Recent Mold Remediation Posts

Understanding Mold: Removal Versus Remediation

4/4/2024 (Permalink)

mold covered wall Mold growth like this can get out of hand, but mold remediation services would take care of the problem!

Dealing with mold in your home or business is a top priority to halt its growth and prevent further damage. However, confusion often arises when people seek assistance and encounter companies offering "mold removal" services. Unfortunately, this term can create misleading expectations and may lead to unnecessary expenses. It's crucial to understand the distinction and seek out a mold remediation company instead.

Mold Removal
The concept of mold removal typically entails two goals:

  1. Eliminating existing mold growth.
  2. Eradicating mold spores from the property.

However, the challenge lies in the ubiquity of mold spores, which are present both indoors and outdoors. Even though these spores are invisible, they can remain dormant until activated by moisture. Given their sheer abundance, it's practically impossible to entirely eradicate them from a property. Moreover, attempting such complete removal would be exorbitantly costly.

Mold Remediation
In contrast, mold remediation focuses on addressing active mold growth effectively. Since mold becomes problematic only when it's actively spreading, the primary objective is to target and halt its growth. Besides treating the mold itself, reputable mold remediation professionals, like ourselves, also tackle underlying moisture issues that contribute to mold proliferation.

To gain insights into our meticulous remediation process, visit our mold remediation page.

Restoring Your Home
Mold is a common issue faced by many households, but with prompt professional intervention, it can be swiftly resolved. If you reside in the Lenoir, NC area and suspect mold growth in your property, don't hesitate to reach out to SERVPRO of Alexander & Caldwell Counties at (828) 396-1070. We're here to help!

Mold Remediation Resource Page

7/12/2019 (Permalink)

Nobody wants to discover mold growth in their home. In addition to the musty odor and the unsightly appearance, mold can contribute to health effects and structural damage to our property. Yet we’ve found many property owners have misconceptions about mold and how it should be treated.

After 10 years of serving the Lenoir, NC community and surrounding areas, we’ve learned what property owners need and want to know about mold and the remediation process. That’s why we’ve put together this resource page to help you find the information you need!

Mold Remediation Process

The process for mold remediation—like any other restoration service—can vary depending on the extent of the mold’s growth. Regardless, it’s a good idea to be familiar with the general process so you have a better understanding of what will need to happen at your property.

Mold Blog Posts

Understandably, most homeowners have a lot of questions about mold. Having heard many of them over the past 10 years, we’ve dedicated our blog to answering some of your most burning questions. Below you’ll find a list of some of our most popular mold-related blog posts.

Mold Before & After Photos

We believe it’s important for customers to see what we can do. That’s why we’ve compiled some before and after photos of some of the mold we’ve successfully remediated!

Contacting Your Local Mold Remediation Company

Mold growth is a problem many homeowners will encounter at some point in their lives. Fortunately, our team of mold remediation experts have over a decade of experience and can restore your home. If you need our professional services, call us today at (828) 396-1070!

3 Common Places to Find Mold in Your Home

1/9/2019 (Permalink)

A burst pipe heavily affected many walls in this room. When it was left unattended for a few months, mold colonies grew exponentially.

Mold spores are everywhere—both in and out of your home. These spores aren’t often an issue, however, until they come into contact with moisture and begin to grow into colonies. Once this growth occurs, the colonies produce more spores and begin to consume the organic surfaces they reside on. Because moisture is essential for this growth, there are several places that commonly have mold growth.

  1. Window Sills. You’ve probably seen it before—moisture on your windows. As a result of condensation, water often collects along windows and drips down to the window sill. Unless this is addressed or dried consistently, it opens the opportunity for mold growth to occur.
  1. Bathtubs. Bathtubs are one of the most common places to find mold. Water—logically—is ever present, and when bathrooms are not well-ventilated, the moisture does not escape, which gives mold exactly what it needs.
  1. Location of Recent Water Damage. Water damages can occur to anyone—pipes burst, water heaters leak, toilets overflow, etc. But unless these damages are quickly addressed and properly handled, they can encourage mold growth.

Mold growth can be concerning, but it can be quickly remediated with the help of a professional mold remediation company. If you have or suspect you have mold, call SERVPRO of Alexander & Caldwell Counties today at (828) 396-1070!

Why Do I Have Mold in My Home?

