Mold Cleanup Steps

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

Mold Cleanup Steps

Mold cleanup can be a complicated process. If you have house mold in Encino, CA, you will likely need to enlist the help of mold remediation specialists. If your problem covers a space smaller than 10 square feet, however, you may be able to address it yourself. To do so, you will still need to follow certain steps. If at any point in the process you discover that the problem is bigger than you can resolve, contact the professionals immediately.

1. Wear Personal Protective Equipment

Before experts start a mold remediation job, they will don several items:

• Protective coveralls
• Goggles
• Face mask with ventilator
• Gloves
• Rubber boots
  
  

If you are going to take on a cleanup job yourself, you must also wear protective gear. Try to avoid direct contact with the mold growth.

2. Use Detergent to Scrub

Getting rid of mold requires some elbow grease. Most surfaces can be cleaned with detergent, water and a scrub brush. If an item cannot be scrubbed or if you don’t know how to clean it, leave it to the professionals.

3. Dry Area Completely

It doesn't do any good to get rid of house mold if you leave the moisture that attracted it behind. After the surface is clean, make sure it is also completely dry.

4. Replace Unsalvageable Items

Mold tends to root itself into the pores of the surface on which it grows. If the fungus has infested an item too deeply, that item will need to be thrown out. Mold experts can help you distinguish between items that can be saved and those that must be replaced. If unsalvageable areas are part of the structure, such as walls or ceiling tiles, the work must be done professionally.

No matter the size of the problem, these four steps are essential to getting rid of house mold. If the problem is small, you may be able to clean it, but when in doubt, call the professionals.

Understanding Mold Growth in Commercial Property

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

Understanding mold in your commercial property is key

Upon noticing the smell or sight of black mold in your Encino, CA, business, you probably wonder what caused it to appear. Despite so many different varieties, molds have a single process of growing and spreading. Knowledge of how and why these fungi infest businesses teaches how to prevent them from taking over yours.

Knowing the Water Where Mold Often Grows

Mold needs time, temperature, food, and moisture to thrive. A moisture problem is often the cause of mold growth. Water that gets into building materials, utilities or flooring comes from plenty of sources:

• Burst or leaking pipe
• Flooding from nearby overflowing bodies of water
• Humid weather
• Broken supply line
• Defective sprinkler systems
• Clogged gutter drainage systems
• Defective HVAC systems accumulating condensation

Once identified, any broken utility or component should be fixed by an appropriate professional. This prevents additional water damage and the mold that comes with it.

Preventing Spores From Finding Ideal Conditions

Microscopic spores float through the air looking for a suitable place to settle. Even if the spores are floating in the air of a room, no mold species will grow without a place to settle that has food and water. The parasitic nature of black mold and other organisms means that they can be stopped from being a problem by denying environments they desire.

Treating the Mold That Grows

Proactive water cleanup can prevent the need for mold cleanup. Fixing any existing water damage stops the airborne mold from ever finding a place to survive inside your property.

Contacting a professional water cleanup crew with mold expertise is advised to make sure any water is completely removed with the power of their industrial-grade tools. Additionally, experts can find mold and water hiding in unnoticeable locations that most people miss. This prevents mold from quickly recolonizing.

Getting a Hold on Mold

Black mold may seem daunting at first, but prevention can make it seem like a nonissue. Even if mold does take advantage of a water accident at your property, there are ways to remove it without much hassle.

Which Types of Mold Grow in Houses?

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

There are many different types and subspecies of mold that may grow in a house. If you have found mold in your home or smell an odor that leads you to suspect the presence of hidden mold, you should contact a certified service that provides testing, clean-up, and restoration services. Skilled professionals can determine whether mold growth poses a risk to any member of the household and limit your family's exposure. 

• Aspergillus is a common genus of mold found on food such as bread or potatoes and in HVAC systems. This type of mold is highly aerobic and depends on the presence of oxygen in order to thrive.
• Cladosporium is black or green mold growth that often forms on air ducts, toilets, or painted surfaces in high humidity or when excessive moisture is present.
• Black mold is a type of mold that is known to cause problems for residents in homes with substantial growths. The scientific name for black mold is stachybotrys chartarum. This type of mold should be identified and handled only by mold experts. 
• White mold tends to be in the early stages of growth. A reputable service should be able to prevent this type of mold from continuing to grow into mature colonies. White or light grey molds on plants are mildew – a related type of fungus.

