Mold, Mold, Go Away!

6/30/2023 (Permalink)

mold on wall

As the weather starts to warm up and beach season approaches, something that is often overlooked is mold growth within homes. Whether you're looking to sell your home, purchase a home, or stay within your current home- mold seems to be the four letter word no one wants to hear! In this blog you'll learn where the most common areas for mold growth are, and when you'll need to call in a professional (like SERVPRO) to remediate!

Where is Mold most commonly found?

Mold will grow in places with a lot of moisture, such as around leaks in roofs, windows, or pipes, or where there has been flooding. Mold grows well on paper products, cardboard, ceiling tiles, and wood products. Mold can also grow in dust, paints, wallpaper, insulation, drywall, carpet, fabric, and upholstery.

How can I tell if I need to call in a professional?

If the mold growth covers an area of more than 10 square feet (the size of a bath towel), you should consider calling a mold specialist. Cleaning large areas of mold can be tricky. Mold spores are airborne and very hard to keep contained.

If you think you might have Black Mold in your home or business, call the professionals today at 508-676-9100

Mold Party - Seekonk 02771

4/29/2019 (Permalink)

If you think you’re ready for mold season, think again. While it may not look like you have a mold problem, the truth is mold is everywhere. That’s because mold spores grow virtually anywhere but they exist in low spore counts. However, when those spores get together and increase in spore count, then that’s when you have a real issue. For mold to grow, simply 4 things need to be present: a food source, humidity, moisture, and oxygen. If these 4 things align, which is easy enough in the spring and summer season, mold is a serious issue for home and business owners. If you notice your home or office as the venue for the mold party this season, call the pros. In most cases, you need industrial grade products to remediate the mold as well as detailed and specialized training that SERVPRO of Fall River technicians posses. If you notices the spores are gathering together, call us to remediate the mold and shut the party down. 

Spores Galore - Somerset 02725

4/29/2019 (Permalink)

If you think you’re ready for mold season, think again. While it may not look like you have a mold problem, the truth is mold is everywhere. That’s because mold spores grow virtually anywhere but they exist in low spore counts. However, when those spores get together and increase in spore count, then that’s when you have a real issue. For mold to grow, simply 4 things need to be present: a food source, humidity, moisture, and oxygen. If these 4 things align, which is easy enough in the spring and summer season, mold is a serious issue for home and business owners. If you notice your home or office as the venue for the mold party this season, call the pros. In most cases, you need industrial grade products to remediate the mold as well as detailed and specialized training that SERVPRO of Fall River technicians posses. If you notices the spores are gathering together, call us to remediate the mold and shut the party down. 

Lurking in the Corner - Somerset 02726

4/29/2019 (Permalink)

Ever look inside your attic and were surprised to see what looks like a coffee stain on your wall? Or maybe you caught a glimpse of the back of your cupboard or kitchen cabinet and what looked to be a shadow was something completely different — but even scarier? If you answered yes, then you know what it is: mold. Mold is the dreaded visitor of any home or business owner. Never invited but somehow always finds it way in. That’s because mold spores are everywhere and never require a “welcome invitation” they just show up. Fortunately, when you “invite” SERVPRO of Fall River technicians inside your home, not only are they the perfect guests, but they’re also your number one weapon against that mold home invasion. Whether that’s in the crawl space or the cupboard, our technicians are trained to fight the spores and remediate any mold that has colonized in your home. Next time you notice mold in your home, have no fear — SERVPRO of Fall River is here!

Mold, Simplified. - Fall River Highlands, 02720

4/9/2019 (Permalink)

What is Mold?

During this time of the year, we start to see a large influx in mold related claims. You yourself may even have a mold problem you just don’t know about yet! It seems like we hear about this phenomenon everywhere; the T.V., internet, magazines, and even through our friends and family. It’s the hottest conversation piece there is once the last of that winter snow has melted.

With all the information that’s circulating around out there about mold, you may be asking yourself, what IS mold?

