The Impact of Mold on Indoor Air Quality: Expert Insights from SERVPRO®

11/13/2024 (Permalink)

In this blog, we’ll explore the impact of mold on indoor air quality, how mold develops, and expert strategies to improve your home’s air environment.

Mold is a common household issue in Gainesville, FL, that many homeowners face, especially in areas with high humidity or water damage. While mold is often visible on walls, ceilings, or floors, its presence also significantly affects the quality of the air inside your home. The air you breathe is just as important as the surfaces you see, and mold can compromise indoor air quality in ways that aren’t always obvious. In this blog, we’ll explore the impact of mold on indoor air quality, how mold develops, and expert strategies to improve your home’s air environment.

How Mold Affects Indoor Air Quality

Mold reproduces through microscopic spores that become airborne when disturbed. Once these mold spores are released into the air, they circulate throughout the home, potentially spreading to other areas. This contamination can compromise the indoor air quality, leading to issues with odors, moisture levels, and overall comfort. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), mold can begin to grow indoors within 24-48 hours of moisture exposure, making it critical to address water damage and high humidity immediately.

Causes of Mold in Homes

Understanding the factors that cause mold growth is essential to preventing it from spreading and negatively affecting indoor air quality. Here are some common causes of mold in homes:

• Water Damage: Leaks from roofs, plumbing, or flooding can introduce moisture into your home, which creates the perfect environment for mold to grow. Even minor leaks that go unnoticed for long periods can lead to mold development behind walls, under floors, and inside ceilings.
• High Humidity: Homes in regions with high humidity or inadequate ventilation are more prone to mold growth. Mold thrives in environments with humidity levels above 60%, and if left unchecked, high humidity can result in the development of mold colonies.
• Poor Ventilation: Inadequate airflow throughout a home can trap moisture, particularly in bathrooms, basements, and kitchens. Without proper ventilation, mold can grow quickly in these areas and affect the air quality throughout the house.
• Condensation: Condensation on windows, pipes, and walls due to temperature fluctuations can result in damp surfaces. If these surfaces aren’t regularly dried, mold can begin to develop and release spores into the air.

How Mold Contaminates the Air

Mold’s ability to release spores into the air is one of the main ways it impacts indoor air quality. When disturbed by movement, air circulation, or cleaning efforts, mold spores become airborne and can spread to other areas of the house. This not only increases the mold problem but also reduces the quality of the air you breathe.

Additionally, mold can produce a musty odor, which is a clear indication of mold contamination in the air. If the air inside your home smells damp or stale, it’s often a sign that mold is present somewhere in your home, possibly in unseen areas like behind walls or under carpets.

Expert Strategies to Improve Indoor Air Quality

Improving your home’s indoor air quality requires addressing mold at its source and implementing long-term solutions to prevent it from recurring. Here are expert tips for keeping mold at bay and maintaining clean indoor air:

1. Control Humidity Levels: One of the most important steps to improving air quality is controlling your home’s humidity levels. Use dehumidifiers in moisture-prone areas such as basements, kitchens, and bathrooms to maintain humidity levels below 60%.
2. Fix Water Leaks Promptly: Any leaks from plumbing, roofs, or windows should be addressed immediately to prevent moisture buildup. Even small leaks can lead to mold development if not repaired, so regular maintenance is key to preventing mold contamination.
3. Improve Ventilation: Proper ventilation is essential for reducing moisture and maintaining healthy air circulation throughout your home. Use exhaust fans in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms to remove excess moisture and prevent condensation.
4. Use Mold-Resistant Products: When remodeling or making home improvements, opt for mold-resistant materials such as mold-resistant drywall and paint, especially in moisture-prone areas. These materials are designed to withstand high humidity levels and prevent mold growth.
5. Inspect and Clean HVAC Systems: Your home’s HVAC system plays a crucial role in maintaining indoor air quality. Regularly inspect and clean your HVAC filters, ducts, and vents to prevent mold spores from circulating through your home’s air.
6. Professional Mold Remediation: If mold has already begun to affect your home’s air quality, it’s essential to contact mold remediation professionals like SERVPRO®. Our team uses specialized equipment to detect hidden mold, remove it safely, and restore clean air quality in your home.

Trust SERVPRO for Mold Remediation and Indoor Air Quality Solutions

When it comes to mold and indoor air quality, the stakes are high. Addressing mold early is the best way to ensure that it doesn’t spread and compromise the air you and your family breathe. At SERVPRO, our professional mold remediation services are designed to eliminate mold at its source, improve air quality, and provide long-lasting solutions to keep your home mold-free.

With our advanced tools, expert knowledge, and commitment to excellent service, SERVPRO is your trusted partner in restoring and maintaining indoor air quality. Contact us today to learn more about our mold remediation services and how we can help you breathe easier in your home.

Mold has a significant impact on indoor air quality, but with the right prevention and remediation strategies, you can protect your home’s air environment. Don’t wait until mold spreads—take action today to safeguard the quality of your indoor air.

