Roof Damage

8/8/2022 (Permalink)

Often during heavy rains, winds, or falling debris, homes businesses can experience roof damage. For some, the first instinct is to apply a roof tarp, looking to quickly solve the issue and attempt to reduce the possibility of additional damage. Roof tarps allow you to have a quick solution and a gap of time until better weather conditions allow for safe inspection and repair.

It seems like a simple and inexpensive idea to quickly cover the holes in the roof, stop a water leak, and to have a level of security in knowing that no rodents or other animals will enter your home or business through those holes.

Although a roof tarp has many benefits, we do not recommend it as a permanent solution to your problem, because:

• Some brands are more heavy duty than others, but they all wear out over time.
• If the roof has water damage that leaked into your home, mold could be growing in the affected areas.
• Wind can move the tarp, leaving spaces uncovered where water can start leaking again.
• The tarp may increase the heat inside your home or business, which could lead to a higher electrical bill.
• If not installed properly, it could hold small pools of standing water, perfect for mosquitoes to dwell.

Fire Escape Plan

8/3/2022 (Permalink)

Every second counts during a fire. Fire experts agree, people have as little as two minutes to escape a burning home before it’s too late to get out.

In a matter of moments, a small flame can become a major fire, making it critical to be prepared with an escape plan in place. A survey conducted by the American Red Cross shows only 26 percent of families have developed and practiced a home fire escape plan. Once a plan is developed, it is critical that everyone in the home understands the plan; the best way to do this is by practicing the escape plan at least twice a year. Increase your chance of surviving a fire by ensuring you have working smoke detectors in place, building an escape plan, and then practicing the escape plan. The following are a few steps to help you develop an emergency escape plan:

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

Fire Safety and Fireworks

8/3/2022 (Permalink)

With the warmer months of the summer comes times to celebrate events with barbeques, family events and everyone’s favorite firework displays. These times where we use fireworks for celebrations do we take the necessary safety precautions to prevent injury or property damage needed? In all years studied, Independence Day has more incidents reported in NFIRS than any other day of the year. The number of incidents in the NFIRS database associated with July 4 and July 5 were 2.4 times the average daily number of incidents on other days of the year. Brush and outside fire incidents were nearly four times higher during this holiday than on the average day. Structure fires increase on July 4 and July 5th as well. As would be expected, fireworks were responsible for a considerable portion of the increase in fire incidence on Independence Day. In fact, 31 percent of the total annual number of fireworks−related fires occurs on July 4 and 5. These fires individually were less severe than fires generally, with lower average dollar loss per fire, less than half of the injuries and one third the deaths per fire.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

8/3/2022 (Permalink)

October is many people’s favorite month of the year. The leaves have changed color, the weather is cooler, and Halloween festivities are right around the corner. On top of all that autumn goodness, October is also breast cancer awareness month! 

According to the World Health Organization, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide, claiming the lives of hundreds of thousands of women each year and affecting countries at all levels of modernization. In fact, 1 in 8 women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. These statistics are alarming, which is why it’s important to spread awareness not only in October, but all year round! To learn more about breast cancer and how you can spread awareness, head over to https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-cancer-facts 

Does your commercial building have a mold problem?

8/3/2022 (Permalink)

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from your commercial 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.

Faster Response When You Need Us

8/1/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and 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 quickly 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 the greater Ontario area, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of over 1,700 Locations across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Give us a call we can help you get your home or business back to working condition.

Flooding and water Damage

8/1/2022 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage in Northwest Ontario 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.

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.

Our number one goal is to get your commercial building up running so you can resume business as usual.

Common Leak Places

8/1/2022 (Permalink)

Water leaks pose a very significant threat to commercial buildings, in particular, as they use much bigger amounts of water than residences – either for their business activities or simply because of the large number of people using the water fixtures in the facility on a daily basis. Therefore, leaks in commercial buildings lead to the waste of hundreds of gallons of water per day and can substantially increase the company’s monthly bills. 

1). Toilet Leaks

2). Faucet Leaks

3). Plumbing Leaks

4). Roof Leaks

5). Ceiling Leaks

6). Basement Leaks

To avoid such troubles, property owners need to maintain their buildings in excellent condition and seek efficient professional solutions from SERVPRO of South Rancho Cucamonga at the first sign of a water problem.

If you have any water damage in your commercial property, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario (909)984-3544 

Roof Damage?

7/28/2022 (Permalink)

Often during heavy rains, winds, or falling debris, homes businesses can experience roof damage. For some, the first instinct is to apply a roof tarp, looking to quickly solve the issue and attempt to reduce the possibility of additional damage. Roof tarps allow you to have a quick solution and a gap of time until better weather conditions allow for safe inspection and repair.

It seems like a simple, inexpensive idea to quickly cover the holes in the roof, stop a water leak, and to have a level of security in knowing that no rodents or other animals will enter your home or business through those holes.

Although a roof tarp has many benefits, we do not recommend it as a permanent solution to your problem, because:

• Some brands are more heavy duty than others, but they all wear out over time.
• If the roof has water damage that leaked into your home, mold could be growing in the affected areas.
• Wind can move the tarp, leaving spaces uncovered where water can start leaking again.
• The tarp may increase the heat inside your home or business, which could lead to a higher electrical bill.
• If not installed properly, it could hold small pools of standing water, perfect for mosquitoes to dwell.                           
• Make sure to call a professional company like SERVPRO of Norhtwest Ontario to help you take care of your home or business. 

Water Damage to your Property

7/28/2022 (Permalink)

Imaging it’s Sunday afternoon, and you walk into your home after a relaxing weekend away expecting to switch on the lights, put the kids to bed then get some rest yourself.

A water pipe burst over the weekend, dumping thousands of gallons of water over your hardwood kitchen floor, your carpeted living room and your cement utility room. You realize this problem is far beyond the reach of your shop vac. What do you do now?

When it is your home or business that is underwater, mitigation cannot wait. You need mitigation to begin immediately. If water damage strikes you or your neighbor give SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario a call at 909-984-3544 any time, any day.

The cost of water damages can increase exponentially with time. Wood Floors warp, dry wall soaks in moisture and mold develops in hard-to-reach areas of your home or business.

The benefits of rapid mitigation offer by SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario can lower the cost and potential hazards may be avoided.

If the unthinkable happens to your home or business, allow SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario help you get your home and business back to normal.

Call SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario

7/28/2022 (Permalink)

There’s no such thing as a small disaster—especially when a small leak now could blossom into a big claim later. Unseen water can soak through walls, seep through carpet and pool on sub floors, causing major problems over time. You need help fast. No matter what time of day or night, contact SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario to begin emergency mitigation.

Emergency mitigation means that under normal circumstances, we will be on-site within four hours to begin drying your building and restoring contents. The faster the water is removed the less chance of serious damage to your facility. SERVPRO® of Northwest Ontario technicians are trained and understand how to manage the drying process. By utilizing state-of-the-art equipment and the latest technology, your structure will be quickly and thoroughly dried, which helps prevent secondary water damages.

Power Outage

7/28/2022 (Permalink)

One thing we often take for granted is the electricity that powers everything in our home. But, when an extreme weather event occurs, you have to be prepared for power outages. A power outage can cause a myriad of problems in your home.

When a storm hits, it may cause trees to fall down, unusual wind, or other damage to your home. But most people don’t think about power outage problems that can occur when the electricity goes out and stays out for a long period‌.

When the power goes out, it can cause serious problems not just during the outage but when the power comes back on. For example, the food in the fridge may go bad. You will have no heat, no lights, and no way to cook meals.

Some of the Reasons for Your Insurance Company to Deny Your Fire Claim

7/25/2022 (Permalink)

--Deliberately setting fire to a home is a criminal act, and a desire to collect insurance money is often the motive. For this reason, insurance companies require a fire investigation as part of the claim process. This helps the insurer establish the cause of the fire and note potentially suspicious details, such as multiple points of origin.

To help further reduce the risk of insurance fraud, your insurance company may also evaluate your personal finance and insurance claim history. Examples of potentially suspicious findings that may result in a denial of a home fire claim include the following:

• A recent increase in coverage or decrease in deductible
• Extensive debt or pending bankruptcy
• Prior insurance claims and loss history
• Recently purchased, high-value items on claim list
• The value of destroyed contents is inconsistent with household income

Because of this detailed investigation, any homeowner filing a claim in Ontario, Ca should be prepared for a potentially lengthy claim process. 

--Like arson, a vacant home fire is also not typically covered under most insurance policies. A home is considered vacant if it is uninhabited for 30 or more consecutive days. If your insurance company can verify this circumstance, it may deny your claim, forcing you to fund cleanup and restoration costs out-of-pocket. To protect your financial interests, you should consider purchasing vacant home insurance or add an endorsement to your existing policy for any vacation homes or rental property you own. 

Causes of flood damage in your home or business.

7/25/2022 (Permalink)

Anything can happen to flood your home or cause water in your business; even small accidents like a supply line break or a pipe break can cause a flooded home. Some causes are preventable, others are not. The most common causes:

• Broken water heaters / Sump Pumps
• Leaking pipes
• Supply line break
• Frozen water lines / pipe break
• Storm water
• Blocked Sewer Lines
• Overflowing appliances (Bathtubs, dishwashers, washing machines)

Effects of Excessive Water?

Unless the water cleanup and drying is handled correctly and by a professional, the devastation can quickly spread. A Water Damage Restoration Professional is experienced in the mitigation process and can save you time, money and headaches. Without them, you are exposing yourself to all types of additional problems with water in your home or water in your business:

• Mold
• Contaminants in the water
• Structural problems
• Building materials
• Carpets and carpet padding
• Loss of personal property
• Electrical / mechanical problems

There is more involved than just fixing a pipe break or supply line break.

The water may recede, but flood damage can remain

7/25/2022 (Permalink)

Flooding causes problems wherever it happens. Some of these problems are not visible to the naked eye. You might be able to smell the microbial deposits left behind, and this should be a warning that even floods that barely cover your floor can pose risks long after they are gone.

Flood damage can cause damage to a home's structure, including the foundation or walls. The higher flooding becomes, the more damage there can be to walls, furniture, and staircases. Microbial activity, however, can occur in areas well above the flood line. Because humidity levels greatly increase indoors when flooding exists, it becomes much more likely that microbes such as mold and bacteria might be inhaled by those present in the home. Also, these microbes are also more easily deposited in locations that might have otherwise remained uncontaminated.

Roof Damaged?

5/18/2022 (Permalink)

Often during heavy rains, winds, or falling debris, homes and businesses can experience roof damage. For some, the first instinct is to apply a roof tarp, looking to quickly solve the issue and attempt to reduce the possibility of additional damage. Roof tarps allow you to have a quick solution and a gap of time until better weather conditions allow for safe inspection and repair.

It is a good, inexpensive idea to quickly cover the holes in the roof, stop a water leak, and to have a level of security in knowing that no rodents or other animals will enter your home or business through those holes.

Although a roof tarp has many benefits, we do not recommend it as a permanent solution to your problem, because:

• Some brands are more heavy duty than others, but they all wear out over time.
• If the roof has water damage that leaked into your home, mold could be growing in the affected areas.
• Wind can move the tarp, leaving spaces uncovered where water can start leaking again.
• The tarp may increase the heat inside your home or business, which could lead to a higher electrical bill.
• If not installed properly, it could hold small pools of standing water, perfect for mosquitoes to dwell.

What To Include in a First Aid Kit

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

A first aid kit is an essential item for your commercial property in Northwest Ontario. Sadly, it's all too common for an emergency kit to be missing from offices and supply closets. If you haven't put together a safety kit or if you haven't made sure an existing kit is up to date, now is the time to make sure you're fully prepared for an emergency. 

First Aid List  

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has a complete list of items you need to create a basic kit as well as a complete kit. For example, a very basic first aid kit should contain 

• Adhesive bandages 
• Gauze pads multiple shapes and sizes 
• Gauze rolls in various widths 
• Triangular bandages 
• Supplies for cleaning wounds, such as disinfectants and swabs 
• Scissors 
• Tweezers 
• Medical tape 
• Medical gloves 
• Resuscitation equipment 
• Splints 
• Blanket 
• Directions for contacting emergency personnel 

Water Damage

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

If you find that your home is flooding, you should first make sure everyone is safe. If it doesn't put you in harm's way, find the source of the flood, such as a broken pipe, and stop the water. Your next steps should be the following: 

• Contact a professional water removal company to schedule cleanup 
• Contact your insurance company to file a claim 
• Remove any materials from the water, if it's safe to do so 

Never turn on an electronic device if you have had a flood in your home. Let the professionals handle items such as televisions, stereos, computers, and appliances. Water removal specialists know how to safely inspect and clean up these machines properly. 

SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario professionals will start by explaining you every step of the proses to dry your home..  

Signs of Gas Leaks

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

They're sometimes hard to recognize, but it doesn't take much of a leak to cause a gas fire. These home disasters are all too common. Fortunately, you can avoid a fire or worse by recognizing signs of a leak:

•  A hissing or whistling sound near the line
•  The smell of rotten eggs or sulfur
•  Bubbles in the water
•  Dead houseplants
•  Visible dust near the gas line
•  Damage to the gas pipe

Family members or pets may show signs of a natural gas leak, as well. These may include nosebleeds, reduced appetites, nausea, mood changes, irritation to the eyes and throats, disorientation, and breathing difficulties. 

Dos and Don’ts 

Avoid a gas fire or explosion in your Ontario, CA home by following these top tips:

1. Check Gas Stoves

If you have a gas stove, the dials may have been turned on or left on accidentally. If you're confident it's safe to remain in your home, move to the stove and turn off any flames. 

2. Do Not Flip Switches

By simply flipping the light switch to on or off could make a spark that causes a gas explosion. Instead, use a flashlight for any other actions you take in the house. Don't use the phone inside the house, either. In fact, don't use lighters, candles, or anything else that could ignite.

3. Ventilate the Home

Open all the windows and doors, so fresh air can come in and gas will move out of the house. Don't worry about taking any steps further than this. Instead, wait to contact emergency or fire remediation professionals when you and your family are safely outside. 

4. Go Outside and take everyone with you

Appliances and Water Damage

5/12/2022 (Permalink)

These are some statistics on appliances.

Washing machine supply lines typically have issues on average around the 9 year mark.  As a preventative measure, have a plumber look at the supply lines and replace parts as necessary.

Most people in United States have water heaters with a tank.  There are a number of people that have made the switch to thankless water heaters for a variety of reasons but most have not due to the added cost.  75% of tank water heaters will fail before the 12 year mark. If you are lucky enough to have your water heater approach the 10 mark, it may be time to change it out as a precautionary measure.  

These are the statistics on average; of course things will happen before some of these timelines are met.  SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario is here to help with any water mitigation damage that may rise in your home or commercial property.

Avoid Smoking Indoors

5/12/2022 (Permalink)

If you or one of the residents in your home currently smokes, it's important to be informed on how to prevent a cigarette fire. After first checking with your local fire department in Ontario, for any pointers they might have, consider this tip, as well.

Never Smoke Indoors
There are a surprising number of flammable materials in your home or garage. Any type of fabric will burn easily, so, if an ashtray gets knocked over, or a stray cinder falls on anything it could easily start a fire and severely damage your home. In addition to the risk of fires, smoke from cigarettes can also damage the fabrics in your home and cause them to smell bad. This smell is difficult to remove with conventional laundry detergent.

Consider professional odor removal if anyone has smoked indoors and the smells bothers you and your family members.

Call SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario                (909) 984-3544   

Why Call SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario?

5/12/2022 (Permalink)

Why should you choose SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario to take charge of your fire, water, cleanup, and/or restoration project?  We will list just some of the reasons...  SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario is experienced and certified with the IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification).  We have a warehouse full of a vast amount of equipment, tools, cleaners, and chemicals, to make sure that we are ready for any project that may present itself.  Our team is background checked and certified.  SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario meets the rigid standards necessary to be on most insurance carrier programs, meaning we can take care of the project, as well as the paperwork, helping to alleviate that additional stress in trying situations.  Also, we are ready to help 24/7, and we will make sure that the job is done right the first time.  Please give us a call if you have questions about your restoration of cleaning needs.  (909) 984-3544

Rain in California?

5/9/2022 (Permalink)

Ontario California is a beautiful place to live, raise children and do business. Even though this winter and spring season we haven’t had a large amount of rain. 

The smallest leak in a roof can result in a huge amount of damage and the added ingredient of wind only compounds the problem. SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario fields many calls throughout the fall and winter from roofs, windows, and doors and, well, any structure. 

This particular project was a surprise for the new tenant. We were called to assess the problem and address the drying of the structure. What we found when we arrived certainly meant that some work was getting done that day. We also performed some demo and cleanup. 

If you need any help with your property in your Ontario property, give us a call 

(909)984-3544

Mold

5/9/2022 (Permalink)

Extensive microbial growth was discovered in a family's residential home in Northwest Ontario California, due to a pipe leak between the walls that went undiscovered for many weeks. Mold was discovered in the garage and kitchen area after cabinetry was removed. SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario has trained technicians that were able to test and remove the mold growth, and then restore the affected areas to pre loss conditions. The family was very thankful that we were able to recover their home as quickly as possible to avoid any health concerns in the future.

Standard Remediation Process

When you discover mold, call us and we will go through our standard mold remediation process: 

• Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
• Mold Containment
• Air Filtration
• Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
• Cleaning Contents and Belongings
• Restoration
• call us at (909)984-3544

When should you inspect your roof?

4/4/2022 (Permalink)

While two annual inspections are enough, some special conditions require extraordinary measures. 

For instance, after an episode of Santa Ana winds, downpours, or hailstorm, your home and business roofs can become susceptible to wear and tear. Since a leaky roof can cause

water damage inside your home and business.

Moreover, harsh weather conditions, including strong heat, create fault lines that cause concern.

Therefore, having enjoyed your time in the rain be sure to give your roof a health check.

Frequent inspections require an eye that can detect details. 

So, for a quick check-up, you can simply look for any peeled-off paint, Mold , Water Damaged, or fault lines. These are vital checkpoints to determine if your roof needs additional professional care.

If you find that your roof is damaged and know there is rain on the forecast SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario can help you by tarping your home or business to allow you extra time to fix your roof.

