Why We Must Contain the Mold Then Decontaminate It

3/15/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Contains the Mold then Decontaminates

When you are dealing with any mold damage, there are particular steps and precautions that need to be taken. We at SERVPRO understand this, and we have the experience and knowledge to provide you with the thorough and safe remediation that you would expect from any professional.

Mold is dangerous and can cause adverse health effects if it is not taken care of right away. That is why if you have mold damage in Cleveland of any kind, you should contact our technicians at SERVPRO right away so we can come out and assess the damage, create a plan of remediation and take care of the issue. Below is a list of some of the major steps that are needed in the process of mold remediation. Other steps might be needed, but above all else, safety takes priority over all over procedures, and we pride ourselves in following all safety regulations.

Establishing Containment
Our professionals will first work to contain the mold to make sure it does not spread to areas which are uncontaminated and to protect you and your family. We will be careful not to introduce airflow to areas that are uncontained to avoid spreading contamination to other regions. Building containment can include the following:  

• Installing sheets of plastic for containment barriers.
• Making a negative air pressure in the contaminated area.
• Sealing HVAC vents to stop contamination of the duct system.
• Establishing rooms that are clean and decontamination rooms for entering, leaving and decontaminating materials and equipment.

Removing Mold Contamination
The process for removing mold depends on the kind of surface the mold is on. Materials that are nonporous can usually be cleaned. However, visible mold growth will many times need to be taken out of the home and discarded.

•  We will remove porous materials that are extensively contaminated by mold, active mold growth on porous materials, like carpeting, fabrics, drywall, and insulation is removed by getting rid of the material itself.
• We will get rid of mold from nonporous materials by cleaning. These materials include metals, glass, plastics and the like. Mold can be removed by HEPA vacuuming when we are dealing with a dry surface or by wiping with a damp cloth and detergent solution if it is growing in a layer of soils.
• Materials will be HEPA vacuumed first to remove fragments of loose mold, and then if needed, materials will be agitated to get rid of mold. Semi-porous materials can be cleaned by damp wiping, sanding, wire brushing or other abrasive methods. Semi-porous materials include concrete and wood.
• For long-duration and heavy exposures, wood materials might have to be removed if their structural integrity has been weakened by rot. Dust and settled spores will then be removed, many times by using HEPA vacuuming and damp wiping, even on porous materials.

Everything is then dried to stop any further growth of mold with air movers and dehumidifiers.

Because we at SERVPRO of Bradley County know and follow these procedures, you are aware that you will be getting thorough mold remediation when you give us a call. We can be contacted any time of day, any day of the year by dialing (423) 614-5552.

Early Signs You May Have Mold Damage In Your Cleveland Home

3/8/2019 (Permalink)

Indications You May Have Mold In Your House

While most mold is discovered long after it has grown to a substantial size, there are an indicators of mold growth before serious damage can occur. In some cases, these signs can be a tip-off towards mold growing elsewhere in the home, or simply an early warning of mold in the immediate area. If you've noticed any of these in your home, they may be signs of an early or growing mold colony. To be sure, call SERVPRO if you've noticed any of these in your home.

White Or Discolored Patches
If you've noticed patches or spots on your walls, floors, or ceilings that are white in color or otherwise discolored, this could be an early indicator of mold damage. Most mold colonies start as a fuzzy white patch on a suitable surface, and other patches of discoloration can indicate a mature colony elsewhere in the home. If possible, however, you should try to verify if the patch you've found is, in fact, unusual and fresh. It could be possible that it's misplaced paint or a stain on the wall!

Unusual Smells
Mold can emit a number of unusual smells, to varying degrees of intensity. Most molds, if they do have a smell, are powerful and musty. Some types, however, can emit very different smells, so be aware of unusual odors of all kinds, especially in areas you know have been soaked or wet recently.

Mold In Neighboring Homes
Mold tends to travel between neighboring homes, be it through air displacement or as spores hitch a ride on people and pets. If your neighbors have encountered a severe mold problem, be on high alert in your home as well. Be sure to ask your neighbors how long ago they believe it began to grow, as well, so that you can know if any mold on your property has gotten a chance to mature or not.

SERVPRO of Bradley County is proud to serve the local community with quality, cost-effective and fast damage restoration services. Call us at (423) 614-5552 for our help and mold remediation services.

How Often Should I Clean My Bathroom To Prevent Mold Growth?

