels for easier cleaning next time. Cleaning the fridge was never this easy.

Cleaning your Bathroom

You can use lemon oil to shine the tiles of your bathroom. Lemon oil will also prevent mold and mildew. Use a false teeth bubbling tablet to avoid rings. Sometimes the problem with shower is that hard water gets build up there. Fill a plastic bag with vinegar and place it over shower head to remove hard water buildup. You can use alcohol to  shine bathroom faucets.

Toilet Hygiene

One of the most hated things to do but fortuitously, it can be done very fast if you follow the way I do, few steps to follow to get it done quickly. First pour some cleaner in the bowl to soak. Then wipe down the seat and outside of the bowl with an antibacterial wipe or spray cleaner. After that scrub the bowl with a toilet brush and finally wipe down everything again with a dry cloth to make it shine.

Bathtubs can be cleaned too EASILY

To clean bathtubs here are a few things that may help:

Use a cleanser that will foam or bubble. This allows you to “soak” your tub or shower, even if it’s a vertical wall. Get a scrubber that fits your needs, a long-handled one or an extra firm one, pick a scrubber that will be easiest for you to use. Moreover, spraying the tub or shower down after each use can make deep cleaning easier.

With any other questions, don't hesitate to call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest at 559-261-9765.

Pros Know Best

7/25/2017 (Permalink)

When water damage resulting from sewage issues or some other problem affects your property, you need to take effective action immediately. Although the water issue may seem minor, it can cause substantive damage to your house if it is not eliminated quickly and correctly. And while you may be inclined to start the water removal process on your own, it is important always to have this work completed by a team of professionals from SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest.

Here are several reasons why:

Water Damage Is Progressive

Water damage can worsen with each passing moment. The longer you postpone calling water damage restoration experts to fix the problems, the greater the damages will be. Apart from obvious damage to contents and building materials, you may also be victimized by a mold infestation if the water is not removed promptly. Exposure to fungi may cause health effects as well as increase restoration costs.

Sewage Water is Dangerous

If the excessive water on your property contains sewage, it is very dangerous. In fact, sewage water contains pathogens, pesticides, and waste matter. Black water causes health implications if you come in contact with this type of water. Contact professionals who can remove the sewage water quickly and safely. Don't attempt to do it yourself. Training, specialized equipment, and hazmat clothing are required for a return of safety to your property.

Electrical Hazards

Water, being a conductor of electricity, can send shocks powerful enough to cause electrocution under some circumstances. Whether you're dealing with black, gray or clean water, the extraction process brings with it electrical hazards. Don't subject yourself to the risk of electrocution. Instead, allow the experienced professionals from SERVPRO Fresno Northwest to complete the process for you. These individuals possess the knowledge and hands-on experience necessary to complete the process in a safe manner that precludes you and them from experiencing illness or injury.

Call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest now at (559) 261- 9765.

Although water damage can disrupt your well-being and cause inconveniences within your daily life, it doesn't have to drain all your energy and assets. To restore your property and resume your way of life, contact the water damage restoration experts of SERVPRO Fresno Northwest. Our certified technicians will clean and dry your property with remarkable speed, and we'll also provide you with complete customer service that keeps you calm throughout the remediation process. We will document, invite you for a final walk-through,  and guarantee that your home is dry and safe. "Like it never even happened."

Highly-Trained Water Restoration Specialists

As water damage specialists, SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest has the experience, expertise, and the advanced training that enables us to get your property dried quickly and thoroughly. We use scientific drying principles and provide validation and documentation that your property is dry and the job is complete. Learn about our water damage training and certificates. Call us 24/7 for help. (559) 261- 9765

Being prepared for anything

7/18/2017 (Permalink)

Most storm, fire, and water damage happens unexpectedly and emergencies can catch residents unprepared. You’re smart to have an emergency supply bag or container already stocked with the basics you need should an emergency happen. When the New Yorker published an article in 2015 called ‘The Really Big One” many people began re-evaluating their personal preparedness. SERVPRO is a national partner of the American Red Cross, an organization that advises all of us to have an emergency supply kit or evacuation pack that includes the following:

Emergency survival kit

• Store a kit at home, at work and at each child’s school or daycare facility.
• Dry or canned food and drinking water for each person
• Can opener
• First aid supplies and first aid book
• Copies of important documents such as birth certificates, licenses, and insurance policies
• "Special needs" items for family members such as infant formula, eyeglasses and medications
• A change of clothing
• Sleeping bag or blanket
• Battery powered radio or television
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Whistle
• Waterproof matches
• Toys, books, puzzles, games
• Extra house keys and car keys
• List of contact names and phone numbers
• Food, water and supplies for pets

Additional items you can store at home for use during an emergency

• Cooking supplies
• Barbecue, camp stove
• Fuel for cooking, such as charcoal or camp stove fuel
• Plastic knives, forks, spoons
• Paper plates and cups
• Paper towels
• Heavy-duty aluminum foil

  Sanitation supplies

• Large plastic trash bags for trash, water protection
• Large trash cans
• Bar soap and liquid detergent
• Shampoo
• Toothpaste and toothbrushes
• Feminine and infant supplies
• Toilet paper
• Household bleach with no additives, and eyedropper (for purifying drinking water)
• Newspaper — to wrap garbage and waste

  Comfort

• Sturdy shoes
• Gloves for clearing debris
• Tent

  Tools

• Ax, shovel, broom
• Crescent wrench for turning off gas
• Screwdriver, pliers, hammer
• Coil of one-half inch rope
• Plastic tape and sheeting
• Knife or razor blades
• Garden hose for siphoning and fire fighting

• In flood, earthquake and other natural disasters, recovery will be much easier if you’re prepared with emergency survival tools and supplies like these.

If you have any other questions or concerns, please do no hesitate to call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest at (559) 261-9765.

Who we are

7/18/2017 (Permalink)

You may know us as the Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration Company. But did you know that there are over 20 services that we can provide. The team at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest is ready to help you at a moment’s notice 24/7/365.  A few of the other services that we provide include…

• Mold Mitigation

• Document Restoration

• Duct Cleaning

• Deodorization                  

• Reconstruction

• Vandalism Cleanup

• Forensic Remediation

• Storm Response

Our team here at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest can help you with whatever disaster that you may have. We are locally owned and operated, and ready to serve you.

Whether you are a homeowner, business owner, property manager, or first responder we are here for you. There is no disaster that is too large or too small that we can't handle. From our trained and uniformed crews to our professional restoration consultants, the cleanup team at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest is here to help make your disaster, “Like it never even happened." For more information on how we can help you be prepared or for a consultation please call us at (559) 261-9765

Smoke and Soot

7/18/2017 (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 Fresno Northwest 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.

We would love to help you and make a difficult time less stressful. Call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest at (559) 261-9765 for more information.

What's that smell?

7/10/2017 (Permalink)

Mold often produces a distinctive scent that many would describe as a 'smelly odor' that rarely goes away. This odor might decrease when the humidity decreases or the temperature is cooler, but the moldy smell never truly goes away. Spores from growing mold are often released, and it is the chemicals that these spores carry with them that can cause an otherwise very clean home, to have a musty smell.

Your home can develop mold damage when moisture levels are high enough to support mold colonies. Fungi require a steady supply of moisture to continue to grow and SERVPRO crews use this to find where mold is lurking in your home. Our fully trained microbial remediation technicians use building moisture thermography, also known as BMT,  to detect higher levels of moisture that could be a source of water for the mold. Not every area that has greater than normal levels of moisture has mold, but drier areas are less likely to be able to support living mold colonies.

Removing drywall and other materials from your home that have been damaged by mold is part of the remediation process. Sometimes, replacement of these materials with new materials is sufficient, but other items can be cleaned and then returned depending on the severity.

Carpeting is one type of material in your home that needs to be examined before deciding to replace or restore. Changing your carpeting when remediating mold can be a low-cost way to remodel areas of your home. It 's hard to remove mold and spores from carpeting because of the fibrous nature of the carpeting and its backing in cases of severe infestations.

Other types of flooring are often restored as well. Wood floors can be sanded and resealed and our technicians can clean linoleum floors when the damage is not extensive.

SERVPRO knows that every part of your home is important, and we make sure that every area where mold exists in your home is remediated. We easily and accurately locate where water may be entering into your home so that we eliminate future problems before they begin.

Call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest at (559) 261-9765 to rid your home of the moldy smell for good. We take your calls at any day or night and are prepared to help you. 

How to beat the Fresno heat

7/10/2017 (Permalink)

The Fresno heat can be unbearable during the summertime.  Here are some helpful tips and advice from SERVPRO to help stay cool during those hot days!

1. Plan time inside:

-Go to lunch with a friend in a cooled restaurant

-Walk through the mall

-Check out the Fresno Art Museum

-See a movie!

