Recent Mold Remediation Posts

Mold Awareness: Recognizing Signs and Taking Action with SERVPRO

12/1/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO team performing mold remediation work SERVPRO expert during a mold remediation job

Mold is a common and potentially hazardous issue that can affect both homes and workplaces. Recognizing the signs of mold and knowing how to take appropriate action is crucial for the health and safety of occupants. In this blog post, SERVPRO will guide you through recognizing signs of mold in your environment and the steps you should take to address it effectively.

Signs of Mold in Your Home or Workplace:

  1. Visible Mold Growth:

    • The most obvious sign of mold is the presence of visible mold growth on surfaces. Mold can appear as black, green, brown, or white spots or patches on walls, ceilings, or other surfaces.
  2. Musty Odor:

    • A musty, earthy smell is often associated with mold. If you notice a persistent, unpleasant odor, it could be an indication of hidden mold growth.
  3. Water Intrusion History:

    • If your home or workplace has experienced water damage or flooding in the past, it increases the likelihood of mold growth. Mold thrives in damp environments.
  4. Allergic Reactions:

    • Mold can trigger allergic reactions in some individuals. Symptoms may include sneezing, coughing, nasal congestion, skin rashes, or irritated eyes.
  5. Health Symptoms:

    • Prolonged exposure to mold can lead to more severe health problems, such as respiratory issues, headaches, fatigue, and even fungal infections.

Steps to Take if You Suspect Mold:

  1. Safety First:

    • Ensure your safety and the safety of others by avoiding direct contact with mold and using appropriate protective gear.
  2. Isolate the Area:

    • If possible, isolate the area with mold growth to prevent its spread to other parts of your home or workplace.
  3. Do Not Disturb:

    • Do not disturb the mold by trying to clean it yourself. This can release mold spores into the air, exacerbating the problem.
  4. Contact SERVPRO:

    • The best course of action is to contact SERVPRO for professional mold inspection and remediation. Our experienced technicians will assess the extent of the mold issue and develop a comprehensive plan for removal and cleanup.
  5. Address the Underlying Issue:

    • Identify and address the source of moisture that is promoting mold growth. Without eliminating the moisture source, mold is likely to return.
  6. Avoid DIY Remediation:

    • Mold remediation requires specialized equipment, expertise, and adherence to strict safety protocols. Attempting to remove mold on your own can pose risks to your health and may not effectively eliminate the problem.

Conclusion:

Mold is a serious issue that requires prompt and professional attention. Recognizing the signs of mold and taking immediate action is essential to protect the health and safety of occupants. SERVPRO is your trusted partner in mold inspection and remediation. If you suspect mold in your home or workplace, contact us for expert assistance. We are dedicated to restoring a clean and healthy environment, ensuring the well-being of you and your loved ones. Don't hesitate to reach out to SERVPRO when mold is a concern – your safety is our top priority.

Empowering Excellence: SERVPRO's Mold Remediation Mastery with Proper PPE and Specialized Equipment

11/11/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO team showing up to with the proper equipment for a mold remediation job SERVPRO team in PPE

**Empowering Excellence: SERVPRO's Mold Remediation Mastery with Proper PPE and Specialized Equipment**

In the dynamic region surrounding Orlando, Florida, where the magic of the landscape meets the challenge of mold growth, the significance of a comprehensive mold remediation approach cannot be overstated. At SERVPRO, we recognize the critical role that Proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and specialized tools play in ensuring the safety and success of every mold remediation job. Let's delve into why having the right PPE and equipment is pivotal, emphasizing how SERVPRO's expertise and toolset make us the ideal choice for any mold remediation challenge across the entire Orlando region.

**Navigating Mold Challenges with Precision:**
- Mold growth is a concern that transcends city limits, affecting the diverse locales around Orlando. As stewards of this varied region, we understand the need for a mold remediation strategy adaptable to the unique conditions of each area.

**The Cornerstone: Proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):**
- Safety is the heartbeat of our approach, and our technicians are outfitted with specialized PPE meticulously selected for the intricacies of mold remediation. This includes:
- **Respirators:** Vital for protecting against inhaling mold spores.
- **Protective Suits:** Offering full-body coverage to prevent skin contact with contaminants.
- **Gloves and Eye Protection:** Heavy-duty gear ensuring safety during remediation across different landscapes.

