Finding the hidden menace: understanding mold in your home

1/29/2024 (Permalink)

Mold growing on the walls

Imagine this: whether you're unlocking the entrance to your comfy house after a long day or coming into your bustling company space, ready to serve customers, a strange odor draws your attention. As you examine, your gaze falls on a faint yet threatening intruder—mold. This uninvited guest sees no difference between the comfort of your house and the professionalism of your business; it thrives in both. Mold is not simply an eyesore; it may also cause health problems and threaten the fundamental structure of your home. In this essay, we will look at the hidden nature of mold, including its sources, associated risks, and possible treatments. Knowing about and managing mold-related dangers is critical for maintaining an enjoyable and secure atmosphere for everybody, whether you own a house or a commercial property.

1. What is mold?

Mold is a fungus of microscopic size that multiplies by air through spores and can occur both indoors and out in areas with high humidity. Mold is commonly seen in residential and commercial properties as fuzzy, discolored areas on walls, ceilings, and other surfaces. It reproduces by releasing microscopic spores into the air, which seek out wet places to settle and thrive in. Mold plays a crucial role in nature, but its presence indoors can be problematic.

2. What causes mold to grow in residential and commercial buildings?

Understanding which conditions stimulate mold growth is critical. Mold flourishes in situations with high moisture levels, and several factors contribute to its spread:

• Leaks: Undetected leaks, whether from roofs, pipes, or appliances, provide an ongoing source of moisture, creating a fantastic breeding ground for mold.
• Water damage: If previous water damage, such as flooding or spills, fails to be properly handled, residual moisture may build up and promote mold growth.
• Poor ventilation: keeps moisture indoors, particularly in enclosed places such as restrooms, kitchens, and storage rooms.
• High humidity levels: Elevated humidity levels, which are common in humid places, create an environment conducive to mold growth.

3. How can mold affect your health?

Mold can have a variety of effects on health, ranging from minor discomfort to serious respiratory problems. Here's a quick overview:

• Allergic reactions: Mold spores are allergens that can cause sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and skin irritation.
• Respiratory issues: Mold exposure can exacerbate symptoms of asthma, such as coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing.
• Skin irritation: Direct contact with mold can irritate the skin.
• Individuals with compromised immune systems: may be more vulnerable to fungal infections caused by specific forms of mold.

4. Can mold be detected before it becomes visible?

Yes, mold can be detected before it becomes visible. There are several ways to detect mold early on:

• Musty Odor: Mold often produces a distinct musty smell. If you notice an unusual odor in your home or building, it could indicate the presence of mold.
• Water Damage: Mold thrives in damp and moist environments. If you have experienced any water leaks or damage, it is important to thoroughly inspect and address any potential mold growth.
• Hidden Mold: Mold can grow in hidden areas such as behind walls, under flooring, or inside ceilings2. These areas may not be immediately visible, but if you suspect mold growth, a professional inspection may be necessary.
• Allergy Symptoms: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions, such as sneezing, coughing, or respiratory issues when mold is present. If you or others in your home are experiencing unexplained allergy symptoms, it could be a sign of hidden mold.

Regular examinations, even in places that are not easily visible, are critical for early discovery. Pay attention to hidden areas such as basements, crawl spaces, and under furniture. Controlling mold in its early stages is critical to preventing major damage and health problems.

5. How can mold growth be prevented and controlled?

• Check that your home or company has adequate air circulation. Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens to minimize humidity and prevent moisture buildup. Leaks should be repaired as quickly as feasible. To prevent mold from forming, take immediate action if you notice a leaking roof, a plumbing problem, or a broken appliance.
• Ideal indoor humidity levels range from 30 to 50%. Use dehumidifiers in wet areas, especially basements, and consider utilizing air conditioners to minimize humidity during hot weather.
• Use mold-resistant products, especially in moisture-prone areas like bathrooms and basements. Mold-resistant drywall and coatings may give an additional layer of protection.
• Inspect your property regularly, focusing on moisture-prone areas. Regular exams can help discover and manage defects before they become serious issues.

Mold prevention is a constant endeavor that requires a combination of good practices and consciousness. By adopting these strategies, you create a less favorable atmosphere for mold, reducing the risk of infestations and related issues.

Mold is a difficulty that requires awareness and preventative measures, whether you run a pleasant house or a thriving business. Understanding the factors that contribute to mold growth and taking prompt action can help you keep your living or working environment healthy and friendly for everybody. Stay well-informed be proactive, and let the struggle against mold begin with awareness and instruction.

Investing in mold protection today safeguards the property and its occupants.

For professional mold remediation services, call SERVPRO® at (480) 503-2090. Trust SERVPRO for reliable mold remediation, abatement, and restoration. Secure your space with us—prevention is the first line of defense.

You Need a Mold Inspection After a Water Leak

9/12/2023 (Permalink)

The monsoons have been fairly mild this year, but that doesn’t mean what rain we did get didn’t cause damage. We’ve been getting a lot of calls from people who experienced water leaks in their home; some caused by the storms, some by broken pipes. Several of these calls are from Phoenicians that are out of town for the hot summer season and are only now discovering water leak issues as they return to their home for the cooler weather on the way. Fixing the leak and drying out the premises may not be enough. If that water stood for any length of time, you need a mold inspection.

Signs of mold in your home

Even if the water damage was addressed fairly quickly, your home may still have mold. You may already suspect you have an issue. A musty smell and an overall feeling of dampness, even after the water leak was repaired, is a good sign you may have mold issues. If you suspect mold growth or have noticed a mold colony on your flooring or walls, we guarantee you have a mold problem! Whether it is from a recent flood or maybe a small leak, the problem needs to be addressed. SERVPRO® of Phoenix specializes in mold remediation.

The mold remediation process

Keep in mind that mold is present everywhere:  indoors and outdoors. Services that claim “mold removal” services are misleading. What your Phoenix home needs is mold remediation, where specialists come in and detect mold, use a variety of containment procedures to contain the mold to keep it from spreading any further, and then use antifungal and antimicrobial treatments to eliminate mold colonies and help prevent new colonies from forming. It may be necessary to remove mold-infested materials like drywall and carpeting to remediate heavy mold growth; our mold professionals will advise you on whether or not that’s necessary. It’s important to work with a professional who understands the mold remediation process and can address your unique situation to ensure you’re getting the issue resolved quickly and correctly.

Working with a water and mold pro is important

If your Phoenix home has a water leak, big or small, stopping the leak is only half the battle. Work with a water and mold specialist like SERVPRO of East Phoenix who will come in and not only handle water damage repair and restoration, but do mold remediation to ensure you don’t experience any additional problems this monsoon storm season.

Early remediation helps prevent stubborn mold infestations. Call SERVPRO® of  Phoenix at (480) 503-2090. We are available every day to offer assistance and advice.

How to Deal with Mold in Your Office Building

9/6/2022 (Permalink)

Everyone gets the occasional mold spot in a bathroom, but when you find ongoing mold growth in your office break room or another part of your building, it can be troubling. It has been a wet monsoon season, and rain is still in the forecast, which brings a higher level of moisture to the air. Mold thrives on moisture, and it is more likely to grow in damp conditions. Since mold spores exist everywhere, even in the cleanest office buildings, it is not too difficult for mold to grow and quickly become an issue in your office. If you find mold growth at your place of business, do not try to clean it yourself; it is best to contact a professional to manage it to address not only the growth but the cause as well. Many people choose to ignore the issue and let it progress or try to deal with it on their own. If you find mold, here is what to do and what to avoid. You will save time, money, and stress by approaching mold issues the right way.

Do not wait for mold to go away on its own

One of the most important reasons to call a professional mold remediation service like SERVPRO for mold damage to your office is that the mold problem cannot be solved without intervention; it won’t simply disappear on its own! The mold-impacted area must be dried, cleaned, sanitized, and possibly repainted or rebuilt if the mold infestation is substantial. If these actions are not done, mold spores can continue to grow and spread to other parts of the office, oftentimes completely undetected as it grows behind walls and other dark, out-of-the-way places in your office that are not noticed until the damage is substantial. Such undetected growth can lead to real damage to your office, making remediation more difficult. The best time to call SERVPRO of Phoenix is when the damage is relatively new to keep damage and expense at a minimum.

Handling mold yourself is not a good idea

Trying to eliminate mold damage on your own can be detrimental to the office. Even if you remove all visual signs of mold in your office, it is almost impossible to eliminate airborne mold spores and hidden pockets of growth without advanced tools and cleaning products. SERVPRO uses moisture detection tools to identify patches of mold behind walls and surfaces and air scrubbers to filter as many spores out of the environment as possible. When business owners try to address mold growth on their own through cleaning, they are only going to eliminate the mold growth they see, leaving undetected mold spores behind to continue to grow unnoticed until the damage is substantial. What you do not see is just as damaging as what you do see.

Ongoing odors need to be treated

After a mold colony is removed, strong, musty odors it may have caused can remain in an office if not properly addressed. These odors can take a long time to leave your office on their own and can grow unpleasant if not handled correctly. SERVPRO technicians use industrial-strength chemical fogging machines to neutralize odor molecules, even if they are implanted deep within the walls and floors. Finding and eliminating mold is only part of the problem if your office experiences mold. Odor removal is a crucial step that should not be overlooked. SERVPRO of Phoenix can help.

Contact us for help

SERVPRO of Phoenix specializes in mold damage remediation services and odor removal for your business. For our assistance with mold growth and odors in your office, give us a call at (480) 503-2090. We are available 24/7 to help you with your mold issues and get your office back to normal.

