Archived Mold Remediation Blog Posts
HVAC Filters and Mold Damage
11/23/2023 (Permalink)
The relationship between HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) filters and mold prevention is pivotal in maintaining a healthy indoor environment. HVAC filters act as the first line of defense against airborne contaminants, including spores, which can cause serious health issues and structural damage when allowed to proliferate.
By efficiently trapping these microscopic particles, HVAC filters play a crucial role in preventing mold from entering the system and subsequently spreading throughout the building. Regular maintenance, appropriate filter selection, and proper ventilation are key aspects that underscore the significance of HVAC filters in mitigating mold-related risks. Let's dive into how HVAC systems are related to mold prevention.
Filtration of Airborne Mold Spores
HVAC filters are designed to capture various particles from the air, including mold spores. When these spores are filtered out, they do not circulate through the HVAC system and are less likely to colonize in different areas of your home.
Preventing Mold Growth in the HVAC Systems
Mold needs moisture, warmth, and organic material to grow. If your HVAC system is not properly maintained and filters are not changed regularly, dust and debris can accumulate in the system. If moisture is present due to condensation or leaks, mold can grow in the system. Once mold establishes itself in the system, it can easily spread throughout the building whenever the system is in operation.
Choosing the Right Filter
It's essential to choose the right type of HVAC filter. HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters are particularly effective at capturing tiny particles, including mold. Regularly replacing or cleaning filters is crucial because clogged or dirty filters are less effective at trapping and removing other particles.
Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance to your system, including cleaning and replacing filters, ensures good indoor air quality and that it operates efficiently and reduces the risk of mold growing. Proper ventilation and dehumidification also play vital roles in preventing mold in these systems.
Professional Inspection
If there has been water damage in your home or if you suspect mold growth, it's wise to have your system inspected by professions. They can assess the system for any mold and take necessary actions to clean and disinfect the system.
Our Mold Remediation Process
Every mold damage scenario is different, and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same.
- Emergency Contact (917) 341-0494
- Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
- Mold Containment
- Air Filtration
- Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
- Cleaning Contents and Belongings
- Restoration
Common Mold Misconceptions
It's easy to understand why many people struggle to grasp the facts about health effects 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 mold remediation. With that said, here are some facts to help you understand more about mold.
- 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. They can even hitch a ride on your clothing or a pet.
- Mold thrives on moistures and 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, must odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
- Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold to grow.
What is Black Mold?
Black mold is a fungus that grows in warm, damp areas. Its spores may mistakenly trigger an allergic reaction to your immune system. Allergic reactions could show signs of coughing, sneezing, congestion, and irritated eyes.
However, 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 Lower Manhattan immediately. If you don't act quickly, it can lead to a lot more issues, including the mold spreading to many different areas of your home or business.
Why Choose SERVPRO?
Choosing SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan is your best bet. Why?
We're Faster to Any Size Disaster: Mold spreads quickly through porous materials, so a minor mold infestation can quickly escalate into a major problem. We're dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces cost.
We're Highly Trained Mold Remediation Specialists: As water and mold damage specialists, we have the experience, the expertise, and the advanced training that enables us to get your property restored quickly and thoroughly. We come with an applied microbial remediation specialist, a water damage restoration technician, and an applied structural drying technician.
We Used Advanced Mold Remediation Techniques and Equipment: Our initial focus is to stop the source of water feeding the mold. We then isolate the affected area using a negative air pressure chamber. We invest in ongoing mold remediation training and the latest equipment to serve you better.
About SERVPRO Team Harvey
SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan is proudly owned by Lance and Jennifer Harvey - a husband and wife duo that owns three other SERVPRO locations, including SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel, SERVPRO of West Somerset County, and SERVPRO of Hoboken/Union City.
We understand the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage and the disruption it causes your home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it “like it never even happened.”
The Difference Between Mold Remediation & Mold Removal
4/18/2023 (Permalink)
We often get the question, “what is the difference between mold remediation and mold removal?” Well, since microscopic mold spores exist naturally almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors, removing all mold from a home or business is impossible. Many restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold. This is a fallacy. We understand mold and mold growth. SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan has the training and expertise to remediate the mold in your home or business.