2/22/2019 (Permalink)

Follow these daily and weekly tips to avoid mold in your bathroom.

Preventing Mold & Mildew Growth in your Bathroom

Bathrooms are often susceptible to mold growth because if not vented properly, the moisture is trapped- and if you know anything about mold, you know that mold loves trapped moisture. Dust, dirt, and grime sitting on your bathroom’s surfaces can also lead to mold and mildew. Bathrooms should be cleaned weekly, but there are also daily and weekly steps to take in order to avoid mold growth in your bathroom.

Daily:

• Turn the exhaust fan on when showering or keep the door open/open windows in your bathroom for at least 10 minutes to help remove the humidity
• After a shower, squeegee your tiles to remove the excess water
• Empty garbage bins every other day.
• Hang up towels right after a bath or shower. Leaving them on the floor can lead to musty odors

Weekly:

• Clean the toilet bowls
• Clean the shower head, shower, and sink
• Clean the walls and floors; dust, grime and hair is mold food when left on surfaces for too long
• Wash the shower mats in your washer
• Replace hand and bath towels with fresh, clean linens
• Wipe down mirrors
• Wipe handles and faucets- they can hold onto bacteria, too!

Your main objective is to keep moisture levels to a minimum so not to create the perfect breeding ground for mold. By following these tips, you'll have a better control on minimizing mold growth.

Detecting a Mold Problem in Your Home: 3 Steps To Take

9/4/2018 (Permalink)

Mold damage in a Charleston, TN home

Finding and resolving a mold problem in your Charleston, TN, home can be a stressful process. Mold can hide and grow almost anywhere there is moisture present and does not need sunlight to grow or spread. However, if you believe there might be mold in your home, there are a few steps you can take, from calling an indoor environmental specialist to learning how to be an amateur mold detective.

1. Learn What You Can

Before you can detect mold, you might want to learn a little about how it grows and what types of environments it likes so you can search your home with more effectiveness. Mold growth is most common in places where moisture and humidity are present, such as a basement, attic or bathroom. There are different types of mold, and you can spot different strains by their light green, white, dark green or black colors.

2. Become a Mold Detective

Once you feel confident that you can identify mold by sight, take a tour around your home to look for patches that might be hiding out of sight under kitchen cabinets or around a leaky water line in your basement. If you do find mold, it is a good idea to call in an expert that can do a mold test and let you know the best way to deal with the issue.

3. Work With a Professional

An indoor environmental specialist from a mold damage and cleanup service can perform a variety of tests to gauge what type of mold is present in your home, how it got there and what can be done to eradicate it. Be prepared with a list of questions for your mold tech so you can feel confident that you are doing everything possible to have the issue resolved so that mold does not return.

Calling in an indoor environmental specialist can help you decide how to handle mold growing in your Charleston, TN, home. However, there are a few steps you can take on your own to kick start the process and be proactive about ridding your property of fungus.

3 Fast FAQs About Mold

5/16/2018 (Permalink)

Give SERVPRO a call if you notice mold growing in your home.

Treating mold growth in your Cleveland, TN home can be a daunting task. No matter what type you are dealing with or what caused it, eradicating it for good usually requires the assistance of a mold removal and cleanup company. However, asking a few questions about the growth, treatment and nature of this fungi may help you understand it a bit better and even help you prevent another invasion in the future.

1. What Causes Mold To Grow?

Mold spores are common in the air and can be found both indoors and out. However, when they find an environment with high humidity or dampness, they attach themselves to organic matter and multiply rapidly. Since mold does not require sunlight to grow, it can thrive in dark places, such as under cabinets, around toilet bases and in basements. The more moisture there is, the better the chances for mold growth.

2. What is Mold Remediation?

Once mold is discovered in your home and you call in a professional cleanup team, the technicians may perform immediate remediation to ensure the patches do not spread into other rooms. Remediation is meant to isolate the spores, which is usually performed with specialized tools, such as negative air chambers. This type of preventative care allows the technicians to move ahead with tear out work without risking the further spread of fungi spores.

3. How I Can Prevent Mold in the Future?

One of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of mold in the future is to monitor your home’s plumbing and water lines. Water damage can cause leaks and puddling, and since moisture attracts mold spores, preventing these conditions may lower the risk of infestation. Keeping your home’s humidity levels low may also discourage mold from forming.