SERVPRO Trained Specialists Know How to Assess Mold Damage

8/8/2022 (Permalink)

As trained mold specialists, SERVPRO technicians know that a fungus only needs three things to grow and survive inside a building: it must have excessive moisture, an organic food source such as wood or paper, and temperatures around 70 degrees Fahrenheit to thrive. Mold damage can occur because microbes naturally exist throughout your home inside dust particles and in other places. Once conditions inside your home reach the ideal range for development, these microbes get activated and form into mold contamination. That’s when SERVPRO can help.

We know how to handle mold growth

Our SERVPRO crew takes extra measures to maintain good air quality inside your home. When we conduct mold damage mitigation services, we design a safety plan that will keep our workers and all of the occupants in your residence protected. Everyone that works on the job site has to wear specialized personal protective gear; our team shows up equipped with full protective body suits, and full-face respirators, along with their hand and foot protection gear, ready to get to work!

What causes mold growth and spread in a home

Microbial growth often takes place in dark areas that you do not look at every day and can therefore miss. A slow water leak or one that went unnoticed for a long time are common causes of mold issues. Once the fungus exists, it grows and spreads across, into, and out above the affected surface. While growth can be hard to spot, it often looks like small black dots that contain a little white fuzzy substance at first. These spores become airborne and float around the structure until they find a place to settle and contaminate a different section of the house.

Dealing with fungus and mold

The first step to mitigating issues with mold is to determine whether or not mold actually exists. Our SERVPRO experts work directly with you the homeowner and find out where you believe the contamination is located. We inspect contents and building materials in your house to see whether mold exists by looking at possibly contaminated materials and by smelling the dwelling to see if foul, musty odors exist. We then find out from you if you have had previous problems with microbial formations or if you experienced a water leak recently. Determining the cause of mold development can help prevent issues from returning in the future.

Call on SERVPRO for mold remediation needs

If you ever notice black mold forming in your home, call SERVPRO of Phoenix at (480) 503-2090 seven days a week. We’ll help find the source of mold, remediate the situation, and help with any odor issues that may be a result of mold infestation. We’re here to help!

What to Expect When You Work with Mold Remediation Specialists

6/2/2022 (Permalink)

If your home or business experiences mold challenges due to water damage, storms, or other issues, you may be unfamiliar with mold and how the process works. We’ve provided some helpful insights so that if you ever experience mold challenges you have a better understanding of the process and what to expect.

Mold remediation vs. mold removal

Did you know that there’s no such thing as mold removal?  It’s true! 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 misleading notion. Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors, and outdoors. We understand mold and mold growth. When you reach out to SERVPRO of Phoenix with mold issues, we show up to remediate the mold in your home or business.

Mold grows fast and can be tough to find and address

When water intrudes into your property, mold growth can start in as little as 24-48 hours. Mold spores are microscopic, 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. These spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. Otherwise, the mold may return. Mold often produces a strong, musty odor, and that odor can lead you to possible mold problem areas. While not a pleasant odor, oftentimes homeowners and business owners only realize they have a mold problem once they smell it, well before they ever see it! Higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Try to keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

What a mold remediation process entails

Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return. Every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same. It starts with an 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. We look for visible signs of mold as well as inspect for telltale odors. We use a variety of technologies at our disposal to detect mold and hidden water sources causing it. Once the cause is addressed (leaky faucet, etc.) we work to contain the mold to keep the mold from spreading. This may include air filtration, removing mold-infested materials, and cleaning belongings that may have mold on them. If the damage is bad enough, further work may be done if the infestation required the removal of flooring or drywall. Last, we’ll address any lingering odors. Even once the mold is remediated (not removed!) some odors may remain, but SERVPRO remediation specialists know how to handle this.

If your home or business experiences mold, work with SERVPRO of Phoenix. We’ll handle the issue immediately and resolve it to your satisfaction. Contact us at 480-503-2090.

Here’s What to Do if You Find Mold in Your Home

2/6/2022 (Permalink)

Everyone gets the occasional mold spot in a shower corner, but when you find ongoing mold growth in your bathroom or another part of your home, it can be disconcerting. It’s been a wet winter and rain is still in the forecast, which brings an elevated level of moisture to the air. Mold loves moisture and it is more likely to grow in damp conditions. Since mold spores exist everywhere, even in the cleanest of homes, it’s not too difficult for mold to grow and quickly become an issue in your home. If you find mold growth in your home, don’t try to clean it yourself; it’s best to contact a professional like SERVPRO of Phoenix to handle it to address not only the growth but the cause as well. Many people choose to ignore the issue and let it progress or try to deal with it on their own. If you find mold, here’s what to do and what to avoid. You’ll save time, money, and stress by approaching mold issues correctly.

 
Mold Won’t Go Away Without Intervention

One of the most important reasons to call a professional mold remediation service like SERVPRO for mold damage to your home is that the mold problem cannot be solved without intervention; it won’t simply disappear on its own! The mold-impacted area must be dried, cleaned, sanitized, and possibly repainted or rebuilt if the mold infestation is substantial. If these things aren't done, mold spores can continue to grow and spread to other parts of the home, oftentimes completely undetected as it grows behind walls and other dark, out-of-the-way places in your home that aren’t noticed until the damage is substantial. Such undetected growth can lead to real damage to your home, making remediation more difficult. The best time to call SERVPRO of Phoenix is when the damage is relatively new to keep damage and expense at a minimum.

Tackling Mold Yourself Can Make the Issue Worse 

Trying to eliminate mold damage on your own can be detrimental to the home. Even if you remove all visual signs of mold in your home, it is almost impossible to eliminate airborne mold spores and hidden pockets of growth without advanced tools and cleaning products. SERVPRO uses advanced moisture detection tools to identify patches of mold behind walls and surfaces and air scrubbers to filter as many spores out of the environment as possible. When homeowners try to address mold growth on their own through cleaning, they’re likely only going to eliminate the mold growth they see, leaving undetected mold spores behind to continue to grow unnoticed until the damage is substantial. What you don’t see is just as damaging as what you do see.

Musty, Mildew Smells Need to Be Addressed

After a mold colony is removed, strong, musty odors it may have caused can remain in a home if not properly addressed. These odors can take a long time to leave your home on their own and can grow unpleasant if not handled correctly. SERVPRO technicians use industrial-strength chemical fogging machines to neutralize odor molecules, even if they are embedded deep within the walls and floors. Finding and eliminating mold is only part of the problem if your home experiences mold. Odor removal is an important step that shouldn’t be overlooked. SERVPRO of Phoenix can help.
 
SERVPRO of Phoenix specializes in mold damage remediation services and odor removal. For our expert help with mold growth and odors in your home, give us a call at (480) 503-2090. We’re available 24/7 to help you with your mold issues and get your home back to normal.

Struggling with Mold in Your Home? Call in the Experts!

12/14/2021 (Permalink)

It’s not unusual to occasionally find a small amount of mold in your home, especially in areas that are continually damp and in darkness, like a shower. Consistent cleaning and perhaps sealing can address these occasional nuisances, but if your mold problem is more than a small spec here and there, it’s time to call in the experts to help find the cause and get rid of the mold growth.

Mold does not go away on its own
 

We recommend that if you ever find mold damage in your home, you contact SERVPRO immediately to take care of the issue. The bottom line is that mold growth will not go away on its own and depending on the amount of growth can cause ongoing damage to walls and belongings. Many people choose to ignore their mold issue and let it progress or try to battle it on their own with bleach and a little elbow grease but unfortunately, if the mold growth is a result of a larger issue, expert mold remediation is needed. Those who allow fungal damage to remain undisturbed or try to clean up the area themselves often regret their decision and they never get the mold damage to stop and often never discover the root cause of the issue in the first place, which can lead to the return of mold growth in the future.

Why call in a mold remediation specialist

One of the most important reasons to call a professional remediation service for mold damage to your home is that the problem cannot be solved without intervention. The impacted area needs to be dried, cleaned, sanitized, and sometimes requires additional building work if the infestation is well-developed and impacted the integrity of materials like drywall. Otherwise, mold spores can continue to grow and spread to other parts of the home. The best time to call SERVPRO is when the damage is relatively light and has not spread across the area to other parts of the home. SERVPRO of Phoenix follows a tried and true mold remediation process to ensure the best results possible.

 
Tackling mold growth on your own isn’t as effective

Trying to eliminate mold damage yourself is rarely completely effective, as it is almost impossible to eradicate airborne spores and hidden pockets of growth without advanced tools. What most people don’t realize is that mold spores exist everywhere, so it’s a matter of addressing what causes mold spore growth to truly address the problem. SERVPRO uses advanced moisture detection tools to identify patches of mold behind walls and surfaces and air scrubbers to filter as many spores out of the environment as possible. In addition, SERVPRO knows that oftentimes, long after a visible mold growth is gone, strong, musty odors may remain. These odors take a long time leave your home on their own. SERVPRO technicians use industrial-strength chemical fogging machines to neutralize odor molecules, even if they are embedded deep within the walls and floors of your home.

Call in the pros to help with mold growth
 

SERVPRO of Phoenix is the Valley's leading provider of mold damage remediation services. For our expert help with mold in your home, give us a call at (480) 503-2090. Don’t let a small amount of mold damage grow out of control; work with us to get mold remediation services today!

Mold in Your Shower Can be More Than Just a Nuisance

10/25/2021 (Permalink)

Nothing makes a shower look unclean like visible mold. If you struggle with constant mold in your shower, it may be more than just a nuisance. Keep reading to learn about mold in your bathroom and how to address it.

What kind of mold is in your shower?

Mold in your shower can be put in two broad categories – mold behind the shower and surface mold. Surface mold is unsightly growth and can be more difficult to remove. It is the hidden moisture, however, inside the framing behind your shower which can lead to damage to your structure and expensive repairs. Any kind of constant mold growth is bad news. It continues to multiply, doing damage to the structure. As soon as you see mold reappearing after cleaning, contact SERVPRO so we can help you clean it up. We are a trained and experienced mold remediation company that can handle this problem for you before it spreads anymore.