Simply put, mold is a type of fungus that contains organisms which are found almost everywhere – yes, everywhere. Mold is in our homes, on our clothes – even on us! It only starts to thrive once spores find a damp spot to grow. This is when mold can become an issue. It prospers in damp, dark, moist places, and feeds on a variety of items such as wood, concrete, drywall, and food. Fortunately, SERVPRO of Fall River are the experts in mold remediation or removal. Think you have a mold problem but now entirely sure? It should help to know that we offer complimentary estimates for each and every one of our customers. Put your mind at ease and call us today at 508-676-9100

Black Mold: What are the warning signs?

11/21/2018 (Permalink)

We recently learned that the term “black mold” is the most commonly searched phrase on Google to lead people to the SERVPRO of Fall River website. In honor of these findings, we’ve created this blog posting to teach you everything you need to know about Black Mold. Happy Reading!

What is Black Mold?

Black mold, or Stachybotrys chartarum, is a toxic mold that grows in warm, damp and dark areas. Black mold begins to form after water or moisture has seeped into this warm, dark environment and goes left untreated. This process can happen anywhere, but the most common area for mold growth to happen is in the basement.

How can I tell if there’s Black Mold in my home?

If you’re concerned that black mold may be growing in your home or business, it is recommended that you contact SERVPRO of Fall River to examine the affected area. Below you’ll find ways to determine if contacting a professional is necessary.

1. Smell

Mold has an unmistakably musty odor to it. If you’re smelling must or mildew in your home, you’ve most likely got a mold problem. When determining where the problem is located, it is important to check all areas of a room thoroughly, including A/C units and furniture. It is also important to note that mold does not always grow on an objects surface – it could be lurking behind drywall, tile, or even in your HVAC system.

2. Sight

Black mold usually appears greenish-black in color, and features a slimy texture (see right) but may also appear gray, orange, brown or furry. It can appear flat against a surface, or bumpy and rigid.

3. Touch

Touching mold can spread spores to other parts of your home or business, making the containment process difficult and time consuming. It isn’t recommended you touch black mold, or any type of mold for that matter, due to health concerns and containment issues.

If you think you might have Black Mold in your home or business, call the professionals today at 508-676-9100

The Hidden Dangers of Mold

10/23/2018 (Permalink)

The general public is typically familiar with identifying visible mold growing on surfaces that you can see. Most people know the immediate dangers and will work towards resolving the issue.

Unfortunately, mold often lurks in places that are not so visible to homeowners including behind drywall. Typically found in finished basements after a flood or in water seeping through a home’s basement cement wall or an improperly sealed tie rod hole. Broken, or leaking pipes and even houses with poor ventilation can all factor into moisture collecting and creating the environment needed for mold to grow.

If not taken care of properly, this can cause prolonged exposure and health risks to residents of the home, without their knowledge. Symptoms are often very similar to common seasonal allergies such as; itchy, watery eyes, sinus congestion, itchy throat, runny nose or even asthma attacks. With prolonged exposure mold poisoning may develop. Symptoms become much worse. Respiratory infections, scar tissue build up and bleeding of the lungs, joint pain and even depression are just a few of the symptoms. If left untreated these health problems can become chronic, life altering issues. 

Be proactive and do your best to keep your home mold free. If you believe that you may have a mold problem, contact SERVPRO of Fall River today at (508) 676-9100.

Mold and Mildew issues- Fall River, MA 02721

5/14/2018 (Permalink)

Need mildew removal? Spring cleaning means you may find mildew lurking, call 508-676-9100 to schedule cleanup services.

The kitchen of this home in Fall River, MA is mold and mildew damaged to the max. It's easy to see the mold growth that's already occurred due to extensive water damage! SERVPRO of Fall River mildew removal technicians came out to this home because the homeowner was cleaning the structure and noticed mold growth all along the bottom of the walls.

When water leaks occur and aren't addressed right away, mold growth will almost always occur. While some molds aren't dangerous, the longer water damage sits, the more harmful mold and mildew growth can occur.

SERVPRO of Fall River is trained in mildew removal and will examine a structure for any visible signs of mildew or mold. The technician may recommend you leave the affected area while the mold cleanup and associated containment process is being safety completed. 

