The Top 5 Places Mold can Hide in Your Home

9/24/2019 (Permalink)

Mold damage in a Redding Ridge, CT home

A bit of mold found on a loaf of bread is a warning sign. It can indicate that there is more mold, or even spores in the bag, just ready to grow on every surface and it must be thrown out. The same goes for the mold growth found in your home in Redding Ridge,CT. Noticing black spots on the surface of a wall likely means that the mold has gone rampant inside the wall as well, causing moldy drywall, studs or even the top surface of insulation.

Top 5 Places Where Mold Grows

1.There is potential for moisture and warmth to build up under the kitchen sink or the laminate flooring in front of it, causing mold growth to begin.

2.The bathroom walls and shower are places where humidity can reach a level that allows mold spores to populate.

3. Water can seep underneath behind and beneath the toilet, particularly if there is a supply line leak or a hairline fracture in the bowl, to the subfloor where mold damage occurs.

4. Moldy drywall can often be found behind a water heater. The presence of water and the heat from the unit can create the optimal environment for mold.

5. Moldy wood may be found in an attic that has sustained a leak. As mold sets in it can weaken and soften the joists and drywall below.

How Do You Clean Up a Mold Infestation?

Black mold cleanup is not something that can just be done with a bit of spray and a sponge. Mold remediation experts in Redding Ridge,CT  need to be called in to perform a proper mold cleanup. Moldy drywall needs to be removed, as does any mold on wood or any other surfaces.
The dangerous and damaging effects of mold growth needs proper removal and cleanup by certified technicians. Make sure you don’t treat it like a mild annoyance but like the serious condition it is.

Eradicating Mold Requires More Than Bleach

7/25/2019 (Permalink)

Using bleach on mold is a common misconception

While you are busy running your business in Aqua Vista,CT, mold can sneak its way in and begin to spread. At the first sign of it, many business owners may be inclined to reach for the bleach for fungus cleanup. However, although bleach may clean the surface, it doesn’t penetrate beneath it.

Mold’s Life Cycle

As a living organism, mold grows, reproduces and repeats the cycle under the right circumstances.

1. Starting as a tiny hypha, this cell gains nourishment from the enzymes of organic materials, eventually turning into a mycelium with visible hyphae clusters.
   
2. Spores begin to develop on the hyphae, which can self-reproduce, and are released into the air.
   
3. These hardy microscopic particles drift and find new areas to reproduce.
   
4. After settling into a new area full of nutrients, the process repeats—and can do so continuously if left untreated.
   
   

Once it settles, the mold has thread-like roots that keep it firmly attached. For proper fungus cleanup, eliminating that system is the only way to be rid of the issue.

Downsides to Bleach

When it’s time to cleanup mold, people may not realize there is more there than what is visible. On porous surfaces, this standard cleaning product is unable to get to the roots. The cleaning component may kill what is on the surface, but the water in it can actually seep into the root system and provide additional nutrients for growth.

Since the spores reproduce and become airborne, a cleaning solvent is no match for this organism’s fight for life. By the time you’ve wiped away what can be seen, there is a good chance that the spores have already found themselves a new home.

The best method of fungus cleanup is one that prevents spores from repopulating. When mold appears, rely on a trusted professional to develop a treatment plan that can completely eradicate the problem and prevent it from happening again.

Who Can You Trust With Your Mold Problem?

5/26/2019 (Permalink)

Mold infestation in Redding, CT

Finding a mold infestation in your home can be frightening. You are right to seek professional help because attempting to remove it yourself may only make it worse. How can you be sure the certified mold company you hire won’t fail? There are standards to look for when searching for the best service in Redding,CT.

What Is a Mold Problem?

Mold is a type of fungus with microscopic spores that exist in the very air around you, both indoors and outdoors. They require moisture and an organic surface to breed and grow. Mold of all types can cause damage to your home and belongings. The fungus is most often found in the following places:

• Drywall and wood paneling
  
• Basements
  
• In swamp coolers or near leaky plumbing
  
• Paper products
  
  

There is no such thing as a mold-free home, so it’s important to be on the lookout for any growth and to know a company you can trust to carry out certified mold cleaning services.

What Is Certification?

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification sets the standards for safe mold removal procedures including inspection, cleaning and restoration. If you find a service provider holding mold certification by the IICRC, you can know that they are also being supervised by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI); in some areas, the standards set by the ANSI have been adopted as code.

What About Insurance?

If knowing your home is receiving state-of-the-art mold remediation is not enough for you, consider what your insurance company may cover. Most insurance companies prefer to work with businesses that provide certified mold remediation services, and for a good reason – to ensure the safety of your home.