What causes mold?
 

Moisture is the key to mold growth, so our goal is to get the water causing your mold out of your home fast. Oftentimes we need to find the source of moisture first, like a slow leak causing water to seep behind the walls of our shower. Our job is to stop the water damage, dry the wet structure and contents, so we can then clean the mold up. Even the best cleanup efforts fail if the moisture is not handled. Regardless of moisture conditions, it’s important to know that mold spores are everywhere, all the time, and not a sign that your cleaning skills are lacking. What causes spores to multiply and turn into an infestation is the presence of moisture allowing those spores to grow.

How SERVPRO fights mold growth

We have highly trained IICRC-Certified Applied Microbial Remediation technicians that can respond 24/7 if you have mold growth issues. We have effective mitigation and containment equipment to prevent the situation from getting worse while our qualified personnel remove active colonization and work to restore the damage that it has caused. When the remediation is complete, we may have an independent environmental professional record that the mold has returned to normal conditions.
 
Placing negative air machines near where any drywall demolition is done lowers the amount of airborne mold which we are exposed to plus makes removing the mold more efficient. If the mold has grown enough, we may have to remove damaged materials, and we also use damp wiping to clean soiled areas and vacuum excessive mold spores by utilizing HEPA vacuums and filters.

If you have mold, call the mold remediation specialists
 

SERVPRO of Phoenix does not waste time getting to your home after you reach out to us. Mold continues to grow until we stop the moisture problem and clean up the growth, so call us right away at (480) 503-2090. We’ll work with you to address the problem and advise you on how to prevent future growth.

Tips to Keep Mold from Growing in Your Bathroom

9/8/2021 (Permalink)

For some people, fighting mold and mildew in their bathroom is an ongoing problem. Regardless of the time of year, fighting mold in the bathroom is necessary if you want a clean bathroom as well as preventing damage to the walls, flooring and ceiling. Here are a few tips to keep that mold growth at bay.

Mold spores are everywhere

One misunderstanding most people have about mold is that mold only grows in certain places. Unfortunately, that’s not necessarily true. As a matter of fact, microscopic mold spores exist almost everywhere, both indoors and outdoors. Consider these facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors, and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and can drift in the air, entering your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems.
• Mold spores flourish on moisture. Mold spores can rapidly grow into colonies when exposed to water. 
• 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.

How to stop mold growth

All bathrooms will have some level of moisture present at all times; it goes with the nature of the room, but by eliminating as much moisture as possible in the bathroom, you can stop mold growth. Maintaining a mold-free bathroom is fairly simple if you follow these tips and remain diligent in your cleaning effort.

Utilize a good exhaust fan

Effective fans are a good defense against mold and moisture in your bathroom. Be sure that all your bathrooms have a well-functioning fan. Make sure the cubic feet per minute count is enough to cover the size of the bathroom (manufacturers will list this on the box). Run the fan during all showers and baths and for at least 30 minutes afterward.

Use a squeegee

Believe it or not, using the squeegee on your tub and shower walls after every shower or bath reduces up to 75 percent of the moisture in the air. That takes care of so much moisture that can lead to the rapid growth of mold in all areas of the bathroom so use one after every use!

Look for and fix all leaks

If you have any leaks within the bathroom, fix it right away, no matter how minor it may seem. Call a plumber and have them check for any hidden leaks within the walls. Going a long period of time with any leaks will ultimately cause mold growth and will make it hard to get rid of later.

What to do if you find mold

No matter how diligent you are, you may still experience mold in your bathroom. If you find mold, have a mold remediation professional take care of it. Mold is resilient and getting rid of it is hard. SERVPRO of Phoenix has trained and certified mold specialists to help you with your mold issues so reach out to them at 480-503-2090 to help you address the mold growth.

Find Mold in You Home? Here’s What to do and What to Avoid

8/10/2021 (Permalink)

Monsoons bring an elevated level of moisture to the air, ideal for mold to grow. Since mold spores are present everywhere, it’s not too difficult for mold to grow in Phoenix homes and quickly become an issue. If you find mold damage in your home, it’s best to contact a professional to handle it. However, many people choose to ignore the issue and let it progress or try to deal with it on their own. If you find mold in your home, learn what to do and what to avoid.

 
Mold Won't Go Away On Its Own

One of the most important reasons to call a professional mold remediation service for mold damage to your home is that the mold problem cannot be solved without intervention. The area must be dried, cleaned, sanitized, and possibly repainted or rebuilt if the mold infestation is well-developed. If this isn’t done, mold spores can continue to grow and spread to other parts of the home, oftentimes completely undetected as it grows behind walls and other dark, out of the way places in your home. The best time to call SERVPRO of Phoenix is when the damage is relatively new to keep damage and expense at a minimum. Mold doesn’t go away on its own and needs to be addressed quickly.

 
Cleaning Mold Up Yourself Can Make the Issue Worse 

Trying to eliminate mold damage on your own can be detrimental to the home. Even if you remove all visual signs of growth in your home, it is almost impossible to eliminate airborne spores and hidden pockets of growth without advanced tools and cleaning products. SERVPRO uses advanced moisture detection tools to identify patches of mold behind walls and surfaces and air scrubbers to filter as many spores out of the environment as possible. When homeowners try to tackle mold growth on their own, they’re likely only going to eliminate the mold growth they see, leaving undetected mold spores behind to continue to grow, often unnoticed until the damage is substantial.

Moldy Smells Remain After the Mold is Gone

Long after a mold colony is removed, the strong, musty odors it may have caused can remain in a home. These odors take years to leave your home on their own and can grow unpleasant over time. SERVPRO technicians use industrial-strength chemical fogging machines to neutralize odor molecules, even if they are embedded deep within the walls and floors of your home. Finding and eliminating mold is only part of the problem if your home experiences mold. Odor removal is an important step that shouldn’t be overlooked.
 
SERVPRO of Phoenix is a leading provider of mold damage remediation services. For our expert help with mold in your home, give us a call at (480) 503-2090. We’re available 24/7 to help you with your mold issues and get your home back to normal.

Learn How to Detect and Prevent Mold in Your Home

6/3/2021 (Permalink)

Phoenix homeowners don’t consider mold to be a threat to their homes, assuming those issues are more likely to happen to those living in damper climates. However, mold is still very much an issue even in a drier climate like Phoenix. It’s important to learn how to detect and prevent mold in your home.

How mold damage starts

Mold damage to Phoenix homes usually starts in areas where homeowners don’t spend much time, or in a room they infrequently enter, such as attics, basements, and laundry rooms. Mold needs dampness to grow, so these spaces are ideal, as are bathrooms and kitchens. If there is a slow or undetected leak, over time mold will grow. Depending on how long the situation has been in play, the damage can be significant; more than a homeowner should try to clean up themselves.

Calling in experts to deal with mold

SERVPRO technicians know to look for the source of moisture as one of the first steps to addressing mold damage. Our specialists do this because mold cannot grow without enough moisture to cause dormant spores to expand and begin seeking out more water and a food source. It’s a common misperception to think mold can be completely removed from a home. Since microscopic mold spores exist naturally almost everywhere, indoors, and outdoors, removing all mold from a home or business is impossible. However, eliminating nearby sources of water forces the spores back to an inactive state, stopping mold growth. SERVPRO specialists can repair minor plumbing leaks that often lead to mold growth and fix small tears in the roof or siding on a home that allows water inside.

How SERVPRO addresses mold damage

 
As the mold grows inactive, it dries out, and SERVPRO techs can use vacuums with specially designed HEPA filters to trap mold spores off surfaces and even from the surrounding air. If the mold layer is very thick, they can also use water or a cleaning agent to break it up and then vacuum or wipe off the mold with a sponge. In areas where it is difficult to reach every surface, we can spray an anti-fungal agent to help eliminate all active spores or use a fogger to generate a cloud of chemical agent to stop growth. The fogger device is particularly useful in small, enclosed areas like attics, or even garages. Our trained technicians follow a very specific mold remediation process to ensure mold is addressed and damage is repaired.

How homeowners can prevent mold damage to their home

One action a homeowner can take to prevent mold or stop it before it becomes a significant problem. Is to look around your out-of-the-way spaces at least once a year. Mold can grow almost anywhere, but a simple, visual inspection can quickly stop it. Address small leaks quickly, and don’t allow any area damaged by water in your home to go unaddressed. Remember also to use your nose; if you detect that musty odor, which mold produces, you likely have a mold issue. Learning to detect and prevent mold can save you time and money. If you do have mold issues, contact  SERVPRO of Phoenix at (480) 503-2090 to do a thorough check and address the problem.

What Most Homeowners Don’t Know About Mold

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

No one wants to discover that their home has mold, but it can happen for several reasons. As a homeowner, it’s important to understand mold: what it is, what causes, and what to do should mold damage happen in your home.

Mold spores are already in your home

No matter how clean your home appears, it already has mold. As a matter of fact, microscopic mold spores exist naturally almost everywhere, indoors, and outdoors, so removing all mold spores from a home or business is impossible. It’s simply a matter of addressing it when excessive mold growth becomes an issue.

Mold isn’t an indication of a dirty home 

Mold accumulation can often be caused or worsened by a failure to properly ventilate a residence after a storm, leaky appliance or pipe, or other water damage that wasn’t properly addressed. Mold can build up in stuffy bathrooms or any area where the environment is humid, warm, and poorly ventilated. It can grow behind walls and in attics where leaks go undetected. It can also grow in ceilings and walls from water floods or stormwater. Mold isn’t an indication of a dirty home; it indicates that a situation is present that has allowed the already existing mold spores to grow significantly.

You shouldn’t clean up mold on your own.