Calling in a professional mold growth eradication team is a wise choice when you find fungi in your Cleveland, TN home. Being prepared with a short list of questions may allow you understand the cleanup process more thoroughly and help you prevent mold from returning in the future. Visit http://www.SERVPRObradleycounty.com for more information on mold. 

Mold Damage: What You Need To Know About Commercial Insurance

4/24/2018 (Permalink)

If you ever need to call in a mold removal specialist in Cleveland, TN, call SERVPRO of Bradley County.

Every insurance policy is different, so if you have specific questions about your coverage, you should contact your insurance provider for answers. In general, however, most commercial insurance covers remediation of mold damage in Cleveland, TN, under most circumstances, unless the policy has what is known as "limited fungus coverage" or a "fungus exclusion." Understanding what is and isn’t covered under these conditions can help you decide what kind of policy to purchase or help you figure out if you need to get additional mold insurance.

What Is Limited Fungus Coverage?

Limited fungus coverage means that your insurance will cover mold remediation if the mold is a result of issues already covered by your policy. For example, if a water pipe bursts in your wall and burst pipes are covered by your commercial insurance, then any mold that develops as a result of the burst pipe will also be covered by your insurance. On the other hand, if the mold is a result of storm flooding, it may not be covered because flood insurance usually needs to be purchased separately. If the cause of the mold is covered, your insurance should pay for the following costs:

• Removal of mold-damaged material
• Removal of materials to access mold
• Replacement of removed materials
• Testing to ensure mold has been eliminated

What Is a Fungus Exclusion?

Some policies have a fungus exclusion, which means that they don’t cover mold remediation even if it’s caused by something that is covered by the policy. Even a fungus exclusion will usually include a few very unlikely situations for which the policy will cover mold removal, such as fire, vandalism or sinkholes. If your commercial insurance includes a fungus exclusion, it can be worth your while to invest in additional coverage for mold remediation. That way if you ever need to call in a mold removal specialist in Cleveland, TN, you won’t be caught without coverage. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPRObradleycounty.com/.

Is Laboratory Testing Of Mold Damage Found In My Wildwood Lake Home Necessary?

3/26/2018 (Permalink)

Any mold growth, in sufficient quantity, may contain enough of the dangerous mold types, to cause health concerns.

Is Mold Testing Necessary?

So, you discover that you have a patch of mold growing in your home behind a wall and are disgusted by its existence. Not only is it aesthetically repulsive, but now you are worried that health risks are not far behind.

If you never had the chance to deal with mold damage in your Wildwood Lake home before, you are likely going to listen to a variety of different sources, on the internet or otherwise that are full of advice to correct the situation. Some homeowners try different cleaning products on their own, in an attempt to save on the expense, while others think that by identifying the mold, they can rule out the necessity of cleaning or having services of any kind performed at all.

At SERVPRO, our expertly trained technicians have several years of experience in dealing with the existence of environmental issues, such as mold in your homes. When we discover mold growth in your home, our first thought has nothing to do with the type of mold that exists. Any mold growth, in sufficient quantity, may contain enough of the dangerous mold types, to cause health concerns.

If you decide that going to the local grocery store to purchase a mold testing kit, saves you from performing the required repairs on your home to get things under control, you are mistaken. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) even states that they do not recommend a routine sampling of molds and that there is no such thing as an acceptable or tolerable level of mold, it does not exist.

Therefore, if any amount of mold exists, and an individual has proven susceptible, a potential health risk exists. Meaning that regardless of the type of mold in your home, you should arrange for the proper remediation services from a quality certified remediation company, such as SERVPRO as soon as possible to rectify the situation occurring in your home.

Obtaining the proper insurance to handle these kinds of situations is only the beginning. It can also be beneficial to have access to a company, like SERVPRO, which provides you with the services and information that you need to help contain the problem and restore a safe, healthy environment that your family can enjoy. Contact SERVPRO of Bradley County before purchasing a basic mold testing kit at the local grocery store (423) 614-5552.

The Truth About Black Mold in Your Home

3/24/2018 (Permalink)

The only way to remove mold growth is to remove the materials it is growing on.

Mold is a colony of single-cell fungi called yeasts. While some molds spoil food, others attach themselves to damp building materials and build colonies of cells that reproduce by sending out bacterial spores. Green-, orange-, yellow-, and red-colored molds can all produce spores, just as the greenish-black-colored molds can. Some molds can produce toxins and are called toxigenic, but not all molds are toxic. Black mold can be one of these, but since there are over 100,000 types of mold, there are also many types of black-colored colonies of mold.