As a homeowner, mold can be a huge pain. Having a company with certified mold services on call can make your life much easier. There’s no such thing as being too prepared.

How a Mold Expert Assesses Damage

1/22/2019 (Permalink)

Mold remediation in Ridgefield,CT

How a Mold Expert Assesses Damage

A problem with mold and mildew in your Ridgefield, CT, home can be overwhelming. Tackling the problem on your own can cost a great deal of time and money, with no guarantee that the mold will be fully removed. Not only that, but it can be especially dangerous if a pathogen like black mold is involved. It's probably best to enlist the services of a professional mold remediation company. These professionals can employ specialized equipment and techniques to determine the sources and extent of the damage, and then make sure the problem is completely eradicated. Before they begin, they will make a thorough mold assessment by following the steps outlined below.

1. Swab Testing

Swab sampling is done to help determine where the fungal growth is coming from. First, the technician dips a sterile swab into a suspension solution, then wipes it along the areas suspected of harboring mold. The swab is then placed into a sterile container and sent to a lab to be analyzed.

2. Air Testing

Using this technique, the mold experts draw in air with a testing device known as a bioaerosol air impactor, within which airborne particles are directed toward a collection surface. With this type of mold assessment, the different kinds of spores present in the air can be identified, and specific eradication agents can be effectively determined.

3. Carpet Testing

This method of testing is used for assessing a record of molds that have been present in the house over time, since carpets can maintain a history of exposure to spores. Even though a carpet might be cleaned frequently, these spores can slip down beneath the piling, where they can remain dormant for years. Carpet sampling can therefore help to uncover hidden problems that might otherwise go undetected.

The procedures outlined above should give you a good idea of the various ways a complete mold assessment is made. Having this knowledge is essential for a successful mold eradication process.

Mold Remediation in Danbury, CT

12/28/2018 (Permalink)

Mold Remediation in Danbury, CT

Mold Damage in Danbury is a very severe emergency that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. It also needs professional service to effectively get rid of the occurrence. Therefore, if you have mold, then you should get in touch with us at SERVPRO of Danbury/Ridgefield. We are available 24/7 for any emergencies.  It could take as little as 48 hours for the mold to spread throughout the property. Also, it takes a particular type of technique to clean the mold while preventing cross contamination. 
 
The staff here at SERVPRO of Danbury/Ridgefield have everything that is necessary to take care of every occurrence of mold. Therefore, it is crucial to get in contact with us so that we can quickly find the mold damage and professionally remediate it.  We can provide effective mold remediation services because we have an understanding of mold and how it can cause many problems in the home. We have relationships with Industrial Hygeinists who can perform mold testing to determine the extent of contamination, and which strain of mold we are dealing with. 
 
Each mold remediation is unique and requires a different solution. We are equipped for many different types of mold infestations. If you have or suspect you might have a mold issues, then give us a call at (203)-791-0920.

What Mold Is and How To Tackle It

9/17/2018 (Permalink)

Small leak causes large mold issue in a Danbury, CT home

Mold is a naturally occurring organism that affects us all at one time or another, including homes in Danbury,CT . “Black mold” is colloquially used as a catch-all phrase to describe a variety of molds, regardless of color, texture, or size. Mold can be found in a variety of places, including carpeting, floor tiles, insulation, food, and soil. It reproduces and maintains itself through moisture in the air or surrounding area.

How Do You Get Rid of It?

Mold can be tough to get rid of because it travels so easily. In addition to being unsafe, DIY mold removal suggestions are temporary fixes that do not get to the source of the problem. This means that without professional help, mold often comes back until the source of the moisture is eliminated. It is always recommended that you call for professional mold cleanup, especially in the following circumstances:

• You believe the mold has been there for a long time.
• The mold growth covers a large area.
• It is inside your HVAC system or hard-to-repair items.

What Will Professionals Do?

You may ask be asking yourself, “What will professionals do that I can’t do?” They have the tools and experience to find the source of the moisture, repair the moisture problem, and remove mold and mold damage. Professional mold remediation involves several important steps:

• Finding all of the mold, not just the visible stuff
• Eliminating the source of moisture
• Using appropriate mold removal equipment and technology
• Repairing any damaged surfaces by mold growth
• Stopping any future growth through the removal of the source and properly cleaning the affected area

Black mold is a common household problem that should be addressed immediately. Mold is tricky to completely remove because it is not always in plain sight. Therefore, professional mold removal is suggested to ensure your home is clean and safe from future growth.