The EPA’s recommendation to clean up a moldy area of up to 9 square feet is to wipe it with a cloth dampened with a diluted bleach solution. However, any type of mold damage more substantial than that should be addressed by a mold remediation professional like SERVPRO of Phoenix. Not only can professionals address the mold damage but will work with the homeowners to determine what caused the mold growth in the first place and will work with them to address that situation to prevent potential mold damage in the future.

Insurance may not cover mold damage 

Property insurance policies do not normally cover mold, fungus, or dry rot. If a water damage incident occurs, and the damage is not discovered and ventilated soon, mold can result. The property insurance will normally refuse to cover the cost of mold remediation but will still typically cover the rest of the repairs. Every homeowner’s policy is different and because mold growth is typically caused by another underlying issue, SERVPRO can help manage the insurance paperwork and process. 

Demolition is a last resort for moldy walls and ceilings

When homeowners see mold growth on walls or ceilings, many feel the only option to get rid of the mold is to demo a large portion until it’s gone, but that’s usually not necessary! Mold remediation specialists know how to find the cause of mold growth, address and stop the growth, remove the mold, and reconstruct the damaged area, as well as address any lingering moldy odors. We follow a very specific mold remediation process that can restore a home back to normal without the need for demolition, except in more extreme cases.

Mold remediation doesn’t have to be costly

Because many believe the only option to get rid of mold is demolition, there is an unfounded belief that mold remediation is costly, but it doesn’t have to be, especially if it’s caught early and handled by professionals that know what to do. Containment, removal, and restoration can be done without breaking the bank! SERVPRO works with homeowners every step of the process, from finding the cause of the mold damage to restoration, working together to decide the best steps that are both effective and contain cost as much as possible.

If your home experiences mold damage, reach out to SERVPRO of Phoenix 24/7 to get the help you need to get your home back to normal. Contact us at 602-503-2090 to discuss your options today.

The Best Way to Fight Mold is Prevention

12/15/2020 (Permalink)

No one likes to see mold in their home or business. It’s unattractive and can cause a musty smell. The intrusion of water into your home or building can result in mold growth. Water seepage can occur due to storm damage, plumbing or equipment failures, long-standing leaks, or poor humidity control. When water issues aren’t addressed right away, the resulting damage can result in mold growth. That’s why the best way to fight mold is prevention. Here’s what you need to know about preventing mold in your home or business.

How does mold grow?

If the humidity and moisture levels in a water-damaged environment are not quickly returned to normal, mold spores may grow and multiply. Why? Because microscopic mold spores exist naturally almost everywhere, indoors, and outdoors, so removing all mold from a home or business is impossible, but you can control growth. Organic materials found inside a building, such as wood, paper, drywall, and insulation, provide food sources for mold to flourish in the right, moist circumstances. Excessive mold growth can lead to unpleasant conditions that need to be addressed.

Mold growth isn’t always obvious

Some people are surprised when mold appears “out of nowhere” but chances are there are signs that were simply overlooked such as:

• The presence of visible mold in corners or cracks.
• Musty odors may indicate the presence of mold.
• Any evidence of past moisture problems that might have caused undetected mold growth.
• Excessive humidity.

To keep mold from growing in your home or business, repair any leaking pipes or faucets, keep ventilation drip pans clean and dry, keep indoor humidity below 50%, and regularly check the plumbing, roof gutters, and other water sources to ensure there are no leaks that can lead to mold growth.

What to do if you experience mold in your home or business

Despite diligent prevention efforts, sometimes mold growth happens. If you are sure or suspect that there is mold in your home or building, call SERVPRO immediately at (480) 503-2090 as quickly as possible to prevent the mold growth from continued spread, resulting in a greater chance of unrecoverable property. SERVPRO professionals have the expertise to prevent or mitigate the devastating effects of mold damage. Contact us 24/7 and our trained professionals will come out and help you with mold remediation.

How to Find and Address Mold in Your Home

10/28/2020 (Permalink)

A mold infestation can grow in any room of a house, including bathrooms, kitchens, and living rooms. It usually appears as a series of splotches or streaks across walls and ceilings but can sometimes be hidden behind walls or underneath cabinets. In many cases, there will also be a musty odor that is the first telltale sign to a homeowner there may be a problem. Once you realize you have mold, it’s important to find the cause of mold in your home and address it.

How mold can damage your home

Mold damage is not just a visual or cosmetic problem. It also causes permanent damage to materials such as drywall, furniture, and whatever else it comes in contact with. It can lead to permanent staining or even deterioration of materials. Knowing how to combat the damage and prevent further problems requires a company trained in remediation and restoration of mold in the structure and personal property. SERVPRO mold remediation technicians have extensive experience and training to help homeowners suffering from mold damage.

How SERVPRO finds and addresses mold

When addressing mold damage, the first task is to control the mold at its source. We set up containment around the affected area using heavy plastic sheeting to cover entrances and exit, sealing the vents to prevent mold from spreading through the ductwork. Technicians may also set up special machines to reduce the number of airborne spores while they remove mold from the affected area.

Next, we remove the contamination in the home. Any structural or personal property item that cannot be cleaned is disposed of. Homeowners are alerted when this is necessary. Before moving any compromised item out of the contained area, our technicians clean it using vacuums with HEPA filters, dry wiping with sponges or cloths, and using anti-fungal and anti-microbial cleaning agents, all to prevent further spread.

After the mold is gone

Once the mold is removed, we lower the moisture levels of the area back to normal by using air movers and exhaust fans to replace the damp air inside the affected area with drier air from outside the structure. Technicians also place dehumidifiers to draw moisture from the air. This and other steps are all a part of our specific mold removal process followed by all SERVPRO technicians to ensure the issue is resolved.

Removing mold and restoring your home is not a simple process and should therefore be left to the pros to address. SERVPRO of Phoenix is ready to help you if you suffer from mold damage. If you need our services or just suspect you have a mold problem, call us at (480) 503-2090 today. We’re available 24/7 to assist you.

Mold Damage in Your Attic and What You Should Do

9/9/2020 (Permalink)

Most people equate mold issues in attics to wetter parts of the country. Even though Phoenix does not receive much rain compared to other places, having a leaky roof on your house can still cause problems, even if the leak is minor. Water can get into your attic and damage structural components, often without your knowledge. Attics naturally have higher relative humidity and air temperature than the livable area of the house, creating an ideal environment for microbial growth. Learn about mold damage in your attic and what you should do.

The damage of moisture

If more moisture gets into your attic from the roof due to heavy storms or a failing roof, fungi can develop on the inside of the plywood and other materials that form the roof. If you have mold damage inside your home's attic, microbes can contaminate your ventilation system; once inside the air ducts, spores can travel throughout the home and spread the infestation. Mold growth may happen slowly but, in an attic, can go undetected and continue to grow.

What to do if damage occurs

Once mold growth is detected inside the attic, specific procedures can be taken to remediate the problem. While it may appear simple to address on your own, it’s best to contact a remediation pro to address the mold issue, stop the spread of mold spores, and start the restoration process in your attic. A mold remediation specialist like SERVPRO will address air intakes or holes that go into the living area, sealing them off with plastic to prevent spread. Plastic is put on the bottom part of the trusses to prevent dust from contaminating the ceiling insulation. The access doors get sealed with plastic, and a zipper is installed to allow entrance.

Addressing damaged materials

In most situations, the contaminated wood inside the attic can only be removed by sanding down the material's surface. Our SERVPRO technicians get equipped with full face mask respirators and personal protective gear including suits that cover their entire body for protection during the remediation process. Air scrubbers get put inside the attic to pull particles out of the air during the sanding stage.

When sanding the affected materials, our IICRC certified technicians follow approved procedures and abide by all government rules and regulations. Automatic sanders with a vacuum hose attached to them get used to sand down the wood. The vacuum helps keep dust to a minimum by sucking up the air in the work area and putting it through a HEPA filter. After sanding is complete, the HEPA vac gets used to clean up any leftover debris or dust particles. Then the attic gets sprayed down with an anti-microbial chemical to prevent future growth. In severe cases, a sealant paint gets sprayed inside the attic to inhibit fungi from developing in the future.

If you suspect mold in your attic

If you ever notice microbial contamination in your attic, call SERVPRO of Phoenix at (480) 503-2090. We are available 24/7 to help address your mold issues and restore your home to pre-infestation condition.

How Humidity Can Cause Mold Damage in Your Home

8/12/2020 (Permalink)

Monsoons can bring humidity to homes in Phoenix this time of year, and that excess humidity can cause mold damage to form inside of the homes that are not adequately equipped to deal with it. Mold damage initially grows from mold spores that have been exposed to moisture. You may think you can completely rid your home of mold spores, but that is impossible. Mold spores are ever-present. They are microscopic and impossible for the naked eye to see. Learn how humidity can cause mold damage and what to do about it.

Avoid mold damage in your home

The best way to avoid mold damage in Phoenix from forming in your home is to make sure that the conditions mold needs to grow are never present in your home to begin with, such as controlling humidity and moisture. However, no matter how careful you may be, it is not uncommon for mold to begin to grow out of sight. This can happen from leaky roofs where water can collect in the attic, or perhaps a leaking water pipe behind a bathroom wall. If you find mold with issues like these, the important action is that you take steps to remedy the problem as soon as you discover the mold damage, instead of leaving the problem to only get worse. Mold damage should never be left dry out on its own. Mold can eat away at organic materials, such as the wooden framework of a house and make the damage worse.

Why you should call a professional for mold remediation

Humidity, not matter how severe or minor, can result in mold damage in your home. It can happen slowly, or quite quickly. Regardless, avoid the temptation to try and address it on your own. Calling a professional cleanup and restoration company like SERVPRO of Phoenix is the best thing that you can do for your home. Our IICRC-certified techs can get to work immediately once we arrive at your home, and we always strive to get there as quickly as possible with our 24/7 service offering. After investigating the mold in home and what is causing it, SERVPRO can determine how best to address the mold issue. Using disinfectant and antifungal agents, we can spray-and-wipe the mold right off your walls.