DIY Mold Removal: Knowing When to Call in the Professionals

7/10/2024 (Permalink)

Explore DIY mold removal strategies and discuss when it's time to enlist the help of SERVPRO!

Dealing with mold growth in your home can be a daunting task, and many homeowners are tempted to tackle the problem themselves through DIY mold removal methods. While some minor mold issues can be addressed using DIY techniques, there are instances where calling in professionals is the safest and most effective course of action. In this blog post, we'll explore DIY mold removal strategies and discuss when it's time to enlist the help of professional mold remediation experts.

DIY Mold Removal Methods

Surface Cleaning:

For minor mold growth on non-porous surfaces such as tile, glass, or plastic, surface cleaning with household cleaners and disinfectants can be effective. Solutions such as vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, or commercial mold cleaners can help remove mold stains and inhibit regrowth.

Removal of Moldy Materials:

If mold has infiltrated porous materials such as drywall, carpet, or upholstery, the affected materials may need to be removed and replaced. DIY removal of moldy materials may be feasible for small-scale projects, but larger or extensive mold infestations may require professional assistance.

Improving Ventilation and Moisture Control:

Addressing underlying moisture issues and improving ventilation in areas prone to mold growth can help prevent future mold problems. DIY measures such as installing exhaust fans, fixing leaks, and using dehumidifiers can help reduce moisture levels and inhibit mold growth.

When to Call the Professionals

Extensive Mold Growth:

If mold growth covers a large area (typically more than 10 square feet), or if mold is present in multiple rooms or levels of your home, it's best to seek professional assistance. Professional mold remediation experts have the training, experience, and equipment to safely and effectively address large-scale mold infestations.

Hidden Mold:

Mold can often lurk in hidden or inaccessible areas such as behind walls, under flooring, or within HVAC systems. If you suspect mold is present but cannot locate the source, or if mold growth is visible in hard-to-reach areas, professional mold inspection and remediation services are recommended.

Structural Damage:

Mold growth can cause structural damage to your home if left unchecked. Signs of structural damage, such as warped or deteriorating building materials, indicate a serious mold problem that requires professional intervention to assess and address.

While DIY mold removal methods may be suitable for minor mold issues, there are situations where professional mold remediation services are necessary to ensure thorough and effective removal of mold and prevent its recurrence. By knowing when to call in the professionals, homeowners can protect their property and maintain a healthy indoor environment. If you're unsure about how to address mold growth in your home or if you're dealing with a large-scale mold infestation, don't hesitate to contact a reputable restoration company like SERVPRO® for expert assessment and remediation services.

Emergency Mold Remediation: What to Do in a Crisis

3/13/2024 (Permalink)

We know that dealing with mold can be a real headache, especially when it happens unexpectedly. Mold growth is not only unsightly but can also pose serious threats to your property. That's why, at SERVPRO®, we're here to guide you through the steps of emergency mold remediation. From identifying the issue to taking prompt action, we've got your back!

Identifying the Problem

The first step to tackling any mold crisis is identifying the issue. Keep an eye out for visible signs such as discoloration on walls, ceilings, or floors, a musty odor, or even water damage. Moisture is the primary culprit behind mold growth, so it's crucial to address leaks or water damage promptly.

Isolating the Affected Area

Once you've identified the mold problem, it's essential to isolate the affected area. Close off the space and avoid disturbing the mold to prevent spores from spreading to other parts of your home. You can use plastic sheeting and tape to seal off the affected area and create a containment zone.

Turning Off HVAC Systems

Mold spores can easily travel through the air, so it's crucial to turn off your HVAC system to prevent the spread of mold throughout your home. This step will also help contain the problem and avoid further contamination.

Contacting Professionals

While DIY solutions may seem tempting, mold remediation is best left to the experts. At SERVPRO, our skilled technicians are trained to handle mold emergencies efficiently and safely. Contact us as soon as possible to assess the extent of the damage and develop a customized remediation plan.

Safety First

In any mold emergency, safety should be your top priority. Equip yourself with protective gear, including gloves, goggles, and a mask, before attempting to address the issue. Remember, mold can cause skin irritation, so taking precautions is essential.

Documentation for Insurance

In the midst of a mold crisis, it's easy to overlook the paperwork. However, documenting the damage is crucial for insurance claims. Take photos and keep records of the affected areas to streamline the claims process.

Dealing with mold in an emergency situation can be overwhelming, but with the right steps and professional assistance, you can regain control of your home. At SERVPRO, we're committed to helping you through mold remediation crises, ensuring your home is a safe environment for you and your loved ones. Remember, when it comes to mold, swift action is the key!

Mold Awareness Month - Equipment FAQs

8/23/2023 (Permalink)

Dehumidifiers and air scrubbers are part of every mold job.

Mold Awareness Month continues! 

This month, equipment is the key. There are two vital pieces of equipment integral to completing proper mold remediation: dehumidifiers and air scrubbers. We want to answer some frequently asked questions that we get about the equipment we use.

Why do we use dehumidifiers?