Ozone for Odor Removal After Fires

8/9/2021 (Permalink)

What is Ozone? Ozone is a molecule composed of three atoms of oxygen. The oxygen that we breathe contains two atoms of energy. The third atom of oxygen can detach and reattach to molecules of other substances, which changes their chemical composition. This machine oxidizes and removes odor. These machines are not limited to odors from smoke. They can be helpful in many odorous situations. 

Any home or business owner that has had to face the after math of fire, knows the lingering odor of smoke is unpleasant. A simple surface clean doesn't always get rid of the odor. SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario has the equipment and space to create a chamber where we will put your items to remediate fire and smoke damage odors.

Give us a call (909) 984-3544

Storm Damage

7/26/2021 (Permalink)

Flood Damage

Ontario, Ca, is not famous for heavy   storms, but with climate change anything can happen.

 Mud and dirt typically rank among our top priorities for removal whenever we respond to a flood call. Response time is critical to keep damage at bay and remove it effectively. Given time, mud can harden and form dry shells that are difficult to break off and can leave behind significant additional damage. If you call us as soon as possible, we stand a better chance of arriving before the mud dries and hardens, becoming almost cement-like. If the sludge is wet enough, we may be able to remove most of it with much faster washing and scrubbing processes. Rapid moving water from flash flooding caused by severe storms like monsoons presents a challenge to homes and buildings to withstand and then to cope with the debris left behind.

Rains Can Cause Water Damage to Your Home

7/26/2021 (Permalink)

This is the time of year you start seeing homeowners replacing their roofs in preparation for the raining season only a few months away. Unfortunately, many will be caught off-guard by the amount of rain that will be coming during the winter, and the result is storm damage to that partially installed roof. While you may be able to get your roofer to come out and address damage to the roof itself, you may have experienced additional storm damage from your unprotected roof.

Portions of your home might experience flooding from the rain and this will affect your home and belongings.

SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario is always ready to help you. We are open 24/7 and ready to help you leave your home "Like it never even happened."

Give us a call at: (909)984-3544

Fire Prevention

7/22/2021 (Permalink)

Kitchen Fire

 Most home fires are preventable, but sometimes common sense isn't so common. According to the National Fire Protection Association, it's not too early to protect your loved ones and your home from fire damage, by simply following sensible suggestions.

- Have your furnace checked. 

- Have your chimneys and vents checked. 

- Test smoke alarms. (You should have smoke alarms in each bedroom, kitchen and hallways, make sure to check the batteries periodically)

- Cover the fireplace with a screen. 

- Beware of lit candles.( Never live at children’s reach)

- Beware of space heaters. 

- Fire extinguishers can be life-savers. Store one under the kitchen sink, and in the hall closet near the bedrooms and the garage. Make sure you use the correct setting -- A for paper, wood and trash; B for grease and flammable liquids; C for small electrical fires.

-Know how to put out kitchen fires quickly. Water doesn't help a grease fire, which can get out of control. Keep salt and baking soda on hand to sprinkle liberally on pan fires. Keep lids handy to put on top of pots and pans that get too hot and have your extinguisher ready to spray on B

- Practice an escape route. Practice with your family and if it is a business make fire drills and assignee to make sure no one is left behind.  

 SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario is Ready to help you (909) 984-3544

Working Around Our Commercial Costumers

7/22/2021 (Permalink)

When a local Hotel restaurant flooded around Christmas we received a call from the hotel manager, who was asking us if we could work around the restaurant hours to dry the rooms affected. Within an hour, our crew was on site, ready to assess the rooms that flooded, and begin the mitigation work. Our crews worked quickly and efficiently to get the cleanup done, we were drying for the weekend and then we will set up and put down our equipment when the restaurant was closed so the hotel restaurant could serve their customers as usual. This was a challenging job since we were moving the equipment 4 times a day. At the end we were able to leave the hotel Restaurant “Like it never even happened.”

Give Us a call (909)984-3544

Emergency Services for Commercial Properties

7/22/2021 (Permalink)

When businesses are disrupted by fire, water, or bio hazard there is no time to waste.  

At our SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario office, we will always provide prompt service to any commercial properties regardless of our current production schedule, even during storm time.  

What qualifies as "commercial"?

Schools, Manufacturing, Industrial, Apartment Buildings, Health Care, Offices, Financial Institutions, Hospitality, Retail, Food Services, Government / Municipal, Storage warehouses and more.

A flood can occur when the business is out for the night or during a weekend.  Floods   don’t necessarily happened because of a weather incident it could be as easy  as a broken pipe from the toilet or the kitchen sink.

It’s important to follow fire prevention protocols so your employees know what to do in case of fire.

Give us a call at (909) 984-3544

Tips for a Water damage Claim  

7/22/2021 (Permalink)

It sounds easy to do , but staying calm during the claim process can make a huge difference. By keeping your emotions in check, you will be able to better communicate and describe the damage to your insurance agent, hear what they are saying with clarity and also not miss any important information they are trying to share with you. We recommend that you keep a list of phone numbers on your fridge (ex. SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario  your Insurance Agent, and the local Fire Department) just in case of an emergency. Remember, it’s always best to be prepared.

Take some pictures of your home sometimes insurances want to see what your home looked like before the water damage.

 Taking photos of any water damage or standing water is ALWAYS a good idea. It allows the insurance company to see firsthand the extent of the damage, as well as help protect you should a question arise. These days most people carry their smart phone on them at all times, so having access to a camera is no problem!

Dealing with a water loss claim can feel overwhelming at times. If you ever have a question about what is going on, be sure to ask. Our office staff is here to explain and answer any question you may have. 

We are here to help you navigate through your water damage claim.

SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario (909) 984-3544  

Do You Know Where to shut off the Water in your Home?

7/22/2021 (Permalink)

Shut Off Valve

Home Tip: Know where the water shut off valves are on your toilets, sinks, appliances, and the main house shut off so you can limit the amount of damage if there is a leak.

Extra Tip: Add a shut off tag to the main house water shut off so anyone can quickly find it and make sure to teach all members of your family how to use it.

Time is of the essence when dealing with water damage, quickly stop the water flow and then call us right away. Water damage can't wait until the morning, that's why we are on call 24/7 When mitigation begins immediately it reduces the risk of mold growth and any further damage.

While you wait for us to arrive begin to remove excess standing water if you can do so safely.

SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario (909)984-3544

Can we Save Antique Furniture?

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

In the event ofwater damage to your home, it is natural to worry about your beloved antique sofa. After all, you cannot just go to the nearest furniture store and buy another. Do not despair – SERVPRO of North west Ontario technicians can use various techniques to save your favorite seat from floodwaters.

Floodwater can cause several problems:

• Wood frames can swell and even crack as they absorb water – sofas may be especially vulnerable to this, because of the way their frames join together
• Delicate upholstery can bleed color or become blotchy
• Mold can grow on the wooden surfaces, or inside cushions and seats

It is essential to deal with flood damage immediately. If you leave it, there is more opportunity for mold to grow in and on your sofa, water stains can settle in more deeply, and cracking and swelling can worsen.

Our technicians know that antique wood can warp under the strain of floodwater – and they also understand that rapid drying is dangerous. If we dry your couch too quickly, it could be at greater risk of damage, we take care of your antiques while we are drying your home to leave it "Like it never even happened."

Is Your Property in a Flood Zone?

7/15/2021 (Permalink)

Home Insurance providers use flood maps to decide if your property is in a heavy flood zone area.

• Zone A: High flood risk
• Zone B: Moderate flood risk
• Zone C: Minimal flood risk
• Zone D: Undetermined flood risk
• Zone V: High risk flood zones specific to coastal locations

Flood maps identify the parts of the country that are most vulnerable to rising water based on available data, and they are updated regularly. In addition to highlighting the boundaries of these zones, many maps also indicate major floodways.
To view flood maps free of cost, visit the FEMA Flood Map Service Center. You can use the service to create, save and print a hard copy of your local area’s flood map. The map itself may seem intimidating at first glance, but the website provides a helpful glossary to assist you in deciphering unfamiliar language. The center also provides other flood-fighting resources to help you understand your local risk in greater depth.

Educational Facilities

7/15/2021 (Permalink)

Disasters at school facilities are highly complex and require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a small school campus or an institute of higher education, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area so that normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility. Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budget.

We are ready to help you  (909) 984-3544

K-12 Schools

Colleges & Universities

Libraries

SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario —is a family owned franchise and we’re a part of this community too. We are also part of a national network of over 1,700 Franchises, which enables us to respond quicker with more resources. For major storms and disasters, we can call upon special Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located throughout the country.

Water Heaters

7/15/2021 (Permalink)

Water Heater

The smallest leak in water heater can result in a huge amount of damage not only in your garage but inside your home too. Our specialists at SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario will come and asses your property to see how much damaged has been made to your home, the water will be shut off until a plumber checks the water heater and fixes it or replaces it.

This particular project was a surprise for the new tenant. We were called to assess the problem and address the drying of the structure. What we found when we arrived certainly meant that some work was getting done that day. We also performed some demo and cleanup.

We are ready to help you get your home back to normal "Like it never even happened."

Burst Pipes

7/15/2021 (Permalink)

Taking the right steps when you discover bursting pipes in your business can limit the expense and effort necessary to restore your property. This is particularly important when you're facing days or weeks of your Ontario business being closed. You may already be familiar with the very first steps to take:

• Shut off water to the flooded area.
• Turn off the electricity.
• Provide plenty of ventilation.

These steps are critical to preventing damage but you should also

1. Locate the Broken Pipe

There may be water still draining from the pipes, but more importantly, you need to know where to fix broken pipe elements..
Remove Items from the Flooded Area, if it's safe to walk into the flooded room, carry out furnishings, equipment, and other valuable items. You may possibly prevent papers, inventory, and belongings from getting damaged.

2. Record Damages

Carefully make a record of the damage. Use photographs and write down values of damaged items to be sure your insurance claim is accurate.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

There's a good chance that the damage will be covered by the business' insurance policy. 

SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario (909) 984-3544

Boardup

7/8/2021 (Permalink)

Boarding up your property when you experience a fire , vandalism or any weather related misfortune
, is devastating enough without the potential threat of added problems like looting. Therefore, it’s highly important that you request help from professionals who can ensure that your building stays protected while you’re away. Board-up services are designed to safeguard your property and belongings from other forces at work, whether human or environmental, and there are many benefits to acquiring these services for your commercial property.

They help prevent vandals or thieves from entering your building. Unfortunately, there are many people who try to profit off of a disaster, and seeing an easy opening into a building through broken windows or doors is simply an invitation for these individuals. Boarding up any entrances to the property while you’re gone can keep looters at bay until you have time to get repairs completed.

 They guard against other environmental factors. If any open areas of your building are hit by a rainstorm or intense winds, you’ll be forced to contend with more than just fire damage. Filling in these areas with protective plywood helps to eliminate any chance of flooding, leaks or other mishaps that can end up saving you money for added cleanup.

SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario (909)984-3544

Different Types of Flooding

7/8/2021 (Permalink)

Among the first considerations that must be made when our technicians arrive at the damaged address is the type of flooding that affects the house. Many loss situations might appear the same, but they require different extraction and mitigation approaches to resolve because of their origin. Understanding the emergency is part of the job scoping process where our technicians assess the damage and determine the ideal procedures to restore and recover your house. The objective in these situations is efficiency, so we seek to find the appropriate blend of tools, technology, demolition, and repair. Some of the common types of flood damage that we encounter include:

• Roof Breaches – Damage to the roof of your home can happen quickly during a severe storm event. High winds and torrential rainfall can test the limitations of shingles, joists, and underlayment materials. Penetration can worsen quickly once vulnerabilities exist. 
• Basement Flooding – Groundwater or natural flooding can often target the lowest levels of your property, as water assumes the paths of least resistance. Without adequate diversion equipment installed or cleared floor drains, flooding in the basement can become a considerable obstacle for restoration technicians. 
• Natural Flooding/Flash Flooding – Flash flooding scenarios are the most unpredictable, as these events can force water into the house and spread quickly through this main level of the property. These situations also come with debris, silt, mud, and other potential contaminants to address.

Content Cleaning After a Fire in your Business

7/8/2021 (Permalink)

You cannot predict when a fire may occur in your Ontario property, as there are hundreds of potential sources and catalysts to this disaster, making it a devastating occurrence for your Ontario business. Our restoration technicians have extensive experience and training in mitigation and recovery to provide immediate aid upon arrival to limit loss for commercial customers.

Cleaning contents

One of the most troubling aspects that require fire restoration in Ontario businesses is the threat to the building's contents and wares. From unique storefronts that line the commercial districts to some of the larger warehouses and manufacturing facilities, protecting inventory and items is critical. While there are options for cleaning or relocation on-site, we also offer pack-out procedures that relocate these items to our nearby SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario facility. There, these wares can receive:

• Extensive cleaning
• Ozone
• Deodorization
• Safe storage

Protecting your structure and its contents is the priority of our responding fire restoration technicians. You can rely on the experience of our SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario team and call us today at (909) 984-3544

Does Soot Go Away?

7/8/2021 (Permalink)

Calling a professional company such as SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario is the best decision you can make. Rather than figure out what the correct order of steps is to restore your home to its pre-fire condition, let our expert team compile an action plan that addresses each specific area of your home. Starting from eliminating water and extinguishing agents to repairing drywall, our team can lead the process with state-of-the-art techniques and equipment. Restoration is not about working hard on your home, but about taking smart steps to make the process seamless and practical.

How does SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario eliminate the odor in my home?

Areas in your home not touched by the fire may smell of smoke for no apparent reason. Our SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario technicians apply their knowledge of combustion theory and follow the smoke path through your ventilation system. Understanding both the path and the nature of each charred material allows us to pick the optimal cleaning solution for your home. Mitigating your loss by protecting your belongings from some cleaners' abrasive consequences is essential to our team.

Dry sponge - ideal for soot removal, it allows us to loosen dirt and debris for easier cleanup.

Thermal fogging- permeates your home with deodorizing solutions, allowing the spray to settle on all surfaces

Cal SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario  (909) 984-3544 and let us leave your home, "Like it never even happened." 

Steps to Clean After a Fire Damage

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

When you work with a residential fire cleanup crew, some of your smoke-damaged belongings may get saved. Content cleaning is a delicate art that can take the following shapes.

1. Dry-Cleaning: Clothes, furniture and other porous items often have to be cleaned with a dry-cleaning method. This helps remove the smoke and soot that built up during the fire. If you try to wash your clothes on a normal cycle, you may end up causing more damage. The soot has to be removed from the textiles before you can return to a typical cleaning method.

2. Wet cleaning is an effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues. For items that can’t withstand wet cleaning we can spray and wipe. 

3. Foam cleaning can be used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned.

4. Abrasive cleaning involves agitation of the surface being cleaned.

5. Odor Removal: Smoke isn't the only thing that can cling to your possessions. The odor after a fire can be a long-term reminder of what you went through. After cleaning methods have been put in place, you may want to do some sort of odor removal too. Professionals often use thermal fogging or ozone/hydroxyl treatments to rid your home of the funky smell.

After a fire, you want to get everything back to normal as soon as possible. This means you need to clean your belongings. If the cleaning process takes longer than expected, you can also use content storage to get your dirty, smelly items out of the house until they're clean.

We can help you call SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario (909)984-3544

Cleaning After a Flood

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

The effect of flood damage does not always present itself immediately. Damages can surface after a storm due to the quality of the flood water.

Slower moving floods create fewer risks to those outside at the time of the flood. For instance, flash floods are catastrophically powerful enough to sweep cars away. Both types of floods can create bio-hazard risks in a home. If a home has been flooded, it must be cleaned to a sanitary state before anyone lives there again. 

SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario cleaning and restoration services targets biological presences, microbial organisms, chemical compounds . 100% of flood damages typically do not present immediately which includes electrical wiring in addition to waterlogged outlets. 

Gutting a home should take priority while restoring a residence to suitable living conditions. Furniture can be cleaned to acceptable levels unless they have been submerged for an extended period of time. This is detrimental when handling compressed wood products. Solid wood furniture is not as easily damaged; however, it is more likely to crack in places where two pieces of wood were fastened together. Fabric that covers upholstery can harbor pathogens such as mold and bacteria. 

Flooded Toilets

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

Toilets are simple mechanical devices that rely on water pressure and gravity for the bulk of their operational energy. What does that mean for you? It means there are only a few reasons why they would flood, including the following:

• There’s a problem with running water that won’t stop, overwhelming the toilet’s ability to clear it in time.

• The flooded toilet has a clog in the bowl or trap, preventing water from cycling out.

• There’s a clog causing sewer damage further down the line, past the point where you can see its location.

Typically, if there’s running water but no clog, the toilet will automatically flush or run, and there won’t be a lot of risk for contamination. When there’s a clog in the line, though, the toilet might overflow if there are multiple flushes or a running water problem. The most serious issue is a clog in the drain line itself, which could lead to a backup. This is often the most difficult cleanup.

Calling in the Professionals at SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario (909) 984-3544

whenever a flooded toilet backs up far enough to cause water damage, it’s also creating a contamination risk that needs to be cleaned properly. That’s why you should have a plan for calling in cleanup experts in Ontario, whenever your company is dealing with any kind of sewer backup. It will keep your employees safe, minimize damage to your facilities, and ensure that cleanup causes to least disruption possible.

Biohazard Cleanup

5/6/2021 (Permalink)

Caution Biohazard

SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario  offers fast, reliable bio-hazard 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.

Blood borne Pathogens

        Methamphetamine Labs

        Crime Scene Residues

         Arson

         Vandalism

Equipped with the necessary safety equipment and cleaning products, SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario will help you turn unsafe environments into clean.

SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario is trained to safely and effectively remove bio-hazardous substances and prepare waste for proper disposal according to OSHA, EPA, and state and local health regulations.

Call SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario at          (909) 984-3544

Getting Ready for Summer

5/6/2021 (Permalink)

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

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

Ready to Help 24/7

5/5/2021 (Permalink)

We know that every minute your commercial business is disrupted due to a fire or water damage emergency represents lost business and reduced productivity.

SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario is ready to help.

Water can cause lots of damage in a short amount of time. Here is what water can do in the first 24 hrs of exposure.