This is why we do what we do: to help our communities get back to their lives. We are everywhere in the community. Call SERVPRO of Fall River today if you need mildew removal completed, 508-676-9100. Don't hesitate when your well being is on the line.

What is "Black Mold?"- Somerset, MA 02724

5/7/2018 (Permalink)

Stachybotrys chartarum is the type of mold often called “black mold” or “toxic mold”. Sensational news reports warn about the dangers of black mold and these stories can be alarming and confusing. Any mold in your home should be treated with caution – stay out of affected areas and don’t touch or disturb the mold.

How Do I Tell If It’s Black Mold?

Since many types of mold can cause reactions, you should contact us regardless of the color or type of mold. In many instances, multiple types of mold may exist in the same house or structure. If you suspect you have a mold problem, contact SERVPRO of Fall River immediately. 

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (508) 676-9100

Common Questions About Mold

5/1/2018 (Permalink)

Mold is a common subject of anxious inquiries after your home has experienced extensive water damage. If high humidity levels persist, any area that has experienced a leak is at risk for becoming prime real estate for mold. Here are brief and helpful answers to four frequently asked questions concerning mold growth.

1. What is mold? Mold is a fungus that grows in multicellular structures on moist organic materials. Mold spreads by pores that float through the air until they land on a surface that is conducive to growth. Mold may develop in a wide variety of colors, but every type of mold releases more spores into the air that can cause mold to spread throughout a structure.

2. What causes mold to grow? Mold feeds off of nutrients in carbon-rich organic matter and thrives and spreads when moisture is present. If either factor is absent, mold growth will be significantly less likely.

3. How do you identify mold? You can inspect visible mold and look up similar fungi online, but you are more likely to correctly identify mold if you contact an industrial hygienist, indoor air specialist, or a company that provides residential mold testing and remediation services.

4. How do you get rid of mold? Depending on the extent of growth, mold can be contained or physically removed and the surface on which it has grown may either be disposed of or cleaned and thoroughly dried. It is important to maintain dry, low-humidity conditions to prevent mold from returning.

If you spot visible mold in your home in Bountiful, UT, in the wake of water damage or smell a mildew odor, you should contact residential remediation and restoration specialists in your area. Experts can quickly identify and contain mold growth, point out environmental factors such as high humidity, and remove, clean, and disinfect the affected area of your home. 

Understanding Mold

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

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

MOST COMMON PLACES FOR MOLD GROWTH IN YOUR HOME

4/9/2018 (Permalink)

When it comes to your home or business mold is not something you want to mess around with. Especially in our Pacific Northwest climate, it doesn’t take very much time for mold to spread quickly. Mold can become extremely hazardous to your health, and if left untreated can cause costly structural damage to building materials. If you find mold growing in your home, it’s important to call in a professional who has the experience and expertise to have the mold completely removed by using the correct process.

Mold is a living organism that belongs to the fungi family. There are over 100,000 species of mold, and all of them can be harmful if not properly taken care of.

As long as oxygen and moisture are present, mold can virtually grow on any organic surface such as paper, wood, insulation, food, and carpet padding.  Because mold will eat or digest what it growing on, if left untreated, mold can even cause structural damage to buildings and furnishings.

Here are some Places to Watch for Mold Growth in Your Home:

• Basements or cellars that have been flooded
• Underneath kitchen sinks
• Attics & Crawl Spaces
• Underneath or behind refrigerators
• Behind walls that also house plumbing
• Stacks of damp or wet newspaper or cardboard boxes
• Around air-conditioning units
• Wallboard or around windows that leak
• Under carpeting that may have become wet
• Bathroom shower or under sink

You can prevent damage to your home or business, its contents, save money, and avoid potential health problems by controlling moisture and eliminating mold growth.

 Reminder: With any type of water damage in the home drying the affected areas within three days or less will help prevent the growth of toxic mold that can make you extremely sick.

The Mold Remediation Process

Every mold infestation is different, from the amount of mold to the types of materials affected. Each scenario requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our process for a “typical” mold remediation infestation:

1. Emergency Contact - (508) 676-9100
2. Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
3. Mold Containment
4. Air Filtration
5. Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
6. Cleaning Contents and Belongings
7. Restoration

Got Mold?