Understanding Mold
When water intrudes into your property, mold growth can start in as little as 48 hours. Consider the following mold facts:
- Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
- Mold spores are microscopic, float along in the air, and may enter your home through windows, doors, AC/heating systems, and could even hitch a ride on your clothing or pets.
- Mold spores thrive on moisture. They 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. Otherside, the mold may return.
- Mold often produces a strong, must odor, and that odor can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
- Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45%.
What Does Our Mold Remediation Process Look Like?
Every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same.
1. Emergency Contact
The mold cleanup and restoration process begins when you call us. Our representative will ask a series of questions to help us determine the necessary equipment, resources, and personnel.
2. Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
Local and state laws may require a specific inspection and documentation protocol based on the size of the affected area. We can advise you on this process, providing guidance based on your unique situation.
During our assessment, we carefully inspect your property for visible signs of mold. Mold feeds on cellulose and water and can be hidden from plain view. We use various technologies to detect mold and hidden water sources.
3. Mold Containment
Our professionals use various containment procedures to prevent the spread of mold. We may use advanced containment procedures like negative air chambers to isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to keep the mold spores from spreading during the cleanup process. All fans and heating/cooling systems will be turned off to prevent the spread of mold.
4. Air Filtration
Our specialized filtration equipment allows our professionals to capture microscopic mold spores out of the air. We utilize powerful “air scrubbers” and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in process.
5. Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
The mold remediation process depends on the amount of mold growth and the types of surfaces on which the mold appears. We’ll use antifungal and antimicrobial treatments to eliminate mold colonies and to help prevent new colonies from forming. It may be necessary to remove and dispose of mold-infested porous materials, like drywall and carpeting, to remediate heavy mold growth.
6. Cleaning Contents and Belongings
We clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains, clothing, and other restorable items affected by mold. We use a variety of cleaning techniques to clean and disinfect your belongings. We’re also trained to remove odors and deodorization using fogging equipment.
7. Restoration
Depending on the level of mold damage, drywall, subfloors, and other building materials may have been removed. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business. The restoration step gets your home or business back to normal.
If you need our mold remediation services, please reach out to us ASAP! The long you wait, the worse it can get.
About SERVPRO Team Harvey
SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan is proudly owned by Lance and Jennifer Harvey - a husband and wife duo that owns three other SERVPRO locations, including SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel, SERVPRO of West Somerset County, and SERVPRO of Hoboken/Union City.
We understand the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage and the disruption it causes your home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it “like it never even happened.”
Spring Weather and Mold
4/7/2023 (Permalink)
Did you know? Mold can grow and thrive in any season - spring, summer, fall and winter, however, spring can be the worst season for mold growth due to the amounts of rainfall, moisture, and humidity. For SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan, no season, amount of rain, or task is too small. We’re here to help you understand how to avoid getting mold in your home in the spring, along with some insight on how we can help you get rid of it.
Control the Humidity
In many cases, mold emerges and thrives in hot and humid areas. If the spring weather is bringing warmer than usual temperatures to your area, don’t just turn on the air conditioner and set the thermostat super high. This will cause the air conditioner to not dehumidify your air effectively. To avoid this, just set your thermostat at 78 degrees.
Declutter
Spring cleaning doesn’t just mean giving your floors, couches, and curtains some TLC. It also should include looking for any blockages to airflow. For example, if you see dust or clutter blocking your HVAC system, it will accumulate moisture - creating microclimates in your home and welcoming in mold. Just remember to move couches and furniture away from vents and grills to ensure that the air continues to circulate. If it becomes super humid - run some fans for extra support!
SERVPRO can clean your air ducts and HVAC systems so you don’t have to worry about it. If your system has been operating some time without attention, it could be circulating one or more of the following:
- Dust
- Pollen
- Odors
- Dirt and debris
- Other contaminants
Eliminate Air Escape Doors
What does that mean? When you open your doors or windows while you have your air conditioning running, it not only wastes a lot of money and resources, but invites humid air into your home. If you do this - this causes… yes, mold.
Prepare Your Home for Vacation
If you’re going away for a vacation, most people are excited to not have to turn their air on and save a chunk of change while they’re away. It’s ok to not leave your air conditioning running - unless you have pets at home - but many like to bump their thermostat up to 85 to ensure nothing runs. Instead, keep your home at 80 - it’ll eliminate the chance of mold growth.