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

Give as a call (909) 984-3544

Be Prepare for Power Outage due to storms

5/5/2021 (Permalink)

Managing Without Electricity

A power outage can:

• Disrupt communication
• Make transportation difficult
• Shut down water pipes
• Close businesses, grocery stores, gas stations, banks, ATM, other services
• Disable medical devices

During a power outage be sure to:

• Keep freezer & refrigerator doors closed. It will reduce the chance of food spoilage
• User generators only outdoors and away from windows
• Disconnect appliances/electronics. Power surges can destroy equipment
• Have already set up plan to refrigerate medicines
• For people who use power wheelchairs, have a backup battery.  You may also need a manual chair
• The local power company should already know that someone in your home relies on medical devices
• If travel is safe, go to another location for proper heating or cooling
• Check on your neighbors they may need assistance specially if they are older.

We Care!

5/5/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO, our number one priority is to make our customers happy.

When you need a leading company of residential and commercial property damage restoration services, you need and want the best. Why SERVPRO®? We’re deeply invested in you, your family, your business, and our community. And that’s exactly Why you should trust  SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario .

SERVPRO® of Northwest Ontario is continually investing and reinvesting our resources so we can better serve our customers, to fulfill our vision of becoming the premier cleaning and restoration company, which affords us the opportunity to be there for you, for your family, for your business, for our community in your time of need. We are constantly making strategic decisions and moves for our continued success, future growth.

Give us a call for your next restoration job

(909) 984-3544.

At SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario you are our priority.

5/5/2021 (Permalink)

You are our Priority.

While SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario teams are dedicated to all aspects of the restoration process, it is occasionally necessary to bring on other vendors to perform specific tasks. For this reason our management team has built strong relationships with other operators we trust to perform such tasks.

Though our staff may not always be on site during services being performed, we verify that the correct steps are taken. Our long-standing relationships with others in the industry ensure your home or business is in good hands. 

When unexpected disaster strikes, the process can already be complicated. By choosing SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario you eliminate many headaches and ensure that a quality restoration team with clear communication takes care of you. 

Call us (909)984-3544

Have your Business Ready.

5/5/2021 (Permalink)

The first component of this plan involves the safety of employees. Has contact information been updated and an evacuation route tested? Confirming employee information will prevent unnecessary stress in such an event. In addition, testing the evacuation plan before a disaster ensures all on the team clearly understand the measures that will be taken and where to go.

A successful commercial emergency plan also involves identifying vital components of the workflow. Which departments need to be up and running as quickly as possible to resume business operations?

When a disaster strikes, it is essential to know what you will do. Having an effective commercial disaster plan will ensure your business and those employed will be prepared should such an event occur. After the disaster, the team at SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario will be ready to help you in making it "Like it never even happened." 

Using Thermal Imaging

5/4/2021 (Permalink)

Thermal Imaging Camera

By using thermal imaging we can see what is going on beneath the surface. 

Thermal imaging can show us a few things: 

-can see the overview of the problem 

-see the heat loss easily 

-quick access to moisture intrusion 

These types of problems can sometimes be overlooked, when using the thermal imaging we are able to really refine these problems and locate the affected areas. 

Our thermal imaging also aims to instantly identify the issue, this saves time and money for you.

To the naked eye a wall doesn't seem to have water damage, with thermal imaging one can see if there are areas of excess moisture. This excess moisture can be seen clearly through thermal imaging as an absence of heat. This is a problem because water damage can lead to the growth of mold/mildew spores or bacteria.

We can help you give us a call (909) 984-3544

Types of Water Damage

5/4/2021 (Permalink)

1. Category 1, water that does not seem to threaten life such as humans or pets is deemed a category 1 or, "clean water". This can be something like an overflow of a sink or tub, or a faucet failure.  

Our experts can clean swiftly and effortlessly. This type of water needs a good drying with our fans and de-humidifier. This type of water is the simplest water because there are not contaminates in it.

2. Category 2, has some type of containment to it, like an in between of category 1 and 3. This could be physical, biological or chemical of origin that can cause sickness or discomfort if consumed by a life source. This could be from a toilet, or water from a washing machine/ dishwasher.  

This type of category takes a little bit longer to clean as there is more of a sanitizing and disinfecting that needs to be done. There might be a need for demolition if there are surfaces that are damaged and cannot be washed or cleaned effectively. Soft goods can be washed or discarded. 

3. Category 3 means that the water is grossly contaminated and is extremely unsanitary. This can be sewage water, a toilet trap, even category 2 still-water can turn into category 3 water. This can also be considered "black water." 

Affected dry wall and flooring besides concrete. Dry wall and other porous substances need to be removed.

Ideas for Candle Alternatives

5/4/2021 (Permalink)

Fairy lights

1. Fairy Lights 

Because they are usually battery-run, these are great alternative to candles especially if you're just using a candle for mood setting.

If you like candles for the warm scent they bring, wax warmers are a great alternative. Bringing in new aromas in a more controlled setting; they also  use electricity and have no open flame.  

3. Essential Oil Diffuser 

Essential oils create added scent to a room, with some good health benefits. There are many different diffusers to choose from, so you can easily find one that matches your home. Beware of oil diffusers if you have pets, as some cannot handle essential oils nor diffusers creating adverse effects to certain pets. 

4. Stick Diffuser 

These are both easy and care-free; these simply add scent from the scented oil the sticks reside in.

5. Battery-Powered Candles 

The easiest change from open-flame candles to safer alternatives is to a battery-powered candle. 

Should You Use Bleach to Kill Mold?

5/4/2021 (Permalink)

The EPA does not recommend you use bleach for killing and removing mold. Bleach is a chemical, and it is better to use natural mold killing products instead. Some good alternative mold killing products are borax and vinegar. Bleach also loses its power with time. Even if bleach is not opened, in 90 days it loses 50% of its killing effectiveness.

Another disadvantage is that bleach is corrosive. Bleach deteriorates materials and the fibers of porous substances. The gas from bleach can even damage your lungs. If bleach touches your skin it can also give you chemical burns.

There is also concern about whether bleach leaves dioxins. Dioxins are highly toxic and carcinogenic substances.

Bleach can create dioxins in processes like bleaching of wood pulp. Fortunately though, studies have found that bleach cannot form dioxins when it's just used for household cleaning. The materials which are needed for bleach to form dioxins are not usually present when cleaning the home.

DIY Drain Cleaners

5/4/2021 (Permalink)

What are some alternatives to store bought cleaners? 

• Vinegar and Baking Soda - The vinegar is an acidic chemical, and baking soda is a natural cleansing product. Mix these two ingredients over the clogged drain. The mixture will fizz. Let the mixture sit overnight. In the morning, flush the drain with hot water.
• Hot Water and Dish Soap - Boil some hot water and mix in a few tablespoons of dish soap. Then slowly pour the mixture down the drain. The hot water will help to liquefy the clog, and the soap will help it to slide down the drain.  

Whether your home or business has a clogged drain or a major sewage problem and happened to cause water damage, SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario professionals are Faster to Any Size Disaster and are trained to remediate water damage. They are experienced in sewage cleaning methods that restore a building to excellent condition again.

Paint Bubbles on Your Paint?

4/5/2021 (Permalink)

Mold under a paint bubble.

A hidden leak making itself known is a situation no Ontario property owner wants to get presented with. However, the appearance of one or more paint bubbles can point to a plumbing issue in particular if the bubble continues to grow in size or other bubbles appear in the vicinity. Moisture is collecting within the paint and causing it to lose adherence to the surface. Before opening the wall or ceiling, SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario techs use their detection equipment to "see" behind the sheetrock and look for other signs of water damage such as:

• Musty odors
• Visible mold growth on walls
• Staining
• Peeling wallpaper

  Our goal is to provide fast and quality restoration services for any water damage situation that might exist within your property. You can trust SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario technicians to utilize the full measure of their training and industry-leading equipment to resolve your water damage fast. Give us a call today at (909)984-3544

Smoke and Soot Smell Removal

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

Cleaning soot after fire damage.

REMOVE THE SOURCE

The first and most important step in smoke odor removal is to remove the source of the odor(s). This involves removing burnt items, such as cabinets, furniture, drywall, and non-salvageable contents. The items can be either discarded or restored, depending on their condition.

AIR SCRUBBING.

SERVPRO of Northwest Onatrio will use a high-efficiency  (HEPA) air scrubber which can remove 99.97% of particulates from the air. Removing these airborne particulates removes additional source materials for odors.

OZONE GENERATION. This is one of the most popular and familiar processes for removing airborne smoke odor molecules, including hard-to-neutralize protein smoke. Ozone is a powerful oxidizer that neutralizes odorous molecules by releasing additional oxygen into the air. Customers should not be present when an ozone generator is in operation Ozone works best in a controlled environment, such as an ozone chamber.

CLEANING

All salvageable items should be clean with approved products. Interior walls and hard surfaces should be cleaned. SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario will also clean inside cabinets, drawers, and closets, and wash household items, too.

Air ducts should be cleaned by professionals to preventing the HVAC system from re-contaminating areas that have been cleaned.

Protecting our homes for all kinds of weather

7/16/2020 (Permalink)

Rain Storm

Ontario, California’s wild weather swings, from pounding rain to drought and from fires to floods.

We need to prepare our homes or businesses for all kinds of weather.

Water Damage

Of course, water damage isn’t limited to rain. Leaking pipes and valves inside your home can cause problems just as severe as rainwater intrusion, but your home’s protection begins with its exterior. Ensure that your roof, exterior walls, gutters and landscape are working as they should to keep your home high and dry.

Wildfires

Keep lawns and native grasses mowed to a height of four inches. Remove ladder fuels (vegetation under trees) so a surface fire cannot reach the crowns. Prune trees up to six to ten feet from the ground; for shorter trees do not exceed 1/3 of the overall tree height.

Remove dead vegetation and other items from under your deck or porch, and within 10 feet of the house.

SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario is open 24/7 and ready to help (909) 984-3544

Signs that you have a water damage problem in Ontario Home

7/8/2020 (Permalink)

Signs of water damage in your cabinet

Standing water – This may sound pretty obvious, but if you notice water pooling in your house you have a water problem that needs to be taken care of immediately.

Bad smells – While water doesn’t normally have much of a smell, the mold and bacteria that grow in damp environments can give off a distinct musty, wet odor. If you smell mold or mildew there is a possibility that you have a water issue.

Stains and spots – Stains on the ceilings or walls can be a sign of water damage. You might have a leaky pipe or roof. Call a professional to determine the cause of the problem and to clean up the damage before it becomes a serious mold problem.

Peeling paint – Paint damaged by water will start to peel, bubble, or flake off.

Uneven surfaces – Water damage can cause floors, ceilings, walls, and other surfaces to warp and feel uneven.

Cracks – Water is always seeking the path of least resistance out of your home. Water can enter through cracks and once water finds its way in, the crack will expand allowing even more to get into your home. Make sure you seal all visible cracks on your property.

If you notice your home has water damage call the experts at SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario we are always here to help! (909) 984-3544

Commercial Cleaning

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial Cleaning

You don’t have time to worry about the common wear and tear that gradually soils your office. When grime, odor and moisture challenges go beyond the scope of your regular janitorial staff, call in  SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario, Whether it’s removing an odor problem or deep cleaning flooring or carpets, you can rely on SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario Professionals to make your workspace look its very best.
Your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professional will get the job done right and get it done quickly, because the SERVPRO® Advantage includes these benefits:

Award-Winning Training

Exclusive Cleaning Products

Nearly 50 years of Experience

SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario is locally owned and operated —so we’re a part of this community too. We are also part of a national network of over 1,700 Franchises, which enables us to respond quicker with more resources. For major storms and disasters, we can call upon special Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located throughout the country.

SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario. Call us with your mitigation concerns at (909) 984-3544

5 Ways to Prepare your Commercial Property for Winter

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

Before and After Cleaning

1. Inspect Your Roof

Winter storms can wreak havoc on shingles and roof tiles. Roof damage gives water easy access to your building’s interior and can lead to property damage and mold.

2. Clean Your Gutters

While you’re up there, eliminate any leaves, sticks, or other debris that may have gathered in your gutters. If left unattended, gutter clogs can lead to water accumulation and necessitate the help of a storm damage restoration company.

3. Inspect the Rest of Your Property, Too

Depending on where your commercial property is located, a winter storm can encompass a variety of extreme weather events — everything from snow and hail to high winds. As the temperature drops, survey your building and surrounding premises to look for existing issues that may appear small now but may be exacerbated by severe and unusual weather.

4. Check Window and Door Seals

Even if winter in your neck of the woods is mild, it’s imperative to eliminate any gaps around your windows and doors. Drafts often mean more dollars spent on utilities. Break out the caulking gun or bucket of sealant and keep your energy costs as low as possible when the temperature dips.

5. Inspect your HVAC System

The lower the thermometer reading, the more you’ll need to rely on your HVAC unit. To avoid storm damage to your energy bill, look for blockages and cracks, listen for strange noises, and clean your filters and condensation drain traps before winter sets in.

Even if your Ontario commercial property is in for mild weather this winter, it’s imperative to prepare for winter storm damage. By taking just a few precautions, you can prevent interruption to your daily routine.

Have you Flushed Your Water Heater?

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

Flushing Water Heater

How Should a Heater Be Flushed?

Performing a flush can help you identify problem areas. Before you start, establish a safety zone in the heater room. Then perform the following steps:

• To avoid electric shock, make sure floors and all other room surfaces are dry, and turn off your main water valve.
• Next, turn off the electric power circuit breaker or turn off the gas, depending on your heater's energy source.
• Wait several hours for the tank water to cool off.
• Attach a garden hose to your water heater drain, place the other end on your driveway, and open the tank drain so water can flow outside.
• Repeat until the unit is empty, then detach the hose, close the drain valve, turn on the main water supply, and safely restore the power.

When Are Flushes Recommended?

Although your heater may be working, these appliances lose effectiveness over time as water sediment builds up, so yearly flushing helps maintain the units in optimal condition.

What Are Some Early Warning Signs?

One of the first signs can be strange noises coming from the tank. Water may take longer to heat or leaks may begin to appear under the heater. Water discoloration or unpleasant odors can also signal problems.

What if There Is a Problem?

If you experience problems or feel you cannot safely perform a flush, you may want to call for professional assistance. Some issues may need to be identified and resolved by an expert technician. You can receive the help you need and best solutions can also be evaluated.

Preventative yearly maintenance can maximize the life of your water.

Maintaining Your Property

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

Leaky Pipes?

When a water pipe burst and floods your home or your air conditioner is leaking onto your wood floor, will your insurance company cover the damages? This depends, in part, on your insurance policy. The biggest factor is usually the type of damages:

• Sudden and Unforeseen Damages are usually covered by homeowners' policies
• Gradual Damages due to issues such as leaky pipes or a lack of maintenance may not be covered
• Wear and Tear is nearly always up to the homeowner with very few exceptions

If you believe that your claim should be covered by your policy, you should call your insurance.

Make sure to maintain your property

Most of the time, insurance companies expect homeowners to regularly maintain the plumbing systems in their homes. This means taking steps to prevent the pipes from freezing, keeping the pipes free of clogs, and generally responding to any cracks, splits, and leaks. When homeowners don’t respond to leaks, rust, or deterioration, the insurance company is likely to hold the homeowner responsible.

Make a Claim Even If You Aren’t Sure It’s Covered

However, while the damages from a slow leak may not be covered, when leaky pipes become broken pipes and flood your home, the resulting damages fall under your insurance coverage. This type of coverage may be found in the all-perils section of your policy. This shouldn’t be seen as an excuse to avoid routine maintenance; if there’s evidence that neglect is the cause of the leak and/or break, the insurance provider may deny your claim.

Find Out Which Services Are Covered

When your claim is approved, damages to carpeting, floors, and drywall are generally covered. You may also get coverage for the services provided by water damage cleanup and restoration professionals. In some situations, mold prevention services are also covered.

Give Us a Call (909) 984-3544

Can we Save Wood Floors?

7/3/2020 (Permalink)

Ready to the Rescue

One of our popular questions is, can you save our hardwood floors? In the Ontario, California area, we have a lot of older homes with original floors, naturally they want to save them. Another reason is, it trouble-some and expensive to replace all the floors. Will the new floors match the old? I the answer isn't always simple either. We do have a hardwood floor drying system and we will do our very best to save those beautiful floors. But, we have to be honest, there are some times when the damage has gone too far and they need pulled. The best way to avoid pulling them is to act fast! Call us immediately. We will be there fast to get water extracted and equipment in place. Let’s save those floors. Give SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario (909) 984-3544 a call as soon as you suspect water damage on your wood floors.

Preparing Your Home for Raining Season

7/3/2020 (Permalink)

Fixing Window Seal

When the rain starts your home is supposed to keep yourself and your belongings dry. However, some moisture can get in if your home has not been maintained or checked for broken seals.

What to do if you are experiencing moisture in your home:

• Re-caulk windows seals
• Re-caulk door seals
• Consider adding overhangs to doors and windows
• Check for missing or broken shingles on the roof

Doing or considering adding fixtures to your home will keep the moisture out, and it may even add beauty and equity to your home.

At SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario, we take pride in our fast and effective response team, dedicated to getting you back up and running as soon as possible. Contact us at (909) 984-3544  for rapid response and service!

Preserving Documents After Water Damage

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding in commercial buildings in Onatrio CA, can be costly and time consuming, and oftentimes the damage goes beyond just the floor. In a business, wet documents can be a huge problem. Even though so much is done digitally, companies still house many important papers. Here are some tips that may help in saving them.
Air Drying
This method of document drying is best for papers that are not severely damaged. You should first take a paper towel and remove excess moisture by gently pressing it down on the paper. Once you've carefully gotten as much liquid from it as possible, you can hang it up to air dry. This can be done with either a dehumidifier or a fan. You want to take care not to point the fan directly at the wet documents as this can cause them to fall apart.
Freeze Drying
You may want to consider freeze drying papers or books that are in bad condition due to the flooding or that have not dried after being hung up for two days. You can still begin by using the paper towel to take away some of the water. You will then put wax paper between all pages and put them in a zip lock bag before putting the items in the freezer. It is usually best to do this at the lowest temperature setting. After two weeks, you can take them out and air dry them.
If you are at all uncomfortable trying to salvage your wet documents yourself, you can call a water restoration professional in Ontario CA, to dry them for you. You should also consider hiring someone to help if the documents have been exposed to contaminated water as this may take a special type of clean up. No matter what method you decide to go with, you should take extra care when handling these papers as they can rip extremely easily.