Water and Mold

If there is available moisture and an adequate source of food, mold can grow very quickly in your home. By removing the water source, many homeowners believe they have solved the problem, but mold can lay dormant for decades. Once moisture returns, the colonies once again begin to quickly reproduce and send out additional spores to contaminate nearby surfaces.

Destruction and Mold

As mold grows, it can become highly destructive. This is especially true of black mold. The thread-like structures of the fungus can penetrate the surfaces of your home in Cleveland, TN especially wood and grout. As the threads push their way into objects, the growth breaks the materials down. The resulting property damage can cause structural issues if left unaddressed. Almost any type of mold cleanup, regardless of fungi color or type, can be cleaned in the same way. The amount of mold remediation required often depends on the amount of surface fungus and the level of destruction.

Remediation and Mold

Consider contacting a mold remediation team to address both moisture and mold issues once you see fungi colonies. Since mold can grow between floors, in window wells, and around skylights, it can be important to have an expert who knows what to look for identify the likely hiding places of potential destructive threads, such as black mold. All homes can have mildew, but not all homes have a serious mold problem. At the first sign of such a problem, consider getting help.
Visit http://www.SERVPRObradleycounty.com for more information on mold. 

Where To Find Mold

2/21/2018 (Permalink)

If you own a commercial building, then you know there is a lot of upkeep to keep track of. Maintenance is important to keeping your building healthy. So what do you do if the mildew smell creeps up on you in your Cleveland, TN business? How do you locate it? Here are three places you should check if you suspect mold.

1. Water Heaters

When searching for visible mold, the water heater is the number one place to check. Sometimes a heater will leak around the base. This can lead to mold growth on walls, flooring and objects nearby. If you smell it but still cannot see it, then you may need to consider mold testing.

2. Air Conditioners

If that mildew smell is running amok in your business, it might be time to check the air conditioners. Condensation from air conditioners can sometimes grow mildew and mold. When this happens, spores can easily spread. Make sure to check the vents and units regularly, especially if you start to smell something musty.

3. Bathrooms

Bathrooms in commercial buildings tend to be hot spots for visible mold. The water from faucets, pipes and toilets can lead to unwanted spores. If your employees or customers begin complaining about a mildew smell coming from the bathroom, then it’s probably time to investigate. Mold can grow behind toilets, under sinks, behind faucets and in any area where water may collect.

When you have mold in your business, it could have an impact on your bottom line. Clients and customers may turn away due to mold if they happen to see it. This is why it’s important for you, as a business owner, to make sure that there isn’t any mildew growing. When it does happen, don’t risk the chance of it spreading. The best way to handle it is with specialists trained in mold remediation.
 Visit http://www.SERVPRObradleycounty.com for more information on mold.

SERVPRO Contains the MOLD then Decontaminates

9/17/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Contains the MOLD then Decontaminates

When you are dealing with any mold damage, there are particular steps and precautions that need to be taken. We at SERVPRO understand this, and we have the experience and knowledge to provide you with the thorough and safe remediation that you would expect from any professional.

Mold is dangerous and can cause adverse health effects if it is not taken care of right away. That is why if you have mold damage in Cleveland of any kind, you should contact our technicians at SERVPRO right away so we can come out and assess the damage, create a plan of remediation and take care of the issue. Below is a list of some of the major steps that are needed in the process of mold remediation. Other steps might be needed, but above all else, safety takes priority over all over procedures, and we pride ourselves in following all safety regulations.

Establishing Containment
Our professionals will first work to contain the mold to make sure it does not spread to areas which are uncontaminated and to protect you and your family. We will be careful not to introduce airflow to areas that are uncontained to avoid spreading contamination to other regions. Building containment can include the following:  

• Installing sheets of plastic for containment barriers.
• Making a negative air pressure in the contaminated area.
• Sealing HVAC vents to stop contamination of the duct system.
• Establishing rooms that are clean and decontamination rooms for entering, leaving and decontaminating materials and equipment.

Removing Mold Contamination
The process for removing mold depends on the kind of surface the mold is on. Materials that are nonporous can usually be cleaned. However, visible mold growth will many times need to be taken out of the home and discarded.