Mold loves humid places. Before, during, and after the demolition process, large dehumidifiers are used to dry the air and prevent further growth. This creates an environment that discourages mold from spreading. It is especially important to maintain a dry environment once reconstruction begins. The last thing you want is to put materials back in place and lock in moisture! 

What are air scrubbers?

Air scrubbers are specialty industrial machines that only a licensed mold remediator would have. The average mold kit you can buy online or in a store wouldn't have anything that can accomplish what they do! They pass air through HEPA filters that catch even the most minute particles. Since mold particles are typically between three and 40 microns in diameter, HEPA filters are the only things that can effectively snatch them out of the air.

Why is it so important to remove spores from the air?

When surface mold is disturbed through demolition, cleaning, or even air currents, it spores into the air. When those spores are inhaled, sensitive individuals could encounter health issues. Additionally, spores naturally want to migrate to another environment conducive to further growth - usually somewhere dark and humid. That is why it is so important to wear respirators and put up containment during a job. However, if you take the containment down without scrubbing the air, the aerosolized spores will still spread to other areas. Thus, air scrubbers run during and after the mitigation process to ensure that the air is clean before containment is removed. 

Why do we test for mold after the job?

After cleaning is complete, air scrubbers continue to run inside the containment zone. After the final scrubbing period, a licensed mold assessor will return to the jobsite to run another round of labs. When the results come back, we know that the mold has been properly remediated if all areas are back to normal mold levels. 

If you have a mold problem, don't try to tackle it yourself with store-bought solutions! Call an expert like SERVPRO to have it taken care of the right way.

Mold Awareness Month - Containment

8/11/2023 (Permalink)

Zipper doors and window seals help keep the outside air out during the job.

We're in the second week of Mold Awareness Month! You know what that means! It's time for us to take a look at the right way to restore your home or business from mold damage. That all starts with employing the use of proper containment.

Containment is the act of creating a decontamination (or decon) chamber around the affected area using various methods. We'll discuss those methods in depth, but first we need to think about why a decon chamber is necessary.

You might think that you can remove mold by simply removing moldy materials or cleaning surfaces. While these are both necessary to completing remediation, there are other crucial steps required to do so safely. When mold is disturbed through cleaning and demolition, spores aerosolize and disperse throughout the air. They will then seek another environment suitable for further growth. Yes; improperly removing mold can actually cause it to spread! Aerosolized spores also pose a health risk to susceptible individuals as allergic reactions to mold happen when the spores are inhaled.

How do we solve the problem of aerosolized spores? Containment. Things like sealing windows and putting up transition chambers are especially key to this process. By sealing off the area, we ensure that spores are not able to spread beyond what is already affected. Meanwhile, our dehumidifiers and air scrubbers cleanse the air of spores and return the environment to a normal fungal environment. By the time the job is done, we can remove containment with the confidence that the once contaminated area is now back to normal.

With SERVPRO's expertise and training, you can be sure that we will make mold Like It Never Even Happened.

Mold Awareness Month - Remediation The Right Way

8/1/2023 (Permalink)

Equipment is a vital part of the remediation process.

Strap on your knowledge caps and get ready because August is here, and it's mold awareness month! With the storm season underway, we have decided to pull back the curtain on how we approach mold remediation the right way. Dealing with mold proactively is extraordinarily important, and we are using this month to give you valuable information about how it can be harmful and how we as expert remediators go about getting mold under control. 

Mold is a fungus that grows in dark, humid conditions. Often, the source of the growth is a past water intrusion, either via flood or interior loss. If a water loss occurs and is not dried out expeditiously and thoroughly, mold has a chance of growing. In fact, that growth can begin as early as 48-72 hours after the water loss occurs! 

A mold issue can be dangerous for residents, which is why you should never attempt to demolish moldy materials such as drywall or carpet on your own. Licensed remediators take several steps to remove mold and create a safe environment once the job is done.

When mold is mitigated by a licensed remediator, there are steps that must be followed in order to ensure the success of the job. 

1. Inspect the affected area for visible mold.
2. Advise client to hire a licensed mold assessor to determine scope, perform a fungal screening, and create a protocol.
3. Seclude affected area with containment.
4. Place HEPA air scrubbers and dehumidifiers to condition the environment.
5. Demolish affected porous materials.
6. Dispose of debris.
7. Clean the affected area.
8. Clean ducts and HVAC system.
9. Continue scrubbing the environment for 24 hours after demolition is complete.
10. Assessor returns to test again and confirm that mold counts are no longer elevated.

By following the protocol, the risk of mold returning or being dangerous is minimized, which is why you should always leave this sensitive work to the experts. Luckily, SERVPRO® is here to help!

What to Do If You See or Suspect Mold

6/18/2021 (Permalink)

If you see mold like this in your home, call the experts at SERVPRO right away!

Mold is a common part of life in Florida's wet and humid climate and can wreak havoc on your home or business site if left untreated.

Why worry about mold? If left undetected and untreated, it can grow rapidly and affect the structural integrity of your home. It has been linked to health effects and can ruin the contents of your home, as well as creating an unpleasant musty smell. An unexpected finding of mold during a home inspection can also impact ability to buy/resell a property.