Do Your Best To Avoid Mold Spore Buildup

7/16/2018 (Permalink)

On average, most Americans spend 34.5 hours per week at work. Therefore, the cleaner your facility is, the better the atmosphere. A simple task such as carpet cleaning is a good starting point to prevent mold spore development. Establishing other “clean” habits can ensure you experience even greater success.

Mold Prevention Measures

Vigilantly looking for wet areas is a must for combatting mold problems. Other prevention measures are just as important. The following few suggestions will help to make sure you are avoiding buildup of mold spores and breathing in as much clean Danbury, CT, air as possible.

• Place mats at all entryways.
• Regularly schedule air duct cleanings.
• Use a HEPA vacuum.

Frequent building inspections are also a good way to prevent potential issues.

Advantages of Mold Prevention Measures

Mold spores can be found both inside and outside and cannot be seen with the naked eye. By placing mats at all your entryways, some of these spores will get brushed off of shoes, limiting how many get carried into your building. Cleaning air ducts regularly can reduce the accumulation of many pollutants, including mold, and keep them from entering your facility. Additionally, carpet cleaning with a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) vacuum can trap harmful particles via a specialized air filter and prevent the spreading of spores.

Is There a Way To Control the Uncontrollable?

Unfortunately, mold growth can still occur despite your efforts to circumvent it. Flooding from a storm, a broken pipe or a leaking roof are typically uncontrollable incidents. Carpet damaged by water from any of these situations is all too common. How soon you discover the damage dictates your actions. Cleaning following water damage found within 24 to 48 hours can be done using a wet-dry vacuum to remove the water. A dehumidifier to control humidity levels and fans to aid the drying process are also good measures. If more than 48 hours has elapsed, mold remediation may be necessary. Contact a mold remediation professional for an assessment.

Make sure to prevent mold at your place of business. Carpet cleaning, air duct cleaning, and regular vacuuming with a HEPA filter can be your best line of defense.

For more on Danbury click here. 

How Is Mold Remediation Handled?

5/14/2018 (Permalink)

Mold remediation is a highly specialized practice requiring a great deal of skill, even if many of the preliminary steps can be performed yourself to help mitigate the problem and prevent its spread throughout your Danbury, CT, home. The best way to prevent mold from spreading and eliminate contamination from black mold is to contact a remediation specialist for mold cleanup, but it helps to understand the steps in the process.

The Key Steps in Mold Remediation

Black mold cleanup and remediation involves:

• Use of personal protective equipment. Mold, particularly black mold, should never be handled without use of personal protection, including gloves, eyewear, and a respiratory mask rated for particulates, preferably one that covers the nose and mouth. Old clothing or some sort of coverall should also be worn, covering all areas of exposed skin.

• Containment. One of the most critical steps is containment. This means shutting off HVAC and water to prevent spread of spores by air and stop fueling mold growth with possible water leakage. Identify the source of any water damage and address it immediately. Seal off mold-infested areas until they can be cleaned.

• Tear Out. Some organic materials, once mold-infested, cannot be salvaged and must be torn out and replaced. Tearing out carpet, linoleum, and drywall can also expose additional mold infestations to the light.

• Drying of wet materials. Any wet materials that can be salvaged should immediately be taken outside and exposed to direct sunlight to dry out in a clear, open area free of any visible mold or other contaminants.

• Cleaning and disinfection. The last stage in mold remediation is cleaning and disinfection, often requiring specialized equipment. Mold must first be removed from surfaces, and then those surfaces disinfected to kill any additional spores or particulates and prevent mold from growing on that surface again.

• Prevention. After removing a mold issue, the most vital step is preventing it from reoccurring. Keep your mold under control by addressing and resolving any moisture problems.

For more on Danbury Click here.

Commercial Mold Restoration: 3 Steps for Creating a Closure Timetable

4/23/2018 (Permalink)

Your Danbury, CT, commercial building requires regular maintenance and inspections if it is to remain safe and serviceable. Sometimes, you may require a brief closure or restrict your operations in case of a repair or remediation issue, such as mold removal. The cleanup process can be a necessary factor in maintaining a clean and sterile working environment, and creating a restoration timetable can help you better plan for a work stoppage or a temporary close of business.

1. Work With Your Restoration Techs

Asking questions of your mold removal and restoration specialists may help you prepare a more detailed timetable when it comes to a work stoppage. Because every job is different, each may take varied amounts of time. However, you may want to plan for a three- to seven-day closure, especially in the case of black mold, which can be more challenging to remove than other types of fungi. Your techs will likely inspect the damage and recommend closures based on their findings.