•  We will remove porous materials that are extensively contaminated by mold, active mold growth on porous materials, like carpeting, fabrics, drywall, and insulation is removed by getting rid of the material itself.
• We will get rid of mold from nonporous materials by cleaning. These materials include metals, glass, plastics and the like. Mold can be removed by HEPA vacuuming when we are dealing with a dry surface or by wiping with a damp cloth and detergent solution if it is growing in a layer of soils.
• Materials will be HEPA vacuumed first to remove fragments of loose mold, and then if needed, materials will be agitated to get rid of mold. Semi-porous materials can be cleaned by damp wiping, sanding, wire brushing or other abrasive methods. Semi-porous materials include concrete and wood.
• For long-duration and heavy exposures, wood materials might have to be removed if their structural integrity has been weakened by rot. Dust and settled spores will then be removed, many times by using HEPA vacuuming and damp wiping, even on porous materials.

Everything is then dried to stop any further growth of mold with air movers and dehumidifiers.

Because we at SERVPRO of Bradley County know and follow these procedures, you are aware that you will be getting thorough mold remediation when you give us a call. We can be contacted any time of day, any day of the year by dialing (423) 614-5552.

The Need For Mold Removal Services

6/30/2017 (Permalink)

The Need For Mold Removal Services

Mold, mildew and other fungus are present almost everywhere. These microorganisms may float in the air because they are microscopic and not always visible to the naked eye. Mold in the home or mold in the business can enter through doors, windows, AC/heating systems and even through clothing or a pet. Mold generally thrive in moisture, from here, the mold can quickly grow and become large colonies. Mitigation services need to be sought before the mold, mildew, and fungus can grow into colonies and produce allergens that pose a danger to the health of the occupants. Smelly odor can also mess with the indoor air quality.

Mold in the home and mold in the business should not be ignored. Home and business owners can seek mold removal or remediation services to get rid of the mold. Commercial mold damage companies have the necessary skills and experience needed for mold remediation. They handle mold damage and use equipment and deodorization agents to get rid of the mold. Mold in large numbers leaves behind a smelly odor. This smelly odor can help point to where the mold spores are concentrated. The smell is treated using deodorization which works to improve the indoor air quality.

There are several steps taken by commercial mold removal experts when conducting mold damage remediation. For starters, it is important to document the problem. Commercial mold damage companies inspect the mold damage situation before any remediation or mitigation services can take place. Documenting also helps to assess the extent of the mold in the home or mold in business damage. Pictures can be taken if the damage is extensive or the area in question is large. A good plan will be effective when conducting mold removal.

The next step by the commercial mold damage removal company is to determine the extent of the contamination. This will help the experts come up with a mitigation approach and also a method to conduct mold removal services in the affected areas. Mold, fungus and mildew removal and deodorization services are also aimed at avoiding further exposure. The underlying objective is to ensure that the mold in the home and mold in business is completely removed.

The cleanup process carried out by commercial mold damage companies may involve several steps. Mitigation measures can begin by taking care of any moisture problems. Mold, mildew, and fungus mainly breed in water, and any water problem needs to be repaired. The next step is to isolate the contaminated areas. When the mold damage is extensive, a polythene sheeting can be used to seal the doorways. The dust can also be suppressed by misting. All wet and mold damaged materials need to be removed. There are specific plastic double bags that are used to prevent further spread. Detergent and deodorization solutions are also used in the contaminated areas.

Due to the sensitivity of the job, it is best to allow professional commercial mold damage experts to handle the task. On your own, you may not be in a position to detect all the mold in the home and mold in business. Special detergents are also used to get rid of the musty or smelly odor. Deodorization will ensure that the air in the home is fresh and free from mold spores.

When contemplating on hiring the services of mold remediation experts, it is important to understand the benefits. Mold removal companies move in quickly to mitigate the mold damage. The services they offer include mold inspection. This helps to identify areas where the mold, mildew, and fungus are thriving. Their services include an estimate of the mitigation, removal and deodorization services. In addition to this, commercial mold damage companies use an action plan based on the level of mold invasion. On your own, you do not have the knowledge and expertise to come up with a mold removal plan.

Mold, mildew and other fungus are unsettling whether it is mold in the home or mold in business. However, you do not have to live with this disease causing micro-organisms. Mold damage removal and regular inspections can mitigate the negative effects.
Visit http://www.SERVPRObradleycounty.com for more information on mold removal and remediation.