Maybe you are starting to notice a musty odor or worse, you see some questionable spots appearing. 

You see or suspect mold...what next?

You should call a professional mold remediation company like SERVPRO Gainesville West/Alachua West. We can perform a site visit and assess the area, as well as look for hidden mold. If you have visible mold, the damage often extends beyond what you can see. 

An independent mold testing company should also perform testing. We work with your insurance company throughout the mold remediation process. 

It may be tempting to attempt treating the mold growth yourself to save money, but this is a job really best left to the professional experts like SERVPRO.

Why let SERVPRO professionals handle mold remediation?

- As a licensed mold remediation company, we have years of experience providing this service

- Our crew uses proper personal protective equipment to avoid mold exposure and cross contamination during removal

- We are knowledgeable in setting up containment areas to avoid disturbing and spreading the mold spores around to even more areas in your home.

- As per Florida state law, we use a separate mold inspection company to independently test levels before and after to ensure our removal is successful

- Our technicians receive certification and ongoing education to follow best practices (learn more about our training & certifications)

If you are concerned about mold, give us a call right away at 352-374-6589!

How to prevent mold

2/5/2019 (Permalink)

Mold

The key to preventing and stopping indoor mold growth is to control excessive moisture and condensation. Keeping susceptible areas in the home clean and dry is critical. In general, mold will not grow indoors without water, dampness or excessive moisture.

Three main factors contribute to condensation of water on building surfaces:

• Relative Humidity: Condensation occurs when the air is saturated with water and it cannot hold any more moisture. For example, steam generated from bathroom showers or from cooking can fill up the air with moisture, which will then condense into drops of water on cooler surfaces, such as mirrors and windows. Where possible, localized sources of humidity, such as clothes dryers, should be directly vented to the outdoors. To lower indoor humidity during warm, humid weather, air conditioners and/or dehumidifiers should be used. In chronically damp areas such as basements or crawlspaces, it is often recommended that dehumidifiers be used to maintain humidity levels below 60 percent.
• Temperature: Warm air holds more moisture than cold air. Condensation occurs when warm humid air comes into contact with a cold surface and the moisture condenses into water. This can often be seen on single-pane windows, where water condenses and then runs down, causing the wood frames and sills to rot and the wall under the windows to blister. Condensation can occur on exterior walls, particularly north-facing walls, if they are not properly insulated. Other chronically cold surfaces, such as cold water pipes, should be covered with insulation to help prevent condensation.
• Poor Ventilation: Indoor humidity can build up if there is not enough ventilation and exchange of indoor and outdoor air. Where there is little or no air movement, such as behind dressers and cabinets, surfaces can remain cooler than surrounding areas, which can lead to increased condensation and mold growth. It is recommended that the area be ventilated and the occupants use exhaust fans (vented to the outdoors) to remove moisture from high-humidity areas, particularly in bathrooms, kitchens and laundry areas. Furniture should be moved slightly away from walls so that air can freely pass behind it. Air should be allowed to circulate between rooms and regularly ventilate to remove humid air. Fans should be used as needed.

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are dedicated to responding immediately when you contact them. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces cost. We use advanced equipment to detect the source of water feeding the mold. Next, we isolate the affected area using a negative air pressure chamber.

Take caution when selecting a restoration company

2/1/2019 (Permalink)

Mold

There isn’t much time from the ordinary to the unhealthy. Intrusion of water into your home or business can result in mold growth. It creeps up and catches you by surprise! Water intrusions can result from storm damage plumbing or equipment failures, long standing leaks, and poor humidity control. When water damages are not remediated efficiently and in a timely manner the resulting damage is often increased risk of mold growth.

Any mold professional should be able to explain your mold removal project in plain English.  If a contractor is unable to explain the basic processes and steps of mold remediation and mold removal in layman’s terms, be very wary!  If someone tries to complicate and confuse you, walk away and say, “Thanks, but no thanks.”

If you think you may have a mold problem, call your local SERVPRO Franchise Professionals to restore your property to preloss condition.

As temperatures drop around Alachua and surrounding areas do we get a break from mold?

12/14/2018 (Permalink)

A sample of a mold score inside a customer's home.

Finally, Floridians are getting a break from all the heat and lower humidity as temperatures drop, but will we get a break from the presence of mold growing in our homes?  The answer is no, keeping our homes safe from mold is a year round job.  Mold exists all around us as spores float through the outside air at all times, so it would be almost impossible, unless you lived in a bubble to keep mold spores out of your home.  The first step in finding out if you have mold growing in your home or air quality issues from mold is to have a state licensed mold assessor come out and test your home.   They not only test your home, but also test the outside air, and this is how they determine if you have an air quality issue in your home by seeing if your home has more spores floating about than the air outside where we know mold exists.  After remediation is completed, the mold assessor will again perform testing to show that your spore counts in your home are within normal levels.  Did you know that in the state of Florida the same company cannot test for mold and perform your remediation?  This would be like you taking a test in school and being able to grade it yourself.  In fact, many remediation companies never tell the home or business owner about the process of testing.  Instead they base their remediation efforts on visual inspection and the customer has no idea whether there is still mold lurking somewhere you cannot see or if there is an air quality issue due to a high number spores floating throughout your home.  Unless you’ve had an issue with mold, the process can seem daunting if you suspect you have mold.  Get informed and give SERVPRO of Alachua County West with any and all questions you may have and we will steer you in the right direction.