2. Prepare the Area

You may want to take the time to prepare areas that require cleaning. Move wood furniture that may be vulnerable to mold spores, cover electronic equipment, and remove important documents from the area to keep them safe. Ask employees to remove personal items from nearby desks or walls to lower the risk of exposure.

3. Announce Closures Ahead of Time

Depending on the severity of mold growth in your building, you may have to temporarily suspend business hours. Creating a timetable may help you gauge how long of a closure your customers can expect and give you ample time to announce it on your company’s website or app or at your business. This may help you keep lines of communication open with your customers and prevent any confusion about when you plan to reopen.

Planning for mold removal at your Danbury, CT, business can benefit your employees and customers. Creating a timetable can also reduce stress for you as a business owner and help ensure that the entire process runs as smoothly as possible.

Click here for more on Danbury.

Understanding the Difference Between Mold Removal and Mold Remediation

3/24/2018 (Permalink)

Mold Remediation in Danbury CT

If you’re dealing with black mold and researching mold cleanup in Danbury, CT, you may be wondering what the difference is between mold removal and mold remediation. Technically speaking, you can’t remove all the mold from your home. The spores released by mold are carried on the wind, which means they’re found literally everywhere, outside and inside. The key is to ensure that your home doesn’t provide spores with the moist, warm environment they need to grow into full-blown mold colonies. You can do this by:

• Fixing leaks immediately
• Keeping plumbing in good repair
• Using a dehumidifier and air conditioner
• Ensuring good drainage around your home

If you already have visible black mold growing in your home, you will need remediation to get mold levels in your home back to a healthy level. That means no actively growing colonies.

The Stages of Mold Remediation

When you hire a remediation service in Danbury,CT, there are several stages involved in the process.

1. Assessment

First, an expert needs to examine your home to locate the areas where mold is growing. He or she can also help you identify the key sources of moisture so that you can address them. If the source of excess moisture is not dealt with, mold will return.

2. Removal

Once the areas of mold are located, they should be contained so that mold doesn’t spread to other areas. Then the mold needs to be removed. If it is growing on a hard surface, it can be scrubbed off using a biocide. If it has infested a porous material, such as drywall or wood floors, the material needs to be removed and replaced.

3. Clean-Up

Other possessions in the area should also be cleaned even if mold is not visible, such as furniture, carpeting and clothing. Industrial dryers may be used to dry any remaining dampness and air filtration can help remove lingering odors.

Black mold is a natural part of the environment, but it can cause serious structural damage if left to grow inside your home. Use remediation to keep mold under control.

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

Mold Prevention Made Easy

2/20/2018 (Permalink)

Mold is one of those discoveries that most building owners hope to never make. While mold has the potential to do good (it is, after all, essential in the creation of brie cheese and penicillin), mold in structures can be extremely detrimental. This fungus feeds on its host surface, and as it grows, the surface beneath it deteriorates. For this reason, mold prevention is key to preserving the overall integrity of your building. If you’re not sure how to prevent mold growth, use these tips provided by your Ridgefield, CT, mold remediation experts:

• Look for problem areas, which may include water damage, standing water and moisture buildup.
• Dry out said areas.
• Fix the problem. This may entail fixing leaky pipes, patching a roof, installing new windows or installing new gutters.
• Equip your building with proper ventilation, and use dehumidifiers to keep humidity levels between 30 and 60 percent.
• Protect your office with mold-resistant products.

Prevention Is Key

Mold can become a problem quickly, and even with professional remediation, there is no guarantee once a patch of mold is removed that there won’t be other patches lurking in the dark. Additionally, mold produces mold spores, which waft in the air until they find an ideal breeding ground. For this reason, it is essential that you prevent water damage and moisture issues from popping up in your office. By keeping moisture at bay, you reduce away the possibility of mold developing in your structure.

If you suspect that your building has mold, contact your Ridgefield, CT, mold remediation team right away. Once the experts have effectively stanched and killed the mold growth, they can advise on what you can do to prevent future outbreaks. This may entail dealing with any water damage as it arises, fixing problem areas and equipping your building with proper ventilation, dehumidifiers and a brand-new gutter system.

Visit http://www.SERVPROdanburyridgefield.com for your mold remediation information. 

Common Questions About Mold in a Home

12/15/2017 (Permalink)

Common Questions About Mold in a Home

Homeowners experiencing mold growth in Danbury know that this can quickly become a major issue. Knowing more about the basics of mold, how to prevent it and what to do when it is already present can help you to better protect your home.