2. Stay covered:

-Find a place to relax under a tree

-Use an umbrella when walking outdoors

-Use fans

3. Hydrate properly:

-Drink water every 15 minutes

-6-12oz at a time to total at least a gallon of water a day

4. Stay near water:

-If a pool is not accessible at your home, find a local public pool

-Take a short drive to Millerton Lake

5. Recognizing signs of heat illness:

-Profuse/excess sweating

-Confusion or mumbling

-Chills or feeling cold

-Vomiting

*Never take signs lightly, illnesses can increase drastically and become life threatening. Seek medical attention immediately.

Summer Duct Cleaning

7/10/2017 (Permalink)

The last thing you want to happen during the scorching Fresno temperatures is to lose your air conditioning unit.  SERVPRO is here to help prevent this. 

As the weather heats up here in the Central Valley, we will all begin to utilize our air conditioners more often.  Before the summer heat arrives, call a service professional from SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest to inspect your air conditioner's duct work.

Keeping your duct work clean can extend the life of your heating and cooling equipment and prevent any problems that may arise. This can in the long run save you money and give you cleaner air to breathe.

With that being said, duct cleaning is not always necessary. However,  SERVPRO Professionals will make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. This can save you money and provide peace of mind on the health of your system and your family.

For more information on duct cleaning contact SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest at (559) 261-9765.

Flooding Safety

7/10/2017 (Permalink)

There is always potential for flood damage no matter where you live. According to the American Red Cross, floods cause more damage in the United States every year than any other weather related disaster. The American Red Cross offers these flood safety tips:

-Stay away from floodwaters. If you come up on a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around and go another way. Six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off of your feet.

-If you approach a flooded road while driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are riding rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.

-Keep children out of the water. They are curious and often lack judgment about running water or contaminated water. 

If a flood occurs and affects you, call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest at (559) 261-9765.  Even minor floods have potential to cause major damage. Let us help you get your life back on top.

SERVPRO's quick response to water damage

7/10/2017 (Permalink)

If water damage of any kind has occurred in your home, it is important to take action as soon as possible. When it comes to plaster and drywall becoming wet, some problems arise. Mold growth can begin, framing wood splits and swells, and the structural integrity of your home weakens. Even if you see just minor bubbling, spots, or peeling, you want to move fast, so the problem does not become much larger.
 
When you need water removal in your Fresno home, no wall is safe from damages that can occur if they got wet during the disaster. In particular, drywall is at risk to weaken and even collapse. It also many times needs to be replaced, as it is not always repairable. The structure around drywall can also be affected in cases where the damage is severe.
 
SERVPRO, a professional water removal and restoration company, is always standing by to help when you need. In a situation that involves water, we understand that time is of the essence and arrive at your home quickly so we can assess the damages and begin cleanup right away.
 
Water ruins plaster as well. It is not resistant to dampness and therefore is easily affected. It is fortunately easy to remove and replace when needed. 
 
At SERVPRO, we also check any brickwork in your home for signs of water damage. If it has not been correctly sealed, the porous cement used can absorb excess water and start crumbling. If it has been compromised, we extract the water before we repair it.
 
To extract the water from the various surfaces and walls, we bring in industrial strength equipment including truck-mounted pumps, dehumidifiers, moisture meters to find hidden water in your walls, and fans. After the standing water is out we take care of placing the equipment around the affected areas to ensure optimal drying time.
 
SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest is experienced in finding hidden water damage inside walls. If your home or business has suffered from a water disaster, contact us right away at (559) 261-9765 so we can extract the water and thoroughly dry and repair what is necessary.

Fire Restoration for you

7/10/2017 (Permalink)

Having a fire event on your property can produce some pretty destructive and violent results. Regardless of how large or small the damage is, you never hear a property owner say that they are glad it happened to them.
 
What you need is a team that can respond quickly to your request and start taking care of the fire damage to your Fresno property immediately. Our technicians arrive on site quickly and give you the benefit of having a company with certified technicians working for you.
 
Due to the extensive damage received throughout the duration of a fire, professional restoration services is your best choice. Here at SERVPRO Fresno Northwest we make sure to return your home to a quality pre-damage condition in the quickest most efficient way possible.
 
Heat alone does a significant amount of damage to your structure; it can warp your flooring and cause extensive damage. The contents of your home may be affected in various ways as well, requiring specialized item restoration services only available at SERVPRO.
 
Smoke can reach into cracks and crevices throughout your home, leaving soot residues behind, staining surfaces and causing odors to damage a variety of materials within your home. We use different deodorization and cleaning methods specifically designed to return things back to normal quickly.
 
SERVPRO gives you access to technicians with the experience and training required to present you with the quality services you need to make your fire damage disappear like it never even happened. 
 
We help you manage your insurance paperwork and communicate with your insurance company. Taking care of you and your family along the way to ensure a smooth restoration process.
 
SERVPRO technicians can answer any questions you have about our services and only present you with those that you need. We have certified technicians to handle every aspect of your restoration.
 
Give us the opportunity to provide you with a unique solution to your problem by calling SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest today. (559) 261-9765

Restoring Fresno Commercial Property

7/10/2017 (Permalink)

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

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

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

About SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest

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

Please contact SERVPRO Fresno Northwest at (559) 261-9765 for your commercial property needs.

Don't let the mold win!

7/10/2017 (Permalink)

Mold on your property can come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. However, there can also be mold that is invisible to the naked eye, making mold contamination considerably hard to diagnose without the right equipment.

Just having the right conditions allows mold to grow anywhere on your property. Whether it is clear and sunny, or cloudy and rainy mold damage can occur in your Fresno area home. Fungus or mold has obtained a rather bad reputation over the years. However, the truth is, that mold is no more damaging than fire, or water. In fact, water itself is a major element mold needs to grow.

Mold is a fungus that occurs naturally within our environment. Our eco-system uses these microscopic organisms to process decomposing materials. Without mold, many forms of antibiotics, vitamins, and other medical solutions used today would be impossible.

Our expert mold remediation specialists at SERVPRO provide you with a variety of services that make locating and controlling mold found in your home easier. While also helping you avoid creating the conditions that need to exist for regrowth to occur. You should begin by having our technicians perform a full inspection of your property. You may notice some problems while our technicians find larger issues hiding just out of sight.

SERVPRO technicians understand where mold might begin. Starting with locating water sources found in your home that can cause mold to get out of control. Water issues including from plumbing leaks, excessive condensation on your windows, and HVAC system drain off can cause mold growth in your home. Many of the materials used to build your home serve as a food source, so, anywhere that you find excessive or constant moisture adds the final ingredient mold needs to spread.

Even if the only mold you find on your property is completely dry, it is important to have a trained professional perform your remediation. Dry mold spreads microscopic mold spores through the air that you cannot see, leading you to spread contamination to other areas and cause more problems. SERVPRO’s expert team utilizes air movers and negative-airflow machines in combination with HEPA filters to trap microscopic spores and get mold growth under control.

If you suspect any mold issues on your property, please don't hesitate to contact SERVPRO Fresno Northwest at (559) 261-9765.

Biohazard and Crime Scene

7/10/2017 (Permalink)

Biohazard, Vandalism and Crime Scene Cleanup and Restoration Services

Recognized as a leading fire and water cleanup and restoration provider by hundreds of insurance companies nationwide, SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest offers fast, reliable biohazard and crime scene cleanup and restoration services to residential and commercial property owners.

Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences for building occupants, employees, customers and owners. A failure to properly handle and safely remove such hazardous substances can contribute to unhealthy and even dangerous environments. Your local SERVPRO professionals are trained to safely and effectively remove biohazard substances and prepare waste for proper disposal. Equipped with the necessary safety equipment and cleaning products, SERVPRO professionals help turn unsafe environments into clean, safe homes and offices.

SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest can help with:

• Blood borne Pathogens
• Methamphetamine Labs
• Crime Scene Residues
• Arson
• Vandalism
• Sewage Backups
• Black Water Intrusions
• Mold Mitigation and Remediation

If you have any questions or concerns, please call SERVPRO Fresno Northwest at (559) 261-9765 for your biohazard needs.

The effects of biohazards

7/10/2017 (Permalink)

Untreated biohazards and residues found on your property put your family in danger, while also posing serious threats to the structure of your home. Human waste, bodily fluids, animals, insects, and hoarding can all result in costly repairs.

The results of biohazards on your Fresno property can make biohazard cleanup services vital to your houses recovery. It may be hard to imagine, or something you want to avoid altogether. However, when decomposition begins, whether it is from an accidental refrigerator mishap, or a case involving unattended death, nature takes over.
 
