Mold? No Problem!

10/27/2023 (Permalink)

Sometimes water losses and leaks can happen without us knowing, and when these problems go unnoticed it can cause additional damage such as mold growth. When you first see signs of these problems, be sure to call in the professionals for an assessment, report, and expertise advice on how to handle the situation- SERVPRO! Our mold certified technicians will be there when you need us and are only one phone call away.  

As soon as our crew is one site for the assessment, they will begin to determine the origin of the moisture that has caused the mold to begin to grow. Based on this finding they can help determine if there are any repairs that are necessary and what the next steps look like. If the mold growth is extensive (over 10 sq ft), we will recommend having a testing company to come out and gather multiple samples of the mold growth to determine the specific type, as well as put together a protocol for remediation to ensure that there no mold growth activity after our remediation is complete.  

Some of the standard mold remediation service we perform is containment of the affected area to prevent mold spores from spreading, HEPA cleaning the studs affected, and encapsulating which is the process of using a mold resistant paint to prevent the spreading of the mold- as seen in photos below.  

If you have any doubt that there may be mold in your home, whether it be from an odd smell, visible mold growth, bubbling on drywall, paint, or other surfaces- give the experts a call in the mold remediation field for a consultation so that you have peace of mind in your home! Give SERVPRO a call- 247/365 days a year! (630) 377-7062 

3 Things You Should Know About Mold

5/24/2019 (Permalink)

Mold can grow almost anywhere

How You Can Discover Black Mold in Your Home

At one point or another, it is likely that you have encountered mold in your Batavia,IL  home, whether it was growing on your walls, in your air conditioner or even in a container of long-forgotten leftovers. Here are a few pieces of useful information that might help if you discover black mold in your home.

1. What is Mold?

Mold is a fungus that comes in many varieties. Their colors, smells and other properties vary from species to species. Most types of mold are not harmful, though some can cause discoloration and an unpleasant, musty odor in your home. Black mold is one of these.

2. What Causes It to Grow in Your Home?

One of the reasons that mold is such a common problem is that it is present nearly everywhere. Mold spores in your home can begin to spread quickly when exposed to moisture, as dark and damp environments are where they thrive. For this reason, you can sometimes find mold lurking inside your showers and sinks. If you have any leaks in your home, this can contribute to black mold growth as well.

3. How Can You Get Rid of It?

The truth is that you can’t truly remove mold from your home completely. Mold cleanup can only remove the excessive growth that has formed. You can prevent mold spores from spreading by maintaining your home to prevent broken pipes and repairing any leaks as soon as you spot them. Regularly cleaning your home, particularly in areas with a lot of built-up moisture, can help as well.

While mold is usually not harmful, that doesn’t mean that you want it around. It doesn’t look or smell nice and it can be a pain to get rid of. If you have an infestation in your home, you might want to hire a professional cleanup and restoration service to perform mold remediation. They can remove the growth and help prevent it from returning.

St. Charles Home Health: The Key to Mold Control is Moisture Control

2/20/2019 (Permalink)

Moldy Kitchen Cabinets.

Have you scrubbed, scoured, and cleaned moldy spots in your home only to find the pesky mold growing back or growing in another area of your home? The problem may be high moisture levels. Mold spores are a natural part of the environment and are always present in your home, but when humidity levels are high, or there’s a water source, such as a leak, mold begins to grow. The key to controlling mold infestations is controlling moisture in your home. SERVPRO of St. Charles are mold remediation experts, and we would like to share with you the best moisture control tips to help prevent mold growth in your home.

The Key to Mold Control 

Check humidity levels indoors.

Mold thrives in high humidity environments, and the best way to know the moisture level is to measure it. Hygrometers are hand-held devices that measure moisture levels in the air. They can be used both indoors and out, and are found at hardware stores often near the thermometers. Hygrometers can be built into other appliances such as humidifiers and dehumidifiers. If the humidity level is more than 50%, take extra measures, such as those described below, to reduce moisture levels and reduce the chance of mold growth.

Use a humidistat to control humidity levels indoors.

While the hygrometer measures the moisture levels in the air, a humidistat controls it. Commonly built into other appliances like air conditioners and dehumidifiers, humidistats regulate indoor moisture to your preferred preset level. Appliances with humidistats often come with a higher price tag, but they are often worth the additional cost since the average humidity levels are about 60% in the St. Charles, Batavia, and Geneva area.

Use your air conditioner to reduce humidity.

If you don’t have a humidistat, you can use your air conditioner to help dry out the air. Instead of running cold air all day, program your a/c to run at 72 degrees for about 2 hours before sunrise and at 85 degrees the rest of the day. Opening windows and using fans are also helpful, however if humidity is already high outdoors, it’s best to use your air conditioner for air circulation and moisture control.

Use your exhaust fans.

Moisture levels can rise quickly in your kitchen and bathroom. Make sure that the exhaust fans are in good working order and clean. Range hoods can get clogged with grease that prevents optimum ventilation so be sure to clean it often.