What Are the Basics Facts About Mold?

Mold can be unsettling to think about, but it is imperative that all homeowners have the facts:

Mold growth can start in just one to two days
Mold reduces property value
It often does undetected
It can be expensive to remove, especially once significant growth has occurred


What Are the Facts About Mold Remediation?

Before starting mold remediation, make sure that you are wearing the right protective gear. Then, use the following to ensure that the area is properly and safely cleaned:

Throw away anything that cannot be cleaned or dried completely
Air out the space
Ensure proper air circulation and dehumidify the affected area
Never mix cleaners
Use the proper detergent to scrub surfaces
Remove all mold and do not just cover it
Thoroughly dry the area

What Are Some Common Water Damage Facts?

Water damage is one of the primary causes of mold in a home, so it is important to have a basic understanding of it. The following are common facts:

You may need a separate insurance policy to cover it
It can quickly become worse
The water’s pollution level must be determined
Mold can start to grow in under 24 hours

With this information concerning mold growth and other related topics, you can see how it could impact your home. You also have more information about what you need to do to help prevent mold from becoming a problem, such as reducing the risk of water damage and high humidity. Visit http://www.SERVPROdanburyridgefield.com for more information on mold.

Mold 101: How to Spot it and What to Do

8/30/2017 (Permalink)

Mold 101: How to Spot it and What to Do

No building is immune to mold growth. Any event that causes moisture to infiltrate the structure could very likely spur mold growth because the microscopic spores of mold are present throughout indoor and outdoor environments. A flood, broken pipe, roof leak, or prolonged exposure to moisture such as in a bathroom without good ventilation could create an environment where mildew and fungus can grow, reproduce, and inflict dry rot on the structure.

Unless a person notices a flood or leak, moisture buildup might go unseen until an abnormal smelly odor arises. The smelly odor comes from the metabolic function of the microorganisms that give off volatile organic compounds. Deodorization alone cannot solve the problem because it would only cover up the smell of mildew and mold growth. A restoration company, however, would use a deodorization process after remediation of the causes of problems like black mold and dry rot. When a smelly odor persists but mold growth cannot be seen, then mold growth behind a wall could be happening. Mold in a home could also occur inside heating and cooling ducts and vents or behind wallpaper.

Visible mold like black mold represents a clear warning sign of mold in the home. Black mold can appear as blotchy and expanding dark areas on drywall, studs, or under carpet. People need to take signs of fungus and smelly odors seriously. Calling a restoration company to do an inspection will inform the home or business owner of the severity of the problem. Technicians trained in mold removal, remediation, and deodorization will have special equipment that can test the microbial nature of the fungus or mildew to determine how to treat it. They will know how to assess both commercial mold damage and mold in homes.

After determining the species of fungus present, a restoration company will begin the mitigation of mold damage by first fixing the moisture problem. This can be as simple as cleaning up water from a flood or obvious leak that has already been fixed. In other cases, an investigation might reveal that poor drainage outside is causing water to seep into a basement or that ventilation needs to be installed. The remediation and structural experts at restoration company will address these needs.

Drying goes hand in hand with water cleanup. A mold removal contractor will have commercial-grade fans and dehumidifiers to dry up the infected areas and stop the spread of mildew and mold damage. Drying alone will not suffice to fix contaminated materials like carpet or drywall. The mitigation process will require removal and replacement, especially of wood that has experienced dry rot. Structural elements that cannot come out will be deeply cleaned and mitigation treatments will be applied to stop new problems. These efforts will achieve deodorization of the smell caused by commercial mold damage or mold in the home.

Mold removal professionals have the resources to begin mitigation efforts as soon as possible unlike a property owner who has many other daily responsibilities. Specialists from restoration companies have the skill set to identify residential or commercial mold damage, mold growth behind walls, and black mold. They have fungicidal products to kill the microorganisms causing mold damage. Their testing equipment will them to locate the reach of mold damage and allow for a remediation crew to remove infected materials.

The rapid cessation of mold growth behind walls or commercial mold damage is important because the days that go by without mold removal mean that the problem will spread. With the services of a restoration company, a homeowner or business person will gain the support necessary to find mold growth behind walls, dry rot, moisture penetration, and unpleasant odors that limit the usability of a space.
Visit http://www.SERVPROdanburyridgefield.com for more information on mold.

Professional Mold Remediation Strategies

7/25/2017 (Permalink)

Professional Mold Remediation Strategies

The presence of mold in your home or business can have serious consequences on a number of fronts. Mold damage, left unchecked, can have serous consequences and can be costly.