Grab a Dehumidifier
If your home gets more humid than most, it’s smart to have a dehumidifier on hand. Run it over night or when you believe it’s getting a little too humid. Make sure you get one that is the right size for the area; if it’s too small, it’ll just be wasting energy.
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 the air and can enter a home or business through windows and HVAC systems.
If you need any cleaning or mold remediation done - please reach out to SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan. We’re here and ready to help.
About SERVPRO Team Harvey
SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan is proudly owned by Lance and Jennifer Harvey - a husband and wife duo that owns three other SERVPRO locations, including SERVPRO of Holmdel/Aberdeen, SERVPRO of West Somerset County, and SERVPRO of Hoboken/Union City.
We understand the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage and the disruption it causes your home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it “like it never even happened.”
What to Do For Your Manhattan Business: Mold Removal vs. Mold Remediation
11/29/2022 (Permalink)
What to Do For Your Manhattan Business: Mold Removal vs. Mold Remediation
Since microscopic mold spores exist naturally almost everywhere, removing all mold from a home or business is impossible. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy.
A qualified restoration company understands the science behind mold and mold growth. SERVPRO franchise professionals have the training and expertise to remediate the mold in your home or business. Mold remediation focuses on getting mold levels back to normal, natural levels.
Every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same. Here are the steps so you can further understand our mold remediation process:
Step 1: Emergency Contact 1-800-TEAMHRV
Step 2: Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
Step 3: Mold Containment
Step 4: Air Filtration
Step 5: Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
Step 6: Cleaning Contents and Belongings
Step 7: Restoration
When water intrudes into your property, mold growth can start in as little as 48 hours. Consider the following mold facts:
- Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
- Mold spores are microscopic, float 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 and have the potential to cause other health effects.
- 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 that odor can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
- Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.
When it comes to your business, it is extremely important to understand mold and what to do so you, your employees, and your clients/customers are safe. SERVPRO professionals are skilled and trained to deal with all types of mold, water damage restoration, storm damage restoration, and much more.
Reach out with any and all of your questions and inquiries: (212) 564-6365
About SERVPRO Team Harvey
SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan is proudly owned by Lance and Jennifer Harvey - a husband and wife duo that owns three other SERVPRO locations, including SERVPRO of Holmdel/Aberdeen, SERVPRO of West Somerset County, and SERVPRO of Hoboken/Union City.
We understand the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage and the disruption it causes your home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it “like it never even happened.”
Have You Heard Of Orange Mold?
4/26/2022 (Permalink)
In the world in which we live, in nearly every room, mold spores are abundant, but microscopic. In any given room, at any given time, there can be a 500 to 700 spore count on average! Adverse side effects can be experienced if you're living with an abundance of mold colonies or mold spores. It's not uncommon to find mold at some level in a home. Most people are familiar with basic mold. However, orange mold colonies are one of the species that are less commonly known.
Let's take a look at some mold related issues that could potentially affect you, your family, and your home. We'll also look closely at orange mold. Finally we'll tell you how to have mold removed and your property restored.
Orange Mold
Capable of growing in numerous places, one colorful mold colony is referred to as orange mold. Depending on where you find it, it's appearance can vary. Usually orange in color, the term orange mold,Fuligo Septica, is more likely to be yellow. Additionally, a grayish or pink color can be present with another mold known as Acremonium.
Where You Might Find Orange Mold
There are all sorts of places where you can find orange mold growing however, in your refrigerator/kitchen is a very common spot. Bread, diary products, and more commonly grow orange mold. It can spread to food in containers or on shelves, even if it's outside your fridge.
Mold can contaminate the water supply if your refrigerator serves water or makes it's own ice. To ensure your water is not contaminated, frequently check your refrigerator's water filter.
Throw out and food that has been affected by orange mold immediately. It won't take long to spread through your home and the rest of your fridge.
Your attic is another place where orange mold can be found because damp wood is a good food source for it. Orange mold can readily grow and thrive in warm humid attics.
Did You Find Orange Mold In Your Home Business?
If you discover orange mold or any other kind of mold in your home, don't hesitate to call in the professionals. You want your home, business, visitors, pets, and family members to be safe. The best way to do that is by having highly trained technicians remove the mold and refurbish the affected area.
Remember, before you start repairs, locate the source of the water damage that's causing the mold and have dealt with properly.