Once the mold is gone, the work continues

Afterward applying chemicals to get rid of surface mold, SERVPRO can use advanced equipment like dryers and dehumidifiers get rid of excess water and lower the overall humidity in your home so that mold doesn't begin to regrow immediately. We can use air scrubbers equipped with HEPA filters to combat the musty odor mold damage causes. SERVPRO always aims to return your home to the state it was in before the damage began. Many homeowners that battle mold on their own that’s caused by humidity miss this step and the mold can soon return, along with damage. That’s why it’s best to call professionals who know how to get rid of the mold damage and keep it from coming back.

If you find mold damage inside of your home caused by humidity, get help as soon as possible. Call us at  (480) 503-2090 to speak with a representative of SERVPRO of Phoenix. Our trained technicians will come out and address the problem immediately.

Protecting Your Home from Mold Damage

6/3/2020 (Permalink)

Mold can be difficult to see and even more challenging to get rid of. That is why it is a good idea to do all you can to stay on top of home maintenance to do everything possible to prevent mold damage from happening in your home. Here are some mold prevention tips for managing risk factors associated with the most common causes of mold.

Maintain plumbing in your home

Leaky or broken pipes are among the most common causes of mold in homes. The owner of a property should be aware of the age and condition of plumbing and stay on top of maintenance to prevent issues. An annual inspection by a licensed plumber is recommended, regardless of the age of your home. If your home is vacant during the summer months, especially during monsoons, it is a good idea to have someone check on the property to ensure you are not developing any issues.

Regularly inspect your home’s roof

Roof leaks are another common culprit for moisture that causes mold. Damage may occur at any time due to severe weather or falling tree limbs, but Phoenix homes are especially susceptible during monsoons. If you suspect any damage after a strong storm, arrange for inspections by a roofing service as quickly as possible. Identifying damage sooner rather than later may reduce the risk of a leak damaging the roof, insulation, or interior of a residence. It is also a good idea to have a simple inspection done once a year, preferably before storm season.

Address water damage quickly

Cleaning and restoring damage caused by water as quickly as possible is the most critical mold prevention measure as standing water is the ideal environment for mold growth. Mold growth can begin within just 24 to 48 hours after damage occurs, so it is essential to act quickly. Restoration specialists will extract water, clean, and dry the affected area to reduce the risk of secondary damage. While you might be able to sop up small water issues, larger flood and storm damage needs a pro to address.

Keep in mind that there is no such thing as mold removal

Since microscopic mold spores exist naturally almost everywhere, indoors, and outdoors, removing all mold from a home or business is impossible, so do not believe a cleaning service that promises to remove all mold spores from your home. It’s impossible and a company that claims that may not be as well-trained in mold remediation as SERVPRO of Phoenix. 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 Phoenix has the training and expertise to remediate the mold in your home or business.

Following the above suggestions will help protect your home against mold damage. If you need help with possible mold damage, contact SERVPRO at 480-503-2090. We are here to help!

What You Need to Know About Mold and Mold Remediation

2/11/2020 (Permalink)

Hearing the word mold can make anyone cringe. It is a word that everyone seems to know, but most know little about. Did you know, for example, that mold spores are everywhere?  It’s true! Knowing more about mold and mold remediation can help you deal with mold problems in your home or business.

A few facts about mold

According to the EPA website, here are a few facts that everyone should know about mold.

1. There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.
2. If mold is a problem in your home or business, you should clean up the mold and eliminate sources of moisture.
3. Fix the source of the water problem or leak to prevent mold growth.
4. Reduce indoor humidity to 30-60% to decrease mold growth by:
• Venting bathrooms, dryers and other moisture-generating sources to the outside
• Using air conditioners and de-humidifiers
• Increasing ventilation
• Using exhaust fans whenever cooking, dishwashing and cleaning
5. Clean and dry any damp or wet materials and furnishings within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.
6. Clean mold off hard surfaces with water and detergent, and then dry thoroughly. 
7. Prevent condensation: Reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces such as windows, piping, exterior walls, roof, or floors by adding insulation.
8. In areas where there is a perpetual moisture problem, do not install carpeting (i.e., by drinking fountains, by classroom sinks, or on concrete floors with leaks or frequent condensation).
9. Molds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any substance, providing moisture is present. Some molds can grow on wood, paper, carpet, and foods.

Got mold?  Call in the pros!

There’s a big difference between a little mold spot from a water spill and significant mold growth from water damage. The tips above are useful, but if your Phoenix home or business is experiencing substantial mold issues, it’s time to call in trained mold remediation specialists like SERVPRO of Phoenix to handle the job. Mold colonies can threaten not only the structural integrity of hosting surfaces and materials but also present adverse health effects for those exposed to the colonization. We have highly trained IICRC-Certified Applied Microbial Remediation Technicians that can respond 24/7 to any mold issues you may be experiencing, so contact us at 480-503-2090 to get the help you need for your mold issues. Understanding mold and mold remediation will help you make the right decisions if you experience problems in the future.

When Your Water Damage is Gone, Your Mold Problem May Start

12/18/2019 (Permalink)

Fixing your water leak won't resolve a possible mold problem in your home.

This is a typical scenario for many Phoenix homeowners who rent their properties out or are absent from their home for an extended period of time:  a water pipe breaks, and water sits for a long time before the water issue is resolved. When the problem is finally discovered, the water damage is fixed, and all is better again, right?  Not so fast! Even when your water damage is gone, your mold problem may start. Find out what you need to do to address a potential mold issue by working with SERVPRO of Phoenix.

How likely is it that mold will form after water damage happens?

Phoenix homeowners assume our dry climate discourages mold, but that’s actually a fallacy. As a matter of fact, mold spores exist in almost every environment, including Arizona, and it only takes the right moisture conditions like a water leak for these spores to seep into materials and colonize. That means a mold problem for your home. Mold exists everywhere, indoors and outdoors, but a damp situation like a water leak can accelerate that growth into a mold issue for your home. When that happens, you’ll need mold remediation.

Even if you can’t see it, mold may be present in your home after water damage

Perhaps you were fortunate enough to catch your water issue early, and therefore water didn’t sit for too long. Does that mean mold isn’t an issue?  Possibly, but possibly not. Keeping in mind mold spores are everywhere, it doesn’t take much excessive moisture to become a problem, and often a mold problem is not visible. It could be behind plumbing walls, in carpet padding, or other hidden places. If you smell a musty odor, the chances are that you have a mold problem, but in many cases, mold is growing before you smell anything.

What steps should be taken to address a possible mold issue?

First, the source of the water damage needs to be addressed. If it’s not resolved, there’s a good chance that even if mold is present and is dealt with, it could come back again, which is why mold remediation should be left to professionals such as SERVPRO of Phoenix. They are certified to understand how to assess a situation and if a mold problem is found, address it so that the issue is resolved. Specifically, our mold remediation specialists will:

• Inspect and assess mold damage
• Contain the mold
• Use air filtration for airborne mold spores
• Remove any materials containing mold, including drywall, carpet, etc.
• Clean any salvageable items with mold damage such as draperies, books, etc.
• Restore the premised to pre-mold problem conditions

So SERVPRO can get rid of mold in my house?

Again, mold is everywhere, inside your home and outside your home, so mold cannot be “removed” completely. What it can be is contained or remediated to keep it under control. We understand mold and mold growth. SERVPRO of Phoenix has the training and expertise to remediate the mold in your home.

Work with one company to handle all your damage needs

As you can see, water damage actually requires multiple areas of expertise: fix the cause of the water damage, repair water damaged items, dry out the area, and deal with any mold remediation necessary. Why call multiple companies when you can rely on the experts at SERVPRO?  If your Phoenix home suffers from water damage, contact us 24/7 at (480) 503-2090 to address all issues that you may experience.

Phoenix Home Inspections for Hidden Mold Growth

10/30/2019 (Permalink)

Containment at Phoenix home undergoing mold remediation.

A slew of issues can surface when you have mold in your Phoenix home, especially the attic. Home owners don’t typically inspect their attics for mold growth, which leaves the mold lots of opportunities to thrive and multiply, ready to spread in other areas of the home. When the mold growth has become out of control, you’ll need to find a professional home remediation company, like SERVPRO of Phoenix. A mold expert will come out, test and discuss what your options are.

When is Remediation Needed for Mold  in Your Home?

Your home can easily accumulate mold when you have a hidden water leak somewhere. Hidden water leaks are typically found behind a wall. Come the monsoon storms, hidden water leaks can also be found in your roof. The attic does not get regular human traffic, in fact, in some households, it’s only visited once a year. So finding mold growth in your attic is not all that uncommon. In order to determine if your mold growth requires remediation, you should have a remediation specialist come out to test.

SERVPRO of Phoenix, has professional mold experts that will come out, test for mold, and then consult you on what all of your options are. If remediation is what you chose to move forward with, based on the recommendations, our technicians will walk you through every step of the process with strong communication and care for your home.

If the mold expert comes out and found a lot of mold in multiple areas, then remediation is probably necessary. Mold growth can damage your home in a multitude of ways which include  the structural elements. Then you also have, and want to eliminate, the odor of mold in your home which lingers throughout and seemingly impossible to get rid of.

Could Your Home Have Mold Growing Somewhere?

There are 12 common molds found in households, but all of them cause damage, which starts with the surface its attached to. It also affects things like the ceilings, walls, framing, and insulation. If your home recently had a water leak that you are aware of, and you begin to smell musty odor, you probably have mold growth and should carefully look around for it. Even if you don’t see it, but you suspect its there, a mold specialist can come out and test and if it exists, will find it. When you call a mold expert as soon as you think you have mold, you are saving your home from any further damage.