Corrosion leads to damages; damages lead to rot; rot leads to corrosion, and the circle continues. Animal droppings often contain various types of acid, including human feces, while animal and human urine contain varying amounts of ammonia. These chemicals often lead to additional damages, especially when left unattended for too long.
 
Simply having a pet or accidental deposits on your property does not pose much of a problem, they are something you can clean up yourselves. However, when you consider situations concerning the unattended death of a pet hoarder, sewer backups, or instances of massive animal infestations, the effects become more of a concern. 
 
SERVPRO responds to the hoarding and it can be the most damaging to the structure of your home. Hoarding gives way to circumstances involving neglect and decay, exposing your home to rodent infestation, rotten food sources, sanitation issues, and critical fire hazards.  
 
SERVPRO’s biohazard cleanup team consists of everything from a crime scene to sewage overflow. These cause odors and stains to become a huge problem. Getting rid of these odors often involves removing the source, leading to reconstruction, cleaning, and deodorization services in order to get the job done right.  
 
Expertly trained technicians at SERVPRO deal with many cases involving biohazard cleanup. Our technicians train hard and receive quality corporate certifications to ensure you get the help necessary to return your home to a quality pre-damage condition. As part of our community, we strive to relieve the trauma and emotional stress of our neighbors, as we restore the property.
 
Get the help you need today and call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest for assistance with biohazards on your property, we are here to help. (559) 261-9765

Do you have mold in your home?

7/7/2017 (Permalink)

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

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

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

Call Us!

5/23/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest understands your situation as a Insurance agent, adjustor or Property Manager.  Not only do you have to deal with customers who need help and giudance but it is your responsibility to keep claim cost down while still providing the best services to your customers.  You are the main contact for the customer and very important. SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest is uniquely qualified to help. From duct cleaning to fire and water damage we are able to make it look like it nevr happened. Our results create a measurable difference, showing the customer you care,and giving you many competitive advantages, including:

Emergency response, electronic Commerce to provide information and proof of results.

Call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest, the Mitigation Company you can trust.

Should You Have Your Air Ducts Cleaned in Your Home?

5/22/2017 (Permalink)

If no one in your household suffers from allergies or unexplained symptoms or illnesses and if, after a visual inspection of the inside of the ducts, you see no indication that your air ducts are contaminated with large deposits of dust having your air ducts cleaned is probably unnecessary. It is normal for the return registers to get dusty as dust-laden air is pulled through the grate. This does not indicate that your air ducts are contaminated with heavy deposits of dust or debris; the registers can be easily vacuumed or removed and cleaned.

On the other hand, if family members are experiencing unusual or unexplained symptoms or illnesses that you think might be related to your home environment, you should discuss the situation with your doctor.

This Day in Hisory

5/17/2017 (Permalink)

1927 U.S.A. Charles Lindbergh 20th May 1927 : Charles Lindbergh who many called the "flying fool" has set off from Roosevelt Field in Long Island, NY, today flying the "Spirit of St. Louis" on an epic flight from New York to Paris and is a milestone in flying aviation history, he is expected to arrive in Paris sometime late tomorrow. His plane A Ryan is expected to travel up to 125 MPH as the fuel load decreases. 

He completed the 33-hour, 30-minute flight and landed at Le Bourget Airport, Paris on the evening of 21 May. 

1862 U.S.A. The Homestead Act 20th May : President Abraham Lincoln signs into law the original Homestead Act on May 20th,1862. The Homestead Act gave an applicant freehold title to up to 160 acres (1/4 section, 65 hectares) of undeveloped federal land outside the original 13 colonies. 

1944 Germany Assassination Attempt On Adolf Hitler 20th May 1944 : A group of officers from the German Army attempt an assassination attempt on Adolf Hitler by exploding a bomb in his headquarters during a staffing meeting

We'll get the Water out!

5/16/2017 (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 Fresno Northwest is experienced in helping business owners and managers bring their businesses back from disaster, no matter how large or small the business. 
 
In Fresno businesses affected by commercial 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 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 Fresno Northwest to help.

When it Rains it Pours!

5/16/2017 (Permalink)

We've recently received a job in Coarsegold and it was a hot water heater leaking throughout an elderly woman's house.  This woman had just suffered from a stroke so she had been away from from her home.  She returned to find out her hot water heater had been leaking and the whole house was affected.  We are in process of packing her out to get everything dry and her house livable again, but she is supposed to be going out of town in 3 days for a week.  SERVPRO strives to make sure everything can get done in a timely manner and make sure the customer has as little stress as possible.  We are there to make sure you are taken care of and make it look "Like it never even happened."  

Commercial Fire Loss

5/9/2017 (Permalink)

Unfortunately, late one night there was a fire at a local sandwich shop in Clovis, California. The fire ended up being caused by a stove that was left on accidently by an employee. The fire caused the sprinkler system to go off, which caused the water damage. 

SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest received the call at 11:30 am and was on site within 30 minutes.  SERVPRO worked alongside the employees to clean up as much as possible the night the loss occurred. A complete cleaning of the kitchen area was performed. Which included wiping down all walls, ceilings, floors, counters, shelves, and any contents that were affected during the loss.  It took three SERVPRO employees four hours to clean the kitchen. After inspection from the Health authority they were up and running “Like it never even happened”.

Don't forget...

SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any size disaster. Our highly trained technicians can respond immediately to your residential or commercial emergency.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service


• Faster to Any Size Disaster


• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians


• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry


• Locally Owned and Operated


• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment

Water damage, What to do before help arrives.

5/9/2017 (Permalink)

 If you have a water damage from a clean source such as water supply lines, sink overflows, tub overflows, or appliance malfunctions, here are some things to do before SERVPRO Fresno Northwest arrives.

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

SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any size disaster. Our highly trained technicians can respond immediately to your residential or commercial emergency.

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

Memorial day

5/9/2017 (Permalink)

Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who have died in service of the United States of America. Over two dozen cities and towns claim to be the birthplace of Memorial Day. While Waterloo N.Y. was officially declared the birthplace of Memorial Day by President Lyndon Johnson in May 1966, it’s difficult to prove conclusively the origins of the day.

Regardless of the exact date or location of its origins, one thing is clear – Memorial Day was borne out of the Civil War and a desire to honor our dead. It was officially proclaimed on 5 May 1868 by General John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, in his General Order No. 11. “The 30th of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village and hamlet churchyard in the land,” he proclaimed. The date of Decoration Day, as he called it, was chosen because it wasn’t the anniversary of any particular battle.

spring cleaning

5/9/2017 (Permalink)

You may think that you don’t have time to organize your office, but if you really knew how much time that disorganization cost you, you’d reconsider. Rearranging and moving piles occasionally doesn’t count. Neither does clearing off your desk, if you swipe the mess into a bin, or a desk drawer. A relatively neat and orderly office space clears the way for higher productivity and less wasted time.

Organizing your office doesn’t have to take days, it can be done a little at a time. In fact maintaining an organized office is much more effective if you treat it like an ongoing project, instead of a massive assault. So, if you’re ready to get started, here are a couple of tips that will help you transform your office into an efficient workspace.

Purge your office – De-clutter, empty, shred, get rid of everything that you don’t need or want. Look around. What haven’t you used in a while? Take one area at a time. If it doesn’t work, send it out for repair or toss it. If you haven’t used it in months and can’t think of when you’ll actually need it, out it goes. This goes for furniture, equipment, supplies, etc. Don’t forget about knick-knacks, plants (real or artificial), and decorations – if they’re covered with dust and make your office look shabby, they’re fair game.

Gather and redistribute – Gather up every item that isn’t where it belongs and put it where it does. 

Establish work “zones” – Decide what type of activity happens in each area of your office. You’ll probably have a main workspace (most likely your desk,) a reference area (filing cabinet, shelves, binders,) and a supply area (closet, shelves or drawers.) Place the appropriate equipment and supplies are located in the proper area as much as possible.

Once you have your work place orginized, call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest to schedule your carpet to be cleaned. 559-261-9765

Mold remediation

3/9/2017 (Permalink)

Water damage can be a harrowing ordeal to go through. If not handled by a professional, these situations can lead to secondary damages that can be hard to see or detect right away.

The biggest and most frightening of these damages is mold.

At the first sign of mold, most homeowners become concerned about how it will affect the structure of their houses as well as their family's health. Mold is a serious matter, and being proactive about fixing the problem will save you time, money, and stress.

If your Fresno home has mold damage, it's wise to work with a professional instead of trying to clean up the problem on your own. Give the Professionals at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest a call 559-261-9765

Mold in your home

2/20/2017 (Permalink)

Think you have mold

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

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

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

Give SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest a call today 559-261-9765

Water damage in your Fresno Commercial building

2/17/2017 (Permalink)

Protecting your business

As a small shop owner, you would benefit from taking a little time to educate yourself about the information and services that our company provides concerning commercial water damage restoration. Doing so could mean the difference between getting the services that you need to save a majority of your inventory from total loss and obtaining the incorrect services that simply don't do you any good. 