Need Orange Mold Remediation And Restoration? Contact the Pros at SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan/Financial District!
When you need mold remediation and restoration in your home or business, the smartest move to make is to contact the knowledgeable, experience professionals at SERVPRO. Our locally owned and operated company is a trusted leader in the industry of restoration and cleanup. One of the reasons is that we always use advanced cleaning and restoration equipment for our projects. Compared to others, We get faster to any size disaster!
Contact us today if you need help. We offer 24-hour emergency service.
Did You Find Mold On Popcorn Ceilings?
4/21/2022 (Permalink)
Most mold strains are so minuscule that they can actually be airborne and can settle in all kinds of places. With the right conditions in the presence of moisture, they can germinate easily. Popcorn ceilings are popular due to their distinctive texture that is used to cover up any imperfections in the ceiling. But due to its surface, it is also typically extremely easy to attract mold spores to settle in them and grow into an active colony. Here are some tips for you if you find mold on popcorn ceilings in your home.
How Do I Prevent Mold on My Popcorn Ceiling?
Moisture is a crucial element in the germination of mold. To prevent their growth, you need to keep in mind to ventilate all around your home properly. Some ways can include using the kitchen’s range top vent whenever you are cooking or boiling water, or turning on the bathroom fan for about five to ten minutes after taking a shower. By reducing moisture in the air, it prevents the water vapor from rising and saturating into your popcorn ceiling during evaporation.
Strategic Use of Dehumidifiers
Additionally, underground bedrooms and basements can be vulnerable to the development of bold due to increased moisture, especially during summer when humidity and ambient temperatures are higher. You can counter this by simply placing a dehumidifier in those areas to reduce the level of moisture.
Make Necessary Repairs
Another way moisture can accumulate in your popcorn ceiling is due to a minor roof leak, a clogged gutter, or water leaking into the attic. With time, the accumulated water can saturate your ceiling texture, laying the foundations for increased mold germination.
If there’s damage or an issue, you should almost immediately think about repair solutions before a greater amount of water accumulates and causes a larger mold problem in your home, especially on your popcorn ceiling. Even for plumbing issues, a minor pipe leak in the bathroom upstairs can cause the growth of mold in the ceiling beneath it.
Can I Remove Mold from My Popcorn Ceiling?
If mold does appear on your ceilings, don’t give in to your temptations to paint over them to make them look good. It doesn’t remove the mold; it will also further exacerbate the problem. You can clean it yourself if it’s an early development of mold, by mixing water with a teaspoon of bicarbonate soda. Apply the solution onto the surface and let it sit for a few minutes, before brushing or sponging the affected area. Ventilate the area and let the surface dry thoroughly.
Easy And Fuss-free Clean-up And Restoration Services at SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan/Financial District
If you have a more significant mold problem, it’s best to let the professionals do it for you. Here at SERVPRO Manhattan, our expert, experienced technicians are well-trained and have the required equipment to provide the proper mold remediation and restoration on your popcorn wall. Before help arrives, review these mold damage tips to learn more about what you should and shouldn’t do.
How Does Mold Grow In Homes?
4/16/2021 (Permalink)
How Does Mold Grow In Homes
Mold is an unwanted substance in many areas such as households and office buildings. If you are wondering about how mold develops in homes, you have come to the right place. In this article, we will take you through how mold can spread in your household.
What Is Mold?
Mold is a type of fungus that develops once moisture can be detected. They are tiny spores that can be found on mycelium, which then further forms into hyphae. It can be found almost anywhere, and its growth is inevitable when there is moisture present on any substance. In most cases, it is a challenge to get rid of mold due to its growing spores. These spores are tiny seed-like structures that develop under damp and humid conditions. It is key to remove mold every now and then to create a safe environment in your household.
What Is the Growth Of Mold Like?
These tiny spores give way for mold to reproduce. Since they are microscopic in size, they spread easily through water and wind. They are also able to stay alive for long once they are stuck to fur or any clothing. Many people identify mold on their clothes through stains and the odd odor that it produces.
There are also several conditions that you should take note of to stop mold growth. These include an environment with oxygen, water, food as well as a suitable temperature. Mold is strong enough to withstand unusual environments, which toughens the removal process. Since it can grow both indoors and outdoors, it is important that you check all your household areas such as your windows, vents as well as your open doorways. There is usually excessive moisture in these areas.