Got Mold? We can fix that!

10/19/2018 (Permalink)

Here you will see the air tight Containment a Before picture (you can even see mold spores flying around), and an After photo once it was all clean

Mold Investigation

   For about 10 years mold has been in the news. People have been talking about the effects of mold on their health and whether it can damage their building. But what are the risks?

   The available science on molds and their potential health effects remains under study, but considerable progress has been made. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Institute of Medicine of the U.S. National Academy of Sciences, the World Health Organization and Health Canada all agree that living or working in a building with mold damage results in increased risk of respiratory disease. For health outcomes, there are no available exposure assessment methods that can provide useful information for individuals. This is primarily due to the fact that each person’s response to mold exposure is unique.

How does mold get in?

   Mold and fungal spores occur naturally outdoors, where fungi are the earth’s most important recyclers. Indoors, mold needs moisture to grow; it becomes a problem only where there is water damage, elevated and prolonged humidity, or dampness.

   So when you're turning your A/C up trying to save some money, you might be creating too much humidity and end up spending even more money in mold remediation. 

How does Mold Remediation work?

   Florida mold laws and regulations are vague, but the recommendation is to hire a Certified Mold Assessor to test the air quality and take swabs to find out if or what kind of mold is present. 

   Once the results are finished and you find out that mold remediation is needed then you'll need SERVPRO. We are the experts on mold remediation and will suit up in our protective Tyvek suits, create a sealed containment of the affected areas to prevent spreading and get to work! 

   After the work is completed and the final cleaning has been done, your Certified Mold Assessor will come back to take a final testing. This ensures that your air quality is back within normal limits.   

   SERVPRO of Alachua County West is proud to say we have a 99.9% passing rate. We work hard to keep our community safe and guarantee you will be satisfied with the result! 

OH NO! Not Mold?!!?

9/14/2018 (Permalink)

This home had mold remediation throughout the entire house.

The word mold is scary enough, but then... you see it. Does it immediately send chills up your spine? Are you worried about what you can't see? Worried about what type it is? Can it make you sick? There are so many questions and it can be scary.

SERVPRO is professionally trained in mold remediation. We suggest mold testing before and after the remediation process to ensure the air quality is within normal limits. We are proud to say we have over a 99% passing rate.

Now, have you ever thought about how you can prevent mold in the first place?? Well, below is some tips to help.

1. Identify problem areas in your home and correct themyou can't mold-proof your home, but you can make it mold resistant. Check your home regularly. Look for condensation or other wet areas. You may have to end up pulling wet carpet or even repair gutters. Better to pay a little now than a lot later.

2. Dry wet areas immediatelymold cannot grow without moisture. Anything that gets wet should be dried within 24-48 hours.

3. Prevent moisture with proper ventilation check your ventilation systems. Are they working properly? Places like the kitchen, bathroom and laundry room are the high moisture areas.

4. Equip your home with mold-resistant productsif you're building a new home, or renovating, there are mold resistant products like drywall, Sheetrock, or even mold inhibitors for paint.

5. Monitor humidity indoorsthe EPA recommended indoor humidity is between 30 and 60 percent. You can measure the moisture by purchasing a moisture reader form the hardware store. Signs of high humidity is condensation. Be sure to pay attention to window seals, walls and pipes.

6. Direct water away from your home if the ground around your home isn't sufficiently sloped away from the foundation, water may collect there and seep into your crawlspace or basement.

SERVPRO is available to answer your questions. Give us a call and ask away!

Today is National “Don’t Go to Work Unless it’s Fun Day,” and guess where we are?

4/3/2018 (Permalink)

Our lead technician and hero Travis, all suited up to battle the enemy... mold

April 3^rd is National Don’t Go to Work Unless it’s Fun Day, and we here at SERVPRO of Alachua County West are hard at work doing mold remediation.  You may be wondering to yourself, “What can be so fun about mold remediation?”  Well, as with anything in life, the fun spectrum depends upon the individual who is having it, and we are always having fun helping our friends and neighbors making it “Like it never even happened.”  To see how fun mold remediation can be, let’s go through some of the steps of mold remediation.

• First of all it starts with a mold report and protocol that is produced by a mold assessor who has done investigative work and testing. The mold report is full of fun photos of damage and cool color graphs about the mold in your home and the protocol is full of interesting information about the job at hand and the type of mold you are working with as well as how you are going to attack and annihilate it. 
• Second, you get to follow that protocol and set up containment and decontamination in the area that you are working which is going to keep the enemy from being spread throughout the home in unaffected areas. It’s kind of like a cool fort protecting the innocent from the evil enemy.
• Next you are going to don fancy white suites and respirators kind of like a scientist working in an alien environment and set up equipment to scrub the air and keep humidity levels within check.
• The most important part comes next, you will be going in and removing the enemy parasite from within and then encapsulating and trapping any possible remnant of them, making the home safe yet again for its inhabitants.
• Lastly, we get to put on our tool belts and rebuild what we have conquered making it “Like it never even happened. Who doesn’t have fun with tools?