Our professional technicians will make sure that you are properly informed throughout your repair and work hard to get it done right. It is our goal to limit any possible downtime and inconvenience to your daily customers. 

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• Highly Trained Water Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Water Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Water Inspection, Extraction, and Drying Equipment

What to do

2/17/2017 (Permalink)

• Know how to safely operate a fire extinguisher
• Remember to GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL 9-1-1 or your local emergency phone number.
• Yell "Fire!" several times and go outside right away. If you live in a building with elevators, use the stairs. Leave all your things where they are and save yourself.
• If closed doors or handles are warm or smoke blocks your primary escape route, use your second way out. Never open doors that are warm to the touch.
• If you must escape through smoke, get low and go under the smoke to your exit. Close doors behind you.
• If smoke, heat or flames block your exit routes, stay in the room with doors closed. Place a wet towel if possible under the door and call the fire department or 9-1-1. Open a window and wave a brightly colored cloth or flashlight to signal for help.
• Once you are outside, go to your meeting place and then send one person to call the fire department. If you cannot get to your meeting place, follow your family emergency communication plan.

Picking up the pieces after a fire

2/17/2017 (Permalink)

Rebuilding

Your own and your family’s emotional care and recovery are just as important as rebuilding a home and healing physical injuries. You may be surprised at how you and others may feel after a disaster. Disasters can stir up many different feelings and thoughts. People may experience fear concerning their safety or that of a loved one, shock, disbelief, grief, anger and guilt. Memory problems, anxiety and/or depression are also possible after experiencing a disaster. Disasters are upsetting experiences for everyone involved. Children, senior citizens, people with disabilities and people for whom English is not their first language are especially at risk. Children may become afraid and some elderly people may seem disoriented at first. People with disabilities may require additional assistance. It is important to let children and elderly people know that they are safe and that you will help them find a safe place to stay. It is also important that you try to talk with them in a calm way.

Call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest to take care of all the clean up 559-261-9765

Water can create many kinds of damage to your business

2/14/2017 (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 Fresno Northwest is experienced in helping business owners and managers bring their businesses back from disaster, no matter how large or small the business. 
 
In Fresno businesses affected by commercial 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 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 Fresno Northwest to help.

Mold remediation in your home or condo

2/14/2017 (Permalink)

Mold damage can be a problem in your Fresno home even without storm damage or an appliance malfunction or leak. Mold needs moisture and organic materials to grow, and the humid conditions often present in our community, with or without severe weather, can encourage the growth of this family of fungi inside your home.

If you discover mold growth in your Fresno condo or home contact SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest for an expert consultation followed by an effective remediation plan to eliminate the musty odors and damaging effects these organisms can have on your home’s structures, furnishings, and personal belongings. 

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• Highly Trained Mold Remediation Technicians
• Specialized Mold Remediation Equipment
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated

Protecting your business

2/13/2017 (Permalink)

Are you ready?

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 Fresno Northwest a call today for a No-cost Assessment on your building 559-261-9765.

Fire Damage Restoration

2/2/2017 (Permalink)

Do you have enough fire extinguisher's.

Fire engulfs an automotive supply shop, destroying inventory consisting of mainly shocks, struts, starters, alternators, and batteries. The fire ignited due to a chemical container failure affecting surrounding items. 
 
You may think that fire damage like this would put them out of business, but you'd be wrong. Replacing inventory is relatively easy, the hard decision here is locating a quality company to perform the services you need to restore the structure of your building. There are several unique challenges faced during different fire situations, and we have experience dealing with all of them.
 
SERVPRO technicians overcome various cleaning challenges, daily. A burning building consists of several complex reactions between different elements. We learn that fire damage presents different cleaning and restoration situations that depend greatly on how these different elements interact during the progress of a fire. When dealing with the removal of smoke residues, we consider several factors. 
 
Type - More porous surfaces allow particles and odors to penetrate further and are harder to clean. Non-porous surfaces such as those covered in enamel paint are easier to clean than a flat latex paint would be. While synthetic fibers attract more residue than natural fibers, synthetics are easier to clean. 
 
Age - As time progresses, old paint, fabrics, and carpeting become more porous, and adhesion to surfaces become weaker, making old surfaces harder to clean. 
 
Heat - Generally, hotter fires make surfaces expand, allowing residue and odors to penetrate more efficiently. While heat also chars materials or melts the finish on a surface, making refinishing required to restore the surface properly. 
 
Moisture - The right conditions help residues set faster and permanently stain surfaces. Fire suppression systems and Firefighting efforts, along with damp weather and normal condensation on various surfaces combine with smoke residues, causing surfaces to become discolored. 
 
Material - Different materials produce different kinds of residues. Synthetic materials such as plastics and rubber create a wet, smeary residue that stains surfaces. Wood and other natural materials leave behind a dry residue that is easier to clean. 
 
Air Pressure - As the temperature of fire increases, air expands, creating pressure systems that force smoke and soot into cracks and crevices. 
 
Impingement - During a fire, the surrounding air becomes hotter, causing increased movement. This fast moving air collides with surfaces throughout the structure, causing residues to collide with vertical surfaces, leaving behind more difficult stains. 
 
With knowledge of these different factors that cause changes during a fire event, SERVPRO technicians work hard to deliver the services you need to restore your business to a quality preloss condition. 
 
Contact SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest 559-261-9765

How to protect your home

1/20/2017 (Permalink)

Protecting your home

Protect Your Home

It’s not a good idea to bet the odds — 20% of flood claims come from places where the flood risk is low, according to floodsmart.gov. Check with your insurance agent to see what flood insurance will cost you.

If you live in a community that participates in the National Flood Insurance Program, you can buy an NFIP flood policy. Participating communities agree to adopt and enforce ordinances that meet or exceed FEMA requirements to reduce the risk of flooding, according to NFIP.

Avoid Costly Financial Mistakes

1. 4 Dangers You Face If You Don't Back Up Your Income Tax Documents
2. Tax and Home Records Checklist: What to Keep and For How Long
3. Are You Getting the Home Tax Deductions You're Entitled To?

Protect Yourself

If you live in a high-risk area, it’s a good idea to have a “go-bag” ready in case you need to leave quickly. Include:

• A few changes of clothing for you and family members
• Insurance policy numbers
• Phone numbers of your agent
• Your insurance company’s main number
• Essential toiletries
• Money to get you through a few days

It’s also wise to have an evacuation route mapped out and to have a location to which you can go, such as a loved one’s home or hotel. Always follow the direction of local and state authorities if ordered to evacuate. Remember: Your possessions and your home are small comfort if your family is injured or worse.

Preventative measure: If you believe water will begin to accumulate in your home, shut off power at the main electrical panel in your home, says Bill Begal, owner of Begal Enterprises, a Rockville, Md., disaster restoration company. But never stand in water to do so — if the area around the box is already flooded, leave it alone.

What you can do to help

1/20/2017 (Permalink)

Oh no!!

• Increase grade:  The earth around the home should be sloped away from the house to divert water away. Very simply, borrow earth from three feet away from the structure, and toss it against the side of the house thus creating the slope.
• Clean rain gutters:  Schedule a licensed professional to clean gutters annually. A clogged rain gutter can send water cascading down the exterior wall, which can result in water entering the interior walls.
• Divert down spouts: In a quick run to the local hardware store, homeowners can find a black, plastic corrugated 6-inch hose that fits around the base of the downspout. This device carries water away from the house, preventing it from seeping down into the foundation.
• Roof maintenance: Where rain is concerned, the roof is the first line of defense. One small tear in a rubber membrane or crack in a tin roof, or compromise in the plywood structure of the roof can prove disastrous for the entire interior of the home. But regular maintenance can preserve the life of the roof. Have a roofer check out your home every five years.
• Window repairs:  Proper window installation and maintenance is imperative. Modern windows are fitted with wells and drains designed to help direct water outside the house. Improper caulking can prove disastrous by sending water into the house that should be draining away from the window.
• Sweep away debris:  Especially during spring and fall seasons, when the area’s great trees emit pollen in tumble weed fashion and drop their leaves in mass, it is critical to diligently sweep outdoor surfaces weekly, especially patios and door wells to prevent the collection of debris clogging exterior drains.

Mold Damage Tips

11/7/2016 (Permalink)

In as little as 48 hours, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business when there’s a water intrusion, like a roof leak or leaking water line. Mold can cause health effects and can also cause significant damage to your property. SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest Professionals have the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem.