With all of this in mind, you need to be aware of some basic factor when it comes to mold removal and remediation. This is true whether you are facing mold removal and remediation in a residential or commercial setting.

Mold Removal, Remediation, and Restoration Company

When it comes to a mold removal, remediation, and restoration company, there are some key considerations to bear in mind. First, a mold removal, remediation, and restoration company must have a team with specific experience in addressing mold in home or commercial mold damage, depending on your specific set of circumstances. You need to bear in mind that there are enterprises that focus on addressing mold in home or commercial mold damage, but not necessarily both types of situations.

Price considerations are also important when it comes to engaging a restoration company. In this regard, you do not necessarily want to go the cheapest route. By doing so, you may not access the best mitigation services. On the other hand, you do not need to overspend when it comes to engaging mitigation assistance. Rather, finding a reasonable priced mold in home or commercial mold damage mitigation service is the responsible course.

You also need to look at the team maintained by a restoration service. A restoration team's members need to be suitably trained as well as licensed, bonded, and insured.

Taking a Proactive Approach to Mold Damage

One factor that you need to consider is taking a proactive approach to mold damage. There are mold damage services that assist home and business owners in taking a proactive approach to dealing with mold. This includes assistance in preventing mold growth, including mold growth behind wall. These services that preempt mold growth, including mold growth behind wall, truly give meaning to the concept that an once of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

Mold, Smelly Odor, and Deodorization

One of the many negative aspects associated with mold is an associated smelly odor and the need for deodorization. When seeking a mold mitigation specialist, it is important to determine how a company addresses mold, fungus, mildew and associated odor. The conversation needs to include a discussion of what a provider does to provide appropriate deodorization of a home of business. This necessitates a consideration of the chemicals and equipment potentially used in the deodorization process to address a smelly odor. In the end, you want a permanent solution to a smelly odor, and not something that is temporary.

Fungus and Mildew as Warning Signs

If you experience fungus or mildew in your home or business, these growths can be warning signs of something more serious in the offing, including black mold. When fungus or mildew is detected, a professional should be consulted. Although it might be theoretically possible to address fungus or mildew on one's own, that coursed of action may not provide a lasting solution. In addition, as noted, the presence of fungus or mold may be indicative of a more serious situation, including black mold or mold growth behind wall. At a business, these problems could be harbingers of more extensive commercial mold damage.

Dealing with Dry Rot

Left unaddressed, mold can lead to situations like dry rot. Dry rot can causes expensive, permanent damage to a structure. The prospect of dry rot underscores the need for prompt, professional assistance with a mold condition. However, it also underscores the need for a professional that is adept at addressing dry rot when it occurs.

The Unique Dangers of Black Mold

In exploring the possibility of mold growth, including mold growth behind wall, black mold may be discovered. Therefore, when black mold is discovered, immediate professional remediation is strongly recommended.
Visit http://www.SERVPROdanburyridgefield.com for more information on mold.

Benefits Of Professional Mold Removal and Remediation

6/30/2017 (Permalink)

Benefits Of Professional Mold Removal and Remediation

Are you looking for a residential or commercial mold damage professional? Need a reputable company that can help you with mold in home problem? When you find yourself dealing with a mold in home or commercial mold damage, you need to seek expert assistance right away.

Mold thrives wherever there is moisture and little ventilation: under floor covering, behind walls, in crawl spaces, attics, and basements. Mold can be present in dry wall, insulation, and ducts.

Removing mold or smelly odor can be an extremely complex task. If you are dealing with mold that covers a large surface area, or if you there is mold in the HVAC system in your home or business, it is imperative that you hire a mold removal company to address the situation. It’s advisable to hire a reliable company to ensure safe and effective removal of mold in home, fungus or mildew.

Mold removal comprises of identifying and resolving mold problems in a structure, such as a home or commercial building. To prevent the spread of mold and reestablish a healthy environment, it is crucial to isolate damaged areas, remove affected material, eliminate moisture sources and apply deodorization.

Mold Removal Process

Mold remediation entails mold clean up and removal by professionals to address the damage caused by mold. Using bleach and water to clean mold will not kill it.

The process of getting rid of mold involves removing the affected material and reconstructing the damaged area. Therefore mold elimination is best handled by a professional who has the training to handle hazardous material. Expert mold remediation includes:

. Assessment

A mitigation professional will come into your location to identify moldy areas and the source of the problem. The mold damage expert will then create a plan to remove mold, fungus, mildew and smelly odor.