11/21/2017 (Permalink)

Understanding Mold

Some restoration companies advertise “mold removal” and may even guarantee to remove all mold. This is a fallacy because removing all mold from a house or business is impossible; microscopic mold spores exist almost everywhere, both indoors and outdoors. Here are the facts:

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

Why Choose SERVPRO of Friendswood / Pearland?

We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster

A minor mold problem can quickly become a major infestation if left untreated. We can start the remediation process immediately after you contact us. A faster response lessens the mold damage, limits additional damage, and reduces the remediation cost.

We’re Highly Trained Mold Remediation Specialists

We specialize in water and mold damage restoration, the cornerstone of our business. We have the training and expertise to safely handle any mold situation.

• Applied Microbial Remediation Specialist
• Water Damage Restoration Technician
• Applied Structural Drying Technician

We Use Advanced Mold Remediation Techniques and Equipment

Our advanced equipment helps to detect and stop the source of water feeding the mold. We then isolate the affected area using a negative air pressure chamber.

The Mold Remediation Process

Every mold infestation is different, from the amount of mold to the types of materials affected. Each scenario requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our process for a “typical” mold remediation infestation:

1. Emergency Contact 508-676-9100
2. Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
3. Mold Containment
4. Air Filtration
5. Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
6. Cleaning Contents and Belongings
7. Restoration

Common Mold Misconceptions

It’s easy to understand why many people struggle to grasp the facts and issues surrounding indoor mold because of sensational news stories and advertising cloud and obscure the real issues. Educate yourself on the facts about mold and learn about the mold remediation process.

• What is “Black Mold”?
• “Mold Removal” versus Mold Remediation

What causes mold?

10/23/2017 (Permalink)

What causes mold? Spores need three things to grow into mold nutrients - cellulose (the cell wall of green plants) is a common food for indoor spores, moisture - To begin the decaying process caused by mold time -mold growth begins from 24 hours to 10 days after the provision of growing conditions. What does it take for mold to grow? Mold spores are everywhere, and they grow on any organic surface, given the right conditions. For growth, they require organic matter for food, moisture, warmth, and oxygen. To prevent mold growth, keep all surfaces clean and dry, and provide plenty of ventilation.

When a home suffers a water damage event, a mold infestation can quickly arise and spread throughout a home in 48-72 hours. Because mold can produce allergens and irritants, you will want a professional that has training and experience to properly resolve the mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, 
Call Us Today – (508) 676-9100

Myth about Mold

5/12/2017 (Permalink)

Myth about Mold

The myth that bleach is the only thing that kills mold, has been passed on to us from generation to generation.  While there are benefits to using bleach-such as disinfecting and sterilizing-the cons of using bleach definitely outweigh the pros. 

Bleach Removes Mold Stains Only

So, why do homeowners believe bleach kills mold? Because the mold stain disappears after using bleach. If you can’t see it anymore then the mold must be dead, right?incorrect! You see, mold is like a plant in the sense that it grows roots and attaches itself to porous surfaces such as drywall, concrete and even fabrics. 

Bleach is Toxic

Have you ever used bleach and felt like you could barely breathe? One homeowner recently told us they had to stay out of the room for days because the fumes were so pungent.

Concrobium Mold Control

There’s a safer way to eliminate and clean mold, without exposing yourself to harmful chemicals.

• Mold clean-up during remodeling projects
• Mold and mildew treatments while painting
• Mold prevention in homes and facilities
• Musty odor control in vulnerable areas

Concrobium Mold Control dries to form an invisible antimicrobial shield that encapsulates and physically crushes mold spores. 

If You See Signs of Mold,
Call Us Today – (508) 676-9100

We Are IICRC Certfield

5/5/2017 (Permalink)

Certificate

SERVPRO of Fall River has been a multi-specialty IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification) certified firm years. The IICRC sets the gold standards for the Cleaning and Remediation industry, of which SERVPRO is an industry leader. The following is from the IICRC official website (http://www.IICRC.org).

”IICRC Certified Firms have earned the right to display the Clean Trust logo as a symbol of quality. In order to achieve IICRC-certified status, firms must meet a rigorous list of standards in business ethics and expertise.