If you have a mold problem in your home or business, your primary focus should be safety:

Mold may present a greater risk to children, the elderly, and anyone with respiratory problems.

A strong, musty odor may indicate hidden mold behind drywall or under carpeting.

What to Do:

Stay out of affected areas.

Turn off the HVAC system and fans.

Contact the Professionals at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest 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.

Protecting Your Commercial Property From a Fire

11/7/2016 (Permalink)

Commercial fires in your Fresno or Clovis business are often the most devastating reality that a property owner will have to oversee. In addition to wreaking havoc on your property, fires can 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: 

Conduct Fire Emergency Escape plan

As kid’s we practice an emergency escape plan at school, why don’t we as adults in the work pace.

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 operate the fire extinguisher. 

Other issues that should be involved in the training include:

• Breathing Apparatus Training

• First Aid 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 Fresno Northwest where we have extensive industry experience and a passion for restoring offices to their original condition. We're ready to assist you immediately, 559-261-9765

Simple Step to Prevent Commercial Electrical Fires

11/7/2016 (Permalink)

As industry experts know, commercial electrical fires can be very dangerous and costly. When a commercial fire occurs, it can lead to the injury or death of the employees or customers present. Additionally, electrical fires can result in major property loss. SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest, a premier fire damage restoration company, will respond immediately to get you back in business. Luckily, most of these fires are preventable and can also be contained through maintenance of fixtures, employee training, and the facilitation of greater awareness regarding work hazards. Learn more about how to identify electrical hazards and reduce the incidence of a commercial fire by reading the following information: 

Recognizing the Warning Signs 

Electrical distribution systems contain several complex elements. These elements are capable of exposing commercial buildings to fire risks. Some of the areas of concern are:

• Corroded Wiring: Wiring that is old or defective can cause electrical fires. Although all wiring can start to break down at some point, the wiring exposed to corrosive substances or the outdoor environment is subject to faster degradation. Industrial facilities, multi-tenant warehouses, and farms should be attentive to their wiring given that it can be subject to extreme exposure to the elements.
• Circuits and Fuses: Tripped circuits and blown fuses are signs of overloaded outlets or circuits. These circuits and outlets can generate overheating and result in combustion leading to commercial electrical fires. 
• Hot Spots: Overloaded circuits, corroded wires or connectors, loose connections, faulty fuses, imbalanced electrical loading, short circuits, switches, and breakers can generate "hot spots". This is the result of the excessive heat that builds up within the electrical panels. If there is any sense that these "hot spots" could cause acommercial flare-up, here is an option. Infrared thermal imaging can be operated to locate these hot spots, repairs can then be done preventing electrical shortages or breakdowns that lead to fires. Small business owners can hire licensed electricians to complete the inspection. 

Electrical Distribution Equipment

Periodically, electrical distribution equipment needs to be physically inspected and tested. The equipment should also periodically undergo thermal imaging. This work should be completed by a licensed professional. Some of the equipment requiring inspection includes:

• electrical panels, switchboards, and switchgear    
• fuses
• circuit breakers
• relays and contactors
• disconnect switches
• motors
• motor controls
• transformers

The Fire Marshall periodically visits commercial buildings checking the fire extinguishers' expiration dates. The overhead sprinkler system, fire exit lighted signs and safe egress from the commercial building are all inspected. Prevention is the key.

Conclusion

Fire damage can be especially devastating for a business or commercial property. Significant water damage can be an unintended result of extinguishing a commercial fire. The fire suppression system of a commercial building (overhead fire sprinkler system) can also cause a large amount of water damage. Commercial business owners know that electrical fires negatively affect their property, the operation of the business, and the loss of revenue. However, the information above can help you take strides towards preventing these fires from happening. In the event that you find your commercial space affected by a fire, electrical or otherwise, you should know who to call to help facilitate the remediation process. As a company with extensive experience in restoring property affected by electrical fires, the professionals of SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest can provide you with the detailed assistance necessary to get your business space in working order. Contact us today for professional, personalized service. 

Commercial Building Restoration Services

SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest responds quickly to your Fresno or Clovis water, fire or mold damage emergency, 24 hours a day. Whether the damage occurs in a small business building or a big box store, we have the training, experience, and equipment to handle the situation.

Are you prepared?

10/28/2016 (Permalink)

A storms a comin'

Here is a sample of a supply kit SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest suggests you have.

• Water—at least a 3-day supply; one gallon per person per day
• Flood—at least a 3-day supply of non-perishable, easy-to-prepare food
• Flashlight
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)
• Extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Medications (7-day supply) and medical items (hearing aids with extra batteries, glasses, contact lenses, syringes, etc.)
• Multi-purpose tool
• Sanitation and personal hygiene items
• Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies)
• Cell phone with chargers
• Family and emergency contact information
• Extra cash
• Baby supplies (bottles, formula, baby food, diapers)
• Pet supplies (collar, leash, ID, food, carrier, and bowl)
• Tools/supplies for securing your home
• Sand, rock salt or non-clumping kitty litter to make walkways and steps less slippery
• Warm coats, gloves or mittens, hats, boots and extra blankets and warm clothing for all household members
• Ample alternate heating methods such as fireplaces or wood- or coal-burning stoves

Thunderstorm Safety

10/28/2016 (Permalink)

They may be pretty but Thunderstorms are dangerous.

A thunderstorm is considered severe if it produces hail at least 1 inch in diameter or has wind gusts of at least 58 miles per hour. Every thunderstorm produces lightning, which kills more people each year than tornadoes or hurricanes. Heavy rain from thunderstorms can cause flash flooding, and high winds can damage homes and blow down trees and utility poles, causing widespread power outages.

                                                            Know the Difference

Severe Thunderstorm Watch - Severe thunderstorms are possible in and near the watch area. Stay informed and be ready to act if a severe thunderstorm warning is issued.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning - Severe weather has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar. Warnings indicate imminent danger to life and property.

Every year people are killed or seriously injured by severe thunderstorms despite advance warning. While some did not hear the warning, others heard the warning and did not pay attention to it. The information in this section, combined with timely watches and warnings about severe weather, may help save lives.

Imagine this is your office Monday morning

10/28/2016 (Permalink)

How are we suppose to work?

Imagine you had a great weekend. You & your family went on a quick getaway trip. You walk into the office, and squish squish is what you hear under your feet. Oh no….. there is water EVERYWHERE! It appears a pipe busted, & by the amount of water, it didn’t just happen. No fear SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest to the rescue. Our team of highly trained professionals at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest has the expertise that is needed to restore small, midsize, and large commercial size buildings to their pre-flood waters condition. The training that our team receives, and the equipment that we use can get these jobs done effectively and efficiently so that there will be no unnecessary delays.  Here is some information about our commercial water damage clean up restoration services.

Do you know the differance

10/26/2016 (Permalink)

What kind of storm is this

Winter storms can range from a moderate snow over a few hours to a blizzard with blinding, wind-driven snow that lasts for several days. Some winter storms are large enough to affect several states, while others affect only a single community. Many winter storms are accompanied by dangerously low temperatures and sometimes by strong winds, icing, sleet and freezing rain.

Regardless of the severity of a winter storm, you should be prepared in order to remain safe during these events.

Know the Difference

Winter Storm Outlook - Winter storm conditions are possible in the next 2 to 5 days.

How to Prepare for a Winter Storm

10/26/2016 (Permalink)

When the storm comes

• Winterize your vehicle and keep the gas tank full. A full tank will keep the fuel line from freezing.
• Insulate your home by installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic from the inside to keep cold air out.
• Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected every year.
• If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55° F.
• SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest can handle storm damage to your business or home.

Should I use bleach?

8/1/2016 (Permalink)

Don't Reach for the Bleach!

Ah, the smell of it! Growing up, you always knew when it was your mom's cleaning day because of the smell of bleach. A lot of the products she used (and that we still use) contain chlorine bleach. There's Lysol, Ajax, Comet and many others. But these are not the kind of products that a professional restorers use. Why?

1. Chlorine is lacking detergency. In other words, it contains no wetting agents to allow it to penetrate soils so surfaces must be pre-cleaned before chlorine will effectively kill germs. This is a two step process that requires more time.

2. Chlorine is very caustic to human tissue. It can burn skin and eyes.

3. Chlorine can react with other chemicals to create toxic byproducts and gases. It's notably incompatible with products that contain ammonia, hydrochloric acid, phosphoric acid and acetic acid (vinegar).

4. Chlorine bleach fumes can be very unpleasant or irritating to workers or people in surrounding areas.

5. Chlorine may emit carcinogenic gas if it comes in contact with formaldehyde or is hyper-chlorinated by hot water.

6. Chlorine bleach should never be used in mold remediation. The goal in killing mold is to kill it at its "roots", which bleach fails to do.