These are just a few of the major types of mold growth that you may see in a home in the wake of water damage. You may attempt to identify visible mold in your home, but when it comes to determining the real risk posed by mold and eliminating its presence, you should rely on trained hygienists and remediation experts in Encino, CA. These specialists can provide accurate results with either microscopy or culturing and determine the type or subspecies of mold and the best way to eliminate it from your home.

Encino/Sherman Oaks Residents: Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

10/3/2018 (Permalink)

Be careful! Without proper training, you could be spreading microbial growth throughout your home.

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

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Encino/Sherman Oaks for microbial growth remediation services.

What Not to Do:

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

About Our Mold Remediation Services

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

If You See Signs of Microbial Growth, Call Us Today – (818)995-6444

Does your Encino/Sherman Oaks Home Have A Mold Problem?

9/25/2018 (Permalink)

In Encino/Sherman Oaks, mold can spread through a home in as little as 48 hours

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. Consider the following mold 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.

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.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today (818)995-6444

Hotel Mold

6/21/2018 (Permalink)

Hallway view of the mold forming.

We think it won't happen to the best of us but then it does, mold attacks! Over the last month and a half our Large Loss Response team has worked around the clock to get this hotel back up and running to fill rooms with visitors. It started when they had a massive water damage through out several floors and since it was so big and the conditions were perfect microbial growth began to form on the walls, in the carpet, and other various places. The hotel could not allow guests to stay because microbial growth is not good for respiratory system when exposed to it. All of our supervised technicians wore proper PPE to clean up the water, get rid of the mold, and remediate the damage.

Mold Remediation FAQ

5/7/2018 (Permalink)

After rain storm water got into their home, the walls became affected with mold.

What is the difference between mold and mildew?

The difference between mold and mildew is that they are different types of fungi with different colors and textures. Mildew one of the many types of mold that exist but it is more common in a home which is why you may have heard of mildew previously.

Do I need to hire a mold removal expert or can I do it myself?

Mold is very tricky and when trying to attempt to remove mold you can disrupt it and make it worse than previously. When mold remediation is completed it should be set under negative air and contained with containment barriers and commercial grade antimicrobial to prevent the mold from reoccurring.

It is recommended to follow the IICRC mold removal guidelines which the industry uses as a standard to remove mold correctly.

How long does it take for mold to grow after a water damage?

Mold can start to grow in areas damaged by floods in as few as 24 hours, but it can also take weeks to develop. Labs usually let mold grow for between 48 and 72 hours under ideal conditions before testing. Some materials such as carpeting are known for growing mold quickly. For this reason, it’s important to dry out the area and remediate flood damage quickly.

So, What is Microbial Growth? AKA Mold

4/10/2018 (Permalink)

These homeowners ignored a water damage that cost them big time when mold took over their home.

You may not be able to see or smell it, yet it may be growing in your home and the reason you feel sick.  So, what is mold? Molds are multiple types of fungi that grow in filaments and reproduce by forming tiny spores that sprout and fly away, invisible to the naked eye. Mold grows in damp, warm, and humid locations, inside and outside. Mold can grow in your bathroom, in the showerhead, or in the corner near your shower, especially if the room is not well ventilated. Mold can attach to your shoes, pets, clothes, carpets, furniture, books, and papers. Mold can circulate in your air system. Overall, water-damaged buildings create a complicated mixture of contaminants present in the air and dust, resulting in a toxic chemical stew. Additionally, mold produces toxic chemicals called mycotoxins, present on spores and fragments of mold released into the air. Would you believe that half of buildings in the United States are water damaged, leading to the growth of mold? Which means you should always call SERVPRO if you suspect microbial growth in your home or place of business. We have expert technicians and trained office staff prepared to deal with all mold emergencies.