Correct leaks quickly…even small ones.

It may be tempting to place a bucket under a slow leak and tend to it later, but any excess moisture in the home invites mold growth. Buckets overflow, leaks are forgotten or get worse, and before you realize it, you have water damage and mold growing in your home. As soon as you find a leak, fix it and promptly dry any wet areas. If water damage is extensive, hire a trusted water damage restoration company, such as St. Charles SERVPRO, to do the clean up and repairs for you.

Controlling moisture levels in the home takes effort, but it’s worth it. Mold infestations inside the home can negatively affect health and cause costly damages−damages that can be avoided or lessened if moisture control measures are taken. For a thorough inspection of Batavia water damage and possible mold growth, call us at St. Charles SERVPRO. Also servicing the Geneva area, St. Charles SERVPRO is the mold remediation expert, and we look forward to helping you achieve a clean and mold-free home.

The Truth About What You Need To Do With Belongings Affected by Mold Damage

1/22/2019 (Permalink)

Since mold likes to attach itself to a large number of different types of surfaces, your personal belongings may be affected as well.

The Truth About What You Need To Do With Belongings Affected by Mold Damage

If you’ve recently discovered mold in your home in St. Charles, IL you might be devastated to discover that the extent of the damage goes beyond the structure of your home. Since mold likes to attach itself to a large number of different types of surfaces, your personal belongings may be affected as well. The good news is that mold cleaning is possible for many different types of items around your home!

The Inspection Process

When a mold remediation specialist surveys the damage caused by mold to your home, they will inspect all the items affected. Often, the first step involves identifying whether items are porous, semi-porous, or non-porous. Porous surfaces have holes that quickly absorb water or other particles. Here are some examples of porous items:

• Paper
• Books
• Carpet
• Cardboard
• Mattresses
• Stuffed animals 

Porous items that have experienced mold damage require a more extensive cleaning process, so they are often thrown out if they are not of any value. However, items of sentimental value or important documents can be restored using special mold cleaning methods. It is important to consider the cost of cleaning particular items when determining whether you should keep them or throw them away.

Item Restoration

Once the items you want to have restored are identified, the restoration specialist will identify the best cleaning method depending on type of object affected. While non-porous surfaces can often be washed using dry and wet cleaning, spray and wipe cleaning, or abrasive and immersion cleaning, some items require special handling. For example, electronics, documents, photographs, and upholstery fabrics will go through a specialized mold cleaning process that will prevent further damage or corrosion from occurring.

While there is no guarantee that all of your items can be salvaged, it is certainly a relief to learn that you don’t need to throw out everything you own that has been affected by mold! With the help of a mold remediation specialist, you will be able to restore many of your most valuable belongings.

Mold And Your Home

12/7/2018 (Permalink)

Mold On Kitchen Cabinets

What You Need To Know About Mold and Your Home

Mold and mildew are common nuisances for homeowners in Geneva. Whether the mold growth is caused by a slight rise in humidity or by water damage from a leak or flood, fungus is a frequent problem in our community. If not taken care of properly, mold can have serious effects on both home and health. That is why it is vital that you call on the experts in mold removal in Geneva.

These are items concerned homeowners need to know about mold in the home:

Mold Growth Causes Health Problems

Mold growth in the home can negatively affect the health of your family and pets. If you suspect that mold exposure is causing health problems, seek help from your medical professional first and also call a trusted mold remediation service in Geneva to get your home thoroughly inspected and restored back to healthy living standard.

Mold Growth Causes Structural Damage

Mold growth is not only unsightly but, in fact, can cause significant damage to the integrity of your home. The damage can be in the form of weakened drywall, structural beams, and ceiling joists. Mold growth from water damage in Geneva is something that concerns our community as we are frequently affected by flooding from local waterways. After the water has subsided and the outer structure of your home has dried, mold growth behind walls, under carpeting and other hidden places in your home is still possible. It is important to have your home thoroughly and professionally inspected after water damage has occurred to ensure that your home is mold-free and healthy.

Geneva SERVPRO is the trusted leader in our community when it comes to mold remediation and water damage restoration. We understand the challenges and have the expertise to quickly and fully restore your home. Beginning with a quick phone call, our professional team will initiate the process of assessing the damage and immediately get to work on eliminating the effects of mold to your home.

Swamp Cooler Maintenance Is a Key To Mold Prevention

9/14/2018 (Permalink)

You can prevent mold damage in your St. Charles, IL home

Swamp coolers provide an economical way to keep your house cool, but they introduce moisture into an otherwise dry home. If you have a properly maintained cooler, monitor the humidity levels and are on the lookout for mold or a musty smell, you are probably going to be mold-free. If you have a leaking swamp cooler and it goes unnoticed, you could have problems. Swamp coolers can leak for several reasons.