So there are no water leaks in your home… that you are aware of, at least. There are more ways mold will take advantage of to exist. Insulation that has been improperly installed or is insufficient in its functionality becomes a prime environment for mold to thrive. An inadequate ventilation system within areas of your home will also provide areas where mold is likely to inhabit. Anywhere in the home that is associated with the plumbing system is also a very common place for mold growth.

Local Home Remediation Specialist

At SERVPRO of Phoenix, we understand mold and mildew and have many years of experience with remediating the different molds that exist. Our techs are well-trained and have access to a variety of advanced equipment. We are dedicated to helping home owners cope with and understand the process of mold remediation. Contact SERVPRO of Phoenix, and have a mold expert come out and test for the mold you suspect and they will walk you through the whole process. Call 480-503-2090.

Mold Problems? Leave Mold Remediation to The Experts

9/10/2019 (Permalink)

There are several reasons why homes in the Phoenix area experience mold problems and need mold remediation. While our wet season can definitely contribute to the issue, water leaks of any kind can cause mold to grow. If your home is experiencing a mold problem, it’s best to leave mold cleanup to the experts who know how to address it correctly.

What is Mold Remediation?

Most people think that unless they see or smell mold in their home, there is no mold present. Believe it or not, that’s actually not true. Microscopic mold spores are everywhere, and this is perfectly natural. When homeowners start to actually see mold in their homes, that’s when mold has become a problem that needs to be remediated immediately. When professionals like the mold techs at SERVPRO of Phoenix come out to your home, they’re not actually doing mold removal. Why? Since microscopic mold spores exist naturally almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors, removing all mold from a home or business is impossible. Unfortunately, there are many companies that claim they can get rid of mold for good, but this simply isn’t true and is very misleading. When the trained experts at SERVPRO of Phoenix come to a home to deal with a mold issue, they are focusing on the process of mold remediation, which is simply to get mold levels back to normal, natural levels.

Why Homeowners Shouldn’t Try Removing Mold Themselves

Since many mold issues start because of a water leak or other presence of excessive moisture, many people assume that once they address the water issue, they can simply to a thorough job of cleaning up mold on their own, perhaps using a little bit of bleach and some elbow grease to get the job done. However, there are very specific steps that should be taken for mold remediation. First, a mold professional needs to come out and inspect the mold damage using various technologies to detect mold and hidden water sources.  Next, the mold needs to be contained to prevent the spread of mold. Then a special air filtration system is used to capture microscopic mold spores out of the air. After that, removal is the next step. SERVPRO employees use antifungal and antimicrobial treatments to eliminate mold colonies and to help prevent new colonies from forming. Removing and disposing of mold-infested drywall or carpeting may be necessary to remediate heavy mold growth. Cleaning of other items, depending on mold growth, may be necessary using techniques to clean and sanitize the items. Last, depending on the damage to drywall, etc. restoration may involve minor repairs such as replacing carpet, drywall, etc.

No one wants to deal with mold issues in their home but when it happens, it’s best to contact the experts to handle it. If your Phoenix home needs mold remediation, give SERVPRO of Phoenix a call at480-503-2090. Our technicians are certified andavailable 24/7 every day!

Is Mold Remediation Necessary in Phoenix If I Have an Air Purifier?

8/12/2019 (Permalink)

Mold in a Phoenix Home Bathroom

Do I really need to call a mold remediation and removal company in Phoenix if I am using an air purifier? Well, it’s true, most air purifiers do fight mold and it’s ability to rapidly spread, but air purifiers do not address the original sources of mold which is what mold remediation and removal company will do. 

Part of a Mold Remediation Treatment

Air purifiers with a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) are very powerful at trapping even the smallest of microscopic particles serving as a part of mold remediation treatment. Air Purifiers with a HEPA filter will clear the air of mold spores and other air pollutants. Research which HEPA air purifier will be best for your needs.

In order to effectively eliminate mold spores, place your air purifier in areas where mold is commonly found, like in bathrooms, kitchens, basements and rooms that have upholstered furniture. Make sure to replace the HEPA filter according to the directions on the packaging so that the air purifier will be able to provide air free of mold spores and other pollutants.

Effective Mold Eradication

Air purifies can help effectively eradicate mold spores, but to really address the original sources of mold you’ll need to call in the mold experts who have the equipment to test, remediate and remove the mold completely. Mold spores float in the air freely, everywhere contributing to growing colonies of mold which in turn increases the mold spore count within the air, but mold spores come from the original mold sources. 

Certified Mold Remediation Company

To be sure that mold is eliminated completely, call your local professionals, SERVPRO of Phoenix to come in and take care of the mold sources. Our techs use advance techniques and equipment to eradicate all mold sources. After effective elimination of mold sources, you can use a dehumidifier to keep the humidity low and your HEPA air purifiers in areas considered problematic to eliminate airborne particles.

If you’re not sure about the mold found in your home or commercial property, call SERVPRO of Phoenix, and our certified techs will come in and do some testing, and talk to you about the best course of action. Available 24/7/365 for emergency services, our technicians are ready to address your mold disaster of any size.

Ways to Prevent Mold Growth in Your Bathroom

6/26/2019 (Permalink)

Whether you are managing a commercial or residential property, fighting mold in the bathroom is necessary if you want a clean and safe bathroom as well as prevent damage to the walls and ceiling.

All bathrooms will accrue moisture, it goes with the territory, but by eliminating as much moisture as possible in the bathroom, you can stop mold growth or at least slow it down if it does appear.

Maintaining a mold-free bathroom is actually pretty easy if you follow these easy tips and remain diligent in your cleaning effort.

Stop Bathroom Mold Growth with a Good Fan

Effective fans are your first line of defense against mold and moisture. Be sure that all your bathrooms have a well functioning fan. Make sure the CFM, cubic feet per minute, count is enough to cover the size of the bathroom.

Run the fan during all showers and baths for at least a half hour afterwards. You can put the fan on a timer so that you don’t have to worry about remembering.

Fighting Bathroom Mold with a Squeegee

Who knew the bathroom squeegee could be so useful. Using the squeegee on your tub and shower walls after every shower or bath reduces up to 75 percent of the moisture in the air. That, alone takes care of so much moisture that can lead to the rapid growth of mold in all areas of the bathroom.

Stop Mold Growth by Fixing All Leaks

If you have any leaks within the bathroom, fix it right away. Call a plumber immediately and have them check for any hidden leaks within the walls. Going a long period of time with any leaks will definitely cause mold growth and will make it hard to get rid of later.

Mold Remediation

If you do ever find mold, have a professional take care of it. Mold is so complicated and getting rid of it is hard. SERVPRO of Phoenix has trained and certified mold specialists to help you with your mold issues

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Author: Amela Bratic
Amela is is our Lead Technician/Fire & Contents Manager and has been a valuable team member here at SERVPRO of Phoenix for over 19 years. With her Applied Microbial Remediation Certification, Amela is our authority on mold and biohazard remediation. Originally from Sarajevo, Bosnia, Amela has been a blessing to SERVPRO of Phoenix and all the people we get the opportunity to help.

Tips For Controlling Mold Damage in Your Paradise Valley Home

2/12/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO Franchise professionals at the first sign of mold.

Keeping Mold Out of the Home in Paradise Valley

Even in the hottest, driest parts of the year, mold damage can still affect Paradise Valley homes. Safeguarding your home against mold infestations might not be an easy feat, but it is one that can save you thousands of dollars in restoration and repair costs later on in life. When things go wrong, and mold gains ground in your home, SERVPRO Franchise professionals are there to help, but before that day comes to pass (or after we finish our remediation work), there are some things that you can do to help keep your home free of spores.

Control the Water

Very few types of mold damage in Paradise Valley can develop into a substantial problem without the help of a large amount of water. Mold spores, like other living things, require both food and water to grow and reproduce, but while food sources are plentiful in every American home, water may be in short supply. When a leak springs somewhere in the home or a flood soaks the floor of a room, these events can give opportunistic mold spores the chance to start growing and spreading in your home. Keeping your plumbing in good working order is the single most crucial step towards a mold-free home.

Take Care of Problems Immediately

If mold does start to grow in your home, you should never wait to call a certified remediation company. Our services are usually fast, inexpensive and non-intrusive for situations in which we arrive before the fungus has a chance to spread widely throughout the home. However, just a single day can give many species of mold the opportunity to grow exponentially and require much more time and cost intensive safety and cleanup procedures. Early warning signs of mold growth include discoloration around a moist area or an unusual white patch on a surface somewhere in the home.

SERVPRO of Phoenix helps prevent and reverse the spread of mold damage in local homes and businesses. Call our experienced team 24/7 at (480) 503-2090.

Read more about Paradise Valley here.

Rid Your Paradise Valley Home Of Mold With A Call To The Experts

12/19/2018 (Permalink)

As soon as you spot mold in your home give SERVPRO a call.

How Does Mold Growth Happen in Paradise Valley Homes?

Part of protecting your Paradise Valley property is better understanding the disasters and situations that can pose a threat to its aesthetics, strength, or functionality. While many of the natural disasters that your home could potentially experience over its lifetime are difficult to avoid, you can prevent circumstances like mold growth with education and awareness on the subject. Understanding how mold colonizes and spreads throughout your property can help you to avoid these damaging situations when possible in the future.

Mold damage in your Paradise Valley home is not difficult to facilitate and to meet the conditions for this growth are easier to do than you might think. Mold spores exist microscopically in the air that we breathe in almost every environment we encounter throughout the day. These spores are generally harmless in this state, but can easily begin colonization when amid moist or damp areas of your property. Something as consistent as poorly ventilated areas of your house like the kitchen and bathroom can create conditions ideal for spores to land on affected damp materials, seat, and begin to devour the organic material and grow.