Building Code Violations Hiding in your Home: Mold, Fire, Water

4/6/2018 (Permalink)

By ignoring water damage you can find yourself in a gross mold situation.

Most local building codes require ventilation fans in bathrooms that lack operable windows. These fans carry steam and humidity outside through a ceiling or wall vent, thus eliminating moisture buildup that can lead to peeling paint or wallpaper, warped cabinetry, and mold growth.

All occupants of a building need a reliable means of escaping a fire, so basement bedrooms must have at least one egress window that measures at minimum 24 inches high and 20 inches wide. Without an egress window, a basement room can’t be labeled as a bedroom in a real estate listing.

Most new homes are required to contain hardwired smoke detectors with battery backups. If your dwelling is more than 15 years old, however, it may not have these important safety features. If you live in an older home, consider installing hardwired smoke detectors during your next remodeling project. In the meantime, make sure you have working battery-operated smoke detectors in every bedroom and in the hallways.

Every home is equipped with a water heater; most homeowners stick it in their garage and can forget about them until they cause a large water problem. For any water, fire, mold remediation you should always call SERVPRO. As the top leader in industry professionals we understand all aspects of home damage and how to get you back to living easier, and quickly.

Simple Ways to Protect Your Bathroom From Mold and Mildew

4/3/2018 (Permalink)

You can see here the mold that was able to grow in the bathroom.

1. Paint the walls with Mildew-Resistant paint. Your bathroom walls can and will absorb lingering moisture from a steamy shower which can spur the growth of mildew. Painting your walls with a mildew resistant paint will give your bathroom extra protection.
2. Keep your bathroom well ventilated because mildew thrives in damp places. Which can make a bathroom a prime breeding ground.
3. Fix any leaks you might find; the tub, the sink, the window. They can all lead to future problems if not assessed quickly.
4. Always mop up excess water. After a bath, or shower, or even washing your hands, don’t let standing water stay.

By doing these 4 things you can prevent mildew and microbial growth from entering your home. If you ever suspect mold in your home you should always call SERVPRO for expert experience.

How To Spot Mold Exposure Symptoms

3/20/2018 (Permalink)

Mold that was hiding under the sink causing homeowners to have allergy like symptoms.

Most mold symptoms can be confused with allergy symptoms. Some molds produce toxic substances known as mycotoxins, but mold itself is not poisonous or toxic. Common symptoms can include but are not limited to:

• Sneezing.
• Runny or stuffy nose.
• Cough and postnasal drip.
• Itchy eyes, nose and throat.
• Watery eyes.
• Dry, scaly skin.

Although bathrooms and basements are typical moist areas prone to mold growth, any moist area in the home can be affected by microbial growth. However this does not exclude other areas such drywall, ceiling tiles, carpets, furniture, ductwork, roofing, paneling, wallpaper, under sinks, and the areas around plumbing pipes. 

If you suspect that mold is growing in your home you should always contact a professional. SERVPRO of Encino/Sherman Oaks has trained technicians who will remove any and all mold from your home or place of business. We are the industry leader in mold remediation. 

Mold vs. Mildew

3/15/2018 (Permalink)

Warning signs are hung outside of jobs to warn those not trained with a professional eye.

Both mildew and mold are types of fungi, and they are both known to be found in the home. They both thrive when there is moisture in the environment and can be difficult to get rid of. Both mold and mildew can be sneaky and spread quickly without homeowners ever knowing they exist. They also each grow on a variety of surfaces from food to your shower and even a single sheet of paper. Mold is a type of fungus that grows in the form of black or green patches and easily penetrates the surface of whatever it is growing on. Mold can even appear as fuzzy or slimy in texture. Mold is typically the result of larger infestation than mildew. Mildew typically grows flat and doesn’t penetrate the surface, making it easier to clean and get rid of. It is typically a patch of gray or white fungus. SERVPRO Encino/Sherman Oaks is your mold experts always reach out to industry professionals if you ever expect mold in your home or place of work. 

Tips and Tricks about Mold

5/9/2017 (Permalink)

Here are some things you might not have already known about mold:

Molds can be found almost everywhere; they can grow on virtually any substance, providing moisture is present. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, and foods.