Mold Removal From Dwellings and Businesses

4/25/2017 (Permalink)

Mold Removal From Dwellings and Businesses

Mold can be a real problem, and many people don't understand why until they encounter it. Another reason that it can be put in the background of one's thinking process is that it can grow rapidly in places where it is not readily visible. It grows from tiny, microscopic spores that are emitted from the organism where they float through the air, and when they land if the area is favorable, they will grow. Mold needs an area where there is little to no light, a source of moisture, and no moving air to grow properly. If any one or more of these features are absent, it will not grow.

Consequently, areas such as basements, crawl spaces, attics, behind bathroom walls if pipes leak and other similar areas are where it is found.

The substance will also sometimes accumulate in the heating and air conditioning ducts which will spread the spores all over the house. If mold is discovered in the house in any great quantity plans should be made to begin a mold cleanup and mitigation plan right away. An environmental hygienist should be involved as a person with that credential can test the microbial growth and determine what kind it is.

It may look like fungus or mildew, but it may not be, and it could end up being destructive. Therefore all patches of mildew and fungus should be cleaned out as well, just in case. People should not attempt to perform a mold cleanup and mitigation process themselves because they may spread the mold to other parts of their home.

The substance of this microbial growth has roots or tentacles that penetrate into the surface of wherever it is growing. The roots will grow into just about every substance that exists, except for glass. So any exercises to kick off mold cleanup and mitigation procedures have to have an environmental hygienist on board so that the type of materials involved can be tested and eradicated so that they won't grow back.

There may be plenty of areas that have fungus and mildew growth may harbor mold, so the whole area will have to be cleaned. With the mold cleanup and mitigation program, led by a qualified environmental hygienist and qualified workers, the offending substance can be swept away with the proper techniques and careful steps that will remove the offending substance. It is a fairly straight-forward process with precautions being taken to protect the health of the workers.

The environmental hygienist will lead testing and defining of the substances found so they can be treated and eliminated. Visit http://www.SERVPRObradleycounty.com for more information on mold removal and remediation.

What To Do When You Find Mold In Your Cleveland, TN Home

3/24/2017 (Permalink)

Mold Team at SERVPRO of Bradley County

What To Do When You Find Mold In Your Cleveland, TN Home

Someone living in Bradley County, TN may find it quite difficult to avoid mold or mildew because the weather in the area is so unpredictable. There is no way for the family to anticipate when a fungus or other microbial growth will form in the home, and they need remediation services as soon as possible. This article explains how someone may have a mold cleanup crew come to their home at any time, and they may address problems in their Cleveland, Tennessee home.

#1: How Does It Grow?

Mildew, fungus and microbial growths will build in the home because of the weather and factors inside the house. Standing water is very good at creating a new growth, and the growth will continue to build until it has taken over the house. The water must be cleaned up, and the homeowner must ensure they have the environmental hygienist tell them what the status of their house is. An inspection will lead to a free estimate, and the estimate will help the homeowner understand what must be repaired.

#2: How Does Remediation Work?

The mold cleanup service moves quickly once the company starts, and they will work on multiple parts of the house until they believe it has been cleaned properly. The process will scrub every wall, check under every floorboard and ensure that every part of the house has been inspected. They will make note of all the problems they have found in the house, and they will show the results to their client before any work is approved.

#3: How Does The Environmental Hygienist Respond To Emergencies?

There are quite a few emergencies that may occur when a growth is found in the home that may seem menacing. The mold will grow until it has been remedied, and it may be toxic to the family. The hygienist will use specialty hazmat suits to check the house, and they will have an assessment of the situation completed for their client. The emergency care may be done right away, and the crew will move much faster than normal to ensure the client is given the best care possible.

#4: How Long Do Standard Services Last?

Standard services from the company in Bradley County TN or Cleveland, Tennessee will last for several hours while the work is completed and checked by a foreman. The person on the site who ensures all the work has been done properly. The work in the house has been checked numerous times before the company leaves, and they will offer certification the work has been completed.

#5: The Company Offers Fair Prices

Anyone who does work on the home must do so at a fair price, and they will find it quite simple to offer a free estimate that shows how much it will cost to do everything that must be done. The work that is done on the home must be managed in a way that is easy for the homeowner to understand, and they must feel as though they have been given a way to ensure their safety in the future.