• The plumbing connections to the cooler could be loose or corroded.
• The pads are loose, have become dislodged or need to be replaced.
• The float valve that maintains the water level allows the water in the reservoir to overflow.
• The reservoir is cracked or otherwise damaged, allowing water to leak into the house.
• The residue from hard water evaporation negatively affects its operation.

Have Your Swamp Cooler Checked Regularly

By the time you realize that you have a leaking swamp cooler, you may already have a mold problem. With swamp coolers, the best approach to leaks is to prevent them or catch them early. Schedule an appointment to have your cooler inspected and tested. That would also be a good time to have the pad changed and look for evidence of leaks.

Do Not Let Your Swamp Cooler Operate Unattended
This is not to say that you should turn it off before going to the grocery store and turn it back on when you return. This refers to times when you are away, and no one is keeping an eye on your house because changes in the weather or failure of your cooler can change the amount of moisture being delivered into your house.

You Don't Need a Swamp Cooler To Have a Mold Problem
A leaking swamp cooler is only one of many problems that can trigger mold growth. Mold problems can occur anywhere that mold can find moisture and food, including St. Charles,IL . If you have a mold problem, it’s best to have nearby mold removal experts address your problem quickly and completely.

Maintain Your Swamp Cooler To Prevent Mold

5/13/2018 (Permalink)

In hot, dry climates, swamp coolers, or evaporative coolers, are a great way to cool your home. As the water in the cooler evaporates, it absorbs heat from the air and adds water vapor. However, in St. Charles, IL, where humidity sometimes rises, it’s important to pay attention to the barometer. If humidity is too high, the water won’t evaporate and mold growth can develop in your swamp cooler. If this happens, it’s critical you clean the mold out of your evaporative cooler before running it again.

To avoid mold problems from a dirty or leaking swamp cooler, it’s important to do regular maintenance on your unit. Follow these basic guidelines to keep your cooler working and prevent mold.

1. Check Water Levels Regularly

Check the water level in your evaporative cooler regularly. If the water level is too low, your cooler may not be able to cool the air effectively. If the water level is too high, a leaking swamp cooler can become a source of chronic moisture in your home, creating the perfect conditions for mold to grow.

2. Keep the Exterior Clean

You should wipe down the outside of your swamp cooler every couple of weeks. A surface build-up of dust or grime can interfere with its cooling abilities. Wiping it down can also clean off any pollen spores that may have settled there, waiting for the right conditions to grow.

3. Clean the Water Tank

It’s a good idea to clean out the water tank periodically. This removes any build up of sediment, lime or organic material that might serve as a breeding ground for mold.

4. Change the Cooling Pads

The cooling pads are one of the first places mold can grow. Inspect them regularly and replace them if they’re cracked or dirty. If you notice a musty smell coming from your swamp cooler, you may have mold. Changing the pads and cleaning the tank should help.

While swamp coolers can be an economical cooling option in St. Charles, IL, some care is needed. Don’t run your cooler on humid days and perform regular maintenance to prevent a dirty or leaking cooler from causing mold to grow.

Click here for more on St. Charles.

4 Mold Prevention Tips for Restaurants

4/26/2018 (Permalink)

Take these steps in preventing Mold in your St Charles restaurant

Restaurants are prime real estate for mold. Food service environments have plenty of organic materials and moisture in play, both of which are necessary for mold growth. If you want to prevent mold contamination in your restaurant, you should follow these four steps under ordinary conditions and after any water damage.

1. Take measures to eliminate excess moisture. Mold must have moisture in order to grow. If you are aware of places where water tends to pool up, take steps to prevent it from doing so or to clean up spills or leaks as soon as possible.

2. Install proper ventilation throughout the restaurant. In addition to sufficient hood venting for your hot line, you should also have a functional HVAC system. Ventilation can help to filter food particles out of the air and prevent mold from forming. If a severe leak occurs, use fans and a dehumidifier to reduce high humidity and make the area less prone to mold.

3. Keep surfaces clean and identify areas at risk for mold growth. Mold may flourish in places that you don't regularly look. Make a special mold checklist that involves cleaning areas that may be at risk for developing mold undetected, such as the underside of sinks or the back sides of coolers or other refrigerated preparation equipment. Employees should follow this protocol on a regular basis.

4. Cycle out old stock to prevent mold in food storage areas. You should try to avoid having moldy food in your walk-in cooler or other food storage areas. Mold can cross-contaminate food items that are not properly sealed and stored.

These four steps are intended to help you prevent mold from becoming a problem in your restaurant in St. Charles, IL. If you follow all of these steps and still encounter mold growth, you should contact a service that specializes in commercial mold remediation.

Click here for more on St. Charles.

Mold Won’t Go Away on Its Own – You Need To Give It a Helping Hand

3/28/2018 (Permalink)

Mold Ceiling Damage in Geneva Home

Black mold has staying power, and even after you’ve dried out the problem area and removed any visible signs of mold growth, you still have a problem. Mold cleanup entails much more than drying out the mold; it also involves these tasks:

• Removing spores
• Replacing affected materials with new ones
• Implementing preventative measures

If you recently discovered mold in your home, the problem may be much more extensive than you initially thought. Once you have dealt with the initial source of the problem, reach out to your [City, State], mold remediation team for help eradicating the problem for good.