Steps To Take After Water Damage on Your Commercial Property

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

Water Damage

A flooded company is not on anyone's wish list, but occasionally it happens. When your commercial property in Ontario CA, takes on water damage from a broken pipe or some other type of water loss, it is important to know the next steps to take. Adhere to the following guidelines to keep yourself, your employees and your property as safe as possible.

1. Call the Experts.

The first thing you should do when you have extensive water damage is to call a water restoration company. They are trained to assess the damage and implement the right solution. They can also test the water for contamination. Once the water has been tested, the technicians can construct a plan for dealing with the damage and restoring your property.

2. Wear the Proper Gear.

It is unwise to enter standing water without protection, even if you think its source is clean. Until it's tested, you don't know if the water contains sewage, so it's important not to enter the water without wearing the proper gear:

• Rubber boots
• Water-repellent coveralls
• Waterproof gloves
• Face mask
• Goggles

Only after you have donned the appropriate protection should you retrieve items from the flooded area for restoration.

3. Discard and Disinfect.

With the help of the professionals, you can divide items into those that need to be disposed of and those that can be saved. Your important documents may need to undergo gamma irradiation to kill microbes from the water. Your fabrics may need dry cleaning. Salvageable electronics must be dried thoroughly before being used again. The process of retrieving and assessing each item may be arduous but it is the only way to make sure you save all that you can.

SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario is a Certified water restoration specialist and have the training necessary to remediate water damage and restore your flooded company to its previous state. Through a series of assessments, extraction, and cleaning, you may be able to salvage many items.

Safety Tips in the Aftermath of a flood

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

Driving on Flooded Streets

If a flood has struck your area , it’s best to avoid driving altogether and stay somewhere dry. However, if you have travel obligations that require you to be out on the roads, it’s crucial to be smart about your traveling habits and to steer clear of a flooded street or any other inundated area. Here are some helpful tips for traveling safely in the aftermath of a flood.
Move Away From Low-Lying Areas
Generally speaking, low-lying areas are significantly more vulnerable to flooding than higher ground. This is because water typically flows from higher ground to lower ground, causing low-lying areas to be the most severely affected. If you’re stuck in a low area during a flood, be sure to do the following:
? Move to higher ground immediately
? Stay in place while waiting for help to arrive
? Contact emergency services

While it’s ideal to stick to higher ground when traveling, you may inevitably find yourself in a situation where you’re trapped in a low-lying area. Make sure to use common sense and call for help as soon as possible.
Don’t Drive in Floodwater
If you have to drive in an area that has been targeted by a flood, be sure to avoid driving directly down a flooded street. Even if the water in front of you doesn’t seem particularly deep, floodwater is often deeper than it appears. Your car may leave you stranded in as little as six inches of water, so always turn around if you have doubts about your ability to navigate flooded roads.

Water Damage in Wood Floors

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

Water Damage Wood Flooring

When wood floor becomes wet in a water damage It will swell and buckle. Wood floors could rarely be matched. Therefore if several pieces are damaged and there is not enough extra pieces to replace them it will need to be replaced everywhere the wood floor flows. In the photo it shows a job we completed recently in Ontario CA, that is a good example of this damage.
With any water clean-up, it is better for a professional company that is IICRC certified to take care of the water damage properly in order to prevent any further damage. SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario is always here to help, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We work directly with your insurance to get the job done.
Water damage to your home is a devastating experience, and we are ready to help.
Give us a call today (909) 984-3544

Washing Machine Overflow on Second Floor

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage on a second floor

As a homeowner being vigilant is key when minimizing damage to your home. This customer noticed that there was water coming down into their family room on the first floor. The cause, a washing machine machine overflow causing damage to a Family Room ceiling and walls. This pictures shows the minimal demolition that was required in order to properly dry the walls and the sub-floor from the second level.

5 Must-Dos to Prevent an Overflowing Washing Machine

1. Regularly Clean Standpipe and Drains. 
2. Don't overfill the washing machine. 
3. Install Standpipe at the Appropriate Height. ...
4. Use the Right Detergent. ...
5. Register the Machine with Its Manufacturer. ...
6. Turn off the power. ...
7. Check the Water Pressure. ...
8. Ensure the Drain Hose Is Fully Functional.

 No job is too big or too small for SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario . When called into this job we moved quickly and aimed to get our customer back to the standard of living that they were accustomed to.

Commercial Water Damage?

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

Office Water Damage

When your commercial building floods, your first concern is finding a professional team in Ontario , CA, that can help you remedy the situation. You might not be thinking about finding a certified team. Instead, you simply want a team that can get the job done quickly. You know you have to act quickly, but it may still be beneficial for you to find a certified remediation team for your water cleanup.

1. Knowledgeable: Anyone who is certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification has to pass a rigorous set of exams. This means you can trust your professional to know how to handle even the most complex flooding situation. Your team's certification may make them better suited to handle content cleaning, mold removal, and other secondary tasks related to cleaning up after a broken pipe.
2. Ethical: The certification also ensures your team adheres to a certain code of ethics. This code may ensure no corners are cut when doing a water cleanup. If a team cuts corners, your restoration may not be as complete as you thought it was.
3. Insured: Before a company can receive the certification from the IICRC, the businesses must prove that it is fully and properly insured. Working with an insured business benefits you because it relieves some of the financial risks of having workers in your building. Flooding can weaken structures or cause mold growth, but an insured business takes the responsibility for these risks.
4. Licensed: Some restoration businesses follow storms across the country. These companies may not have local or state licenses, which means they don't know the local codes. A certified business, however, must meet all license requirements.

When you need to start the water cleanup process in your commercial building, you want to know that the team you call can get the job done correctly the first time around. If you choose to hire a certified company, you can trust that the experts know what they're doing.
At SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario we are always prepared for big messes like these. Have a commercial problem that needs solving? Call us (909) 984-3544

Disinfecting Your Work Place

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

Disinfecting Surface Areas

As we begin to reopen the country, we all have a feeling of uncertainty going into places we used to feel safe at. The grocery store, a restaurant, your own cubicle are all spaces that we used to frequent. At SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario we are offering our disinfectant services to ease employee and customers' minds about entering places of business. Within the city we have a responsibility to take care of our fellow neighbors.
Practicing preventative cleaning for reopening is imperative. When SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario comes into your space we are able to disinfect your space with EPA approved products. With the volume of calls coming in, we want to make sure you have the proper service. Because of this, we are scheduling several weeks in advance, as we understand these are unforeseen times. We plan to lead you through every step of the way.
As important it is to do preventive disinfecting SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario also provides services for spaces that have confirmed cases of COVID-19
We are providing disinfecting services for COVID-19
Our Disinfectant services include:
? Ultra Low Volume (ULV) misting or electrostatic spray of certain affected areas with EPA approved hospital grade disinfectant. This mist will eradicate any aerosolized particles allowing for a safer entry of decontamination personnel.
? Electrostatic spray application of EPA Approved Hospital Grade disinfectant. Positively charged ions are produced within the chemical which adhere to surfaces in the affected area. This ensures total coverage of the affected area.
? Surface wiping of critical contact areas. Fixtures, keyboards, phones, door handles, certain contents within the affected area are hand wiped. A 5-10 minute dwell time should be allowed post wipe down. Walls up to a height of approximately 5’ throughout traffic areas.

Types of Content Cleaning After a Fire

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

Content Cleaning

After a fire at your Ontraio, CA, residence you may choose to contact a fire damage restorationservice for help with cleanup and repairs. These professionals can also help with content storage while the home is being restored. Part of this process includes the repair of personal items, including those that may need dry-cleaning. Here are five types of items they may be able to help with.

1. Cloth Items

Cloth items such as clothing, rugs, curtains, and pillows can all be washed with special cleaners in order to get rid of smoke and soot damage. Fire damaged items you may want to replace depending on severity.

2. Furniture

Furniture, or items that can’t be easily moved such as cabinetry, may require a wipe down form of content cleaning. This usually involves using a rag or scrub brush to rinse the surface with a special cleaner.

3. Electronic Items

In many cases, a professional may be able to salvage your electronic items. If an electronic device cannot be saved the professional may still be able to transfer any data it contains to a new unit.

4. Paper Items

Paper items may be able to be restored as well. These items will first be freeze-dried before they are carefully cleaned

Steps to Take After a Home Fire

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

Home Fire

When a house fire hits your home, severe damage can take place at a rapid rate. With so much sudden and shocking devastation, homeowners often feel at a loss for where to begin in the process of fire restoration. After the fire is put out and the smoke has cleared, the following three steps should be taken to ensure quick and safe restoration takes place.
1. Call Your Insurance Provider
Once a house fire is contained and homeowners are free to go back to the property, the first thing that should happen is a call to the fire insurance company. Homeowners should immediately report the incident to their insurer to make sure proper action can take place in a timely manner. The insurance company will likely send an adjuster to the property to take photographs and document the damage that has occurred.
2. Steer Clear of Damage
A fire ravaged home can play host to many dangerous situations. Most homes suffer far more than just fire damage. After firefighters put out a fire, it is not uncommon for your home to have one or more of the following impairments:
? Ashes and debris
? Smokey air
? Water damage
? Unstable walls and floorboards

As tempting as it may be to scavenge your property for salvageable goods, it is best to wait for damaged property to be cleared. A home fire restoration service can clean and filter out dangerous fire remains before you set foot back in the home.
3. Hire a Service to Board-Up the Property
If your insurance company needs time to gather resources before starting the restoration process, you may wish to protect your vacant home. SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario fire damage restoration team can board up windows and tarp roof damage right away to prevent further harm from occurring. Boarding services keep your home safe from outside elements and theft until debris and smoke cleaning can be completed.

When Storms Hit Ontario, CA.

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

Rain Storm

SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario 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 Ontario, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.
Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today SERVPRO Northwest Ontario
(909) 984-3544

Why SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario?

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

Floor Water Damage

While you cannot predict when you might need water or mold remediation , the faster that you can secure this service, contain and appropriately clean the area, the less of the items and stock throughout your home or property that can become directly impacted. SERVPRO of Northwest Onatrio professionals can work quickly to offer effective mitigation solutions including fast extraction when you need it the most.
When we first come into your building, part of our team works to set up the extraction equipment required to begin removal and restoration efforts while another portion of our crew can work to remove at-risk contents from the affected area. Without a widespread situation, much of these moved items can get stored in a different area of your store unless they require focused drying and cleaning attention.
SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario technicians on site determine the best equipment for the severity of the water damage, ranging from mobile wet-vac units with extraction wands to gas-powered trash pumps and our extractor truck. With effective removal of excess water, our team can get to work on thoroughly drying the damaged area and protecting your building from potential reconstruction or remediation needs.
Give us a call anytime disaster strikes at (909) 984-3544

Addressing Concerns of Fire Damage in Your Home

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

Selecting Damage Food Items

After experiencing fire damage to your home, there are many unanticipated concerns. Determining what foods are safe to keep or how to get that strong smoke odor out of your home are only a couple of many concerns however, both require extensive care.
SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario team can help go through and determine what foods have been contaminated and are no longer suitable for consumption. Foods that are exposed to air, even by the slightest cracks can become covered by soot and become odorous. After checking each and every food item our team can discern and dispose of all foods that may have gone bad during the fire.
In reassuring the odorous smell of smoke is removed from your home our team has many tools and resources in providing the greatest care in restoring your home. We sweep through your home top to bottom, cleaning every and all surface exposed to smoke or soot.
Our team here at SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario is thorough and meticulous in ensuring your fire damaged home is restored.
Give us a call SERVPRO Northwest Ontario (909) 984-3544

SERVPRO Ready to Help

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

Home Damage After Storm

The effects of a storm to a homeowner can oftentimes be devastating, sustained winds and flooding can damage your home and belongings. When storm and water damage gets serious in Ontario, California, there is really only one team to call—, SERVPRO of Northwest Ontrario ! Our team is highly qualified and trained in water restoration, our experts will come in, assess your damage, take the proper remediation steps to limit damage. We work hand in hand with your insurance company to restore your home to what it was before. Like it never even happened!
? We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster
? We provide 24-Hour Emergency Service
? We are a Trusted Leader in the Water Restoration Industry
? We are Locally Owned and Operated
Every Ontario, California water restoration situation is unique and our team will treat them that way. We are here in your local community to help during your water or storm property damage, in these very stressful times and we are Always Here to Help!(909) 984-3544

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program

5/17/2020 (Permalink)

 Our defensive cleaning program gives your business a way forward by providing your employees and customers ongoing safety and assuredness.

Let us help you get back to business

As our communities re-open, we’re all moving back toward a new kind of normal. The expectations of visitors, customers, and employees who come into our establishments have evolved, and staying safe and well is a top concern. The global COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean, and we’ve developed a program to help your business meet the new higher standard of clean that is now expected.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program we’re offering to businesses and commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 pandemic. This proactive viral pathogen cleaning program goes well beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. By choosing Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you, your employees, your customers, and your community can rest assured that you’ve selected a higher cleaning standard – you are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Extensive training and specialized products

As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration*, we stand on more than 50 years of experience and expertise to help your business become Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.  Beyond fire & water, SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills – always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities. 

From formulating and creating our proprietary cleaning products, like SERVPROXIDE, at our headquarters in Gallatin, TN, to taking the utmost care while disinfecting, we will ensure you and your business are set up to inspire consumer confidence as the economy continues to reopen.

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

When the stakes are this high, you want a partner who has developed an industry leading, proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes over decades. We’ve cleaned up some of the most challenging biohazards imaginable. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned reflects our unique experiences and capabilities. The program is grounded with our unique 3 C’s: Consult, Clean, and Certify.

• Consult – Every business is different, which is why you’ll be assigned a Cleaning Protocol Consultant who understands your business and will create a cleaning program to meet your specific needs. This program will be developed based on your business type, size of space, amount of high frequency touchpoints, foot traffic and congestion points.
• Clean – Based on your specific business needs, your location will undergo a thorough, deep clean, using exclusive cleaning products, according to protocols set forth by the CDC. Our employees have years of experience, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process, and disposal of hazardous materials.  In the event of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 event, we will be there cleaning within 24 hours to ensure you get back to business as quickly as possible. 
• Certify - Once your business location has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you will gain access to proprietary signage, digital emblems, and other collateral that communicates that you’ve selected a higher standard of clean available to help protect your employees and customers. And because we add the day, month, and year to that proprietary stamp of clean, your guests will know that not only did you choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned,but that your location is being cleaned regularly at this standard.

Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation

We’re Here to Help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – until life is back to normal in the communities we all call home.

Call SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario today at 909-984-3544 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

* #1 Choice in cleanup & restoration based Commercial Attitude & Usage Tracking study. Polling 816 commercial business decision makers on first choice for future needs related to cleanup & restoration work. Study conducted by C&R Research: October 2019

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned means professionally trained SERVPRO franchises perform the requested cleaning, sanitizing and disinfection services according to proprietary SERVPRO protocols and recognized industry and CDC standards with EPA approved cleaning products to deliver a SERVPRO certified cleaning experience.  Each SERVPRO franchise is independently owned and operated.

Faster to Any Size Disaster

5/6/2020 (Permalink)

We are the # 1 Restoration Company

At SERVPRO® of Northwest Onatrio, no business is too big and no question is too small.  So when fire or water damage strikes your home or business, call on the cleanup team the insurance industry has trusted for more than 40 years.  That’s where you’ll find a team of specialist that’s faster to any-sized disaster.  So when the things that matter most are on the line, make sure we are too by calling (909) 984-3544 or visiting www.SERVPROnorthwestontario.com.  We’re here to help make Fire and Water damage “Like it never even happened.”

We are independently owned and operated with a team trained professionals. SERVPRO® of Northwest Onatrio is part of the nationwide Storm Response Team and has the support of over 1,700 franchises ready to serve your emergency needs.

Our team consists of professionals who are from the Onatrio area and know our community inside and out. It is for this reason that we are trusted leaders in the disaster restoration industry, and mold remediation is one of our specialties. We provide 24-hour emergency service, and our teams intensive, ongoing training ensures that we have the expertise to handle all your restoration and cleaning projects. No matter where your home or business lies in the Grand Rapids area, SERVPRO of Northwest Onatrio is here to help.

Fire Prevention Tips for Your Office

5/6/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Prevention

Studies have shown that most business fires occur while the premises are not populated, between the hours of 7 pm and 7 am, causing a large amount of damage. Commercial fires, caused by cooking equipment, are also potentially devastating, but surprisingly, the most damaging ones start in an office environment! Here are some fire prevention tips to help lower the odds your office is affected by fire.

Have A Plan. Designating someone as your “safety officer” is one step you can take that will really help. He or she can take the lead in establishing appropriate escape routes and meeting places, and setting up appropriate emergency procedures, as well. Your employees should be aware that the safety officer is in charge during any emergency and will be the one responsible for contacting emergency personnel, keeping track of employees, and assisting with providing information on equipment and chemicals kept in your office. An up-to-date emergency contact list should always be available at your place of business, and you should designate someone to be in charge of contacting family members or next-of-kin, in case of injury or a missing person.

Have Proper Equipment. There are specific items you will need to have on hand in advance of a fire, such as fire extinguishers and smoke alarms, and these are required through local building codes, so they should be present. Alarms and extinguishers need to be inspected monthly and replaced when necessary. You will also want to have a fully-stocked first aid kit and bottled water on hand, as well as flashlights, just in case.

Hold Regular Drills. Your safety officer should schedule regular drills and training to make sure everyone is well-versed in what to do in case of an emergency, such as an office fire. During these drills, new emergency response information can be shared to keep everyone up to date.

Preventing Storm damage to your Business

5/6/2020 (Permalink)

Preparing for a storm

Falling trees, fire, high wind and hail storms often cause damage to roofing and other vulnerable parts of your property. Safety should always be your primary concern to prevent storm damage to your business.

• Roofing. The best way to prevent unnecessary damages is to ensure that your roof is in the best shape possible before storm season hits. After a storm, any initial roof assessment should be completed from the ground as you want to make sure you are safe. If you suspect damage to your shingles or structure, contact a professional immediately. Make sure everyone vacates the premises in the event of major roof damage. 