When you first notice mold growth on your property, you should contact our SERVPRO professionals.  We have the expertise and the tools to help keep the situation contained and effectively remove this organism from the house before it becomes too widespread to preserve much of the materials affected by the spreading colony.

If caught early enough, our SERVPRO technicians have effective strategies to remove mold colonies from the materials they use to seat. While at times an antimicrobial solution can help to kill the existing organism, as well as make nearby areas uninhabitable, more effective strategies for wood and drywall material are often sanding and soda blasting to ensure the removal of the entire hyphae.

Moist and damp areas of your home can easily allow the growth of mold, it is important that you  call experts like our SERVPRO of Phoenix mold remediation team to remove it safely to protect your home and those that live in it. Give us a call today at (480) 503-2090.

A must-see attraction in the town of Paradise Valley is the Goldwater Memorial click here to find out more.

Do You Struggle With Mold Damage in Your Paradise Valley Home?

10/30/2018 (Permalink)

Getting rid of mold in your home is a job best left to the experts. Call SERVPRO immediately after you see or smell mold.

Don't Wait to Call SERVPRO for Mold Damage in Paradise Valley

We recommend that if you ever find mold damage in your Paradise Valley home, you contact SERVPRO immediately to take care of the issue. However, many people instead choose to ignore the issue and let it progress, either out of concerns for the cost of a professional remediation service or because they hope the mold might go away on its own. Unfortunately, those who allow fungal damage to remain undisturbed or try to clean up the area themselves often regret their decision.
 
Mold Does Not Go Away On Its Own
 
One of the most important reasons to call a professional remediation service for mold damage to your Paradise Valley home is that the problem cannot be solved without intervention. The area must be dried, cleaned, sanitized, and sometimes repainted or rebuilt if the infestation was well-developed. Otherwise, spores can continue to grow and even spread to other parts of the home. The best time to call SERVPRO is when the damage is relatively light, as this should be less expensive for us to treat than mold that has already grown and spread across the area.
 
Cleaning It Up Yourself Can Make Things Worse
 
Trying to eliminate mold damage yourself can be detrimental to the home, rather than helpful. Even if you remove all visual signs of growth in your home, it is almost impossible to eradicate airborne spores and hidden pockets of growth without advanced tools. We use advanced moisture detection tools to identify patches of mold behind walls and surfaces and air scrubbers to filter as many spores out of the environment as possible.

The Smell Can Remain
 
Long after a mold colony is dead and gone, the strong, musty odors it may have caused can remain. These odors take years to leave your home on their own, and in the meantime, every person living in or visiting the home can smell them. SERVPRO technicians use industrial-strength chemical fogging machines to neutralize odor molecules, even if they are embedded deep within the walls and floors of your home.
 
SERVPRO of Phoenix is the Valley's leading provider of mold damage remediation services. For our expert help with mold in your home, give us a call at (480) 503-2090.

Click here for more about in Paradise Valley.

Carefree's Mold Damage Experts Talk About Problems With Bathrooms

9/11/2018 (Permalink)

One part of your home that is susceptible to have problems with water leaks is your bathroom.

Mold Damage Experts Talk About Problems With Bathrooms

One part of your Carefree home that is susceptible to have problems with water leaks is your bathroom. Bathrooms have several nooks and crannies where mold damage can take place. These rooms inside your home also have several water pipes and drain lines running in and out of them. Humidity levels are usually elevated inside bathrooms due to the use of water inside them. Microbes naturally exist all throughout any house, and they can get activated by moisture and turn into a mold damage situation.

A fungus only needs an organic food source, temperatures around normal room temperature range, and excessive moisture to form and grow. Once fungi develop, they produce spores which can get in the air and cause mold damage in your Carefree home in places not near the bathroom. Whenever mitigating fungal problems, our SERVPRO technicians take extra measures to prevent secondary problems. It is easy for particles to spread around your house during the work process if the correct procedures are not followed.

Our SERVPRO restoration team is IICRC certified, and we have experience with several different types of problems associated with fungi. As soon as we show up at your property, we start spraying the area with an antimicrobial solution. This specialized chemical attacks spores created by mold and helps aid in preventing the contamination from spreading. We also set up a containment chamber that seals off the affected bathroom so that particles created by the work process cannot escape the contaminated area.

In most cases, we also use air scrubbers to keep spores from spreading and to help maintain good air quality inside the building. We attach the scrubbers to the side of a containment chamber so that it creates negative air pressure inside the contaminated area. The dust and particles created by the work process then get sucked into the scrubber and drawn past a HEPA filter that can trap even the most microscopic particles.

If you ever notice mold growth inside your bathroom, call SERVPRO of Phoenix at (480) 503-2090 24/7.

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How to Solve Potential Mold Damage Problems in Phoenix

8/12/2018 (Permalink)

Mold spreads very quickly, so it is imperative to contact SERVPRO right after the first sighting or moldy smell to remediate the damage.

SERVPRO Technicians Understand BOTH the Safety and the Disinfectant Issues That are Part of the Process of Mold Remediation 

Mold damage occurs when the mold colonies grow on organic materials as long as damp conditions exist, and the moisture problem remains in place for up to 24 - 48 hours. As they grow, they digest the materials and with time they spread to surrounding materials and might cause health effects. That is why materials such as ceiling tiles, wood products, carpets, wallpaper, fabric, and insulation are prone to this kind of damage.
 
When our SERVPRO team is attending to mold damage events in Phoenix, we start by identifying and stopping the source of water in the structure. If we establish that the wiring is moldy or wet, we turn off the main power and have an electrician determine whether the electrical system is safe to use before turning the power on. We also remove all the wet items such as rugs, carpeting, toys, furniture and bedding from the house.
 
Our SERVPRO technicians remove all contaminated or wet porous items such as wood-by-products, drywall, and ceiling tiles. If we come across soaked wallboard, we remove one foot above the water level and then discard. To dry wet walls, we can drill holes near the floor after removing the baseboard. We also check whether there is any hidden mold growth in the interior of the wall.
 
After removing wet materials and the water from the site, the next step that our SERVPRO technicians perform is cleaning and disinfecting your property. By using a disinfectant such as a non-ammonia detergent, we can wash items such as solid wood, glass, metal, plastic, as well as other non-porous items. Disinfectants help us to sterilize the mold and prevent its recurrence. If we are cleaning hard and rough surfaces such as concrete, we may use a stiff brush. By vacuuming, we can clean items such as exposed wood framing and remove water.
 
SERVPRO of Phoenix has a track record in storm, mold, fire, and water damage restoration and cleaning. We offer 24-hour emergency services, and by calling us at (480) 503-2090, you can have your property restored the right way.

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Stopping Water and Mold Damage In Phoenix

6/4/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Phoenix ready to roll to your mold damaged home.

How SERVPRO cleans up water damage to prevent mold

Flooding and mold are two words not usually associated with Phoenix. People think it is too hot and dry for either to become a problem, but that is not the case.

When there is enough flooding for water damage in Phoenix homes, there is more than enough to lead to a mold problem. Even small amounts can cause mold spores to expand and start growing in heat up to 86 degrees; some grow at even higher temperatures. Since these spores can feed on almost every type of building material, SERVPRO knows that mold can be as common a threat here as it is in damper climates like Louisiana or Washington state.

The only sure method of stopping mold is the same one our restoration teams use to halt water damage; remove excess water and moisture from your home. Our technicians can remove most of it using commercial grade pumps and water extraction wands to pull it off surfaces and draw it out of carpets and from between and underneath floorboards.

With the bulk of the water gone, SERVPRO technicians next inspect floors and walls for hidden moisture. Carpets can absorb hundreds of gallons and have to be thoroughly dried out to prevent mold growth. Too much water can also soften the glue holding the carpet layers together, which leads to delamination. Our specialists can restore the carpet with careful application of warm air generated by an air mover and installing a dehumidifier to help speed up the drying process.

If there is a wood floor underneath or instead of a carpet, it can also absorb enough water to cause damage. The floorboards can start to crack or warp, and once that happens, large sections of the floor can begin to buckle, and individual boards start to pull away from the sub-floor framing. The sub-floor is also a perfect environment for mold to start expanding into a colony quickly. Our specialists use air movers to force warm air underneath which helps evaporate the water.

Walls can quickly absorb standing water and keep absorbing until it soaks entire drywall panels. Mold spores can easily penetrate drywall, so drying them is extremely important to prevent growth. If our teams discover mold has already grown into a panel, we dispose of it. It is always cheaper to replace panels than spend the labor hours attempting to clean them.

After your home floods due to weather, failed appliance, or another plumbing issue, SERVPRO of Phoenix is here to help restore it to its original, pre-damaged condition. If you need our services or have a question, call us today at (480) 503-2090.

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Mold Damage in Shower of Your Phoenix Home

3/26/2018 (Permalink)

Mold in the shower can be a sign of a mold infestation and poor ventilation. Contact SERVPRO when you see or smell mold so that we can investigate.

Certified SERVPRO Technicians Assess the Situation Quickly When Dealing With a Mold Infestation in Your Home

Mold in your shower surround in your Phoenix home can be put in two general categories – mold behind the surround and surface mold. Surface mold is unsightly growth and can be more difficult to remove. It is the hidden moisture, however, inside the framing behind your shower which can lead to damage to your structure and expensive repairs.
 
Mold growth and mold damage of any type in your Phoenix bathroom is bad news. It continues to multiply, doing damage to the structure, plus can cause health effects for you and your family. As soon as you see mold, get a hold of our professionals at SERVPRO so we can help you clean it up. We are a trained and experienced mold remediation company who can handle this problem for you before it spreads anymore.
 