**Crafting Containment Strategies:**
- Our team, equipped with the right PPE, establishes robust containment barriers irrespective of the surroundings. This proactive measure shields both our team and the property from cross-contamination, ensuring effective mold remediation in diverse settings.

**Advanced Air Filtration for Varied Environments:**
- Deploying advanced air filtration with HEPA filters suitable for various landscapes, we capture microscopic mold spores, providing a safe environment during and after remediation across the entire Orlando region.

**Tailored Cleaning Products for Diverse Challenges:**
- Understanding the regional nuances of different landscapes, we use EPA-registered antimicrobial and antifungal cleaning agents specifically tailored for diverse environments. These products not only eliminate existing mold but inhibit future growth, addressing the unique challenges presented by different locales.

**Adaptable Moisture Detection Tools:**
- In a region with varying climates, identifying the source of moisture is critical. Our technicians employ state-of-the-art moisture detection tools adaptable to different landscapes, ensuring thorough remediation by pinpointing hidden water sources contributing to mold growth.

**Mobile HEPA Vacuums for Comprehensive Cleaning:**
- Equipped with mobile HEPA vacuums suitable for any setting, our team ensures thorough cleaning during the remediation process. Designed to trap particles as small as 0.3 microns, these vacuums are adaptable to the unique conditions of each area around Orlando.

**Documentation for Accountability:**
- Our commitment to transparency is reflected in comprehensive documentation practices. Detailed records of the entire procedure provide accountability, peace of mind, and valuable documentation for insurance claims or property transactions, applicable across the diverse Orlando region.

**SERVPRO: Your Regional Mold Remediation Expert:**
- Beyond city limits, SERVPRO understands the regional intricacies of the Orlando area. Our emphasis on safety, expertise, and utilizing the right equipment positions us as the go-to choice for mold remediation across the entire region.

**Contact SERVPRO Across the Orlando Region Today:**
- For any mold remediation challenge in your home or business, anywhere around Orlando, SERVPRO is equipped with the right tools and expertise. Contact us today for comprehensive mold remediation solutions tailored to the specific needs of your locale. Let's work together to keep homes and businesses safe, healthy, and resilient across the diverse landscape surrounding Orlando, Florida.

Is Mold Damage in Maitland Properties Difficult to Address?

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

Photo of mold growth behind wall Do you know how to locate hidden mold in your home? SERVPRO does!

SERVPRO Helps Address Any Issues that Arises After Mold Damage in a Property

Mold infestations are easy to detect in most properties because they show signs such as dark patches on surfaces or the development of a musty smell. However, easy identification does always lead to easy resolution of the problem because the surface mold may recur soon after removal. Simultaneously, the growth in hidden areas may require extensive tear down to remove.

Addressing mold damage in Maitland / Winter Park properties is only convenient if the right resources are utilized. Since SERVPRO technicians have considerable experience handling such situations, it is easy to identify problematic areas. For instance, we check:

  • For the likelihood of penetration of mold hyphae beyond the surface of a material
  • The presence of moisture in hidden sections of the house
  • The level of deterioration in affected materials

Such evaluations from our SERVPRO technicians help guarantee a positive outcome in different ways. For instance, we can remove all the porous materials instead of cleaning their surfaces. If the evaluation reveals hidden moisture pockets, we can tear up the areas to reach the wet materials. Also, since mold plays a role in natural decay processes, we remove materials affected by the mold over long periods since they are likely to be structurally compromised.

SERVPRO of Maitland / Casselberry can help ease the challenges of addressing mold damage. Call us at (407) 388-0404 to assist you.

Conditions In Maitland/Casselberry Might Be Right For Mold

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

Photo of molded sheetrock in home A surprise pipe leak is what caused this moldy mess to greet vacationing homeowners when they got home

It’s estimated that more than 1 million types of mold exist, yet less than 10 percent have actually been named. This means mold is very common in both indoor and outdoor environments. While mold and humans can sometimes co-exist without issue, there are certain species of mold that can cause health effects for some people.