• Landscaping. Before the stormy season, have your landscaping trimmed back and remove all dead or dying vegetation. This will help to lessen the risk of flying branches or falling trees. 
• Walkways. Heavy storms can undercut walkways, making them dangerous for pedestrians, and that’s something you definitely want to avoid. Have them updated and strengthened before heavy weather, and take a good look at them after a storm moves through the area. If you need a second pair of eyes, call a professional storm damage cleanup company for help. 

Storms and inclement weather can bring wind damage, heavy rain, and flooding that can devastate any business in a matter of minutes. There’s never a convenient time for flooding or water damage to strike, and storms don’t just strike during regular business hours; that’s why SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario Professionals offer 24-hour emergency service 365 days of the year.

BIOHAZARD, CRIME SCENE, AND VANDALISM CLEANUP

5/6/2020 (Permalink)

Biohazard Cleanup

Recognized as a leading fire and water cleanup and restoration provider by hundreds of insurance companies, SERVPRO® of Norwest Ontario Professionals also offer 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.

SERVPRO® of Northwest Ontario Professionals are trained to safely and effectively remove bio hazardous substances and prepare waste for proper disposal according to OSHA, EPA, and state and local health regulations.

Equipped with the necessary safety equipment and cleaning products, SERVPRO® Professionals help turn unsafe environments into clean, safe homes and offices.

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

How Mold Can Damage and Affect your Home

5/6/2020 (Permalink)

Mold

One of the points that are critical to remember is that attempting mold removal on your own can not only often be ineffective, but it could be hazardous on its own. With over a dozen common varieties of mold and fungus that can damage your home, there is not a single method of removing them all effectively. In some cases, chemicals and cleaning products can cause problematic reactions when used incorrectly.

A fast response can help limit the spread of the colony and preserve construction materials and the contents of your house. As a colony grows and thrives, it requires organic material food source. The stronger and more widespread the organisms become, the weaker and more vulnerable the affected materials become. Our SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario technicians can help you to remove the colonies, and work to preserve the affected materials rather than rely on reconstruction.

While you might believe that mold growth is nothing to concern yourself with, there are substantial risks with allowing a colony to grow and thrive on your property. Trust our SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario restoration and remediation specialists to remove the fungi, "Like it never even happened." Contact us anytime at (909) 984-3544

Getting Ready to Go Back to Work

5/5/2020 (Permalink)

Fogging to disinfect

Are you concerned about going back to Work or School? No doubt you may wonder, has this area been properly cleaned or sanitized? Such a question can create doubt in your mind.

We want to eliminate that doubt. That's why SERVPRO® of Northwest Ontario has started the Back to Work - CLEAN & READY initiative.

THE GOAL:

• The goal of this initiative is to partner with businesses and schools, sanitizing all spaces on those properties. Minimizing any concerns or doubts that any employees, students, or visitors would have.

If you have a custodial crew at your site, they are no doubt doing a great job cleaning however the COVID-19 pandemic may require more consideration. 

THE BENEFIT TO YOU:

• Having a nationally recognized company, like SERVPRO® of Northwest Ontario, perform and document  final sanitation services would help create public confidence, but more importantly, it would make coming back to work or school feel safe.
• This program includes a training that educates all stakeholders and staff members on the effective cleaning and sanitation methods. Afterwards your custodial staff or SERVPRO® can do a final cleaning/sanitation using proper cleaning techniques. SERVPRO® will document, inspect, and then perform a final ULV fogging service in every classroom or office. This will ensure that surfaces and even hard to reach places are disinfected.

Our goal is keep people safe, healthy, and educated as we start going back to work and school. 

To find out more information on our Back to Work - CLEAN & READY program, call us at (909)984-3544

The Science of Drying

5/5/2020 (Permalink)

Drying studs

The knowledge of psychrometrics is essential to restoring a water damaged structure to its preloss condition. While your initial reaction may be to grab a few towels to mop up the mess and place a fan or two around the damaged area, SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario is trained in the science of drying and follow strict industry-approved standards to help prevent further damage.

If your business suffers a water damage, SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario will:

• Inspect the building to detect every component that is wet, to help prevent secondary damage from happening.
• Measure how much moisture is in wet materials and monitor whether the materials are drying properly.
• Use professional drying equipment.

A wet building can often dry naturally because the environment always seeks equilibrium. When materials are wet, moisture will naturally move to drier air at the surface of the material–but only if the air is, indeed, drier. The only problem is, nature often takes too long and secondary damages may occur while the building is drying out. For this reason, SERVPRO of Northwest Onatrio has been trained to use top-of-the-line equipment to help move your loss forward, including equipment to help dry hardwood floors, tough-to-reach spaces inside walls, and much more.

Give us a call, we can help you: (909)984-3544

Fire Extinguishers

5/5/2020 (Permalink)

Types of Fire Extinguishers

Did you know there are five different types of fire extinguishers and that each type is designed for different types of fire? Whether for your home or business, it’s important to have the correct type of fire extinguisher available.

Class A: This is the most common fire extinguisher. It can be used to put out fires in ordinary combustibles such as cloth, wood, rubber, paper and many plastics.

Class B: This type of fire extinguisher is used on fires involving flammable liquids, such as grease, gasoline or oil.

Class C: These fire extinguishers are designed for fires involving appliances, tools, or other equipment electrically energized or plugged in.

Class D: These fire extinguishers are for use on flammable metals, and are typically found only in factories that work with flammable metals.

Class K: This type of fire extinguisher is intended for use on fires that involve vegetable oils, animal oils or fats in cooking appliances. Class K fire extinguishers are generally found in commercial kitchens, but are becoming more popular for use in home kitchens.

Multi-Use: There are fire extinguishers available that are able to be used on several different types of fires. A combination of Classes A, B and C is a common multi-use fire extinguisher.

 We at SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario are always ready to Help in your time of need.

Give us a call (909)984-3544

Understanding Mold

5/5/2020 (Permalink)

Mold

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

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

Every mold infestation is different, from the amount of mold to the types of materials affected. Each scenario requires a unique solution, but the general process

stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our process for a “typical” mold remediation infestation:

1. Emergency Contact –SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario (909) 984-3544
2. Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
3. Mold Containment
4. Air Filtration
5. Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
6. Cleaning Contents and Belongings
7. Restoration

Spring Cleaning tips

5/5/2020 (Permalink)

Spring cleaning

Spring is here and with it that familiar itch to overhaul your living space. Before you go wild buying fancy cleaning tools to eliminate every last speck of dust or raid your local home store for seasonal accents to fill every room in your house, pause to consider the cost. Spring cleaning doesn't have to be expensive. We've rounded up some affordable yet effective ways you can update your space.

Shop Organizing Products Shrewdly

Baskets, bins, trays and canisters — these are the organization tools you need to organize pretty much every room in your home. And while buying them is a necessary evil for Spring cleaning, it doesn't have to be a budget blower. Instead of splurging on fancy products from name brand stores, shop at more affordable retailers.

Touch Up Old Pieces

If you do simple touch ups yourself, you may find you don't need to replace that dinged up ancient piece of furniture after all. A paint pen can erase a scratches in your table while a coat of fresh paint will make a chipped dresser look like new, all giving your home that fresh Spring look without the big expense.

DIY Products

From finding brilliant ways to clean everything in your home with WD-40 and vinegar, to mixing up your own fragrant air freshener, skip the expensive products and make your own.

Rearrange Your Furniture

Spring cleaning can remind you of what you hate or want to replace in your house, but if redecorating isn't in the budget, try rearranging instead. You'll be shocked by what a big design difference it makes to simply move pieces around — not to mention how much easier it is on your wallet.

Cleaning Your Commercial Building

5/5/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial cleaning

A thorough cleaning will rid your commercial office building of the dust and grime of summer, bringing a clean and refreshed feel to your workplace as well as positively impacting your business’ profitability and your workers’ productivity. Commercial cleaning is a bit different than residential cleaning since it will call for more in-depth cleaning processes and better organization. You have a lot of people, and aspects, to think of. 

Let your employees know that a cleaning process will be beginning, and inform them what that process will look like. If there are any possible interruptions in tools or workflow, you will want to let them know and get their feedback on how to handle these situations. Make sure they are aware of the cleaning products that will be used in case there are possible irritations or allergies that some may experience. Many people prefer to be exposed to more eco-friendly products these days, so that’s an option that will make everyone happy.

Provide employees with a schedule so that they know exactly what to expect as your cleaning process moves forward. If it will be necessary for them to box up any of their work items, let them know as far in advance as possible so that they can plan for the event. 

The key areas you will want to focus on include:

Flooring. 

• Deep-clean carpets to remove stains.
• Move file cabinets, conference tables, desks, and other large furniture items to clean the entire floor. 
• Clean flooring baseboards and corners with a high-powered vacuum.
• Buff and scrub tile and concrete.
• Consider re-finishing and re-sealing floors for a renewed appearance.
• Look for fire hazards on the floor. Remove any floor or stairway blockages.
• Observe tile for breaks, dents, or cracks, and consider replacing broken tile or redoing the flooring. 

Walls.

• Look for chipped paint and cracks, and decide if you need to repaint. If the cracks are large, you may want to have a professional inspect for damage.
• Clean all windows to remove dust and marks, cleaning both outside and inside. For tall or high windows, hire a professional window cleaning service.
• Dust and wash the drapes and blinds. This area is usually forgotten in weekly cleanings.
• Dust ceiling corners, light fixtures, and tops of doors.

Bathrooms. 

• Clean the grout in between the tiles.
• Sanitize and deep clean all surfaces with bleach-based products.
• Re-caulk in areas of cracking or splitting.
• Bleach the inside of toilet bowls. Rub the external of the toilet bowls with a sanitizing cleanser.
• Wash the floor baseboards around toilets and urinals.
• Wash all trash-cans.
• Replace all toilet paper, soap, and other usables.
• Look for signs of mold or mildew, which is more common in high-humidity environments like bathrooms. Remove any mildew immediately.

Cleaning your commercial office building can be a big job. Here at SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario we can help you get your cleaning projects done in record time. Call us today for your commercial office building needs. (909) 984-3544

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

4/10/2020 (Permalink)

Here to Help

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

• Kitchen/Food Areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools/Classrooms
• Offices
• Retail Spaces
• Water Fountains
• Shelving/Racks
• Sales Counters
• Carpets and Rugs
• Stair Handrails
• Elevator Cars
• Playground Equipment
• Fitness Equipment

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario (909)984-3544

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-prevent-spread.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fguidance-prevent-spread.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html

5 Home Fire Prevention Steps

7/26/2019 (Permalink)

Prevent a Home Fire

The best way to survive a home fire is by preventing one from occurring. Fortunately, fire preparation tasks are straightforward.

Install enough smoke alarms in your home.

Ideally, these alarms should be located inside each bedroom, on every level of the home, at least ten feet from cooking appliances, and in the halls outside of the bedrooms. Don't forget to test the alarms every month and replace the batteries on an annual basis. Make sure that family members know how to recognize the alarm and how to exit safely.

Perform home maintenance consistently and thoroughly. 

Greasy buildup in burners, lint in the dryer hose, and neglected chimneys are all cause of fire damage. Many household chores and repairs, such as repairing damaged sockets, have a significant impact on fire preparation and prevention.

Store flammable items safely. 

Keep gas for the lawnmower, lighter fluid, and similar products stored in a cool location and out of reach. Additionally, consider the many other potentially combustible items. Go through the cabinets and closets of your home, watching for things such as lighters, matches, chemicals, and other flammable items.

Prepare for emergency situations. 

A ten-gallon can of baking soda near the stove top quickly puts out grease fires, safely and effectively. Fire extinguishers with BC or ABC rating are best. An A rating indicates that pressurized water is in the canister and that the extinguisher is not appropriate for cooking fires.

Teach Your Family Fire Safety 

In addition to teaching children not to play with matches, fire safety education should include not throwing laundry over a lamp or leaving papers near heaters. The more your children are aware of how fires start, the better they'll be at avoiding them.

Fire preparation is one of the best ways to avoid fire damage and the cost of fire damage cleanup and restoration services. 

IICRC Certified Firm

7/15/2019 (Permalink)

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

IICRC Certified Firms must

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

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

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

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

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

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

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

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

About SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario

SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property

What causes flooding?

7/12/2019 (Permalink)

There are many causes of flood damage in your home or business.

Anything can happen to flood your home or cause water in your business; even small accidents like a supply line break or a pipe break can cause a flooded home. Some causes are preventable, others are not. The most common causes:

• Broken water heaters / Sump Pumps
• Leaking pipes
• Supply line break
• Frozen water lines / pipe break
• Storm water
• Blocked Sewer Lines
• Overflowing appliances (Bathtubs, dishwashers, washing machines)

Effects of Excessive Water?

Unless the water cleanup and drying is handled correctly and by a professional, the devastation can quickly spread. A Water Damage Restoration Professional is experienced in the mitigation process and can save you time, money and headaches. Without them, you are exposing yourself to all types of additional problems with water in your home or water in your business:

• Mold
• Contaminants in the water
• Structural problems
• Building materials
• Carpets and carpet padding
• Loss of personal property
• Electrical / mechanical problems

There is more involved than just fixing a pipe break or supply line break.

Visit https://www.SERVPROnorthwestontario.com/ 

for more information on water damage

Odor Removal and Deodorizer Ontario California

7/12/2019 (Permalink)

Whether you just moved into a home with smelly carpets or discovered a sewer backup in your Ontario California home our highly skilled SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario odor removal and deodorizer team can quickly turn an unpleasant smell into a fresh scent. We can quickly and easily neutralize smells inside and outside of your home, corporate building and office space. While some odor neutralizing solutions provide temporary relief, our proven odor removal system gets the smell out for good.

What Causes Odors in Homes?

Various factors cause a foul odor to develop in your residence or business. Many people have moved away from installing carpeting in high traffic areas to avoid buildup of dirt and smells. Sometimes it can be difficult to get rid of odors that develop over time, especially in high traffic areas. Not to mention when storms occur and cause the sewers to back up into your home or office. Other odors might be caused by stains or pet accidents that weren't properly cleaned up.  Cat urine is notorious for being difficult to remove from carpets and even concrete. Food or other household products left unattended can develop smells over time as well. Smoking can also cause a home or office to have a foul odor over time. Many people don't realize how offensive odors develop suddenly in their homes, but the truth is that some of these smells evolve and go undetected for a long time, especially where smoking is concerned.

How Can We Help?

The SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario professionals in your Northwest Ontario area can neutralize and get rid of any foul odors you may be experiencing in your home or office. We’ll inspect the premises to identify the source of the smell, and propose a plan for deodorizing and eliminating the unwanted odors. We use environmentally safe products, and ensure that your home or office is left in better shape than we found it. You’ll be glad you called us to eliminate foul odors in your home. We’ll be able to provide you with some feedback about conditions that could be causing the offensive odors, and if necessary, we can facilitate the removal of surfaces, such as counter tops, carpets, and flooring that might be holding the scent. If left untreated, the cause of the odor could lead to mold, health concerns and more.

Contact Us Today

If you are living with a foul smell in your home or office, don’t delay in calling us at 909-984-3544 to inspect your premises right away. There could be a problem that is bigger than just a bad smell. For example, you could have damaged sewer lines, water lines, and even eroded structures from issues caused by sewer and water. We’ll conduct a thorough inspection and provide you with solutions that resolve the odor and leave your home or office feeling and smelling clean. If you are tired of living with foul smells that could be making you sick or destroying your home or office, call us today 909-984-3544.

Top reasons your insurance company may deny your fire claim

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

A home insurance policy typically covers numerous situations, including fire damage. However, there are two home fire circumstances that are usually not covered under most policies: arson and a fire inside a vacant home.

Investigating for Arson

Deliberately setting fire to a home is a criminal act, and a desire to collect insurance money is often the motive. For this reason, insurance companies require a fire investigation as part of the claim process. This helps the insurer establish the cause of the fire and note potentially suspicious details, such as multiple points of origin.

To help further reduce the risk of insurance fraud, your insurance company may also evaluate your personal finance and insurance claim history. Examples of potentially suspicious findings that may result in a denial of a home fire claim include the following:

• A recent increase in coverage or decrease in deductible
• Extensive debt or pending bankruptcy
• Prior insurance claims and loss history
• Recently purchased, high-value items on claim list
• The value of destroyed contents is inconsistent with household income

Because of this detailed investigation, any homeowner filing a claim in Ontario, California should be prepared for a potentially lengthy claim process. 

A Vacant Home Fire

Like arson, a vacant home fire is also not typically covered under most insurance policies. A home is considered vacant if it is uninhabited for 30 or more consecutive days. If your insurance company can verify this circumstance, it may deny your claim, forcing you to fund cleanup and restoration costs out-of-pocket. To protect your financial interests, you should consider purchasing vacant home insurance or add an endorsement to your existing policy for any vacation homes or rental property you own. 

Protecting Financial Interests

Your home insurance policy can be a strong financial safety net in the event of a home fire. However, because arson and insurance fraud are serious problems, insurance companies must thoroughly investigate fire claims to protect their financial interests. To further safeguard your financial security, you should update your policy to ensure vacation and rental properties are adequately protected. 

If you have any questions you can call us at SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario (909)984-3544

Smoke and soot

7/8/2019 (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 Northwest Ontario 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 – 909-984-3544

Restoring Your Ontario Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

7/3/2019 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events at Ontario 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 Northwest Ontario

SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario 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.

Some Mistakes in Ontario Water Damage Remediation That Your Business Should Avoid

7/3/2019 (Permalink)

Tips on Commercial Water Removal in the Ontario Location

If you own a café, clothing store, or any business, you know that anything can happen. After all, owning a business is unpredictable. If there is a storm or hurricane, leaky pipe, or bad plumbing, then your business establishment can be drenched. In this situation, you know that commercial water removal plays an essential role. Many business owners know that it is important to immediately call in the expert before the water damage can escalate further. 
 
Before the experts can get to your location for the commercial water removal in the Inland Empire area, there are some tips and strategies that you can take to remove water from your establishment. You can start by having all your employees help mop and blot out excess water from the floor. Make sure you remove any electrical appliances away from wet areas. After that, you can wipe off excess water from wooden furniture. Then you can place aluminum foil or wooden blocks between wet carpets and furniture legs. Don’t forget to turn the air conditioner on for optimal drying conditions. If you want to save your rug, make sure to remove it away from wet areas. If you have expensive art pieces, then it is best to place them in a safe and dry location. Gather any loose items that you can find on the floor. 
 