Moisture is the key to mold, so our goal is to get the water causing your mold out of your home fast. Our job is to dry the wet structure and contents, so we can then clean the mold up. Even the best cleanup efforts fail if the moisture is not handled. Also, some of our safety work practices stop us from being exposed to the mold and from spreading it to clean areas of your home. If needed, we close off the area while we are working to prevent the mold getting into other rooms.
 
SERVPRO staff records conditions such as the extent of the contamination and how much saturation of moisture is present. When the remediation is complete, we may have an independent environmental professional record that the mold has returned to normal conditions.
 
Placing negative air machines near where any drywall demolition is done lowers the amount of airborne mold which we are exposed to plus makes removing the mold more efficient. If the mold has grown enough, we may have to remove damaged materials, and we also use damp wiping to clean soiled areas and vacuum excessive mold spores by utilizing HEPA vacuums and filters.
 
SERVPRO of Phoenix does not waste time getting to your home in Biltmore, Carefree, or Lone Mountain after you reach out to us. Mold continues to grow until we stop the moisture problem and clean up the growth, so call us right away at (480) 503-2090.

Click here for more information regarding the city of Phoenix.

Cleaning and Removing Mold Damage in Uptown Phoenix

2/2/2018 (Permalink)

If our technicians discover the presence of mold, they will stop all other work until finding its location, making sure to not spread it any further.

Three Reasons to Remove Mold as Quickly as Possible

Mold is not an obvious threat to Uptown Phoenix homes like a flood or fire. Until a resident sees dark splotches on the wall behind their washer or detects that musty odor in the bathroom, mold can spread across homes unimpeded.

When it comes to mold damage in Uptown Phoenix, SERVPRO understands that it has to be stopped and removed as quickly as possible. That is important for many reasons, but three, in particular, stand out for us to restore your home to its original condition.

First, mold slows or stops all other work. Our inspectors often find mold when cleaning up after a fire or flood disaster. We can detect mold through a visual inspection, with an air content meter, or just happen to smell it. Technicians stop work until we find the location of the mold, so we do not accidentally spread it further in the home. As an example, if we find mold spores on pools of standing water, we can still remove it. We simply have to take the time to spray an anti-fungal agent over the water and nearby surfaces to kill any active spores before pumping it out of the home.

Second, mold and related work stoppages raise the cost of repair and restoration. Walls, floors, carpets, and personal property require additional labor, tools, and cleaning agents not needed for other types of damage. Most of it is dry and powdery, so SERVPRO team members can quickly remove it by wiping down surfaces with dry sponges or cloths. If the mold is wet, removal takes much longer.

Third, extensive mold growth can also cause health effects. None of our team members are health experts, so we recommend being cautious until we complete work.

At SERVPRO of Phoenix, our goal is to get you back into your home as soon as we can do it safely. We have restored hundreds of homes after mold and other damage in the last twenty-five years and can do the same for you. Call today at (480) 503-2090 to schedule an inspection.

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The Best Way To Reduce Mold Damage To Your Phoenix Home Is Early Detection

12/15/2017 (Permalink)

Finding mold damage in your Phoenix home can be quite unsettling.

The Best Way To Reduce Mold Damage

Finding mold damage in your Phoenix home can be quite unsettling. However, one of the greatest ways to minimize the damage is early detection and prompt removal. If you don’t act fast, mold can cause extensive damage to both your property and your health.

Mold damage experts at SERVPRO can help find and tackle mold damage to your Phoenix home before it gets out of hand. Our specialists have years of training and experience to identify and eliminate mold damage safely and efficiently.

The moist and damp atmosphere is most conducive to mold growth. Hence, it is essential that you inspect your home correctly for early signs of mold damage. Here are some of the symptoms that indicate early stages of mold damage.

Moldy Smell
One of the first signs of mold damage is that distinct musty smell that we all know and hate. Even if mold isn't visible, it can have a definite odor that indicates its presence. If your house has a moldy smell, make sure that you call SERVPRO experts to take a look and access the extent of the damage.

Visible Mold
Visible mold growth is quite easy to spot. However, small amounts of mold can get unnoticed or mistaken as dirt or grime. Make sure that you inspect your home correctly for early signs of mold, especially in areas of high moisture content like bathrooms and kitchen.

Water Damage
Water damage is one of the most common reasons for mold growth. If you have had water damage in the past, chances of mold damage can dramatically increase. Make sure that you keep your property dry after water damage and pay close attention to high-risk places such as crawl spaces and attics. Look for signs of mold and act fast as soon as you spot any.

SERVPRO technicians have years of experience and expertise to help you get mold under control as soon as possible. Call SERVPRO of Phoenix at (480) 503-2090 today to speak to one of our experts. Remember, early detection is your best chance to minimize damage.

For more about Phoenix click here.

Mold Damage Can Be Detrimental to Fabrics in Paradise Valley Homes

11/10/2017 (Permalink)

Finding mold in your home can be alarming. Contact SERVPRO for investigative and remediative services right away.

SERVPRO Technicians Evaluate and Remediate Mold Damage on Many Types of Materials

In Paradise Valley, mold can grow on fabric materials (such as clothes) at an alarming rate. Synthetic fabrics, which are made of silk fibers, wool, rayon, jute, ramie, linen, and cotton are particularly prone to mold damage. Due to their cellulose content, these materials tend to attract cellulose-feeding species of molds.
 
If your fabrics fall victim to mold attack, you can count on SERVPRO to control any resultant mold damage before it is too late. We offer mold damage control services in Paradise Valley and its environs every day of the year. Our technicians are adequately trained, experienced, and certified by the IICRC to ensure that our methods match industry standards.
 
Toxic molds are very efficient at colonizing and depleting cellulose-based fabrics partly due to the production of toxins that give them a competitive edge over other species. Mold damage occurs when the molds produce enzymes on the fabric, which then breakdown the cellulose to compounds that the mold uses for food.
 
Clothes that are made of protein fibers (such as silk and wool) are less prone to mold damage than clothes made from plant fibers. Generally, natural fiber materials are more prone to mold damage than synthetic materials, although both of them are just as easily colonized. SERVPRO technicians use the sense of smell to identify the musty odor of mold growth on clothes, which is often accompanied by the formation of a white strand of mold mycelium.
 
The most effective method of controlling mold growth on clothes is regulating the relative humidity (RH) in your storage area. SERVPRO mold remediation experts can help you install equipment that is effective at keeping your fabric storage areas dry and properly-ventilated. We can help you maintain the RH to below 65 percent.
 
Be extra careful if you store your fabric items in less traditional places like lofts or basements, as these are quite vulnerable to condensations and, consequently, mold damage. We may have to use residential dehumidifiers to keep the dampness within a safe range. Esporta cleaning machines, which use hydraulics, can also come in handy at cleaning mold-infested clothing. Every now and then, try and inspect for contamination on clothes that are not regularly worn.
 
Losing your favorite piece of clothing to mold damage can be heartbreaking - it is like losing a part of you. If you notice the presence of mold on your fabrics, contact SERVPRO of Phoenix immediately. We have a wide range of resources that can return your precious items to pre-damage conditions as best as possible. Make the call today at (480) 503-2090.
 
For more information regarding Paradise Valley, click here

Mold Does Grow in Phoenix if Conditions are Right

6/30/2017 (Permalink)

Regardless of the strain or the location, SERVPRO will quickly investigate the mold damage in your home and get you on the remediation path.

Our Trained SERVPRO Technicians are Certified in Mold Damage Remediation in Any Climate

If you research mold growth, it may seem as though the Phoenix area would be immune. After all, the area is considered arid, and moisture is the number one predictor of mold growth. There are ways that Phoenix homes can be at risk for mold growth, and SERVPRO is a trusted mold remediation partner you can rely upon to help you manage out of control microbial growth wherever you live.
 
All it takes for mold to damage your Phoenix home is a pocket of water to build without you knowing it. Mold spores are found everywhere, and once activated by a forgotten puddle or even high humidity, they begin to grow. Any carbon-based material can host a mold colony, including wood, paper, food debris, or fibers like the cotton or wool in clothing or carpeting. We respond to mold outbreaks using the Environmental Protection Agency protocols developed for schools and commercial buildings.
 
A tiny leak under your kitchen sink creates the perfect environment for a desert mold problem. The mold spores do not need light, only oxygen, and moisture. Depending on the type of mold the perfect temperature varies, although the vast majority of molds thrive at temperature preferred by humans. The pressed wood floor of the cabinet allows the mold to feed off cellulose, and you probably do not realize it is growing until the dank, musty smell alerts you, and you call SERVPRO for consultation.
 
It matters little which strain of mold is the source of the colony. The media talks a lot about toxic mold, but the fact is only healthcare practitioners diagnose whether susceptible individuals suffer from a mold allergy. Mold breaks down wood and other organic materials without any doubt, necessitating remediation without regard to the health of inhabitants. The integrity of your home’s structure depends upon it. Our remediation crews at SERVPRO receive advanced training and certification in mold containment, removal, and disinfection. We also work with you to eliminate the water source that fuels the mold, to limit future outbreaks.
 
Have confidence in the mold remediation team at SERVPRO of Phoenix. If you have any concerns about mold proliferating in your home one call to (480) 503-2090 sends an experienced inspector to evaluate your situation.

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Unbelievable mold growth? Believe it!

4/15/2016 (Permalink)

But it's a dry heat!

Hidden cavities can produce the most unusual growth.  Phoenix is known for being "a dry  heat".  

Unaddressed Water leak

7/13/2015 (Permalink)

Mold growth between sheetrock and built in Cabinet

A little bit of leaking moisture behind a sheetrock wall can cause a lot of damage over time.  SERVPRO of Phoenix found this mold behind a built in pantry, the damage had spread to wood flooring before it was found.