Professional Mold Remediation Is Key

If the moisture problem that caused the mold growth was allowed to continue for more than 24 to 48 hours (which is often the case with roof leaks, leaking pipes, and sump pump failures), chances are that the black mold spores have already spread beyond the original site. If this is the case, it would be in your best interests to reach out to a professional mold cleanup team.

The professionals have the technology necessary to identify affected areas without busting down walls, and the equipment on hand to remediate mold in an as uninvasive way as possible. Many homeowners fail to remove all present mold spores because they limit cleanup efforts the site of the moisture problem. The professionals, however, perform remediation efforts at all sites where their detection meters indicate growth.

Professional remediation often includes the following efforts:

• Containing the problem area so that further contamination is not possible
• Drying out and airing out the contained area
• Inspecting and cleaning out HVAC systems
• Removing mold and mold infested contents
• Cleaning materials and belongings
• Restoring your home to pre-mold condition

If you discover black mold in your home, it’s important to note that DIY cleanup efforts rarely work. If you want to eliminate the problem for good and ensure it doesn’t return, you need to work with a professional Geneva, IL, mold cleanup team.

Visit us at http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information. 

3 Ways to Prevent Mold From Taking Over Your Rental

2/19/2018 (Permalink)

Owning a rental home in Geneva, IL is a great source of side income, but it requires the same amount of maintenance and care as the home you live in yourself. This ownership means taking precautions with mold prevention, learning what to do in the event of mold growth and how to properly handle any water damage that may arise from moisture problems or environmental hazards. Read on to learn three ways to prevent mold from taking over your rental property.

1. Keep the heating system low, but try not to completely turn it off. Large heating bills aside, leaving your heating system on, even at a lower temperature, can help ward off the possibility of mold reproduction. If water leaks or excessive moisture are present in the home, high heat can increase the humidity in these areas, which is the perfect environment for mold to grow in. However, turning off the system completely can also bring about temperature fluctuations, which would produce condensation or invite added dampness to the infested space. Overall, leaving the heat on but at a lower temperature is the happy medium you want for mold prevention.

2. If mold is apparent due to a moisture issue, turn off the water immediately. Growing mold relies on water as one of its main sources of survival. Shutting off the water supply inhibits mold from spreading and keeps greater damage from occurring in the home due to leaky windows or plumbing.

3. Ensure the home has proper ventilation. Make sure that areas of high humidity like the kitchens and bathrooms have exhaust fans. Check to see that any laundry facilities also vent outdoors properly and keep dehumidifiers in the home if moisture is a continuous problem.

When your rental home in Geneva, IL experiences any type of mold growth or water damage, call professionals for further advice on how to proceed with remediation. Once the cleanup is addressed and completed, follow these three methods for mold prevention to avoid any moisture problems in the future. Visit http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information on mold.

The Best Ways To Prepare For a Flood

12/1/2017 (Permalink)

The Best Ways To Prepare For a Flood

Most people who are involved in a flooding event are not prepared for it. Catastrophic storms or the breaking of a major plumbing line in a commercial building will usually happen quickly, often without much advance notice. The better a company is prepared for a major water event, the more likely it will escape from it without major damage. Here are four tips that could help minimize flood damage in St. Charles, Illinois.

Keep Gutters and Storm Drains Clean. This is a small and easy step to take, but it can have large implications. If the gutters or storm drains are clogged, they won’t be able to do their job, which is to carry water away quickly. A company should always make sure it has an annual or semi-annual cleaning of the gutters to facilitate the draining of water from the building.

Have a Plan. When it comes to potential storm damage, a well-prepared company will know who to call in the case of a flooding emergency. This is especially important because the quicker a water damage restoration company can respond to an emergency, the better it can prevent costly repairs. Knowing what company to call and having that contact number in a handy space will save precious time.

Protect Valuable Items. If a company owns any especially valuable items, such as rare art or family or company heirlooms, it would be a good idea to have those assets in a place where they would not be susceptible to water damage.

Invest in Training. Training employees on how to act during and after floods can pay big dividends. Employees should know what the most important steps are before the experts arrive on scene, such as operating sump pumps and vacuums.

Flooding is not something that most companies are prepared for. However, keeping these four tips in mind can reduce the damage to a commercial building. Visit http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information on flood damage.

Questions about Mold Answered

8/31/2017 (Permalink)

Questions about Mold Answered

Remediation of mold damage is invaluable for mold in home or commercial mold damage. There isn't typically a short term fix. Mold spores can expand and eventually become a long term issue. Those spots you see associated with black mold, fungus or mildew aren't as innocent as they seem to be. It can lead to devastating financial consequences for home or business owners. There's a lot of misinformation about mold growth and mold damage out there these days. Here are answers to some typically asked questions by those concerned with their first sign of mold.