Once the SERVPRO technician arrives at your business site, you can rest assured that you are in good hands. The techs can begin the process by inspecting your business site to check for any damages and sufficient drying conditions. They can start the mitigation process immediately by using a vacuum to extract excess water. They can also use a moisture meter to measure the humidity in the air. They want to make sure that there is a right amount of dryness in the atmosphere to help them absorb moisture from the wet area. This strategy is to ensure optimal drying time. Afterward, the SERVPRO technicians can use disinfectant and odor neutralizing solution to get rid of any unpleasant odor that was left behind from the water damage. 
 
If you are interested in commercial water removal for your business establishment, then give SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario a call at (909) 984-3544, and we can send our skilled technician to your business establishment. 

Water Damage in Your Northwest Ontario Home

7/2/2019 (Permalink)

Any Water Restoration May Require Multiple Steps To Complete

H2O is found naturally and is needed for you and your family to live a comfortable lifestyle at your Keller residence. Therefore, all homes have a complex plumbing system that could fail one day forcing you to contact a water restoration company like SERVPRO. Moisture does not mix well with the organic materials that make up your house's structure and interior building materials. When things get saturated, they tend to lose their strength and disintegrate. Anytime excessive moisture enters your living area, it is vital to start steps towards complete water restoration immediately.  

Problems with moisture are the most likely type of damage that your property can suffer. To prevent things from falling apart and mold from growing, our SERVPRO team is available 24/7 into conduct water restoration operations. If your plumbing system develops a crack or one of your appliances chooses to act abnormally, you could find yourself walking in water when you enter the affected area. As much as stepping in a puddle is unpleasant to you, your building materials and contents that you rely on to live a comfortable lifestyle are not designed to be able to recover from being wet quite like us humans are.  

Water is a powerful force, and we have all seen the devastation it can cause during floods or hurricanes. But what some people do not know is that the liquid natural resource can be destructive even in small amounts. Excessive moisture can and will ruin pretty much anything if it gets wet enough and it is left damp for a long enough period.  

To make matters worse, if materials inside your home get wet the presence of moisture can cause problems in other areas that the water never even touched. Escalated humidity levels are also known to destroy certain materials that make up a building's structure. Also, if humidity and moisture levels stay high for more than 48 hours, any organic substance inside your dwelling becomes susceptible to microbial contamination. If you ever see or feel wet materials inside your home, please call SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario at (909) 984-3544 so that we can help prevent future secondary problems.

Hard to mitigate disasters

7/2/2019 (Permalink)

Our Team Works Hard To Mitigate Disasters

This summer, SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario encourages families in Southern California to brush up on their preparedness skills. A disaster can strike your property at any time and come from almost any direction. Weather does not always play a role in these horrible circumstances because incidents such as broken pipes and fire can happen in isolated areas of your house.

When a broken pipe, fire-fighting activities, or overflowed basins occur inside your Keller residence, SERVPRO employees are ready to perform the water cleanup duties needed. We make mitigation fast and easy for homeowners and can do the same for you all year long. Remaining prepared helps stave off damages that continuously worsen with each passing minute whenever unwanted water affects your home. In many situations, merely knowing how to shut off a water valve can save your home from severe damage.

Mold and mildew begin growing with 24 to 48 hours after a water disaster so cleaning it up and extracting all of the moisture becomes crucial. Other problems can come from the way in which materials in your home interact with water, also, and porous materials often become damaged to the point of requiring replacement. Responding as quickly as possible reduces this need, so we always strive to remain Faster To Any Size Disaster when we provide services to those in our communities. A fast response can also increase the odds in favor of your flooring and help it survive a disaster.

After removing water sitting in your residence, we address the issue of moisture in materials and water vapor in the air. Air movers speed up the circulation of the air drastically, and both desiccant machines and dehumidifiers work tirelessly to remove the moisture as air passes through these pieces of equipment.

When wall cavities, ceilings, and other portions of your home retain water, we discuss options with you regarding its extraction. The most effective way to do this aspect of water cleanup and removal mitigation involves the drilling of a small hole in an inconspicuous place so we can direct airflow with an Injectidry machine.

SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario wants to help mitigate the damage and restore your home and make it “Like it never even happened.” 

Water cleanup methods are only one of our many services that help restore homes to preloss condition, making them livable again in a cost-effective manner. Call us when you have an emergency, any day of the year, at our 24-hour services line, (909) 984-3544.

Roof water damage in Ontario , California?

7/1/2019 (Permalink)

Often during heavy rains, winds, or falling debris, homes businesses can experience roof damage. For some, the first instinct is to apply a roof tarp, looking to quickly solve the issue and attempt to reduce the possibility of additional damage. Roof tarps allow you to have a quick solution and a gap of time until better weather conditions allow for safe inspection and repair.

It seems like a good, inexpensive idea to quickly cover the holes in the roof, stop a water leak, and to have a level of security in knowing that no rodents or other animals will enter your home or business through those holes.

Although a roof tarp has many benefits, we do not recommend it as a permanent solution to your problem, because:

• Some brands are more heavy duty than others, but they all wear out over time.
• If the roof has water damage that leaked into your home, mold could be growing in the affected areas.
• Wind can move the tarp, leaving spaces uncovered where water can start leaking again.
• The tarp may increase the heat inside your home or business, which could lead to a higher electrical bill.
• If not installed properly, it could hold small pools of standing water, perfect for mosquitoes to dwell.

SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario is here to assist homeowners and commercial businesses with their water mitigation and mold remediation needs. As a home or business owner, you have the right to protect your property and mitigate as quickly as possible. Here at SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario, our experienced team of technicians, whether having coverage from your insurance company or not, is here to assist in avoiding further water damage, and possible mold issues.

For your water mitigation needs, call SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario at (909) 984-3544, we're here to service your home.

How Water Damage Affects Inventory in Northwest Ontario Warehouses

6/28/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Removal Methods Protect Warehoused Investments throughout Ontario 

Clogged drains, leaky roofs, or broken water lines to drinking fountains in your factory can affect inventory stored in both open and recessed areas. Increased humidity happens quickly and spreads everywhere in its attempt to reach equilibrium. Customers in Ontario, California and elsewhere want products in mint condition, without marring or other defects.

Because elevated levels of water vapor in the air can cause defects at any point in the manufacturing process or during storage before shipping or pickup, SERVPRO provides business owners in Ontario water removal services. We arrive ready to help you shut the flow of water off, including locating the source in those situations where it remains hidden. Once completed, we begin with the removal of the water wherever we find it on your floors.

Removing water from horizontal surfaces discloses the location of many hidden spots where water remains left inside walls and other enclosed areas. When water slowly seeps out of hollow wall spaces, it collects alongside the joint between wall and floor. We prefer to help drainage happen faster by drilling a few weep holes.

While we have the baseboards removed, we also drill a hole large enough for the flexible tubing of our Injectidry system. We use this machine to force dry air into enclosed spaces because our air movers alone cannot reach into these areas as effectively as needed. We measure the moisture in the air as it exits, letting us determine when the interior reaches dry conditions.

We also use moisture meters to determine the moisture content of other materials, obtaining a baseline percentage at the onset of our work so we can compare the progress later. We must remove water from both absorbent elements and also the air to ensure your facility no longer harbors dampness.

Infrared technology in the form of cameras gives us on-the-spot visuals of trapped water, providing accuracy when we need it most. To restore your warehouse, “Like it never even happened,” we need to remove every trace of lost water. With these cameras, we quickly uncover these areas and work on drying the structure and contents. Enclosed areas used to store inventory can also trap moisture, but our equipment quickly decreases water vapor to safe levels.

Able to effectively partner with you, SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario can get the environment inside your factory or warehouse stabilized and safe for both your employees and your products. Contact us at (909) 984-3544 for water removal services that protect and restore businesses in the Inland Empire community.

Northwest Ontario Property Owners Can Always Ask SERVPRO for Help with Fire and Smoke Damage Cleanup and Restoration Services

6/28/2019 (Permalink)

DIY Smoke Damage Wall and Surface Cleanup in Northwest Ontario Homes

It is crucial to clean any area of your home that has fire damage as soon as possible. Both soot and smoke are acidic and often prove difficult to clean. Airborne soot particles are harmful to breathe and should be professionally cleaned to ensure a healthy living environment. For minor smoke damage, these tips should make it easy to clean up. 

The items needed to clean fire damage in your Ontario home are probably already there with one exception, a dry-cleaning sponge. This sponge cleans surfaces without getting them wet and wipes away particulate matter. Other items you need are as follows:

Rubbing alcohol
White Vinegar
Degreasing cleaner
Bucket with hot water
Cleaning Cloths
Dry-cleaning sponge
Kitchen sponges
Respirator
Gloves
Eye protection
Disposable shoe covers

Before you begin cleaning walls damaged by fire, there are a few things you need to do. First, turn off your HVAC system, so soot does not spread and open up the windows and doors to ventilate the room, but only if there is no risk of circulating ashes or soot to clean areas of the home. Always consider calling in SERVPRO for fire damage restoration services.

Ensure that you wear clothing that covers your arms and legs. You need to wear a respirator, eye protection, and gloves as soot is unhealthy to breathe and can irritate the skin. If you leave the area you are cleaning to go to another area of the home, change your shoe covers to avoid tracking soot around the property.

If there is debris that requires removal or a lot of surfaces to clean, it is a smart move to bring in professional assistance to clean up your home. Improper cleaning of residues from a fire can stain walls and cause more damage to other surfaces. SERVPRO uses pre-testing to minimize potential added staining and marring to porous surfaces.

When you begin cleaning, use the dry-cleaning sponge first to wipe away as much soot and smoke residue as you can from surfaces. Avoid wetting soot as it has the potential to smear and spread, staining affected surfaces further.  

One of the best dry-cleaning sponge techniques to use is to turn the sponge as you use it for a few strokes; this ensures you continue picking up soot instead of spreading it. Once all sides of the dry-cleaning sponge show soot, use a utility knife to slice away the sides to clean away the used portions and have virtually a clean sponge ready to work again. Use gentle wiping motions and never scrub walls or surfaces. 

After you finish wiping surfaces with the dry-cleaning sponge, you can move on to regular sponges and liquid cleaners. There are specific commercial formulas for cleaning soot; however, vinegar, paint thinner, and degreasing solutions work in their place. It is vital to clean every surface in the room, even if it appears clean and untouched by smoke. 

Rinse your cleaning cloth in a bucket of hot water as you wipe up residue from the fire and change the water out in the bucket when it is dark or smells like smoke. Then upon completion, wipe surfaces again with a clean cloth and clean water to remove any residue from cleaning products. Chances are great you may have to prime or recoat some walls or a ceiling with fresh paint.

SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario knows fire damage can feel overwhelming to deal with. Our qualified team is available 24/7 by calling (909) 984-3544 to mitigate fire loss in your home. We try to make it "Like it never even happened."

How to Remove Water When There is No Electricity in Your Northwest Ontario Home

6/27/2019 (Permalink)

Temporary Power Solutions for Water-Damaged Northwest Ontario Homes

With so many of our devices working off of electricity, we cannot discredit the possibility of water loss incidents also allowing for power outages and concerns within your Northwest Ontario property. With situations where standing water and excessive moisture content are concerns, it can be unsafe to attempt to utilize power in the house even if the service for this utility has not become entirely disconnected. We have multiple temporary solutions and approaches that can help us to keep working despite hiccups in the power where you live. 

Many adverse effects and conditions stemming from the water damage exist in your Northwest Ontario home after the incident. With how fast these same effects can continually spread the property, it is likely that more areas beyond the source point can become damaged by the movement of water. Our SERVPRO professionals have state-of-the-art equipment and highly trained personnel to address these concerns quickly and confidently. 

With many of our most common choices for extraction being tools that hinge on the use of electricity, our team must travel with portable power solutions for temporary electricity as needed to operate our water damage mitigation and recovery equipment. Among the most common of these solutions that our SERVPRO team offers are large generators. These run on gasoline or diesel fuel, and can continually provide an abundance of power to multiple units working simultaneously. 

Even with the use of gas-powered tools and equipment like our trash pumps, a generator can help to run air movers and dehumidifiers at the same time to address excessive moisture and dampness in exposed areas of the house. Much like the individual drying units, the generator can get moved from one point to another to provide portable power solutions to multiple points of the same recovery. 

No matter when disaster strikes, you need a team that stays prepared for all of the potential effects that your house could face after a water loss incident. Give our SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario professionals a call today at (909) 984-3544.

When Man's Best Friend Creates Water Damage in Northwest Ontario

6/27/2019 (Permalink)

The Dog Did It - SERVPRO Helps with Water Damage in Northwest Ontario Home

Water damage can occur in a lot of unexpected ways. You can check your supply lines and pipes regularly to make sure they are in working order — however, unpredictable factors like pets and human error that can create unplanned situations.

SERVPRO received an urgent call to clean up water damage in a Northwest Ontario home. The homeowner arrived home for lunch as he did every day, and stepped in the water when he took his first step into his home. He kept the downstairs bathroom door shut because his dog had a habit of jumping in and out of the tub to amuse herself. The dog got the door open and in playing her game at the bathtub, accidentally turned on the faucet, with the drain closed. The homeowner estimated water had been running at least three to four hours before he shut it off.

SERVPRO technicians arrived quickly after the initial phone call and immediately began using portable pumps to extract the water while another technician determined precisely where and to what extent the home was affected by moisture.

Luckily the water had followed a path on tile flooring, and only the very edges of a carpeted room were affected, and after the initial removal, we squeegeed the floor to ensure as much water was pulled up as possible. Technicians used weighted extractors to push the water that had seeped into the padding for faster drying.

In a water spill such as this, we carefully examine the subflooring with moisture detectors to determine if there it is retaining any moisture. Fortunately for this homeowner, we found none.

SERVPRO technicians spend extra time on water extraction because the more water we remove, the faster the drying phase goes. The technicians set up air mover and dehumidifiers to expel the remainder of the water vapor left and then followed up with a thorough cleaning and disinfecting. The homeowner was pleased and to avoid this in the future stated he was looking into doggie daycare or childproof locks to keep his dog out of the room when he was not home.

SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario knows fast action on water damage is crucial that is why "We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster"

-Call us 24/7 at (909) 984-3544 when you need quick assistance with your water loss situation.

After A Flood Our Crew Can Help Restore Your Northwest Ontario Home

6/21/2019 (Permalink)

How Long Should It Take To Fix Flood Damage In Ontario, California?

Any homeowner hit by a flooding incident feels anxious wondering whether it is possible to restore the property to its preloss state. Among the thorny issues you have to deal with, is determining how long the restoration is likely to take so that you can make other plans if necessary. A professional restorer can help provide an estimate based on the time it takes to accomplish different aspects of the restoration process.

Cleaning up the debris and soiling left over after flood damage in Ontario, California may seem daunting, but it is hardly the most challenging task, primarily when handled by a skilled team with sophisticated equipment. Our SERVPRO technicians use simple equipment such as shovels, as well as advanced ones like power washers to remove soils from the property quickly.

Drying excess water left over after flooding incidents can take time. As water sits in the property, it soaks into different materials complicating the removal process. Our SERVPRO experts use a variety of equipment including air movers to speed up the drying process. Typically, one air-moving unit can cover 150 to 300 square feet since we remove carpets and pad for disposal instead or drying them. By calculating the total square feet affected in the incident, we can estimate the expected turnaround time for drying.

Restoring flood damage can take longer is secondary problems develop. Mold infestation and deterioration of materials such as wood through rotting and warping add extra steps lengthening the process. Where possible, our SERVPRO technicians take precautions to prevent these problems. We try to dry materials within 48hours to prevent mold development. We also set drying goals that lead to balanced drying preventing problems such as cracking. In case we cannot prevent the issues, put our building service skills to use tearing down affected areas to replace affected materials and refinish surfaces to deal with the problem “Like it never even happened.”

For fast restoration after a flooding incident, call SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario at (909) 984-3544 to help. We are available 24/7.

Click here for more about us!

Is your roof ready?

6/21/2019 (Permalink)

When it comes to our homes, and even commercial properties, our roofs are the first line of defense against storms. While spring is when severe storms are most likely to occur in Northwest Ontario, the long and cold rainy days we have during the winter often result in water damages when they penetrate through a roof that was not repaired after a heavy storm season earlier in the year.

In order to ensure your roof is ready for anything the weather may bring you should check for damage regularly. Missing shingles, signs of small leaks, or mold damage are some of the things you yourself can check for regularly, especially following a hard storm or consecutive bad weather days. If you suspect there may be any type of problem with your roof, you should call in roofing professionals that can give you a complete assessment. When the weather gets bad the last thing you want to worry about is whether or not your roof can hold up against a storm, so try to do regular inspections throughout the year and at least one professional assessment per year in order to protect your home.

If you have a water damage due to a roof leak at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario anytime at 909-984-3544. Our team can be onsite quickly to begin the restoration process as soon as possible.

How to recover your business after water damage occurs

6/20/2019 (Permalink)

Though maintaining a successful business in Northwest Ontario, Ca takes dedication, time and money, water damage can quickly create a variety of issues for the company. Making repairs and recovering products after the damage can be costly, but there are various steps you can take to make the process easier.

Collect What You Can

Assuming that it is safe for you to be in your business, collect important items to ensure they don’t become lost or damaged. Even if you feel that an item is damaged, removing it from the area can make water cleanup easier. Make sure to take note of any items made of cloth, such as furniture or rugs, and relocate them if possible to prevent staining and mold growth.

Remove Water

Eliminate as much water as possible. Mopping up areas that aren’t saturated with water can help to prevent further damage. If the ceiling is not damaged, you can turn on fans to help dry up the water. Air flow can also help the water dry quickly.

Avoid Potential Hazards

When you remove items and clean your business after water damage has occurred, it’s essential to be aware of your environment and prioritize safety. Make sure you and others don’t slip on puddles of water, trip over broken pipes or use any electrical fixtures or appliances. If you’re unsure if you can safely move something, or if you don’t know if using an item is safe, it’s best to err on the side of caution. The old adage that it is better to be safe than sorry applies here.