7. Chlorine is extremely corrosive to metal surfaces and can permanently discolor countertops. It can also damage floor finishes, requiring them to be stripped and recoated, which is an expensive process.

8. Chlorine will discolor fibers and colored surfaces. Carpets, entrance matting and clothing are just a few of the fibers that may be damaged.

9. The disinfectant power of chlorine bleach is rapidly inactivated by contact with organic matter, i.e. blood, saliva, tissue, urine, feces, dirt, etc. Chlorine is also inactivated by sunlight.

10. Diluted chlorine bleach will quickly relinquish its effectiveness, is unstable and can lose its disinfectant qualities very rapidly, compared to most quat-based disinfectants, which are very stable.


Although bleach products may be a bargain, you owe it to yourself to use a product that truly cleans, thoroughly disinfects and is safe to use.

This day in History

7/29/2016 (Permalink)

"That's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind."

We at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest find History fascinating.

On this day in 1958, the U.S. Congress passes legislation establishing the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), a civilian agency responsible for coordinating America's activities in space. NASA has since sponsored space expeditions, both human and mechanical, that have yielded vital information about the solar system and universe. It has also launched numerous earth-orbiting satellites that have been instrumental in everything from weather forecasting to navigation to global communications.

NASA was created in response to the Soviet Union's October 4, 1957 launch of its first satellite, Sputnik I. The 183-pound, basketball-sized satellite orbited the earth in 98 minutes. The Sputniklaunch caught Americans by surprise and sparked fears that the Soviets might also be capable of sending missiles with nuclear weapons from Europe to America. The United States prided itself on being at the forefront of technology, and, embarrassed, immediately began developing a response, signaling the start of the U.S.-Soviet space race.

On November 3, 1957, the Soviets launched Sputnik II,which carried a dog named Laika. In December, America attempted to launch a satellite of its own, called Vanguard, but it exploded shortly after takeoff. On January 31, 1958, things went better with Explorer I, the first U.S. satellite to successfully orbit the earth. In July of that year, Congress passed legislation officially establishing NASA from the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics and other government agencies, and confirming the country's commitment to winning the space race. In May 1961, President John F. Kennedy declared that America should put a man on the moon by the end of the decade. On July 20, 1969, NASA's Apollo 11 mission achieved that goal and made history when astronaut Neil Armstrong became the first person to set foot on the moon, saying "That's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind."

SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest expertise mitigates smoke damage

7/27/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Says Smoke Detectors Help Prevent Fire Damage and Save Lives.

Fire and smoke damage can be very destructive even in your home? In such an event, your home or work property is likely to sustain damages. It is advisable to hire experts to restore your home rather than do it on your own. Take a look at the benefits you get when you hire professionals.  

Experts like us at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest have numerous years of field experience. Over the years, we have seen various types of fire damage in Fresno.  This gives us ample knowledge to tackle unique problems. We work with expediency to get your business or residence back to normal. "Like it never even happened."

When dealing with the expense in a fire and smoke damage restoration process, you often have to deal with the insurance company. In most cases, the company may not be congenial of the situation you are in and rather than being helpful, they can bury you with loads of paperwork. As a result, the process becomes long and frustrating. When you hire us, we can work with your insurance adjuster to lessen the burden on you by helping with the claims process.

It's the water you don't see

7/27/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest has the right equipment

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 Fresno Northwest 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. Your local SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest will answer your call with fast action and a full arsenal of drying equipment. From evasive & non-evasive moisture meters, air movers and dehumidifiers,too  Ultra Low-Volume (ULV) Foggers that  atomize liquid deodorizing agents, producing a fine mist that can easily penetrate the site where odor-causing residues may accumulate. This device can also be used to inject fungicides and disinfectants into wall cavities and other hard-to-reach areas.

Do you know what to do if a pipe breaks?

7/27/2016 (Permalink)

Pipes break on their time, not ours.

A broken pipe, and the water damage cleanup it causes is a nightmare for every homeowner or office manager.  Even a broken sink pipe with a small amount of water can do significant damage in a short -period of time.  Do you know what to do?

The first thing that you should do is find the source of the water damage and stop the flow of additional water from entering your home.  The more water the bigger the water damage cleanup and more extensive the problem.  It's easy to figure out when you've left a faucet on or the supply line on the toilet broke. What if you have a broken pipe that has burst that can’t be seen, you must turn off the water supply to your home as quickly as possible.  The water main is often in your front yard under a cement plate designated “Water”. 

 Then call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest to begin the mitigation. 559-261-9765

Long time smoker

7/25/2016 (Permalink)

You can see he difference as we cleaned.

The nasty and stale stink of cigarette smoking lingers inside a house or room long after the cigarette is out and the smoker is gone. It also causes a yellowish tar and nicotine discoloration on the walls that hardens with time. Whether you just quit smoking, moved into an apartment that had been smoked in or bought a house from a previous smoker, don't get discouraged, SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest can remove the stink and the smoke stains from the walls. This Picture shows a senior living facility in Fresno that called SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest out to take a look at an apartment they had that the tenant had been a smoker in for 9yrs. They were impressed with how clean we were able to get it. They were happy to know they could proceed with painting without worrying about the smoke smell bleeding through.

SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest can handle your fire damage

7/25/2016 (Permalink)

In just hours after a fire occurs, metal fixtures, including faucets and handles on doors can be permanently ruined by fire damage in your Fresno home or business if it is not immediately treated properly. Our technicians at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest have both the compassion and knowledge needed to perform your fire damage restoration the right way the first time. Our team of technicians are licensed, fully trained and certified in smoke and fire damage restoration. We realize that these times are stressful and emotional, and treat you accordingly, guiding you through each step of the restoration. We realize that each fire emergency needs.

Timing is critical once the fire is out. Your repairs for fire damage need to be started fast to maximize their effectiveness. We will answer your call and move into action right away, 24/7. We recognize the trauma and emotional upset which occupants suffer, and work fast and considerately to mitigate any damage to property that is salvageable, like fixtures, household items, metals and other items. Our techniques are state-of-the-art, and our cleaning processes will many times stop you from having additional costs of replacement. Smoke and fire damage restoration needs special skill and knowledge, our technicians at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest are professionals and have the expertise that is needed to do the job correctly.

We care

7/25/2016 (Permalink)

Keep calm

Yes we are a part of a major corporation, however we here at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest feel it's important to not forget where we've come from and that in order to be successful we need to remember it's all about you our client and the personal touch. Why do people often go back to the same small business or refer their friends and family to it? It's simple the quality of service that you receive and the time they take to make sure YOU the client are taken care of and that they don't just meet but exceed your expectations and needs! We here at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest go that extra mile as it is our goal to not just meet but exceed your expectations in every way possible. From making sure your questions and concerns are addressed from the first time we arrive on site to making sure your home or business is put back together in every way that matters to you. No matter how big or small the job, SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest is here to help every step of the way! Whether assisting you with your home, or your large commercial building SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest is here with a level of care and customer service you normally find in a small business.

We like to say Small business attitude and personal touch at a corporate level. Give us a call at 559-261-9765 today to see the difference

Community Events

7/22/2016 (Permalink)

Grand Opening of African Adventure

Our employee Dana Irola is a proud Ambassador for the Fresno Chamber of Commerce. This picture was taken at the Grand Opening of African Adventure. African Adventure is a 13-acre, multiphase expansion which features new animal species in spectacular naturalistic exhibits, as well as many multi-species, that together will emulate the African plains and savannas. African Adventure is a a brand new, state-of-the-art home for a pride of lions, a family herd of African elephants, cheetahs, white rhinos, a brand new giraffe feeding station with 360 degree views of the savanna, and a dine-in restaurant called the Kopje Lodge!

African Adventure provides opportunities for cultural discovery, interactive play spaces and engaging live interpretation for all ages. Thanks to Measure Z, this spectacular addition to Fresno Chaffee Zoo offers guests a wildlife experience that is unparalleled in zoos today!

What are some Biohazard Examples

7/15/2016 (Permalink)

What are some biohazard examples?  

• Human blood and blood products. This includes items that have been contaminated with blood and other body fluids or tissues that contain visible blood.
• Animal waste. Animal carcasses and body parts, or any bedding material used by animals that are known to be infected with pathogenic organisms.
• Human body fluids. Semen, cerebrospinal fluid, pleural fluid, vaginal secretions, pericardial fluid, amniotic fluid, saliva, and peritoneal fluid.
• Microbiological wastes. Common in laboratory settings, examples of microbiological wastes include specimen cultures, disposable culture dishes, discarded viruses, and devices used to transfer or mix cultures.
• Pathological waste. Unfixed human tissue (excluding skin), waste biopsy materials, and anatomical parts from medical procedures or autopsies.
• Sharps waste. Needles, glass slides and cover slips, scalpels, and IV tubing that has the needle attached.