#6: Tips For The Future

There are many small things the homeowner may do when they are trying to keep their home clean. The house will be much cleaner when the homeowners knows how to check for mold, and they may take steps to help the house stay dry. They wish to install a dehumidifier that will help suck moisture out of the house, and they will find it simple to close in the house to keep more moisture out. Moisture that sits in the house or seeps in will cause many problems for the family, and the family will find it difficult to clean the growths alone. Everyone who sees something untoward in their house must have it removed before it becomes a much larger problem.

The house is quite difficult to keep clean when it has not been visited by a professional who works in mitigation. They will bring all the equipment that is needed to clean everything, and they will show their customers a number of ways that they may care for their home. The house will remain clean and dry because of work that was done by the mitigation company, and they will come out to the house with a fair pricing plan for each customer. Everyone who has been hit by this problem will smell it in the air, and they need to know that they have chosen wisely once the crew arrives.

For more information on how to handle Mold visit http://www.SERVPRObradleycounty.com/

What to do when you find Mold in Your Home in Cleveland, TN

3/6/2017 (Permalink)

Mold Damage on a Wall in Cleveland, TN

Living in the beautiful state of Tennessee is one of life’s blessings, especially in the area of Bradley County. With year-round pleasant weather, amazing outdoor activities, attractions, and entertainment offering in abundance and so much rich and diverse history, living in the volunteer state can’t be beat. Of course, there are just with anywhere, a few small downsides that come with all of the great things about the state. One of those is the warm, damp climate of the winter and the hot humid climate of the summer. The presence of so much moisture in the air makes the problem of mold in the home a serious one.

Mold and other fungal growths are a type of naturally occurring microbial plant life. While mildew is an annoyance, unsightly to look at, and can be unpleasant to smell, mold can be dangerous to one’s health. This problem can be caused by spores that get into a person’s home via open windows, foot traffic, plants and flowers that are brought in from outside, or even HVAC vents. In most cases, the spores do not survive long enough to take hold, but in rare instances, they find their way into the dark, warm, damp spaces of homes and businesses where they thrive.

Once a structure has an infestation, it can spread quickly. The fungus can take many forms, but the black variety is the most dangerous, causing significant structural damage due to the rotting of wood, plaster, and other porous materials, as well as significant health problems including lung damage and even death. Most homeowners do not even know the level of risk that they are living with. Most fungal infestations and microbial growth problems are discovered either during a home inspection (as required by state law for just such an issue as this) or during renovations or remodeling of the structure.

Mildew growth is more commonly discovered by the homeowner in spaces such as the basement or the bathroom, and can usually be addressed with the use of a simple bleach based cleaner, but for more serious issues professional assistance is not only needed but is the law. It should also be noted that if the homeowner is seeing a great deal of mildew on a regular basis, this can be an indicator or more serious problems elsewhere in the structure and an inspection by a certified environmental hygienist is warranted. Once it has been discovered in a home or business, action should be taken immediately to address the problem. You may not know where to start, however.

The good news is that addressing the problem of mold cleanup is as simple as making a call to a local Cleveland, TN environmental hygienist. These experts in remediation, can come into the home or business and address the microbial growth issues that are present quickly and effectively. They will use a range of proven techniques to rid the home of the infestation, and then show the homeowner how to stop it dead in its tracks in the future. This two-step process of abatement and future prevention is essential to the home or business being healthy for the long run. An environmental hygienist can not only inspect the home for issues such as microbial growth of fungus, but other possibly dangerous pollutants as well, including dust mites, allergens, and more. Mold cleanup must be performed by a licensed and experienced provider in order to make sure that the problem does not get worse. The spreading of spores throughout the home by improper cleanup attempts can not only cause the risk of health dangers to get worse, but can lead to an even more expensive remediation process down the line.

There are several highly qualified and experienced fungal abatement providers in Cleveland, TN who serve the greater Bradley County area. They would be happy to perform inspections, point out any possible concerns, go over abatement plans, and discuss how to prevent the problem from ever coming back once it has been eliminated.

Living in the great state of Tennessee has a lot of wonderful benefits, but dealing with the issue of home mold cleanup, can be a chore due to the damp winters and humid summers. In Cleveland, TN and the greater Bradley county area you have a range of choices for your fungal abatement needs. Choose the remediation provider that is best for your needs and take comfort in knowing that your home is once again healthy. Visit http://www.SERVPRObradleycounty.com for more information on mold removal and remediation.