Water damage can take a toll on businesses, and it’s important to know how to safely and efficiently clean your business. It’s also important to work with experts to repair your business after the damage occurs. By working with qualified professionals and mitigating the damage on with expert help, your business can be restored quickly. For more information, visit https://www.SERVPROnorthwestontario.com/

The water may recede but flood damage can remain

6/20/2019 (Permalink)

Flooding causes problems wherever it happens. Some of these problems are not visible to the naked eye. You might be able to smell the microbial deposits left behind, and this should be a warning that even floods that barely cover your floor can pose risks long after they are gone.

In the Inland Empire, flood damage can cause damage to a home's structure, including the foundation or walls. The higher flooding becomes, the more damage there can be to walls, furniture, and staircases. Microbial activity, however, can occur in areas well above the flood line. Because humidity levels greatly increase indoors when flooding exists, it becomes much more likely that microbes such as mold and bacteria might be inhaled by those present in the home. Also, these microbes are also more easily deposited in locations that might have otherwise remained uncontaminated.

Mold is not the only microbe that can grow in your home. Bacteria can also do the same thing. Similarly to mold, some types of bacteria are more toxic than others. Because of the possible risks from both types of microbes, it is always best to remove any materials in flood-damaged homes and replace them with new materials. Areas that are not damaged by flood water, but rather instead by moisture that contains possible pathogens can be dried and then protected with antimicrobial agents. SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario professionals receive training from the IICRC in such matters. We understand that thoroughness when completing each job is crucial for protecting our customers' homes and their families.

To ensure that humidity levels are reduced to normal after a flood, we implement equipment hat not only eliminates a significant portion of the microbes present, but we also restore the house and its contents to a normal level of humidity. Moisture levels that are within normal ranges are not conducive to microbial growth. Heaters, air movers, open windows and doors, dehumidifiers, and air scrubbers help us accomplish this. When musty odors remain, we have the options of deodorizing with scented liquids placed in different sites in your home or using an ozone machine. Ozone bonds with particles in the air, making them inert. Ozone is what makes the air so fresh-smelling after a rain shower, and it can do the same thing in your home.

We at SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario care about your home and your family. After flood damage, call us at (909) 984-3544. We can restore your home, so it is “Like it never even happened.”

Common Signs that Water Damage is Lurking in Your Home

6/18/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage is among the most common causes of property damage claims. One in every 50 insured homes will have a water-related property claim. The possible causes of water damage lurking in your home can originate from many different sources, with varying intensities, danger levels, and reach of damage. Even a well-maintained residence can have unexpected water damage including, a leaky dishwasher or sink, broken pipe(s), an overflowing washing machine, an old leaky roof, flood or storm damage and foundation cracks. If you see signs that water damage is lurking in your home, SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario always here to help!

Water spots under sink cabinets

If you see water under the bathroom or kitchen sink it’s a warning sign that you have water damage and potential mold growth around the sink area. If the leak is bad enough, it could cause additional damage to the building structure, including the floor and walls, even if there’s no water present, water spots clearly indicate that pipes under the sink have a slow leak.

Ceiling and wall stains

Ceiling and wall stains are obvious signs of a roof, appliance, or plumbing leak, water saturates insulation and drywall, it can also lead to major water damage, that can compromise the structural integrity of the property. Check your roof for damage, broken tiles or puddling, also investigate appliances such as the washing machine, dishwasher, and toilets for leaky spigots that could be dripping water and causing damage.

Mold growth

Mold needs water to grow, so it’s common to find mold in consistently damp locations—and finding mold is never a good thing, since it means your air quality is suffering. In fact, sensitive individuals may experience unpleasant symptoms such as aggravated allergy symptoms, cold-like issues, and more.

Squishy kitchen/bathroom tiles

Water damage is not always visible. In fact, it’s more common for damage to occur behind the floor, ceiling, and walls where you can’t see it. Since the bathroom is the most humid room in your home, it’s a common place for water damage and mold growth.

Standing water

Many things can cause water to pool in unlikely places, including a broken pipe or flooding. If you find standing water, it’s important to seek water damage remediation as quickly as possible. Ignoring the problem could lead to greater damage to your home’s structural integrity and air quality.

When you are dealing with water damage, call in the experts to help! SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario can respond immediately and use advanced equipment and techniques to remove the water quickly. We closely monitor and document the drying process to verify your property is dried properly and thoroughly.

Contact us for 24-7 emergency service in your home. SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario is here to help!

Protect Your Business with SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario

6/18/2019 (Permalink)

According to industry research up to 50% of businesses may never recover after a disaster. If you were to look at this statistic alone it might feel as if your company’s future is in the hands of a coin flip. Fortunately, it isn’t a simple game of chance; the companies that were able to recover had a plan in place if disaster were to strike. SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario always hopes for the best, but prepares for the worst and we hope you are doing the same. SERVPRO has started a checklist to make sure your company is ready for whatever happens.

SERVPRO’s Emergency READY Profile is a startup approach that provides information needed to begin restoring your business. It was designed to serve as a reference of important building and vital contact information. Working with SERVPRO’s Emergency READY Profile means your business will have access to over 40 years of experience remediation and cleaning property after a natural or man-made disaster.

SERVPRO’s Emergency READY Profile Advantage

• A cost-free assessment of your facility
• A succinct Profile Document that consists of only the information critical to us in the event of an emergency
• A guide to help get you back into your building following a disaster
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work
• Provides facility details, like priority areas
• Establishes SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario as your mitigation and restoration provider

How to get a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile:

• Visit SERVPRO.com/ready and register an account using your email address as your username
• Choose SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario as your preferred franchise representative
• Begin creating ERPs for every property you owned
• Download the SERVPRO Ready Plan app onto your smart device
• Launch the Ready Plan app and sign in using the account information you provided

After completing the necessary forms a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile will be created and you will be prepared for a disaster that hopefully never comes. With a plan in place, SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario will get your business back to work “Like it never even happened!” Call us at (909) 984-3544

How to recover your business after water damage occurs

5/29/2019 (Permalink)

Though maintaining a successful business in Northwest Ontario, Ca takes dedication, time and money, water damage can quickly create a variety of issues for the company. Making repairs and recovering products after the damage can be costly, but there are various steps you can take to make the process easier.

Collect What You Can

Assuming that it is safe for you to be in your business, collect important items to ensure they don’t become lost or damaged. Even if you feel that an item is damaged, removing it from the area can make water cleanup easier. Make sure to take note of any items made of cloth, such as furniture or rugs, and relocate them if possible to prevent staining and mold growth.

Remove Water

Eliminate as much water as possible. Mopping up areas that aren’t saturated with water can help to prevent further damage. If the ceiling is not damaged, you can turn on fans to help dry up the water. Air flow can also help the water dry quickly.

Avoid Potential Hazards

When you remove items and clean your business after water damage has occurred, it’s essential to be aware of your environment and prioritize safety. Make sure you and others don’t slip on puddles of water, trip over broken pipes or use any electrical fixtures or appliances. If you’re unsure if you can safely move something, or if you don’t know if using an item is safe, it’s best to err on the side of caution. The old adage that it is better to be safe than sorry applies here.

Water damage can take a toll on businesses, and it’s important to know how to safely and efficiently clean your business. It’s also important to work with experts to repair your business after the damage occurs. By working with qualified professionals and mitigating the damage on with expert help, your business can be restored quickly. For more information, visit https://www.SERVPROnorthwestontario.com/

IICRC Certified Firm

5/29/2019 (Permalink)

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

IICRC Certified Firms must

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

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

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

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

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

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

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

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

About SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario

SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property

Heavy Rain in Ontario, Ca

5/22/2019 (Permalink)

The Pacific coastline is a beautiful place to live, raise children and do business. This winter and spring season we have had a large amount of rain. 

The smallest leak in a roof can result in a huge amount of damage and the added ingredient of wind only compounds the problem. SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario fields many calls throughout the fall and winter from our good friends with roofs, windows, doors and, well, any structure. 

This particular project was a surprise for the new tenant. We were called to assess the problem and address the drying of the structure. What we found when we arrived certainly meant that some work was getting done that day. We also performed some demo and cleanup. 

What To Do If You Suspect Natural Gas

5/21/2019 (Permalink)

4 Signs Of Gas Leak

They're sometimes hard to recognize, but it doesn't take much of a leak to cause a gas fire. These home disasters are all too common. Fortunately, you can avoid a fire or worse by recognizing signs of a leak:

•  A hissing or whistling sound near the line
•  The smell of rotten eggs or sulfur
•  Bubbles in the water
•  Dead houseplants
•  Visible dust near the gas line
•  Damage to the gas pipe

Family members or pets may show signs of a natural gas leak, as well. These may include nosebleeds, reduced appetites, nausea, mood changes, irritation to the eyes and throats, disorientation, and breathing difficulties. 

Keep Your Family and Home Safe 

Avoid a gas fire or explosion in your Ontario California home by following these top tips:

1. Check Gas Stoves

If you have a gas stove, the dials may have been turned on or left on accidentally. If you're confident it's safe to remain in your home, move to the stove and turn off any flames. 

2. Do Not Flip Switches

Simply flipping the light switch to on or off could make a spark that causes a gas explosion. Instead, use a flashlight for any other actions you take in the house. Don't use the phone inside the house, either. In fact, don't use lighters, candles, or anything else that could ignite.

3. Ventilate the Home

Open all the windows and doors, so fresh air can come in and gas will move out of the house. Don't worry about taking any steps further than this. Instead, wait to contact emergency or fire remediation professionals when you and your family are safely outside. 

4. Go Outside

Get everyone outside and go across the street. From this safe distance, call 911 or the appropriate authorities. 

Learn as much as you can about what may cause a gas fire and how to avoid them to keep your family safe. Teach your family about natural gas and how to stay safe if they suspect a gas leak.

SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario: How Can They Really Be Faster to Any Size Disaster

5/17/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Faster to Any Size Disaster

In the insurance claim process, a speedy restoration company response matters, and that is why SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario with their Faster to Any Size Disaster motto is leading the industry. However, it is more than just a slogan. It is a tagline that the company stands behind and for several good reasons.

1. 24/7 Emergency Response

Adjusters and clients alike, require the services of restoration companies at all hours. Disaster doesn’t set a clock and therefore emergency response shouldn’t either. SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario standard of service is built on the idea of 24/7 availability, meaning that they’re out working while the other guy is sleeping. This level of commitment has not gone unnoticed as the company has been recognized nationally for their dependability. 

2. Nationally Available

Additionally, they can make it Faster to Any Size Disaster because there are over 1,700 franchises spread across the country. This level of localization means that the company truly can make it to your client’s home sooner than less expansive brands. 

3. Preferred Vendor

Also, SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario only works with preferred vendors, meaning that all contractors and suppliers go through a screening process. Every company is expected to meet specific qualifications and comply with the level of care and professionalism outlined in the company’s standard practices. 

4. Residential and Commercial Services

Beyond being nationally available, SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario's services include both residential and commercial properties, allowing a larger client base. This versatility suits insurance companies well because they typically cater to both large and small clients.

Faster to Any Size Disaster is not merely a slogan. It is a reality. It is an honest description of a company’s ability to receive a call and respond to a client in need, regardless of property size or type. Insurance companies depend on these quick responses to mitigate further loss and to make the claims process more manageable. SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario is a localized company that has a proven reputation of compliance and satisfaction that can provide the level of service both insurers and clients require.

Why SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario? Because We Do It All!

5/13/2019 (Permalink)

From start to finish, you will see that SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario will take care of your restoration emergency from start to finish. A fire for example can wreak havoc not only on your home or office, but your precious time and check book too. There is no need to worry. Not only do we possess the experience, but the equipment and talent on our team to make sure the disaster looks like it never took place. After removing any drywall that is burned and unsalvageable, we will make sure your home down to the studs is clean and smelling great. Besides any demolition that needs to be done, we will begin reconstructing your home back to the way it was. This includes painting your walls as well. It will be like an entirely new room in your home.   

If you have recently experienced a restoration emergency, let our team here at SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario take care of everything so you don’t have to. We will always work with you each step of the way and make sure you are satisfied. Give us a call at 909-984-3544 for more information.  

Flood water facts

5/13/2019 (Permalink)

Across the United States, flooding is one of the most commonly widespread weather-related disasters. Whether your home or business is near a coastline, along city streets, in the mountains, near a river or even in the desert, there is always potential for flood damage.

Though you may have never experienced a flood in the past, there’s no level of security to assure that you won't in the future.  In fact, 20% of all claims paid by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) were for policies in low-risk communities. 

According to the American Red Cross (ARC), floods cause more damage in the U.S. every year than any other weather-related disaster.  The ARC offers the following safety tips:

• Stay away from floodwaters as much as possible.  If you approach 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 water are rising 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 your home or business is ever affected by a flood, contact the professionals at SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario at (909)984-3544.  Even minor floods have the potential to cause major damage to a structure when not treated quickly and properly, and the cleanup is often an overwhelming task.  The SERVPRO system is prepared to handle any size disaster.  The sooner work begins; the sooner your home or business can return “Like it never even happened.”

Fire prevention tip: how to prevent house fires

5/13/2019 (Permalink)

Your home is a special place for you and your family. With so many cherished moments associated with this one of a kind place, it is hard to imagine losing it. Unfortunately, many families are forced to go through the heartbreaking process of saying goodbye to their homes as a result of fires. What is even harder to accept is that most house fires could have been prevented with a few fire safety facts and fire prevention tips in place. So just what items in your home pose a threat to your safety and the safety of your family? Use the following fire safety information and fire prevention tips for how to prevent house fires, and continue making memories in your home.

Fire Prevention Tip #1: Test Smoke Alarms

One of the easiest fire prevention tips is to regularly check smoke alarms to ensure they are working properly. Smoke alarms are essential for how to prevent house fires, serving as the first line of defense when a house fire is imminent or already underway by emitting a piercing alarm to notify those in the house the moment smoke is detected. A non-functioning smoke alarm can, therefore, mean serious disaster. Each smoke alarm comes with important fire safety information and features a small button to test whether it is working or needs new batteries. If the beep is weak when testing the alarm, change the batteries right away.

Fire Prevention Tip #2: Clean Ovens and Stoves

Cleaning ovens and stoves are among the most important fire prevention tips. While cleaning your oven and stove is likely a least favorite chore, doing so on a regular basis can help prevent house fires. Fires from ovens and stoves can result when food particles fall onto burners and get too hot. In addition to removing particles of food in your oven and stove, make sure to keep the area around your oven and stove clear as well. Curtains that hang too close, cookbooks left in the vicinity of these appliances, or ill-placed dish towels can all put you at risk for house fires as well. Create a routine for before and after you cook that ensures ovens and stoves are free of hazards.

Fire Prevention Tip #3: Stay in the Kitchen

With a busy schedule, it can be hard to focus on just one thing at a time. During the evenings, many individuals are pulled in multiple directions, preparing dinner, helping the kids with homework, and getting the house in order for the next day. However, even short distractions that happen while cooking can have serious consequences. One of the well-known fire prevention tips is to never leave food unattended when cooking in the kitchen for any reason, as it only takes mere seconds for a fire to break out. If you must leave the kitchen, make sure to turn off any burners in use, or call a family member to watch over the food until your return.

Fire Prevention Tip #4: Check your Cords

With an increasing dependence on electronics for daily tasks now more than ever, you likely always have something plugged in to charge, whether a cell phone, tablet, or smartwatch. Another method for how to prevent house fires is discarding frayed wires and cords used to transmit power into electronics. Among your list of fire prevention tips, add regularly checking the condition of cords, looking for damage such as exposed wires or frays. If you notice damage, replace the cord immediately. Keep in mind that pets often like to chew on rubbery items, so keep cords out of reach to avoid damage.

Fire Prevention Tip #5: Take Care with Fireplaces

Though one of the more obvious fire safety facts, pay special attention when using fireplaces. Fireplaces pose a special risk for house fires as sparks can easily escape and fly out onto flammable surfaces. When having a fire, make sure there is a door between the fire and the floor to prevent the escape of sparks. When you have distinguished the fire, make sure that all ashes are completely cool before throwing them away. Purchase a metal container to dispose of ashes to reduce the risk of any still-warm ashes from causing a fire. Lastly, never leave a fire unattended under any circumstances.

Fire Prevention Tip #6: Check Your Dryer

Another very common source of house fires is clothes dryers. Fires result from dryer when vents are not properly installed or are not cleaned out regularly. Heat produced during the drying process can cause lint and other debris to get too hot, and lead to a fire. To prevent fires, make sure that dryer vents are properly installed using the instructions that came with the appliance. To be safe, you might consider enlisting a professional to assist with the installation process. Additionally, clean out the lint filter after every load of laundry. This often overlooked step takes just seconds but can save you and your family from experiencing a fire. 

Fire Prevention Tip #7: Don’t leave Candles Unattended

Candles work wonders for enhancing the ambiance of a home, promoting much needed calm and relaxation through soothing scent and light. However, the exposed flame makes candles a hazard and potential risk for house fires. Another of the key fire prevention tips when lighting candles is to make sure they are placed far away from any fabric, such as curtains or blankets, and other flammable objects. If you’re leaving the house or starting to feel a bit drowsy, extinguish the flames immediately. Further, if you have little ones or furry friends around, consider waiting until they are out of the room. Pets and kids can easily tip over candles on accident.

Fire Prevention Tip #8: Maintain Heating Sources

Most of us rely on heating systems to keep us warm during the chilly months of winter. Because of this reliance, it is important to make sure that all heating sources are well-maintained and functioning properly. Heating sources that are broken and in need of repairs pose a great risk for fire. Filters should be cleaned regularly to avoid a buildup of dust and debris that can catch on fire. Additionally, you should have all heating sources inspected by a professional on an annual basis to catch malfunctioning components early.

Fire Prevention Tip #9: Avoid Old Space Heaters

 If you not only rely on your home’s heating system to keep you warm but also rely on space heaters, take special care. One of the not so well known fire prevention tips, Many old space heaters pose a great risk for house fires, as they often do not have the same safety features now found in newer models (such as turning off automatically when tipped over). When using space heaters, other best practices including keeping heaters away from curtains, blankets, and furniture that can easily catch fire, place them in spots with little foot traffic, set space heaters on solid, firm surfaces, and do not set space heaters on any other surface besides the floor.