What Constitutes a BioHazard

7/15/2016 (Permalink)

Biohazard -- You’ve heard the term, you’ve seen the symbol, but do you know what actually constitutes a biohazard? Do you have an understanding of what materials and substances are considered to be biohazards and what measures you can take to prevent the spread of infection? A biological hazard (biohazard) is any organism that constitutes a hazard to other living things, especially humans.

Potential biohazards are commonly found in hospitals and health care settings in the form of blood, body fluids, used syringes, glass culture slides, and other medical waste. These substances, among others, can carry bloodborne pathogens and spread disease from person to person.

It is important to mention that biohazards are not only found in hospitals, doctor’s offices, and medical research labs. The blood that is found at the site of a violent crime or accident, the body fluid that is left after an unattended death -- these are all biohazards that should be handled with the same care and attention as those found in a lab or hospital.

Restoring Your Fresno Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

7/15/2016 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges

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

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

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

About SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest

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

Smoke and Soot Cleanup

7/15/2016 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Fresno or Clovis Home.

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  Fresno Northwest  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 – 559-261-9765

Our Highly Trained Restoration Specialists can restore your Fresno Home

7/15/2016 (Permalink)

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

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.

• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.

• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.

• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.

• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

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

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

Does Your Fresno Home Have A Mold Problem?

7/15/2016 (Permalink)

In Fresno mold can spread through a home in as little as 48 hours.

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

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

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

SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest provides 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

7/15/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Fresno or Clovis home

SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest today

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest

SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest 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.

When Storms or Floods hit Fresno or Clovis SERVPRO is ready!

7/15/2016 (Permalink)

Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in Fresno or Clovis

SERVPRO of  Fresno Northwest 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 Fresno or Clovis, 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 are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest, 559-261-9765

Do you have mold in your home

7/8/2016 (Permalink)

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

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

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

Should you have your Air Duct's in your home cleaned?

6/22/2016 (Permalink)

WOW

Knowledge about the potential benefits and possible problems of air duct cleaning is limited. Since conditions in every home are different, it is impossible to generalize about whether or not air duct cleaning in your home would be beneficial.

If no one in your household suffers from allergies or unexplained symptoms or illnesses and if, after a visual inspection of the inside of the ducts, you see no indication that your air ducts are contaminated with large deposits of dust having your air ducts cleaned is probably unnecessary. It is normal for the return registers to get dusty as dust-laden air is pulled through the grate. This does not indicate that your air ducts are contaminated with heavy deposits of dust or debris; the registers can be easily vacuumed or removed and cleaned.

On the other hand, if family members are experiencing unusual or unexplained symptoms or illnesses that you think might be related to your home environment, you should discuss the situation with your doctor.

How to cool off

6/3/2016 (Permalink)

It's hot

1. Choose cotton.

Save the ooh-la-la satin, silk, or polyester sheets for cooler nights. Light-colored bed linens made of lightweight cotton (Egyptian or otherwise) are breathable and excellent for promoting ventilation and airflow in the bedroom.

2. Get cold comfort.

Here’s a four-seasons tip for keeping utilities charges down: Buy a hot water bottle. In winter, fill it with boiling water for toasty toes without cranking the thermostat. During summer, stick it in the freezer to create a bed-friendly ice pack.

3. Get loose.

Less is definitely more when it comes to summertime jammies. Pick a loose, soft cotton shirt and shorts or underwear. Going full nudie during a heat wave is (unsurprisingly) controversial. Some people believe it helps keep them cool, while others claim going au natural means sweat stays on the body instead of being wicked away by fabric. We’re going to chalk this one up to personal preference.

4. Go old-school

Remember when refrigerators were iceboxes that contained actual blocks of ice? Me neither. This stay-cool trick is straight out of the icebox era, though. Make a DIY air conditioner by positioning a shallow pan or bowl (a roasting pan works nicely) full of ice in front of a fan. The breeze will pick up cold water from the ice’s surface as it melts, creating a cooling mist.

5.Pamper your pulses.Need to cool down, stat? To chill out super-fast, apply ice packs or cold compresses to pulse points at the wrists, neck, elbows, groin, ankles, and behind the knees.

Memorial day

5/26/2016 (Permalink)

Let us never forget the fallen heroes & their families

Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who have died in service of the United States of America. Over two dozen cities and towns claim to be the birthplace of Memorial Day. While Waterloo N.Y. was officially declared the birthplace of Memorial Day by President Lyndon Johnson in May 1966, it’s difficult to prove conclusively the origins of the day.

Regardless of the exact date or location of its origins, one thing is clear – Memorial Day was borne out of the Civil War and a desire to honor our dead. It was officially proclaimed on 5 May 1868 by General John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, in his General Order No. 11. “The 30th of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village and hamlet churchyard in the land,” he proclaimed. The date of Decoration Day, as he called it, was chosen because it wasn’t the anniversary of any particular battle.

This Day in History

5/19/2016 (Permalink)

This day in History

1927 U.S.A. Charles Lindbergh 20th May 1927 : Charles Lindbergh who many called the "flying fool" has set off from Roosevelt Field in Long Island, NY, today flying the "Spirit of St. Louis" on an epic flight from New York to Paris and is a milestone in flying aviation history, he is expected to arrive in Paris sometime late tomorrow. His plane A Ryan is expected to travel up to 125 MPH as the fuel load decreases. 

He completed the 33-hour, 30-minute flight and landed at Le Bourget Airport, Paris on the evening of 21 May. 

1862 U.S.A. The Homestead Act 20th May : President Abraham Lincoln signs into law the original Homestead Act on May 20th,1862. The Homestead Act gave an applicant freehold title to up to 160 acres (1/4 section, 65 hectares) of undeveloped federal land outside the original 13 colonies. 

1944 Germany Assassination Attempt On Adolf Hitler 20th May 1944 : A group of officers from the German Army attempt an assassination attempt on Adolf Hitler by exploding a bomb in his headquarters during a staffing meeting 

About Friday the 13th

5/12/2016 (Permalink)

Boo

Watch out! Tomorrow is Friday the 13^th, known by many as the unluckiest day of the year.

An estimated 17 to 21 million people suffer from a fear of Friday the 13^th, according to a study by the North Carolina Stress Management Center and Phobia Institute.

The origin of fears surrounding Friday the 13^th is unclear. There is reportedly no written evidence of Friday the 13^th superstition before the 19^th century, but superstitions surrounding the number 13 date back to at least 1700 BC.

Wall Street has fostered a fear of Friday the 13^th for decades. On Oct. 13, 1989, Wall Street saw, what was at the time, the second largest drop of the Dow Jones Industrial Average in history. The day was nicknamed the Friday-the-13^th mini-crash.

Many studies have been conducted to investigate the risk of accidents on Friday the 13^th. According to research completed at the Dutch Centre for Insurance Statistics (CVS) in 2008, there were fewer accidents and reports of theft or fire on Friday the 13^th than on other Fridays.

I find it hard to believe that it is because people are preventatively more careful or just stay home, but statistically speaking, driving is a little bit safer on Friday 13th, CVS statistician Alex Hoen told the Verzekerd insurance magazine.

For those of you that believe in this superstition, today is the only Friday the 13th in 2016.

Faster to any Disaster

5/11/2016 (Permalink)

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  Fresno Northwest arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 559-261-9765

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.

A Flood of concerns

5/9/2016 (Permalink)

Flooded

We've all seen images of people walking through flood waters. Many times they have no choice as they're trying to escape to higher ground. Sometimes we see pictures of kids, even adults, playing in floodwaters. There is something tempting about playing in water in places it's usually never seen. No matter who you are, here are some reasons why you never want to walk or work (or play) in floodwaters:

Creature Features – some of your playmates may include poisonous snakes, insects, leeches, disease-carrying rodents and decaying animal carcasses. 

Shock Value – a live power line could give way (which is not unusual in disaster areas) and land in the water you're standing in. No description necessary.

Junk in the Funk – flood waters can carry and hide all sorts of debris that can harm you – broken glass, torn metal, splintered wood, etc.

The Force is Not With You – it only takes the force of 6" of rapidly moving floodwaters to knock you off of your feet and only 2' of it to carry away a vehicle.

Eau de Toilet Water – many floods can cause sewer overflows, resulting in dispersal of dangerous chemical waste and also the proliferation of harmful microbes. Unless you're the Ty-D-Bol man, stay out.

They Suck – when flood waters cover storm drains or sink holes, powerful whirlpools can form that may not be visible from above. They can pull you under and won't let you go.