"IICRC Certified Firms must:

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

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

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

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

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

"The IICRC actively pursues relationships with fiber producers, carpet and fabric mills, furnishing manufacturers and retailers, and others affiliated with the industry. The use of IICRC-certified service professionals is specified in leading manufacturers’ maintenance brochures and warranties.”

SERVPRO of Fall River is honored to count ourselves among the select organizations to receive these certifications.  You can rest easy that we’ll get the job done right, every time!

How often should you clean your bathroom to avoid mold growth

4/28/2017 (Permalink)

When it comes to bathrooms, it seems like it’s the least favorite room for homeowners to clean. However, dust, dirt, grime, and moisture sitting on your bathroom surfaces can lead to mold and mildew. So, why avoid the cleanup and put your family’s health at risk? Bathrooms should be cleaned weekly, but there’s also little things that can be done daily that can help make that weekly cleanup seem less daunting.

Daily:

• After a shower, squeegee your tiles to remove the excess water
• Keep the shower stall door or curtains open after a shower for at least 10 minutes to help exhaust the humidity that has built up inside
• Close the shower curtains afterwards to help dry them so moisture doesn’t get trapped when they are bunched up when closed
• Empty garbage bins every other day. Think of what gets thrown out: wet naps, damp paper towels, Kleenexes, tissue paper, etc. After a few days, your garbage bin can start to get musty and moldy
• Hang towels right away after a bath or shower. Leaving them on the floor can lead to musty odors
• Run your exhaust fans or open windows during your shower and keep them open/on afterwards for at least 20 minutes

Weekly:

• Toilet bowls
• Shower head; build-up can occur causing mold and clogging, preventing you from having a relaxing shower experience.
• Counters and sinks
• Walls and floors; dust, grime, hair is mold food when left on surfaces for too long
• Shower mats
• Replace hand and bath towels with fresh, clean linens
• Mirrors
• Door handles, faucets can hold onto bacteria

As a result, the main objective is to keep moisture levels to a minimum. 

The Mold Remediation Process

Every mold infestation is different, from the amount of mold to the types of materials affected. Each scenario requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our process for a “typical” mold remediation infestation:

1. Emergency Contact - (508) 676-9100
2. Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
3. Mold Containment
4. Air Filtration
5. Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
6. Cleaning Contents and Belongings
7. Restoration

Common Mold Misconceptions

It’s easy to understand why many people struggle to grasp the facts and issues surrounding indoor mold because sensational news stories and advertising cloud and obscure the real issues. Educate yourself with the facts about mold and learn about the mold remediation process.

• What is “Black Mold”?
• “Mold Removal” versus Mold Remediation

Mold Damage Tips and Mold Remediation

4/5/2017 (Permalink)

It only takes a small water leak, or even excess humidity, for mold to form in your Fall River home or business. Then, mold can spread quickly through the property in as little as 48 hours. Mold can produce allergens and irritants, and it has the potential to cause other health effects. If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy.

Mold facts:

Mold is presently almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.

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

Learn more about mold and what to do until help arrives by reviewing these mold damage tips.

What you can do until help arrives

In as little as 48 hours, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business when there’s a water intrusion, like a roof leak or leaking water line. Mold can cause health effects and can also cause significant damage to your property. SERVPRO of Fall River has the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem.

Have a Mold Problem?

Call Us Today – (508) 676-9100

If you have a mold problem in your home or business, consider the following facts:

Significant mold growth can occur in 48-72 hours. Mold may present a greater risk to children, the elderly, and anyone with respiratory problems. A strong, musty odor may indicate hidden mold behind drywall or under carpeting. Finding mold in your home or business can be frightening. While most of us know we should avoid mold exposure, only experts have the specific training and experience to assess mold growth, determine its toxicity, and develop a safe and effective mold removal and remediation plan.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Fall River 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.

If you suspect that your home or business has a mold problem, SERVPRO of Fall River has the training, equipment, and expertise to handle the situation.

The Truth about Mold Removal & Remediation

3/17/2017 (Permalink)