How To Prevent Mold?
If you are wondering how to prevent mold, the first step to take is to ensure that your home is not too humid. The humidity level in your household should not surpass 50 percent as moist conditions are a catalyst for mold to grow. You can do so by checking the humidity level more than once a day. Also, be sure to check that your household has smooth air ventilation. Continuous air flow within your household helps to prevent the spread of mold.
Hiring Commercial Cleaning Services for Your Household
After reading the above, you are on your way to achieving a mold-free home. However, it is always necessary that you hire a professional to conduct checks every now and then. Here at SERVPRO, we make life easier for you as we have formed a team of licensed cleaners that could help with the sanitize your household better. Contact us today for more information!
What You Need To Know About Mold Season
4/1/2021 (Permalink)
Mold develops when its spores that are airborne get into contact with moisture and several sources of food such as dirt, wood, and paper. Moisture can be found in areas like leaky pipes and roofs, humidifiers, flooded places, and other water damage sections of a building. Mold growth can get ugly as it involves unpleasant odors and damages to the structure of a building. When you are aware of mold season and its implications, you can engage mold remediation services to get the issue resolved swiftly.
Mold Season
Mold season refers to the time when mold can easily thrive due to several factors like climate and location. Mold can grow and spread any time but there are certain periods when mold growth is widespread. Mold growth is most rampant from early spring to middle of fall but its peak is around late summer. Always check areas that may have excess water during weather changes such as when snow thaws and during rainy days.
Winter is the season when mold turns dormant but it is not gone completely. Mold basically hibernates during winter where temperatures are low. Areas that experience mild winters may even witness mold growth all year long. After being dormant during winter, mold can move on to find other damp places to call home. You can prevent this by pouring bleach at the locations where mold grows.
Early Spring
You can expect dormant mold to grow back again during spring. It is the worst season for mold especially in areas that experience heavy rain. The lots of moisture created from the spring showers provide a suitable environment for mold to invade. Check areas where there are standing water such as your basement, attic, windows, crawlspaces, and doors. Spot any crumbling on your drywall and pay attention to any strange odors as these are symptoms of mold issues or hidden water damage.
Summer
Summer is the worst season for mold in regions that experience high levels of humidity. Kitchens and bathrooms are both places that are prone to mold growth due to consistent use of appliances with hot water. Air conditioning units cut down on humidity from inside the house but the extracted water may leak into basements or crawl spaces due to poor ventilation.
Mid Fall
Mold growth slows down during fall and begins to hibernate during winter. Fall is when it becomes the easiest to handle mold as it becomes dormant due to the cold. Homeowners also do not have to worry over humidity or rain but it is advisable to remove any mold during this season before winter comes.
Mold Allergy Season
The period from early spring to mid fall is when allergies become the most severe. Mold season can trigger health effects and each season can affect you differently. Spring is typically when mold continues to thrive after winter whereas summer is when mold spore count is particularly high due to humidity in the air and fall works like spring where allergies get into the picture.
By understanding each season correctly and their relationship with mold growth, homeowners can better manage their mold problem.
Should You Remediate All types of Mold?
4/21/2020 (Permalink)
There are more scenarios for mold problems than you may realize. Different solutions are called for in different situations. The bottom line, your best bet is to call a professional remediation service if you have a mold issue. This will help prevent the mold from coming back as well as getting rid of it. For those on an extremely tight budget, however, there are some things that homeowners can do on their own to try to alleviate a mold issue in some cases.
So, you have a mold problem. Is it time to call in the pros or is this something you can take care of your own? Let's take a look at when the pros are the only ones who should be taking care of a mold problem and when to think about a do-it-yourself solution.
Remediation Weighed Against Removal
For those not aware, mold remediation and mold removal are two different things. To remove all mold is a tall order and very nearly impossible. Mold spores, even after a thorough cleaning, can remain because they are microscopic and hard to detect. They may cause no issues because they can be dormant. They take on a life of their own once activated, however, and growth begins. Mold remediation services on a professional level are the best course of action here.
When it's time to call in a professional service for mold remediation, you want a qualified company that fully comprehends the science involved in mold prevention, mold removal, mold growth, and mold itself. To completely remediate the mold in your business or home, only the professionals have the expertise and training required. The remediation of mold focuses on getting normal mold levels back into existence and at a natural concentration.