It’s worth noting that not all mold is harmful. In fact, some types of mold can be quite beneficial.

You cannot completely eliminate mold spores in your home, but you CAN prevent mold growth by controlling humidity, keeping areas free of excess moisture, etc.

Typically the mold we see is not the mold that you want hanging around your home, your work space, or maybe the schools your children attend. Always take mold seriously if you suspect it and call the professionals at SERVPRO. 

Mold Busters!

5/1/2017 (Permalink)

Moldy and affected garage.

SERVPRO prides themselves on being one of the top mold remediation companies out there. We typically see clients with mold in their homes after significant or long lasting water damage, who ignored their water damage or didn’t know it was happening. Most everyone knows that mold can be hazardous to the health of anyone that comes into contact with it. If you ever suspect mold in your home your best practice should always be to not touch it and call a professional in for an opinion and an action plan. If you or anyone you know is experiencing a mold problem always call your friendly neighborhood mold busters at 818-995-6444. We are a 24/7 restoration and mold remediation company prepared to help you!

A Moldy Takeover

3/29/2017 (Permalink)

Microbial growth takes over this living room.

A few weeks ago SERVPRO of Moorpark/Santa Paula/Fillmore had the chance to get rid the mold that had taken over this family's den. Mold like this family had needed to be "demoed" out and removed from the home. The husband tried to clean and remove the mold himself but it came back fiercer and all at once, they had but no choice to call out the professionals of SERVPRO. By containing the mold area we were able to prevent other mold spores from travelling to other places in the home and contaminating there as well. Mold can also cause serious health issues, which is why containment is so important and necessary, all mold situations should be treated as an emergency. When demolition was completed SERVPRO completed a final wipe down of everything to prohibit the mold from growing back and allowed the family to open back up the space and continuing living their lives. 

A Not So Nice Surprise

3/29/2017 (Permalink)

Sneaky place for mold to grow quietly.

Mold is never welcome in any home, even if it is hiding out in the back shed. These homeowners shared they hadn't opened the shed in quite some time until it came time to close escrow and they did a final check. SERVPRO of Moorpark/Santa Paula/Fillmore was able to remove the mold that covered all four walls and get the shed back to a usable condition for the new family obtaining the home. The mold was able to grow so profoundly because of the environment of the shed. It was a warm, dark, and damp place for it to expand quietly without being disturbed for awhile. Sometimes mold is able to go unnoticed and that is the best time for it to do it's thing. Always be on the lookout if you suspect mold anywhere in your home. 

Moldy Closet Remediation in Encino, CA

3/16/2017 (Permalink)

Mold can be hidden, always look carefully.

Mold can be sneaky, and sometimes goes unnoticed much longer than it should and you cannot get rid of it easily. If you think mold is growing in your home trust your nose and your gut, if you start to feel sick you should always call a specialist, precisely SERVPRO of Encino/Sherman Oaks to get the job done quick. All mold needs is food, water and a dark, stagnant environment with steady temperatures that neither freeze nor swelter to grow. By trusting SERVPRO to use high-tech equipment and modern methods to conduct our remediation services you will find that mold has no chance! With mold you want to make sure that it is cleaned up properly and have no lingering microbial growth. Which in turn prohibits any health risks that come with mold. Call SERVPRO of Encino/Sherman Oaks today with any mold requests.

After a Mold Remediation

3/16/2017 (Permalink)

Den after demolition.

Recently, SERVPRO of Encino/Sherman Oaks completely gutted this den of the mold that had taken over every square inch. Mold like this family had needed to be "demoed" out and removed from the home. The husband tried to clean and remove the mold himself but it came back fiercer and all at once, they had but no choice to call out the professionals of SERVPRO. By containing the mold area we were able to prevent other mold spores from travelling to other places in the home and contaminating there as well. Mold can also cause serious health issues, which is why containment is so important and necessary, all mold situations should be treated as an emergency. When demolition was completed SERVPRO completed a final wipe down of everything to prohibit the mold from growing back and allowed the family to open back up the space and continuing living their lives.