. Containment

It is crucial to set up containment, so that other areas of the building are not contaminated. The source of the moisture issue is addressed and appropriate steps are taken to avoid spreading mold spores during the removal process.

. Removal

Personal belongings and building materials can be affected. Keep in mind, mold ingrains itself into materials, so it is advisable to get rid of all porous materials. The safest way to make sure that mold does not return is to dispose of all affected materials. Sealants can be applied to treated areas to make them more resistant to mold, and also to help with smelly odor. Nonporous materials may be cleaned with antimicrobial cleaning products. It is important to have air conditioning and heating systems professionally cleaned.

. Drying

Cleaned items must be thoroughly dried. Remember, excessive moisture is what started the problem. As a result, a reliable professional will likely utilize moisture management techniques to ensure your property doesn’t encounter future problems.

. Repair

After all contaminated materials are removed, the reconstruction process begins. Some mold mitigation companies or professionals also do repair and restoration work. Restoration can usually be more costly than the mitigation depending on factors such as the style of residential or commercial structure or building materials used.

. Testing

In some cases, testing is necessary in order to be sure there is no mold in home. Following remediation, professionals search for any indications of recurrent water damage, smelly odors or visible mold to make sure the cleanup, deodorization or restoration has been successful.

Considerations

If you require residential or commercial mold damage service, including deodorization, it is advisable to hire an experienced company to ensure that the job is done right. Mold remediation is best left for trained technicians.

Reputable mold damage restoration companies often provide free estimates for mildew, fungus and mold removal. Both residential mold damage experts and commercial mold damage technicians are available to handle your mold removal or remediation projects. Be sure to find out about their prices and guarantee on all mold damage or mitigation services provided, including mildew mitigation, fungus removal and deodorization. Visit http://www.SERVPROdanburyridgefield.com for more information on mold damage.

Are Odors Affecting Your Fairfield County Home?

5/31/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Danbury/Ridgefield in Fairfield County, CT can address problematic smells in the home, but it’s important to understand that eliminating them goes beyond spraying a fresh scent. The difference between removing and masking scents can have a big impact on your home when the problem is more than a passing stink.

Odor removal and deodorization targets the source of the smell. Whether it’s from mold, leaks, or whatever might give off a smell around your home. This can be inside or outside, and there can be multiple spots and sources involved. This will often call for special training or equipment if the source is serious. A few home staples like vinegar and baking soda can help, but the more powerful and long-lasting the smell, the more likely you’ll need a professional to tackle the issue. Our team utilizes state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to eliminate odor.

Lingering stenches, as described above, are usually indicative of a bigger problem. Masking smells with air fresheners can mean missing a dangerous health risk to your home and family. Additionally, air fresheners can’t eliminate the smell. It might make an area smell nicer for a while, but unless the source is removed, air fresheners simply deposit a scent that won’t last. Overpowering the bad smell won’t clean any affected surfaces, either, so it’s better to address whatever is causing the issue.

Air fresheners offer a quick fix when you can’t identify the source of a smell, but they can end up mixing smells instead of eliminating the bad one. There’s usually more to a stench than the odor itself, so careful consideration of the problem can spare you a lot of unpleasant stinking. In short, if the odor is coming from a place like your garbage can or dirty laundry, air fresheners can offer a temporary improvement. However, when the problem is larger, older, or worse, seek out professional removal and deodorization to get rid of the smell for good. SERVPRO of Danbury/Ridgefield has numerous techniques to remove odors from your Fairfield County home or business. Contact our office today at (203)-791-0920 to speak with a member of our team who can assist you.

Is Mold Hiding in Your Attic?

3/17/2017 (Permalink)

In our experience, 95% of all mold problems in attics go completely unnoticed for a long time because most people seldom spend any time in their attic.

The attic mold might be discovered during a home inspection or by the homeowner who is not even selling their home but notices it one day after going into the attic for the first time in many months or even years.

That’s why it’s so important to be proactive. You have to check your attic for mold periodically, then fix the problem in the early stages when it’s far easier and lighter on your wallet. But the good news is that the type or color of the mold you have is pretty much irrelevant. Why? Because all visible mold regardless of the color, type, species etc should be approached in the same manner.

The approach is simple: if you see visible mold, it should be removed.