Fire Prevention Tip #10: Safely Store Flammable Products

Many of the products we use every day are flammable and therefore put us at risk for house fires. There are obvious products such as gasoline, which should always be stored in UL approved containers in a location outside of the house. Other flammable products include shaving cream and hairspray, which should be stored in cool places away from sources of heat. 

Fire Prevention Tip #11: Don’t Smoke in the House

Smokers should pay special attention to their habits to prevent house fires. While you may enjoy the convenience and comfort that comes with smoking in your home, it is best to take smoke breaks outside of the house. A single unattended cigarette or a cigarette dropped after falling asleep in bed or while lounging on the couch, can result in a fire. When cleaning out your ashtray, be sure that all ashes are completely cool. Then, dampen ashes in the sink before placing in a trash can and out of the house.

Fire Prevention Tip #12: Grill Safely

There is nothing more exciting than a backyard barbecue with friends and families in the summer. There are a few precautions to take, however, for how to prevent house fires when grilling. If you’re grilling on the deck, be sure to place non-flammable pads beneath your grill to prevent the start of fire in the event of dropped food or coals. Also, be sure the grill is attended to at all times. Call a friend over to watch the grill if you must step away, even if only for a minute.  If there is no one around to watch the grill, turn off the propane. 

Fire Prevention Tip #13: Purchase a Fire Extinguisher

One of the best investments for how to prevent house fires is to purchase a fire extinguisher. Having a fire extinguisher handy can make the difference between a frighteningly close call, and a serious disaster resulting in the total loss of your home. Fire extinguishers can be purchased at most home improvement stores, and are incredibly affordable. Store your fire extinguishers in spots that pose a special risk for fires, such as in the kitchen or near fireplaces. Make sure that all family members in the house understand how to operate the fire extinguisher, and are comfortable taking the steps necessary in the event of a fire emergency.

Get it clean - get it sold

5/13/2019 (Permalink)

Your sellers may have trouble spots to address before you list or schedule a home inspection. 
Clients may choose to handle these issues themselves to avoid filing an insurance claim for the damage because it isn’t covered by their policy and can effect the home’s CLUE report. 
Unfavorable CLUE reports can lead to increased premiums and policy renewal issues for property owners. 

We love helping our real estate friends get their properties buyer ready! Get your properties ready to showcase to potential buyers?!

Let us know if you need an extra hand in ensuring everything clean and mold free. Give us a call and find out how we can work together!

Give us a call SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario, we are ready to help

(909)984-3544

The Truth About Bleach and Mold

5/13/2019 (Permalink)

For many households, chlorine bleach is generally seen as your “go-to” cleaner for tough jobs.  While bleach is well-known for its disinfecting properties that doesn't mean it's the best choice for mold - it has distinct drawbacks when cleaning flood impacted buildings.

It is a convenient cleaner and stain remover for hard, non-porous surfaces. Bleach is not made to “soak in”, therefore, its disinfecting properties are limited to a hard surface like tile or glass. If used on porous materials, such as wood and drywall, bleach will stay above the surface and only kill the mold on the surface, while the water is absorbed in.

The surface mold looks gone, but the fact is, if the mold is not removed from the material, it will most likely return and make your mold problem worse in the long run. Mold remediation requires a cleaner to reach deep down into wood and other porous building materials.

Further, its effectiveness in killing bacteria and mold is significantly reduced when it comes in contact with residual dirt, which is often present in flooded homes. If bleach water comes into contact with electrical components and other metal parts of mechanical systems it can cause corrosion. Bleach water can also compromise the effectiveness of termite treatments in the soil surrounding the building.

SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario cares about the proper restoration of your home or business.  We have the know-how and the specialized equipment needed to assess and/or repair your damage.

SERVPRO'S Environmental Friendly Products

5/13/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO wants you to know that we are doing our part to help our Planet.  That is why we want you to know about our Green Cleaning Products.

SERVPRO® Industries, Inc. is a member of the EPA’s Design for Environment (EPA/DFE) initiative. As a member company, SERVPRO® can access the listing known formally as CleanGredients. The EPA/DFE has established a set of criteria for formulating environmentally friendly cleaning products. With the assistance of larger chemical companies the EPA/DFE has put together a listing of safe cleaning components that can be used in Green cleaning formulations. From the listing a formulation can be derived that incorporates “green” chemistry. The initiative is designed to allow chemical formulators a resource to formulate environmentally friendly cleaning products using environmentally friendly raw materials.

So next time you see our Green Vehicles, you'll know we are doing our part to sustain our Environment.

Fire prevention tip: how to prevent house fires

4/16/2019 (Permalink)

Your home is a special place for you and your family. With so many cherished moments associated with this one of a kind place, it is hard to imagine losing it. Unfortunately, many families are forced to go through the heartbreaking process of saying goodbye to their homes as a result of fires. What is even harder to accept is that most house fires could have been prevented with a few fire safety facts and fire prevention tips in place. So just what items in your home pose a threat to your safety and the safety of your family? Use the following fire safety information and fire prevention tips for how to prevent house fires, and continue making memories in your home.

Fire Prevention Tip #1: Test Smoke Alarms

One of the easiest fire prevention tips is to regularly check smoke alarms to ensure they are working properly. Smoke alarms are essential for how to prevent house fires, serving as the first line of defense when a house fire is imminent or already underway by emitting a piercing alarm to notify those in the house the moment smoke is detected. A non-functioning smoke alarm can, therefore, mean serious disaster. Each smoke alarm comes with important fire safety information and features a small button to test whether it is working or needs new batteries. If the beep is weak when testing the alarm, change the batteries right away.

Fire Prevention Tip #2: Clean Ovens and Stoves

Cleaning ovens and stoves are among the most important fire prevention tips. While cleaning your oven and stove is likely a least favorite chore, doing so on a regular basis can help prevent house fires. Fires from ovens and stoves can result when food particles fall onto burners and get too hot. In addition to removing particles of food in your oven and stove, make sure to keep the area around your oven and stove clear as well. Curtains that hang too close, cookbooks left in the vicinity of these appliances, or ill-placed dish towels can all put you at risk for house fires as well. Create a routine for before and after you cook that ensures ovens and stoves are free of hazards.

Fire Prevention Tip #3: Stay in the Kitchen

With a busy schedule, it can be hard to focus on just one thing at a time. During the evenings, many individuals are pulled in multiple directions, preparing dinner, helping the kids with homework, and getting the house in order for the next day. However, even short distractions that happen while cooking can have serious consequences. One of the well-known fire prevention tips is to never leave food unattended when cooking in the kitchen for any reason, as it only takes mere seconds for a fire to break out. If you must leave the kitchen, make sure to turn off any burners in use, or call a family member to watch over the food until your return.

Fire Prevention Tip #4: Check your Cords

With an increasing dependence on electronics for daily tasks now more than ever, you likely always have something plugged in to charge, whether a cell phone, tablet, or smartwatch. Another method for how to prevent house fires is discarding frayed wires and cords used to transmit power into electronics. Among your list of fire prevention tips, add regularly checking the condition of cords, looking for damage such as exposed wires or frays. If you notice damage, replace the cord immediately. Keep in mind that pets often like to chew on rubbery items, so keep cords out of reach to avoid damage.

Fire Prevention Tip #5: Take Care with Fireplaces

Though one of the more obvious fire safety facts, pay special attention when using fireplaces. Fireplaces pose a special risk for house fires as sparks can easily escape and fly out onto flammable surfaces. When having a fire, make sure there is a door between the fire and the floor to prevent the escape of sparks. When you have distinguished the fire, make sure that all ashes are completely cool before throwing them away. Purchase a metal container to dispose of ashes to reduce the risk of any still-warm ashes from causing a fire. Lastly, never leave a fire unattended under any circumstances.

Fire Prevention Tip #6: Check Your Dryer

Another very common source of house fires is clothes dryers. Fires result from dryer when vents are not properly installed or are not cleaned out regularly. Heat produced during the drying process can cause lint and other debris to get too hot, and lead to a fire. To prevent fires, make sure that dryer vents are properly installed using the instructions that came with the appliance. To be safe, you might consider enlisting a professional to assist with the installation process. Additionally, clean out the lint filter after every load of laundry. This often overlooked step takes just seconds but can save you and your family from experiencing a fire. 

Fire Prevention Tip #7: Don’t leave Candles Unattended

Candles work wonders for enhancing the ambiance of a home, promoting much needed calm and relaxation through soothing scent and light. However, the exposed flame makes candles a hazard and potential risk for house fires. Another of the key fire prevention tips when lighting candles is to make sure they are placed far away from any fabric, such as curtains or blankets, and other flammable objects. If you’re leaving the house or starting to feel a bit drowsy, extinguish the flames immediately. Further, if you have little ones or furry friends around, consider waiting until they are out of the room. Pets and kids can easily tip over candles on accident.

Fire Prevention Tip #8: Maintain Heating Sources

Most of us rely on heating systems to keep us warm during the chilly months of winter. Because of this reliance, it is important to make sure that all heating sources are well-maintained and functioning properly. Heating sources that are broken and in need of repairs pose a great risk for fire. Filters should be cleaned regularly to avoid a buildup of dust and debris that can catch on fire. Additionally, you should have all heating sources inspected by a professional on an annual basis to catch malfunctioning components early.

Fire Prevention Tip #9: Avoid Old Space Heaters

 If you not only rely on your home’s heating system to keep you warm but also rely on space heaters, take special care. One of the not so well known fire prevention tips, Many old space heaters pose a great risk for house fires, as they often do not have the same safety features now found in newer models (such as turning off automatically when tipped over). When using space heaters, other best practices including keeping heaters away from curtains, blankets, and furniture that can easily catch fire, place them in spots with little foot traffic, set space heaters on solid, firm surfaces, and do not set space heaters on any other surface besides the floor.

Fire Prevention Tip #10: Safely Store Flammable Products

Many of the products we use every day are flammable and therefore put us at risk for house fires. There are obvious products such as gasoline, which should always be stored in UL approved containers in a location outside of the house. Other flammable products include shaving cream and hairspray, which should be stored in cool places away from sources of heat. 

Fire Prevention Tip #11: Don’t Smoke in the House

Smokers should pay special attention to their habits to prevent house fires. While you may enjoy the convenience and comfort that comes with smoking in your home, it is best to take smoke breaks outside of the house. A single unattended cigarette or a cigarette dropped after falling asleep in bed or while lounging on the couch, can result in a fire. When cleaning out your ashtray, be sure that all ashes are completely cool. Then, dampen ashes in the sink before placing in a trash can and out of the house.

Fire Prevention Tip #12: Grill Safely

There is nothing more exciting than a backyard barbeque with friends and families in the summer. There are a few precautions to take, however, for how to prevent house fires when grilling. If you’re grilling on the deck, be sure to place non-flammable pads beneath your grill to prevent the start of fire in the event of dropped food or coals. Also, be sure the grill is attended to at all times. Call a friend over to watch the grill if you must step away, even if only for a minute.  If there is no one around to watch the grill, turn off the propane. 

Fire Prevention Tip #13: Purchase a Fire Extinguisher

One of the best investments for how to prevent house fires is to purchase a fire extinguisher. Having a fire extinguisher handy can make the difference between a frighteningly close call, and a serious disaster resulting in the total loss of your home. Fire extinguishers can be purchased at most home improvement stores, and are incredibly affordable. Store your fire extinguishers in spots that pose a special risk for fires, such as in the kitchen or near fireplaces. Make sure that all family members in the house understand how to operate the fire extinguisher, and are comfortable taking the steps necessary in the event of a fire emergency.

Effects of Water Damage in an Ontario, Ca Property

4/16/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Can Restore Properties Damaged by Water

SERVPRO has the experience necessary to inform you of the downsides of excess water in your home. The removal of excess moisture from your Ontario, CA home should be a matter of top concern at all times. That is because excess water may find its way into your home through several access points. These include unattended taps, leaks in pipes, excess precipitation, and outright negligence, to mention but a few.

 Regardless of its source, such water may adversely impact your home. In the discussions below, SERVPRO describes the dangers of water damage and some of the various means and ways of mitigating them.

Carpets are highly absorbent. They easily soak up plenty of water which subsequently weakens its fabrics. If the situation is left to go on unabated, this may often lead to the diminished overall lifespan of the carpets. This means that your carpets can end up being obsolete before their time.

SERVPRO knows too well that wooden pieces of furniture are also very susceptible to excess moisture. That is because such moisture often gets absorbed by the wood and in so doing dampens those wooden components. The resultant effect is rotting of the same and substantially diminished lifespan. Apart from that, they also weaken the furniture so much so that, they may subject anyone who sits on them to the risk of falling off.

Foundations of the buildings may be weakened by excess moisture. Moisture does weaken the foundations if the underlying soil shifts. This makes the soil quite weak as not to offer the required support. This issue may lead to the overall collapse or cracking of the foundation if not mitigated in time.

SERVPRO points out that hidden moisture can encourage the growth and proliferation of mold. Molds and other fungi thrive well in areas with excess moisture. They can lead to health effects.

Count on us, SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario, to remove water and dry out your home or business by calling  (909) 984-3544 to request a quote or book an appointment.

Suggestions and Tips on checking for leaks in your shower

6/11/2018 (Permalink)

Splash leaks are simply water escaping past a shower curtain or a shower door. Plumbers tell us it's the most common type of bathroom leak. Although it may sound minor, this leak could cause major damage when water seeps into the subfloor where flooring meets the tub or shower. Before long the vinyl flooring or tiles begin to loosen. Even worse, the plywood subfloor can delaminate and rot.

Signs of trouble:

• Curling vinyl flooring or loose tiles next to the tub.
• Peeling paint or flaking, chalky-looking wood finish near the shower.
• Water stains on the ceiling or joists below.
• Mold spots on the wall or floor near the tub or shower.
• If you use a curtain, look for standing water on the floor after you shower.

How to find the source:

• If you have a shower door, splash water all around the door and frame. Leaks around the frame may take five minutes or longer to show up.
• If the door has rubber gaskets or a rubber door sweep, check them for gaps.
• Also check for any gaps in the caulk where the shower or tub meets the flooring
• Contact us at 909-984-3544 or www.SERVPROnorthwestontario.com

Mold V. Mildew

5/21/2018 (Permalink)

Mold

Mold and Mildew

Mold Mildew Appearance

Tips for Cleaning Mold and Mildew

CALL SERVPRO of Northwest Ontario !!!

909-984-3544

Preparing for Summer

5/21/2018 (Permalink)

1 Say goodbye to winter
Simple, seasonal interior updates are key to making your home fit for summer, creating that feeling that winter is a world away. Update your space with lighter, brighter accessories. Extinguish anything that evokes heat – fire logs, heavy rugs and draperies, heaters, and thick blankets. Replace candles with vessels for fresh cut flowers and trade in your winter mats with lightweight white ones. Winter will be out of sight and, thankfully, out of mind.

2 Make room for popsicles
Empty your freezer and defrost it fully, melting any icy build-up. Do an audit of what’s in there – certain products lose texture and flavour over time, so chuck out anything that’s been in there over a year (less time for leftovers, ground meats and chicken). With the extra freezer capacity, you can be stocked up on freezies and burgers.

3 Be ready to party
Be the diva of patio parties with a variety of outdoor entertaining accoutrements. Make sure your blender is margarita-ready and that your cookbooks have the mojito, cold canapé and summer dip recipes flagged. Invest in accident-proof dishware from serving trays to drinking glasses (think melamine).

4 Freshen your airflow    
Ensure a cool, cool summer – not to mention a lower energy output – with a few simple air-flow updates. Turn your ceiling fan to counter-clockwise (the blades are tilted upward as they spin) to push air downward and create a stronger draft. Replace your air conditioner’s filter or have your central air professionally looked at. You’ll breathe easy having to deal with air-cooling malfunctions in the sweltering summer heat.  

5 Put your painting pants on
Summer is the perfect time to take on a sweaty project, and update your deck, door, trim, picnic table or Muskoka chairs with a fresh coat of paint or a bright colour update. Sand the wood, piece by piece, of its existing paint and then coat with a primer. When fully dry, paint with a durable exterior paint. For help on choosing exterior paint colours, check out our expert tips.

6 Invite summer indoors
Interiors can be made summery with sun-kissed windows that have sparkling-clean glass and fresh, breezy window treatments. Thoroughly wash your windows – inside and out. You’ll need a cloth or brush to tackle some of the larger outdoor debris, an equal parts water-vinegar solution and a squeegee -- and do away with winter drapes. Clean and store those thick, heavy, double-layered draperies and replace them with thin sheers in light, airy colours that embrace the summer sun.

7 Stock up for summer 
Stock up on summer essentials. Fill your medicine cabinet with sun block, aloe and insect repellent. In your linen closet, store picnic blankets and fresh and fluffy beach towels. In the pantry, keep a picnic basket prepped with colourful linens and biodegradable dishware at the ready. Fill your garage with backyard sports items such as a croquet, badminton or lawn bowling set.

8 Flip the shed
Goodbye to your snow blower, shovels, salt and skis – it’s time to bring forward your summer sports gear, lawnmower, fertilizer, hose, sprinkler and garden tools. Have them upfront, organized and easily accessible, so you won’t be rummaging through the remnants of winter to access to your outdoor summer needs. 

9 Make your deck your favourite room in the house
Create an outdoor extension of your indoor living space: comfortable, clean and filled with your favourite things. The fun part of patio cleaning is that it can mostly be tackled with warm, soapy water, a scrub brush and a hose – your deck, outdoor upholstery, furniture (depending, of course, on the finish), walkways, and even your hammock (read our great tips on cleaning outdoor furniture). After cleaning and arranging your furniture, create a moonlight mood with outdoor lights, and punctuate the space with flowering planters, candles and pillows.

10 Bring out your BBQ brawn
Muscle up and give your barbecue a deep clean. Disconnect the gas, disassemble the barbeque from roof to tray (according to manufacturer instructions) and clean with soapy water. Tackle the grill separately with a hard-wire brush – use oven or barbeque cleaner on particularly tough build-up. After cleaning, heat the barbeque, letting it run on high for about 10 minutes, before it cools fully. Finally, wipe the grates with a thin layer of cooking oil. Your grill may not sparkle like new (and nor should it), but you and your guests will enjoy better-tasting burgers!