Can a restoration company provide true mold removal?
Mold damage can be costly in mold in home or commercial mold damage situations. A restoration company has enough experience to not only investigate the origins of the mold but to also thoroughly remove the issue. They can ultimately find the source which leads to resolution of the entire issue.

Does mold growth expand through the course of time?
Mold growth does absolutely expand if left untreated. Mold growth can expand because spores thrive in humidity and moisture. More of that could lead to what is known as dry rot. Dry rot happens when wood in your structure gets infected with mold. This weakens the wood. It decays and that leaves the entire structure compromised. The worst case scenario is the wood decays enough and an entire rebuild of the dwelling needs to take place. The drastic costs associated with a complete rebuild can perhaps be avoided with a simple consultation from a restoration company in the early stages of mold.

I have mold growth behind wall. How does a restoration company find that?
Experts who have battled different types of mold for years have professional grade equipment. They can find the origin of the mold. Mold growth behind wall can be infuriating for those just noticing the smelly odor. Those with mold in home or commercial mold damage may be tempted to tear down the walls to find the source of the problem. A professional will be able to diagnose where the mold is occurring and how to properly remove it.

The smelly odor is outrageous. How do I safely remove it?
Deodorization is the removal of the smelly odor. Professionals in mold removal have deodorization methods unavailable to the general public. They have professional grade equipment so deodorization actually works. Mold growth behind wall is often hidden but provides that awful aroma.
The goal is to bring the smell back to normal. Many consumers will notice the mildew smell won't go away with many over the counter products. That's where deodorization differs with a restoration company.

How does mitigation or remediation actually work?
Mitigation is just the lessening of the actual damage of mold. Remediation is the complete removal which involves sanitizing, deodorization and activities to prevent further occurrences. Either way, home or business owners will struggle to figure out ways to properly do mitigation or remediation on their own. Do it yourself videos are abundantly available but they offer no professional grade equipment and usually short term solutions to what could be long term problems. The difference between what a restoration company can offer and what an individual can do is based on experience, knowledge and professional grade equipment. It's also based on knowing which type of mold they are dealing with. Is it black mold? Is it one of the many other variations? Knowledge is power when dealing with mold spores.

Can't I just clean the fungus and mildew myself?
People with mold in home or commercial mold damage might assume it's safe to remove fungus and mildew damage on their own. While this is possible, it's also not rectifying the source of the issue. A person could find they have to clean this same issue over and over again over the next few months or years because the source of the problem was never addressed. A leaky pipe in the interior could be causing the issue. The household HVAC system could be the issue. A leak in a roof could also be the culprit. Black mold could result from that leak. Poor ventilation is also a detriment and leads to mold. Mold damage comes in all shapes and sizes and has varying sources. Mold removal needs to also be addressed in that manner. Home or business owners don't want the fungus to eventually lead to dry rot or black mold. A smelly odor could also be present and that's never a good sign.

Is dry rot irreversible?
Dry rot can be a big problem and can lead to big financial loss. It can lead to a complete reconstruction of the home or business if it advances. That's why mitigation of the issue as soon as possible is important. Wood can decay and hurt the infrastructure of any building. It can happen with mold growth behind wall so it's hidden. The good news is the issue can be resolved if stopped in time. Mold removal by experts helps alleviate the issues and can prevent further damage.
Visit http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information on mold.

Professional Mold and Mildew Removal

7/25/2017 (Permalink)

Professional Mold and Mildew Removal

Mold damage can affect your home or office after water damage and become a serious problem very quickly. It is important to know the steps you can take if your home is suffering from mold growth. Contact a mold remediation and restoration company to help you with mold removal.

Mold is a type of fungus and it survives by consuming dead, organic matter such as dry leaves and wood. Spores - small, lightweight "seeds" - can be found anywhere there is a source of moisture, both indoors and outdoors. They are common and they travel through the air, so it is easy for one to find its way into your home or office. If one lodges in a suitable environment it can grow into a colony within 24-48 hours.

Thousands of different mold growths exist. Some molds are allergens and can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, nose, or respiratory system. Black mold is a well-known health concern and should be addressed immediately.

Risks for Mold Damage

If your home experiences water damage you may be at risk for mold growth. Mold can get out of hand very quickly. It is important to manage any compromising situations as soon as they arise. Consider mold removal if your home experiences water damage due to:

Flooding
Leaks from plumbing, washing machine or air conditioner
Sink or bathtub overflow
Sewage backup
Dampness or humidity


Identifying Mold Fungus and Dry Rot

Mold fungus can be identified by its appearance and smelly odor. The first sign of mold is discoloration on the affected area. Usually, mold presents as gray or green and it has a smelly odor. Dry rot can often be found around the mold growth or as a result of it.

Black mold fungus is dangerous and can cause serious health problems. Black mold appears blackish-green in color, has a smelly odor and has a slimy texture similar to paint. Get the area affected by black mold treated immediately by a mold removal company.