All in all I guess you could say we have a fun day doing mold remediation because we get to be heroes saving the day.  After all, what is more fun that being a hero?  So when you are choosing a mold remediation company choose not only the company that does it correctly, choose the heroes at SERVPRO of Alachua County West.

Celebrate Mold Remediation on National Create a Vacuum day by having SERVPRO clean your ducts.

2/5/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Alachua County West Creating a Vacuum.

No home or business owner likes to hear they have a mold problem.  Mold spores naturally exist in the outside air and in Florida the concentration is higher than many other states due to our climate.  As you come in and out of your home or business, or if you open windows for fresh air, mold spores come in as well.  They can even make their way in on your clothing and skin.  Along with moisture and food (dust it its #1 source of food), this mold can grow and flourish.  This also gets sucked up into your HVAC system and ductwork.  Your ductwork is a place that not only mold, but dust and other contaminates can accumulate and thrive which is apparent in the following duct cleaning facts:

Fact: Legionnaire’s Disease was spawned in air conditioning ducts. It Killed 29 people in 1976. (American Lung Association)

Fact: In the summer of 1988 at least seven people died in Los Angeles area from Legionnaire’s disease. (Modesto Bee 9/22/88)

Fact: One out of six people who suffer from allergies do so because of the direct relationship of the fungi and bacteria in the air duct systems. (Total Health & Better Health Magazine)

Fact: Indoor air is found to be 70%more polluted than that of outdoor air. (EPA Environmental Protection Agency).

Fact: More people spend 60 to 90% of their time indoors. (American Lung Association)

Fact: Most commercial fiberglass filters are only 7% efficient in stopping dirt, dust, pollen, etc. passing through it. (ASHRAE- American Society of Heating, Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Engineers, INC.)

Fact: Dirty ventilation systems and contaminated ductwork combined are a 50.9% contributor to sick building syndrome. (Healthy Buildings International)

Fact: IAQ (Indoor Air Quality) litigation increases every year: and recent IAQ lawsuits command hefty settlements. Businesses are faced with even more stringent responsibilities in providing employees with a safe work environment.

Fact: It is estimated that poor air quality directly results, on a annual basis, one billion in medical costs and 60$ billion in employee sick leave and lost production.

This ductwork also sends spores throughout your home in rooms that may not yet be affected.  If you have a mold problem, make sure that one step in your remediation is to have your ducts cleaned.  More importantly, have them cleaned correctly by a certified mold remediation company, such as SERVPRO of Alachua County West.  We are here for all of you needs… even on days other than National Create a Vacuum Day.

As the seasons change, and the snowbirds prepare for flight, how do you protect your seasonal home from mold?

1/29/2018 (Permalink)

Suspected mold on a vent cover in a previously thought to be unaffected room on a mold remediation job discovered during duct cleaning.

Here at SERVPRO of Alachua County West, we receive many calls annually from homeowners that leave their house for an extended period of time and come back to find mold covering areas and contents of their home.  With Florida’s sub-tropic climate it stays warm and humid most of the year.  This can cause a mold problem within homes that are closed up, and if you are leaving your home, it’s important to prepare in advance to thwart any mold growth.

Prepare your home interior by making sure everything is clean and dry!