If the right conditions exist, mold will grow.  Those conditions include:

  • Water - Different mold types require varying amounts of liquid before growth begins.   
  • Temperature - Normal indoor temperatures will promote mold growth.
  • Time - Initial mold colonizers can take hold within one day after being exposed to an adequate water supply.

Mold growth can occur in any home, so it’s important to keep an eye out for situations that might promote mold activity. Roof/chimney leaks, wet basements, or condensation from ducts that dampen surrounding insulation are just a few examples of issues that make a house a prime target for mold growth.

If you suspect mold in your home, call SERVPRO of Maitland/Casselberry to assess the situation. We have the knowledge, tools and track record to effectively remediate mold in your home or business.

If you suspect mold, call us today at 407-388-0404.

What to Do:

SERVPRO of Maitland-Casselberry is proud to serve the Maitland, Casselberry, Union Park, Lockhart, Fern Park, and surrounding communities.

How To Prevent Mold in Your Home

7/24/2020 (Permalink)

Photo of mold on drywall Don't wait until mold becomes a big problem!

Mold and water damage can be a time consuming problem in Casselberry, FL, so it's best to prevent it before it happens. To control the mold, all you need to do is control the water in your home. As long as it's all going where it's supposed to, you shouldn't ever have a problem!

Problem Areas

In a typical household there are areas that are most commonly found to harbor mold growth. That is because they are rooms of your house that run a lot of water through them, making them more likely places for leaks and accumulating water. These places can also get humid, so be sure to ventilate them well. They include:

  • bathrooms
  • kitchen
  • HVAC system
  • laundry room

Plumbing

Obviously, your plumbing is the culprit behind a lot of potential leakage and water damage. Backed up drains and sewage floods can also be a concern. Look out for even the smallest drip and check under your sinks often. You can also check your ceilings for dripping water that could indicate a pipe leak above. Beware if you notice leaks under your toilet or in shower when you flush.

Outside Leaks

The outside coming in can be another source of water damage. A leaky roof or window can cause big problems later. Even the smallest drip can accumulate over time. Make sure any problems are addressed as soon as you notice them in order to prioritize mold prevention. To keep your house dry and free of humidity you should also make sure your attic and basement are properly sealed and insulated.
Water damage is a huge source of mold growth, so if you take care of it as soon as possible you shouldn't ever see an outbreak. If you do manage to find a mold problem, it is recommended that you call mold remediation specialists so that you do not inadvertently make it worse.

SERVPRO of Maitland-Casselberry is proud to serve the Maitland, Casselberry, Union Park, Lockhart, Fern Park, and surrounding communities.

3 Causes of Mold Growth

7/24/2020 (Permalink)

Photo of restroom vent. Bathrooms with a shower should be properly ventilated to prevent mold growth due to humidity

3 Causes of Mold Growth

For a home in Cassellberry, FL, keeping the property clear of black mold can be important. Mitigation can go a long way to keeping your home free mold damage. Fortunately, understanding where and why mold grows can help you take the steps necessary to prevent this potential problem.

1. High Humidity

Areas of high humidity make a present a moisture problem that can lead to potential mold issues. You may want to consider the use of a dehumidifier or fans to help keep your home dry. Many ventilation systems include are designed to help prevent moisture build-up. You can also take simple steps such as running the fan during and after you take a shower help prevent water accumulation in high-moisture areas of your home.

2. Water Damage

Areas of water damage in your home may also be at risk for black mold. These can include places where a storm has damaged the property like attic or basement spaces. Water may also build up, more in locations such as under the sink. If not properly taken care of water damaged area can become a nice growth habitat for spores.

3. Flooding

Flooding is also likely to lead to mold damage. If your home experiences flooding, or pooling water, then it's best to contact a professional restoration service for water damage and mold cleanup. These professionals know how to properly dry and sanitize an area, and take the appropriate mitigation steps to help prevent issues such as mold growth.

Knowing that causes of black mold can help you take the appropriate mitigation steps if you believe your home may be at risk. Mold grows in moist areas meaning that places prone to high humidity, water damage or flooding may be the most likely areas for spores. If your home experiences one of these issues you can call a professional for help.

SERVPRO of Maitland-Casselberry is proud to serve the Maitland, Casselberry, Union Park, Lockhart, Fern Park, and surrounding communities.