Walk MS

5/6/2016 (Permalink)

Fresno Chamber Ambassador team for Wak MS

SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest is a proud member of the Fresno Chamber of Commerce. SMR Dana Irola is also a ambassador for The Chamber which allows her to participate in many Community events.  This photo is from the Walk MS she participated in a couple of weeks ago.

In multiple sclerosis (MS), damage to the myelin coating around the nerve fibers in the central nervous system (CNS) and to the nerve fibers themselves interferes with the transmission of nerve signals between the brain, spinal cord and the rest of the body. Disrupted nerve signals cause the symptoms of MS, which vary from one person to another and over time for any given individual, depending on where the damage occurs.

The diagnosis of MS requires evidence of at least two areas of damage in the CNS, which have occurred at different times.

What to do till help arrives

5/5/2016 (Permalink)

Water damage on property can happen from blocked drains, broken pipes, malfunctioning appliances, storms, sewage backups and flood waters. In every scenario, the nature of the damage will dictate the appropriate treatment. But whatever the cause of the water damage, the promise of restoration will depend largely on the speed with which the premises and personal property can be dried. Some emergency restoration services may be carried out by property owners themselves until professional help arrives.

• Remember that water does not have to be contaminated to cause damage but that even clean water can generate mildew, mold and other bacterial growth if neglected. Therefore, it becomes very important to ventilate the wet areas as soon as possible. The safest way of doing this is to open all windows for maximum airflow. This will help remove some of the moisture and circulate air around the premises.
• Shut off the electrical supply to the affected area to prevent the risk of electrical hazards such as getting electrocuted.
• Carefully start removing standing water from flat surfaces by sponging, mopping or blotting. When doing so, it is absolutely crucial to wear protective covering especially if the water is contaminated. This includes rubber gloves, boots as well as face masks.Remove saturated rugs, carpets and other porous materials. In case of clean water, carpets may be saved when cleaned and disinfected professionally but will need to be discarded if water damage is from contaminated water.
• Open drawers and cabinet doors for interior drying without forcing to open any stuck surfaces.
• A useful tip is to freeze important documents and books to retard mildew growth until proper drying can be performed.
• Call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest to help.

What to do after a fire in your Fresno or Clovis home

4/29/2016 (Permalink)

A house fire is one of the most frightening and disruptive events that can impact a family. After surviving a fire, it is crucial to remain calm and take the steps that will help you recover from this traumatic event. Enlisting the prompt support of family and emergency service professionals, like SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest can really make a difference in the recovery process.  Here are a few things you can do till help arrives:

Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet.

Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork,

What you don’t want to do:

Attempt to clean walls or any painted surfaces

Turn on A/C or heater, ceiling fans.

Let the professionals at SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest “Make it like it never even happened”

Results matter

4/22/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest understands your situation as a Insurance agent, adjustor or Property Manager. It is your responsibility to keep claim cost down while still providing the best services to your customers. SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest is uniquely qualified to help. Our results create a measurable difference, giving you many competitive advantages, including:

Emergency response, electronic Commerce to provide information and proof of results.

Call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest, the Mitigation Company you can trust.

Spring cleaning your work place

4/21/2016 (Permalink)

What a mess!!

You may think that you don’t have time to organize your office, but if you really knew how much time that disorganization cost you, you’d reconsider. Rearranging and moving piles occasionally doesn’t count. Neither does clearing off your desk, if you swipe the mess into a bin, or a desk drawer. A relatively neat and orderly office space clears the way for higher productivity and less wasted time.

Organizing your office doesn’t have to take days, it can be done a little at a time. In fact maintaining an organized office is much more effective if you treat it like an ongoing project, instead of a massive assault. So, if you’re ready to get started, here are a couple of tips that will help you transform your office into an efficient workspace.

Purge your office – De-clutter, empty, shred, get rid of everything that you don’t need or want. Look around. What haven’t you used in a while? Take one area at a time. If it doesn’t work, send it out for repair or toss it. If you haven’t used it in months and can’t think of when you’ll actually need it, out it goes. This goes for furniture, equipment, supplies, etc. Don’t forget about knick-knacks, plants (real or artificial), and decorations – if they’re covered with dust and make your office look shabby, they’re fair game.

Gather and redistribute – Gather up every item that isn’t where it belongs and put it where it does. 

Establish work “zones” – Decide what type of activity happens in each area of your office. You’ll probably have a main workspace (most likely your desk,) a reference area (filing cabinet, shelves, binders,) and a supply area (closet, shelves or drawers.) Place the appropriate equipment and supplies are located in the proper area as much as possible.

Once you have your work place orginized, call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest to schedule your carpet to be cleaned. 559-261-9765

How does ozone destroy odors

4/8/2016 (Permalink)

What's that smell?

 Ozone reacts with odor molecules by transferring the “extra” oxygen atom of the ozone molecule to the odor molecule, changing its composition so it no longer has the same chemical makeup. This chemical reaction is called oxidation. In a nut shell, through the oxidation process, what was formerly an odor-causing molecule is now an entirely different compound, and therefore does not possess the odor of its preceding form. To compare the difference between odor treatment using deodorizers and ozone, Pretend we have two foul smelling odor molecules, think of them as two bad guys. Let’s treat the first bad guy with a spray on deodorizer. This can be represented by locking him in a jail cell so he can’t affect anybody or anything. He is harmless, but he is still a bad guy. Once he is released, he can be a bad guy again…or in our case a stinky odor molecule.

Now let’s take the second bad guy and treat him with ozone. During the oxidation process, his very molecular structure is altered; he is no longer the same thing. This can be represented by waiving a magic wand and “poof-he’s a rabbit”! Since the bad guy has been turned into something completely different/harmless, he can no longer be a bad guy-he is now a permanent rabbit, or in our case, a molecule without an unpleasant odor.

Do you have an odor molecule? Don’t despair, call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest 559-261-9765. 

Mold in your home

3/31/2016 (Permalink)

Got Mold?

The adverse effects of mold growth inside your home can be catastrophic and can cause health effects.  It can cause debilitating problems to the value of a home and remediation can be costly. With that being said, it is no wonder that one of the most dreaded four letter words you can utter in any home is mold. Detecting mold, however, is not as daunting as many may think. It can sometimes be as easy as looking at you’re A/C vents, smelling the air when you return from the grocery store, or even spotting discoloration underneath cabinets or on walls.

SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest specializes in:  water remediation, flood mitigation, carpet cleaning,  mold removal, fire damage, and smoke clean up, disaster restoration,  and air duct cleaning. SERVPRO of Fresno northwest 

Tips to help prevent a flood

3/28/2016 (Permalink)

Helpful tips

When going on vacation, either for 2day’s or 2 months, turn water main off to house.

Keep sandbags on hand in case you need to stop any flood water coming into house.

Install “French Drains” in flower beds to drain water properly & prevent water from seeping in, Stucco absorbs water.

Keep your gutters & roof valleys clear.

Look into possible installing a back flow valve on your sewer system to help prevent sewage back up.

Check supply lines & angle stops under sinks & toilet. Also check the toilet float. Run your hand along pipes to check for any moisture. If you use a “sink sprayer” check the line often. They get alot of use & could crack & blister.

Check your washing machine hoses often.

Check weatherstriping on doors. If the rain is strong enough and the weatherstrips are worn, rain could seep through.

Water Damage roof leaks in Fresno, Ca

3/11/2016 (Permalink)

While we welcome all the rain Fresno is getting, the last thing you want is a roof leak.  Make sure you keep your roof cutters & valleys clear of leaves etc. If you notice water stains or microbial growth on your ceiling, you probably have a roof leak. Since roof leaks can be hard to find, (water travels through insulation etc.)grab a flashlight & head to attic. Look for darker spots or microbial growth that might indicate a roof leak. Did the roof leak cause damage in the house? Call us today so we can begin drying to avoid any growth.

Courtney Fire

9/22/2014 (Permalink)

SERVPRO was at the Oakhurst Community Center to assist those affected by the Courtney Fire

SERVPRO was at the Oakhurst Community Center to assist those affected by the Courtney Fire

Courtney Fire

9/22/2014 (Permalink)

SERVPRO was at the Oakhurst Community Center to assist those affected by the Courtney Fire

SERVPRO was at the Oakhurst Community Center to assist those affected by the Courtney Fire

Water damage at Dr office

8/11/2014 (Permalink)

This flooded Dr. office was caused by a broken fitting on the water main.

After a fitting on the water main broke causing water to flood the office they called SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest.

The ladies said they don't know what they would have done without SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest

Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting

7/9/2014 (Permalink)

Chamber of Commerce Ribbon cutting

Wonderful turnout for our Ribbon Cutting!!! Very exciting to be so welcomed into the community of Fresno.