What to do When You Find Mold or Dry Rot

Consult a professional mold remediation and restoration company as soon as you find mold in your home or if you need commercial mold damage treatment. The restoration company will carefully inspect your property and assess the severity of mold in the home before determining what equipment and resources are needed for mold removal, cleanup, and deodorization.

Visit http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information on mold.

What Everyone Should Understand About Mold

6/21/2017 (Permalink)

What Everyone Should Understand About Mold

Microscopic mold spores exist in outdoors and indoors, and often, removing all mold damage from a business or home is not possible. It's so tricky that any business or home can be easily affected by mold damage; due to water source leaks, for instance, plumbing or roof leaks. And commercial mold damage spreads quickly through entire properties in as little as three days and cause allergies as well as irritation among other health effects.

Types of Mold

Almost one hundred species of molds have the potential of creating a disaster. The following are the common mold in a home: Cladosporium, Alternaria, Aspergillus, Stachybotrys chartarum and Penicillium, fungus, mildew. Anyone suspecting mold damage should never try to burn them.

It is advisable to protect your family from burning mold in home may cause air contamination and smelly odors that may lead to more adverse effects. Always remember that mold is present in all places, either outdoors or molds in home. Since mold spores are microscopic, they can float through the air and gain access into your home via the doors, windows or even through pets and clothing.Besides, mold spores live in moisture and quickly multiply to colonies when water is nearby. Fungus and mildew also generate musty, strong odor, all water and moisture sources have to be addressed. If not, the molds re-occur.

Mold Remediation

Mold removal involves identification and removal of the mold damage from a structure. Mold in home cleanup helps to stop the growth of fungus and mildew through isolation of the damaged parts, removal of moisture sources as well as the elimination of the used parts; to recreate a healthy environment.

Mold removal is performed by commercial mold damage clean up specialists who help to control the associated health risks. Note that using water and bleach does not guarantee success. Fungus and mildew material from the mold in a home have to be separated, and the affected area reconstructed. As such, mold mitigation is a thing for the trained professionals only.

Competent commercial mold damage agencies know all the science of mold and they are professionals with many years experience in mold removal. Mold removal is all about bringing back the mold level back to original levels and air deodorization. Commercial mold damage remediation involves the following procedures:

Assessment requires professional who come to your business are or home to identify the type of mold and the source of the mold issue. This is where the professionals address the source of moisture problem by cutting off or isolating the area from the rest of your business or home.

Filtration is where professionals utilize pumps or filters to clean the surrounding area from previous air pollution by the mold particles. At this stage, even the experts maintain high safety standards by wearing masks and goggles to reduce any exposure to the airborne pollutants and other smelly odors.

At the Removal stage, any affected personal belongings or building materials are removed through deodorization. All materials are then disposed of off since mold survives on almost anything solid. Removal ensures that the mold does not return in the future. Some of the materials are even washed with antimicrobial cleaners and the treated areas sealed to provide extra mold and water resistance. The experts also clean the air and heating conditioning systems for deodorization from smelly odors.

It is very significant that the repaired and cleaned to maintain dryness. Note that moisture is the original problem, so proper mold remediation specialists also address moisture management for your home or business.

Restoration

Mitigation process immediately starts after all the contaminated materials are eliminated. The experts clean and replace the earlier contaminated ones. Experts have also explored all signs of visible mold, smelly odors, and water damage to guarantee successful cleanup.

But each mold mitigation scenario can have different exclusive resolutions, so it is always advisable to keep in touch with the nearest mold remediation and mitigation agency. Also, take care when hiring companies or contractors. Most companies tend to confuse mold remediation and mold removal. Seek for that company that has a lot of experience in mold remediation and deodorization.
Visit http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information on mold damage.

Mold Damage Can Be Corrected

6/2/2017 (Permalink)

Mold Damage Can Be Corrected

Mold damage is something that can occur in any home or business. Many people do not realize they have this problem until there is a smelly odor that continues to grow stronger. If a Mold removal plan is not put in place, there can be damage to property, food spoilage and a number of other problems

Mold is a fungus that can quickly spreads from one area to another. Composed of small spores, it first presents itself in a fuzzy appearance or a black discoloration. This commonly appears on bread and other foods but it can also appear on walls, clothing and other areas causing serious damage property. There are thousands of types of fungus that can cause mold in home damage as well as commercial mold damage.

A common example of this type of damage appears in mildew. Mildew often occurs on clothing or other things that are wet, or damp, for a long period of time. It appears in dark spots and has a smelly odor and is difficult for simple deodorization to remove.

Home studies have found that carpet mold is usually due to extreme humidity and dirt. This is common on carpets that are located in a basement or other areas where moisture is present. What is unusual is that they found dirt contributes to Mold damage because it not only contains mold spores but contains moisture as well. This makes it perfect location for breeding mildew and mold.