• Clean each appliance thoroughly. Clean enamel exteriors with sudsy water, rinse, and dry. Apply a coating of appliance or car wax to enamel exteriors to protect scratches from rust. Use an approved cleaner on stainless steel surfaces. Leave appliances unplugged while you are gone, to protect from electrical-current surges during storms.
• Unopened cans and jars of food can be left on shelves. Flour, sugars, and salt should be stored in tightly sealed containers. Dispose of cereals, crackers, and pastas to avoid household pests. Do not store food in a garage or shed.
• Clean cabinet interiors and exteriors.
• Fresh and perishable foods should be eaten or discarded. Give away or discard opened bottles and jars of salad dressings, condiments, and other perishable items. Replacing these items will cost less than paying to keep your refrigerator operating during the 2–3 months you are gone.
• Clean the refrigerator interior. Use a solution of one tablespoon of baking soda in one quart of water, in order to neutralize food soils and prevent odors. Dry thoroughly. Remove and clean the defrost pan at the bottom of your refrigerator. The refrigerator and freezer doors should be left ajar. Make sure the doors cannot accidentally close.
• If you choose to leave the refrigerator plugged in, dispose of all perishable foods. Leave a plastic bag with ice cubes in the freezer. On your return, if the bag contains a solid block of ice, you will know that your power was off long enough for the ice to melt and refreeze. To avoid potential foodborne illness, discard contents of refrigerator and freezer.
• For the dishwasher, remove any food particles from the filter (if present). Run the dishwasher through a short cycle. After a few minutes into the cycle, turn off the dishwasher and open its door. Clean around the door gasket and under the bottom of the door to remove any residual soil that might attract mold in these areas. Then, let the dishwasher complete the cycle. Leave the door closed, but unlatch it to release the pressure on the door seal.
• Clean the garbage disposal by grinding a batch of ice cubes through the disposal. Then rinse a solution of baking soda and water through the disposal. Leave the drain stopper in place to prevent water in the P-trap beneath the disposal from evaporating during your absence from home.
• Clean oven, broiler, and the drip trays under the burners.
• To remove spatters in the microwave, heat a cup of water for two minutes on the high setting. (Do this while the microwave is cool.) Afterwards, the condensation on the walls will loosen the spatters. Wash the inside of the microwave with sudsy water, and then rinse and dry. If possible, leave the microwave unplugged.
• Clean portable appliances thoroughly. Be sure to open the trap door under the toaster to clean it and remove the crumbs.
• Turn off the water supply to the clothes washer to eliminate pressure damage to the hoses. If needed, clean the washer’s lint filter.
• Clean the dryer’s lint filter, and use a leaf blower to blow out the dryer’s vent exhaust tubing.
• Turn off the water heater if you plan to be gone for a month or more. For shorter absences, turn the water heater’s thermostat to its lowest setting.
• Make sure all laundry is clean and dry.
• Cover toilet and tank top with a plastic wrap.
• Put stoppers in drains.

Outdoor Moisture can be an issue if you do not have proper seals on your doors and windows, and if you have a fireplace, close the damper.  Excess Moisture can also be caused by evaporation from drains and toilets.  If you have plants put them outside to be watered by a neighbor, because this can also cause excess moisture.

Not running air conditioning is also another way that people try to save money while they are gone.  This is a mistake most commonly made by people who leave their homes for extended periods of time.  Operate your air conditioner for two hours a day when your house is closed and sealed to reduce potential development of mildew. If you have a programmable thermostat, set it to operate the air conditioning for a two-hour period in the cool, early morning hours. If you do not have a timer, set the thermostat between 80ºF and 85ºF.  If using a humidistat, follow local recommendations and also consider having it professionally calibrated. If set too low or if improperly calibrated, the humidistat will cause the air conditioner to operate inefficiently and result in high electric bills.

There are many more ways you can ready your home for being vacant for extended periods of time, and maintenance is key.  It is also handy to have SERVPRO of Alachua County West’s number handy in case of emergency.

As a homeowner, know your enemy... mold!

1/22/2018 (Permalink)

This homeowner did not realize the mold hiding behind his cabinets until he tried to do a kitchen model.

What is mold?  Mold is a fungus which reproduces by releasing tiny, microscopic spores into the air.  Mold is a naturally occurring organism in the air outdoors which means that there will always be some amount of mold spores in the air indoors as well.  Mold must have ideal temperatures, and moisture in order to take hold of a material and grow.  These are two reasons that Floridian homes are more susceptible to mold due to its sub-tropic climate.  Mold must also have one more thing to grow, and that is food made up of organic materials.  The most common source of food for mold is dust.  Dust in itself is made up of 70% to 80% human skin – a great food source for mold.

Now that you know the general details of what mold is, what do you do if you suspect mold in your home?  Other than the obvious of seeing actual mold growth, the presence of mold is often detected by a musty odor.  The spores that it emits to grow are microscopic, but can be detected by odor.  If you see mold or what looks like mold, it is best to leave it alone.  Once mold has grown on a porous surface such as dry wall or grout those materials need to be removed because they are embedded in the material.  If you try to clean mold, it feels as if it is in danger and with sporulate and send thousands of spores you can’t see into the air to seek out moisture and food throughout your home. 

The best way to deal with a mold issue is get have a mold assessor come out and test your home, this will tell you is you have a mold problem, what’s affected, and what type of mold/molds you may have.  Once your assessor has tested and found you have a mold problem he will write a protocol for remediation that your chosen Certified Mold Remediation Company will follow during remediation, followed by post testing to make sure your home is at safe mold levels after remediation. 

This process can be overwhelming for many homeowners and this is what sets SERVPRO of Alachua County West above its competitors.  We are here every step of the way, educating and supporting our community whether or not they choose us for their remediation.  Not sure what to do when you suspect mold?  Call us and we’ll set you on the right path to a clean and healthy home.

Where to begin when you suspect you have mold.

12/15/2017 (Permalink)

Call us today with any questions of your suspect mold problems!