Preventing Mold Damage in Keepsakes, Collections, and Memory Boxes in Charleston

2/12/2017 (Permalink)

Storing Your Charleston Treasures in a Damp Attic or Basement Can Result in Mold Damage

SERVPRO Offers Mold Protection Tips for Your Belongs and Treasures

There is no place on this planet inhabited by people that are not also home to mold. Written records of its existence and the ability to cause problems date back to the earliest times. Mold can never be eradicated. Controlling its growth and location is something that can be achieved, nonetheless.
 
Because these fungi exist in most places, including your Charleston home, mold damage can hit where it hurts the most – your memories and irreplaceable keepsakes. It is rare for items that are on display in your curio cabinet to become damaged by mold because ventilation, a standard RH, and sunlight can keep mold from growing, even if it is indirect sunlight. Mold is more likely to proliferate in those items which are packed away and rarely taken out of storage. Thinking that these items were dry when stored and that they are safe from hazards can lead to lost possessions.
 
Facts about mold to keep in mind when preparing your precious possessions for storage are:  
Mold is everyplace, an absence of mold's tell-tale odor does not mean it is not a problem.
Mold spores only need a tiny bit of water to begin actively growing.
Mold grows best in dark places with little airflow.
The dust in your home contains mold spores, and cellulose is the primary food source for these fungi.

Mold is already in your attic, basement, and shed. Mold is also present inside of the boxes you intend to use. Many, if not all, of the items you store will already have mold spores present on them. With the lack of sunlight and air flow, the cardboard boxes just need a bit of moisture for the mold to grow. Moisture in the form of condensation can be substantial enough. There are a few actions that you can do before storing your keepsakes. If you have items in storage now, you can still act on these tips.

1. Place at least one bead pack of desiccant in each box. You can find these in most craft or sewing stores.
2. Wrap metal items in absorbent fabric. Any items that are smooth and glossy, such as china, glass, mirrors, and glazed clay can be a focal point of condensation. You should not use anything that is very absorbent. Doing so can attract and hold moisture, which you are trying to avoid. Make sure that all vases and other items that could hold water are entirely dry.
3. Launder and then, if possible, line dry any textiles, including stuffed toys before storing. Laundering and line drying reduces spores and limits a food source for the mold.
4. Take books outside on a sunny day and dust them off thoroughly.
5. Do not include anything that is damp, or that has any signs of mold being present. Spots of mold no matter how old should signal that the item needs to bagged separately, in plastic, before being stored.
 
SERVPRO of Bradley County can help you in your fight against mold. If you find mold in your home or think that it may be a problem, call us at (423) 614-5552. Mold damage can happen at any time, so we are always here to take your call.
 
 

Early Signs You May Have Mold Damage In Your Hopewell Home

11/29/2016 (Permalink)

While most mold is discovered long after it has grown to a substantial size, there are an indicators of mold growth before serious damage can occur.

Indications You May Have Mold In Your House

While most mold is discovered long after it has grown to a substantial size, there are an indicators of mold growth before serious damage can occur. In some cases, these signs can be a tip-off towards mold growing elsewhere in the home, or simply an early warning of mold in the immediate area. If you've noticed any of these in your home, they may be signs of an early or growing mold colony. To be sure, call SERVPRO if you've noticed any of these in your home.

White Or Discolored Patches
If you've noticed patches or spots on your walls, floors, or ceilings that are white in color or otherwise discolored, this could be an early indicator of mold damage in Hopewell. Most mold colonies start as a fuzzy white patch on a suitable surface, and other patches of discoloration can indicate a mature colony elsewhere in the home. If possible, however, you should try to verify if the patch you've found is, in fact, unusual and fresh. It could be possible that it's misplaced paint or a stain on the wall!

Unusual Smells
Mold can emit a number of unusual smells, to varying degrees of intensity. Most molds, if they do have a smell, are powerful and musty. Some types, however, can emit very different smells, so be aware of unusual odors of all kinds, especially in areas you know have been soaked or wet recently.

Mold In Neighboring Homes
Mold tends to travel between neighboring homes, be it through air displacement or as spores hitch a ride on people and pets. If your neighbors have encountered a severe mold problem, be on high alert in your home as well. Be sure to ask your neighbors how long ago they believe it began to grow, as well, so that you can know if any mold on your property has gotten a chance to mature or not.

SERVPRO of Bradley County is proud to serve the local community with quality, cost-effective and fast damage restoration services. Call us at (423) 614-5552 for our help and mold remediation services.