The Process of Remediation
Frequently, following major water damage resulting from a leak, flood, etc., mold problems will rear their ugly heads. Remember, there's every chance that mold will return if you don't identify its original source. Once again, remediation crew professionals come in handy here because they know the common causes of subsequent mold that follows water exposure. To identify spores and the type of mold present, they will begin by taking air samples. They will determine the best way to get rid of mold and the extent of the contamination.
When Is It Okay to Do It Yourself?
There are everyday solutions through which mold can sometimes be attacked. A little elbow grease and the right kind of cleaner can help solve minor mold problems in bathrooms, near hot water heaters and sump pumps, along with sinks, and in the thresholds of exterior doors. Use a solution of 1 to 9 bleach and water for more stubborn mold growth. Spray the area and wipe it down. This is for mold growing in small areas on surfaces that are easy to clean such as sinks, tubs, tile, metal, and glass.
Caution! If you have health problems that are worsened by mold exposure you should never consider removing mold on your own! Additionally, if mold is growing on or in materials that are hard to clean (such as carpet), or if you're simply unsure of the best way to go about the removal, do not hesitate to call in a mold remediation professional.
Contact Us
If you are concerned that you and/or family members are experiencing mental or physical symptoms of toxic mold exposure in your home, don't hesitate one moment longer! Consult our team of professionals here at SERVPRO at lower Manhattan. We will execute extensive testing and quickly create a plan of action with which to eradicate toxic mold.
Are Dehumidifiers Designed to Kill Mold?
4/21/2020 (Permalink)
What is one of the most frustrating scenarios for a homeowner? It's mold! It hides in places you never think to look like remote basement corners, down in crawl spaces, behind walls, and more. You can't ignore it, even though it tries very hard to hide (often in plain sight). Innumerable health effects can be caused by mold and it has the potential to take the very structure of your home and damage it to severe levels. You must find a way to kill mold! But how do you go about it?
It is not impossible to remediate mold, but it can be difficult. Some people think that a dehumidifier will solve the problem. But will it?
Growing Mold
In environments where it is most dark and moist, mold thrives. It requires a food source, however, in addition to moisture. That can be cotton, drywall, wood, etc. You will most often detect mold in laundry rooms, bathrooms, attics, and basements. As soon as possible, you must nip mold problems in the bud because things will get worse the longer you wait and allow mold to prosper.
The Job of a Dehumidifier
Long story short, the humidity level in your home is reduced by a dehumidifier. Humidity is increased in your home any time water evaporates. You wash the dishes, lay your clothes out to dry, or take a shower…and the humidity in your home rises. As the humidity intensifies, mold finds the perfect conditions for growth. It seems only natural that to take care of the problem, a dehumidifier would be used.
Killing Mold – Is It Really the Dehumidifier's Job?
Humidity isn't the singular source of the type of moisture mold thrives on, though it is a biggie. Leaky roofs, flood-prone basements, and burst pipes can also be mold infestation contributors. Your humidity problem will be lessened with a dehumidifier. But if the mold is being caused by a persistent leak, the dehumidifier can't be expected to solve that issue. Mold will not be killed by merely tackling your humidity problem. Though existing mold won't be killed outright, the dehumidifier can help discourage mold growth, however.
Getting Rid of Mold
Okay, if not with a humidifier, how are you going to get rid of the mold in your home? First of all, you have to remove it. After that, whatever was causing it to grow must be removed, as well. Only half the equation can be solved with a dehumidifier if more than a humid environment is the cause of mold.
Existing mold spores most be gotten rid of! For true, complete mold remediation, acquiring the services of a professional is your best bet. That's the best way to eliminate not just the mold but the problem causing it.
So, to answer the question of whether or not a dehumidifier will take care of your mold problem and kill it – no, it will not! Does that mean that you should forgo a dehumidifier? It does not. A dehumidifier will help stop mold from coming back once you have completely removed it from your home. But, again, you have to completely remove the mold, the spores, and the cause of moisture to truly remedy the situation.
Hire SERVPRO To Kill Mold
Work with our team of experts and professionals here at SERVPRO in lower Manhattan to solve your mold issues. We will analyze the situation in your home, discover where mold is hiding, find the cause of mold, and devise a plan of attack for ridding your home of this frustrating and unhealthy situation. We will then help you determine how best to prevent mold from coming back.