Commercial Mold Remediation in Ridgefield, CT

2/23/2017 (Permalink)

Whether its your home or business that is contaminated with toxic mold, SERVPRO of Danbury/Ridgefield has the equipment and expertise to handle both small mold remediation projects. The first step in the mold remediation process is having an industrial hygienist perform mold testing to determine the extent of contamination. Mold spores are microscopic in size, so the spores are invisible to the naked eye. Testing determines the concentration of mold spores in the areas which provides SERVPRO a plan for remediation. Utilizing H.E.P.A. filtered vacuums, air scrubbers and disinfectants our technicians clean all affected areas. Once all areas are cleaned testing is performed to verify that the air quality has returned to a normal environment. Contact SERVPRO of Danbury/Ridgefield at (203)-791-0920 to setup an inspection.

Mold Tips & Facts

8/29/2016 (Permalink)

Some customers try to handle the project themselves and find that the mold comes back a few weeks later. Here are some myths & facts about mold and the dangers. Although if you think you have mold, you should contact SERVPRO of Danbury/Ridgefield to discuss the plans of actions.

MYTH NO. 1 BLEACH KILLS MOLD?

Liquid bleach is a solution of chlorine in water, usually 6 percent sodium hypochlorite, thus 94 percent water. Smearing bleach on mold may appear to kill it, but the effect is superficial and very temporary. Once the chlorine is gone - and it evaporates rapidly - what's left is all that water, feeding the mold.

There are many chemicals that kill mold. They're called biocides. That means they kill life. (Bio = life + cide = kill.)

MYTH No. 2   'Toxic' Mold is the only dangerous type of mold.

"Toxic" mold or "black" mold is often touted by the hucksters in the mold industry as being the one that makes people sick, the one you must eliminate. This is pure scare tactic. 

Yes, there are some strains of mold that seem to be more toxic than others. But there is no such thing as good mold, or even tolerable mold, unless you like stinky cheese. Mold in your home is a problem, because it signifies a moisture problem. Moisture inside your home enables mold growth, and it can also lead to rot, threatening the structure itself.

On top of that, any mold problem that's allowed to continue often will pave the way for the dreaded "black mold." The most infamous "black mold," stachybotrys chartarum, is what's known as a tertiary mold. It's very slow to develop and usually follows earlier mold growths, actually feeding off the previous mold colony.

MYTH No. 3, Homeowners can property remediate mold themselves?

Homeowners are not trained or knowledgeable about mold enough to properly remediate the damages, most times homeowners cause more damage when they don’t hire a professional. Most of the errors are in the contamination process. Not using vapor barriers or the proper equipment to clean the air during removal stages. When it’s not properly sectioned off, they can cross contaminate mold threw other area of the home that previously did not have mold spores.

Fact No. 1 :  Mold is everywhere and mold problems exist indoors in every climate.

Mold is, literally, everywhere on the planet, in every climate. A house in the Mojave Desert can have a mold problem as easily as one in Florida or New Orleans. 

Mold needs three things to thrive: moisture, food, and the right temperature. Moisture can collect in walls, attics and crawl spaces in the driest of climates with a little help, such as a roof or siding leak, plumbing flaw, and pressure differentials created by air conditioning, or even a poorly vented bathroom.

Food for mold is pretty much everything we build with and everything we own. Mold loves household dust... even in the kitchen sink. And the warmth mold needs is the same temperature range humans prefer.

Bottom line: Every home has mold but not every home has a mold problem. If you think you might have a mold problem, don't ignore it. Get help.

Helping Reduce Mold Contamination in your Ridgefield Home

8/24/2016 (Permalink)

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Boise for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Danbury/Ridgefield specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (203) 791-0920

SERVPRO is trained in the latest procedures to handle mold

8/3/2016 (Permalink)

Microscopic mold spores naturally grow both indoors and outdoors. Controlling indoor moisture will control the growth of indoor mold. Mold can and will eat whatever it grows on. The water or moisture source must be corrected immediately. The longer mold remains on any surface, the more damage it can inflict. It can also cause structural damage. A few causes for the growth of mold can include leaks, damaged gutters, high humidity, improper ventilation, fire, water, and flooding. 
 
Any mold damage to Danbury, Connecticut  residential or commercial environments, would be devastating to our Fairfield County communities. If you think you have mold because you smell a musty odor or if you see just a small mold area, call SERVPRO immediately. 
 
Our mold remediation technicians are highly trained and IICRC certified. We are locally owned and operated. This means that as soon as you contact us, we can begin our remediation process. Remember, a faster response lessens additional mold damage and reduces additional remediation costs. 
 
We use the latest inspection techniques to locate and identify mold colonies in and around your home or business. Before we begin our remediation process, first the source of water or moisture must be found. If the source is not addressed, the mold may return.