Now that the storms seem to have passed from our exciting storm season, most Floridians have picked up the pieces and begun the rebuilding process or have mostly completed it.  One of the lasting affects of storm damage can happen well after the storm... mold.  In many cases mold is visible, but many times mold hides where we can't see it, detected only by an odor or sometimes health issues.  When you suspect mold what is the first step you should take as a home or business owner?  The first step should be contacting a mold assessor.  Many people do not know that in the state of Florida the same company cannot test or assess your mold problem as well as remediate it.  This is meant to protect the consumer against sub-par testing and remediation by untrustworthy restoration companies.  Once testing has been completed by your mold assessor, they will construct a protocol for your mold remediator to follow.  Once work is completed your mold assessor will perform post remediation testing to show remediation was successful.  Many remediation companies do not inform potential customers of mold assessment and testing, opting for a general protocol in remediation with no standards or post testing to show mold spores at a normal levels when the work has been completed.  Here at SERVPRO of Alachua County West, we prefer to hold ourselves to the highest standards and inform our potential customers of the best way possible to handle their possible mold remediation and encourage mold assessment for the best experience and results possible.

What happens after the storm?

10/24/2017 (Permalink)

Mold found after dry wall removal in storm damaged home.

Unfortunately, for many, it's not the storm, but the aftermath of the storm that affects your home and its belongings.  As the winds die and the rains subside, what is left of your home can be devastating.  Finding help and awaiting answers from your insurance can be a daunting task that takes days, weeks, and sometimes months. Meanwhile, beyond your initial water and wind damage a new danger creeps into your home... Mold!  No need to fear!  Your "SERVPRO of Alachua County West Heroes" are here!  Not only can we remediate your mold issues, we can explain the procedure of mold assessment and offer you sound advice on how to begin handling your mold issue.  For example, did you know that in the State of Florida you cannot perform mold testing or assessment as well as remediate the same home?  This is meant to protect you, the customer from conflicts of interest.  Here at SERVPRO of Alachua County West, our customers best interests are ours as well, we pride ourselves on providing the best services possible.  

Were you gone for the summer?

8/21/2015 (Permalink)

Mold Remediation in a Gainesville, FL Home. Technician is in full Mold protective gear.

Gainesville is often called a "College Town" thanks to our wonderful university, University of Florida, and our college that was voted #1 in the nation, Santa Fe.  When summer approaches, we experience a massive decline in population; a decline of about 3.2%.  The Spring semester ends and students head home to visit with friends and families.  When they leave their apartment, home, townhome, or condo, they assume that upon their return everything will be just as they left it.  That, unfortunately, is not always the case.

With the return of college students and summer vacationers alike, we have had a massive influx in mold remediation jobs.  People return to their homes to either find their walls, floors and belongings covered in mold.  Most have no idea what caused it or what to do next!  That's where we come in.  

Primary causes of Mold growth include but are certainly not limited to:  water intrusion, the improper dryout of water damage, flooding, high humidity levels, and a broken or turned off air conditioning unit.  In the case of a home that is left empty for the summer, finding mold upon returning is very common.  In general, the cause is a turned off air conditioning unit.  NEVER turn off your air conditioner.  Florida has an extremely high humidity level.  A high humidity level is the perfect condition for mold growth.  An air conditioner set at 78 degrees Farenheit, at the very highest, will keep the cost of your electrical bill low all while circulating the air in your home and preventing mold growth.  The second most common cause behind mold growth is an unknown water intrusion.  If you plan to leave your home empty over the summer, have a friend or neighbor whom you trust periodically stop by to monitor the condition of your home.  For example, we experienced plenty of heavy rainfall this summer, as Florida normally does.  What if you have any unknown leak in your roof?  Water damage will occur.  Unfortunately if no one is in the home to catch this, the water damage will only get worse.  The wet walls, flooring, etc are breeding grounds for mold.  While you are away enjoying your summer, mold is infesting your home.  But sometimes, you don't even have to have an uninhabited home for this to occur!  If water damage occurs in your home, whether it be from indoor or outdoor sources, handle it properly.  Water damage that is not dryed properly will result in mold.  Water mitigation might not be the cheapest process, but mold remediation can certainly be more expensive.  The longer water damage lingers without being handled properly, the more damage that is created.

There are many common misconceptions when it comes to mold.    

What you need to know is that mold is everywhere.  There are many different classifications of mold.  Some are more hazardous to your health than others.  The worst of them, black mold, is not always black.  Some mold that is black in color is not actually black mold.  The mold that is in your home is not always visible to the naked eye. Lastly, mildew is mold.  Mildew is simply a nicer and less "scary" way of saying mold.  Fact of the matter is,  what you view as "just mildew" is just as hazardous and harmful to your health as mold.  

Do not down play the seriousness of mold growth.  If you believe that mold has infested your home, call a mold assessor and request a testing.  In the state of Florida, it is illegal for one to be both a mold assessor and a mold remediator on a job site.  SERVPRO only handles mold remediation.  Once you have received your mold assessment and it is confirmed that you have a hazardous amount of mold in your home, call SERVPRO.  Thanks to our knowledge, experience, training and national certifications, we will come in and properly perform mold remediation.      

SERVPRO of Alachua County West in the Gainesville Sun

9/15/2014 (Permalink)

Just a portion of the article. The rest can be read by clicking on the link above!

http://www.gainesville.com/article/20140914/ARTICLES/140919770/0/search?p=2&tc=pg