Floods are a common reason for cases of commercial mold damage or mold in home. When this happens it is imperative that a commercial flood cleanup company be contacted. They have the equipment and materials to insure complete Mold removal and Mold damage repair as well as deodorization.

The business world is especially subject to commercial mold damage. With their warehouses and other storage units accumulating moisture, it is a perfect location for mold to develop. As a result these companies use every Mold damage mitigation possible to keep these areas mold free.

Mold mitigation is not an easy task. In many cases, it will be necessary to bring in a professional mold remediation company. These professionals have the knowledge, supplies, equipment and deodorization methods needed to remove any smelly odor or fungus that is present.

A mold remediation company will supply workers who dress in white suits, respirators, goggles and booties. They will spray the area with an EPA-approved biocide. The next day they will return and spray the fungus with encapsulant, a material that eradicates the mold spores that remain. They will not only spray the affected moldy area but the surrounding area as well. This is a preferred mitigation method when severe mold in home or commercial mold damage is involved.

Mold mitigation can sometimes be done by using simple methods if it is caught early. You can find various simple mixtures on the internet that are appropriate for the removal of mold, fungus and mildew. Of course, the first step is to get rid of any leaks or standing water and then drying the area using fans or other means.

Steps for correcting mold in home problems include:

• Isolate the area where the mildew or mold resides

• Remove and discard all materials or items that cannot be salvaged

• Be sure any special items, such as leather, are protected with plastic wrap

• Check out your HVAC system to be sure there is no mold present

• Thoroughly vacuum the contaminated area (put vacuum bag in secure plastic and discard)

• Scrub or wire brush all mold or mildew areas

• Make sure the entire area is thoroughly decontaminated and clean

• Dry thoroughly

When these mold removal remediation steps are followed you will have gotten rid of the smelly odor and restored your home or business to its original condition.

Mold damage can occur in any environment where there is dampness. As a rule, when simple remediation steps are followed it is not difficult to remove. Of course, in case of a flood, broken pipe or other catastrophes, it is important to call in professionals for mold removal, deodorization and cleanup. Visit http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information on mold removal and remediation.

Advice for Home and Business Owners for Mold Removal

4/28/2017 (Permalink)

Advice for Home and Business Owners for Mold Removal

Mold is a microorganism that typically grows on organic matter. This substance typically grows on old food and within nature. However, mold is also known to grow inside of residential homes as well. Once this happens, a homeowner will have to find a way to clean their residence.

If they do not, microbial growth could overrun the residence. If this takes place, an owner will usually have to get rid of the property. The following information will explain the best way for a person to eliminate microbial growth from their home.

Hire a Professional Environmental Hygienist to Check for Fungus Rot

An environmentalist is an individual that is responsible for assessing structures, air supplies and nourishment center for potential problems with microbial growth. These individuals use a set of highly effective scientific processes to get rid of mold.

An environmental hygienist will come into a home and perform the following actions:

• They will do an immediate check of a residence.

• An environmental hygienist will then perform tests to determine if mold and other dangerous microorganisms are present.

• If microorganisms are found, the environmental hygienist will then take steps to remove deadly microbial growth.

• The hygienist will then remove all occupants out of the home and then inform them about how these microbes can make an impact.

• Once the microbes are removed, a hygienist will then explain to the property owner about the best way to keep the residence free from these dangerous microorganisms.

Flooding and the Growth of Mold

Flooding is one of the biggest contributors to the growth of decay, mildew and fungus. When a residence is soaked with water and the water is not taken out of the home; then fungus and mildew has a chance to rapidly grow.

Moisture contributes to rot. Bacteria growth springs up from this condition as well. Flood mitigation and mold cleanup is often necessary to get rid of fungus and mildew. Fungus and mildew typically start to form on basement walls when a home is flooded. Now, if a home is emerged in extremely deep water then the 1st level of a structure will also be exposed to excessive amounts of flood damage as well.

Mold Cleanup and Flood Mitigation

Mold cleanup and flood mitigation is often necessary to restore a home to livable condition. If this does not happen, the microbes that is present within an environment will spread ruining a home’s foundation and walls. Flood mitigation experts can take the water out of a home before getting rid of the fungal growth. Mold cleanup focuses on eliminating fungal growth to make a residence a livable place again.

There are many steps that are normally taken to make a home or business free from bacterial infection. These steps will help a person to keep their home or business in tact and to make them safe and sanitary dwellings. Most cities have flood mitigation and mold cleanup services for commercial businesses and residential dwellings. Visit http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information on mold removal and remediation.

I'm a Homeowner and I Have Mold!

3/30/2017 (Permalink)

I'm a Homeowner and I Have Mold!           
                        
            Homeowners in the St. Charles and Batavia, IL areas will
notice when mild or mildew is building up in their house.  They will
smell something that is quite off-putting, and they will begin to wonder
 how bad the smell will get.  The odor may come from a fungus or
microbial growth, and this article explains how such things must be
removed from the house as soon as possible.  Cleaning the house is
simple, and removing all traces of a growth is difficult unless someone
has been notified of the problem.  