Contact us today!
Mold in Bathroom
6/27/2018 (Permalink)
Here at SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan we take pride in the long list of services that we provide. We are willing to help anyone that needs our help as a means of alleviating the stress they are going through. As we have said time and time again mold is among the list of problems you do not know you have until it is brought up to your attention. Mold reproduces in dark areas usually exposed to some kind of water or dampness. No one wants mold in their life so it’s our job to make it so you’d never know the mold was there to begin with. You can see in the picture on the left that the ceiling has spots of darker coloring. This is primarily where the mold was reproducing. Our crew went in with the proper SERVPRO tools needed for mold remediation and made it look "Like it never even happened."
Soap Scum and Mold Remediation
6/18/2018 (Permalink)
Glass door after our services.
Here at SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan we offer a wide array of services. While most jobs we receive are either fire, water, or mold jobs that is not always the case. With this job we received a call from a customer who thought they had mold in their shower. Even if you're unsure of whether something may or may not be mold we still advise that you call us at 201-656-0035 to ease your mind. Our team will inspect the potential mold and determine what the next steps are. It turns out the mold the customer thought she had was a build up of soap scum on the shower glass door. We gave the glass door a power wash and performed a deep clean to the surrounding areas. Pictured here is the glass door after our services.
Make Mold a Thing of the Past!
4/18/2018 (Permalink)
Here at SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan we take a great deal of pride in the amount of varies jobs we provide for our customers. The size of your damage does not matter to us; we are always willing to go above and beyond for everyone who uses our services. This job is the classic case of mold remediation. You can see from looking at the picture that our crew had to tear up the floor to get a good look at how much damage there was. Our crew made sure that the area was secured and we assured our customer there would be no more reproduction of mold. In this case, the mold was not visible to the naked eye. Our crew used SERVPRO tools to locate where and how much mold there was.
Mold Removal VS. Mold Remediation
4/11/2018 (Permalink)
Since microscopic mold spores exist naturally almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors, removing all mold from a home or business is impossible. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold. This is a fallacy.
A qualified restoration company understands the science behind mold and mold growth. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have the training and expertise to remediate the mold in your home or business. Mold remediation focuses on getting mold levels back to normal, natural levels.
Every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same. To learn more about our mold remediation process.
Who are you going to call? MOLD busters !
3/28/2018 (Permalink)
Mold is that person you went to high school with and hope to never see again but then one day you run into each other at the supermarket. No one ever anticipates mold growth in their property or hopes for it. Here at SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan we know no one wants to deal with pesky mold. We make it so you don't have to! Once you've established that you have mold growth in your property we will come in with our technicians fully equipped with the necessary equipment. First, we'd target the area of growth and isolate said area. Once we remove the surrounding area we will use SERVPRO products to prevent the growth of mold in the future. We'll make you forget you ever had mold growing in the first place.
Mold Remediation in Home
5/19/2017 (Permalink)
Here at SERVPRO of Hoboken/Union City, we take pride in the long list of services that we provide. We are willing to help anyone that needs our help as a means of alleviating the stress they are going through. This particular job is the result of mold found in the home of one of our customers. Mold is definitely a sneaky culprit in the sense that you do not always see it. For instance, if there is a water leak or exposed water that has been sitting for a while these are the ideal conditions for mold reproduction to occur. Here at SERVPRO we take care of the mold by means of mold remediation. Pictured here is one of our crew members following mold procedure.
It's Time to Clean up the Leaves!
3/7/2017 (Permalink)
Photo courtesy of SERVPRO corporate
Did you know leaving wet leaves on the ground can have serious consequences?
We're currently in hurricane season so in other words there's going to be a lot of rain in the coming months. While the colors of the leaves are lovely to look at be sure you don't leave them on the ground for too long. Believe it or not wet leaves can actually cause mold!
Mold reproduces dark and wet areas; this is exactly why they can thrive underneath wet leaves. The leaves need to be picked up and properly disposed to prevent this outcome.
In the event that you do find yourself faced with a case of mold there's no need to panic. SERVPRO of Hoboken / Union City specializes in mold remediation so we've got you covered!
24/7 Emergency Service