#1:  What Does The Environmental Hygienist Do?


Mold and mold cleanup services must be managed by someone who is a
professional in the industry, and they will arrive with a work crew who
knows how to help the homeowner when they feel their home has been
overrun with problems.  Illinois residents may experience mold or mildew
 growth when they have had a flood, and they will find it easy to keep
the house clean using the simplest of techniques.  There are special
machines the hygienist will use, and they will continue the work until
the house is cleaned out.


#2:  How Is Each Growth Removed?


Any microbial growth or fungus must be removed as soon as possible, and
the company will send in a team that ensures they have taken out each
bit of the growth that was found.  They will use special tools that are
made to scrub out the growth, and they will use special solvents that
are made to remove all growths.  The toxic nature of many of these
things causes problems that will send someone to the hospital, and the
homeowner will find it simple to keep the house clean once it has been
scrubbed down properly.  


#3:  Allowing Time For Proper Cleanup


The cleanup process will take moments when it is done well, and someone
who is impatient will see their work done improperly.  They must allow
the company quite a lot of time to get the work done, and they will
begin working on the project when the work has been cleared.  They
create a method that will be used to keep the house clean, and they will
 offer updates on their progress.  Progress that is made in cleaning
house will be updated often, and the homeowner will know how clean their
 home is in comparison to what they started with.  They will have a
peace of mind that comes with having the house cleaned by a
professional, and the work is certified by the company before they leave
 the house.


#4:  The Cleaning Must Happen Today


Mold cleanup procedures used by the environmental hygienist will ensure
the work happens immediately, and they will step in to ensure the house
has everything removed at once.  There are quite a few homes in St.
Charles and Batavia, IL that may be cleaned up today because the growth
was found earlier in the day, and the company will fit the schedule of
the client to ensure the work is done in a proper time.  Clients may ask
 the company to schedule at any time, and they may move quickly when it
is a dire emergency.


#5:  Ask For An Estimate


The homeowner will receive an estimate from the company that shows what
must be cleaned, how much it costs to clean it and how long it takes to
clean it.  Each step in the process may take some time, and it is all
priced to ensure the homeowner has an idea of how much they must pay.  
Their work is done in a way that is in-line with the industry, and they
will see pricing that is quite fair considering the severity of the
situation.


Everyone who has found a bit of mold in their home must call a company
to clean it out at once.  There is a source in the home that is causing
problems for the homeowner, and anyone who has trouble keeping the house
 clean must learn where the source was created.  They may have a
hygienist out to their Illinois home at once to ensure everything has
been cleaned as it should.            
        
    Visit http://www.SERVPROstcharlesgenevabatavia.com for more information on mold remediation.

Mold

6/9/2016 (Permalink)

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St. Charles Home Care: What is the Difference Between Mold Remediation and Mold Removal?

At a first glance, mold removal and mold remediation may seem like the same service. However, they are very different. Generally speaking, companies that offer “mold removal” do just that−remove visible mold infested areas. Mold remediation services are more extensive and thorough, and in the long run, will save you money. Read on to learn the winning difference of mold remediation over mold removal.

Using advanced technology, St. Charles SERVPRO detects mold infestations and the water source that is feeding the infestation. Mold spores are opportunists, and if the water source is not found and corrected, the mold is sure to return.

Because mold can spread quickly throughout the home, additional measures must be taken to prevent this from happening. Mold remediation services from Geneva SERVPRO include containing the mold with barriers and negative air pressure to ensure that mold spores do not spread to other areas while the clean up is in process. Air scrubbers may also be used to filter the air of excess mold spores.

Carpeting, drywall, and large household items that are permanently damaged by mold need to be disposed of correctly and in a manner approved by the city. Mold remediation services include the disposal of large mold and water damaged items.

While mold removal services stop when all visible signs of mold are taken out of the house, mold remediation services work to restore your home. Using powerful antifungal and disinfectant cleansers, Geneva SERVPRO effectively gets rid of remaining fungal colonies. Household items such as couches and area rugs may be taken to a secondary treatment facility where they can be cleaned in a controlled environment.

Mold damaged areas in the home might need to be rebuilt. Remediation services save you the trouble of finding a trusted contractor by offering commonly needed home restoration services. St. Charles SERVPRO can repair and install carpeting, tiled flooring, and drywall among many other home repair needs as part of the remediation process.

SERVPRO of Geneva also prides itself in restoring some of the toughest cases of mold damage to household and personal items. Musty odors and mold-stained items can be restored to their original state with SERVPRO’s mold remediation service.

Out of sight, out of mind can be true for some things in life, but not for mold. Correcting mold damage to your home takes more than just removing the “visible signs of mold”; it takes remediation. SERVPRO has been the leader in home restoration and mold remediation for over 40 years, and we proudly invite you to compare St. Charles mold remediation services to mold removal.