12/26/2018 (Permalink)

Mold can grow in many places, but it only becomes a problem once moisture is present!

Many homeowners take care of their home to ensure they don’t have damage or other issues. So some are surprised to find mold growing in their bathroom, on their food, or in other places around their home. In case you’ve ever wondered how mold got in your home, we’ll explain!

Why is Mold in My Home?

The truth is, mold spores have always been in your home. In fact, mold spores are found virtually everywhere—indoors and outdoors. But because they are so small, they cannot be seen by the naked human eye. They are also dormant in this state, meaning they are not actively growing.

But these spores can activate under the right conditions, which is what causes the mold colonies you might see in your home. In order for the conditions to be right, mold needs moisture and organic material (food). Because organic material is usually readily available, spores usually activate once moisture is present. That’s why mold remediation specialists will look for a water source to both determine the cause of the growth and ensure it is no longer fueling the mold.

If you have mold but don’t know of any water damage issues, you likely have one of these issues:

  • Hidden water leak
  • High humidity levels
  • Condensation

Contacting a Mold Professional

If you have mold, it’s best to contact a mold remediation company as soon as possible. While you might not have any health effects, it can cause structural damage over time. If you live in the Lenoir, NC area and need mold remediation experts, call SERVPRO of Alexander & Caldwell Counties.

Mold Removal vs Mold Remediation

12/18/2018 (Permalink)

Mold growth like this can get out of hand, but mold remediation services would take care of the problem!

When your home or business has mold, it’s your priority to address the issue and stop the growth. The issue is that when most people call companies to address the problem, they are solicited “mold removal” services. As a result, customers are set with false expectations and could end up paying more for services that are ineffective. That’s why you should be searching for a mold remediation company.

Mold Removal

The basic premise of mold removal is twofold:

  1. Your mold growth will be killed
  2. Other mold spores on your property will be removed

But the main problem with that premise is that mold spores are virtually everywhere—both indoors and outdoors. Even though we cannot see them, mold spores can remain dormant until they are activated by moisture. Because of the sheer number of them, however, it is impossible to completely remove them from your home. Even if it were, it would be incredibly expensive.

Mold Remediation

On the other hand, there’s mold remediation, which simply aims to treat and stop active mold growth. Because mold only becomes an issue when it’s active, the objective is to focus on growth. In addition to treating the mold, most mold remediation experts (such as ourselves) will also address any underlying moisture issues that might be instigating the growth.

For a look at our process, check out our mold remediation page.

Restoring Your Home

Mold is an issue many homes face, but it can be resolved fairly quickly with professional help. If you live in the Lenoir, NC area and know or suspect you have mold growth, call SERVPRO of Alexander & Caldwell Counties at (828) 396-1070!

Mold Q & A: Do I Need a Mold Inspection?

9/13/2018 (Permalink)

Eric Hershberger--one of our team members--uses an infrared camera to detect signs of moisture, a key ingredient for mold growth.

Nobody wants to find mold growth in their home, but it’s a common problem that affects many Americans at least once. Of course, once a homeowner does discover mold growth, they often want to perform a test or inspection so they can begin treatment. But most homeowners will be surprised to learn that step may not be necessary at all.

Do I Need to Perform a Mold Inspection?

The short answer is that it depends.

If you can actually see mold growing in your home or property, then no test is needed. That’s because the mold remediation process is the same no matter what species of mold is growing your home. So if you can see it, a test will only confirm what you already know. Instead, skip that step and address it yourself (if the growth is small and shallow) or call a mold professional to begin the remediation company.

On the other hand, if you do not see mold growth but suspect you have a problem, an inspection would not be a bad idea. This inspection will identify high levels of mold spores or other issues that might need to be addressed.

If you have a have or suspect you have a mold growth issue, call SERVPRO of Alexander & Caldwell Counties at 828-396-1070!

The Issue with Take-Home Mold Tests

8/2/2018 (Permalink)

Is this mold or paint? Most take-home mold tests only check for mold spores, which are always present. Call a mold expert instead!

When possible, most people would rather take care of home-related issues on their own than call for professional help. There are certainly benefits to doing that in some situations, but there some occasions when it’s a waste of time and money. One such situation is when a homeowner tries to test for mold by using a take-home mold testing kit.

Take-Home Mold Tests: A False Positive

In general, the process for a take-home mold test is straightforward. Depending on the kit, you will either collect an air sample or use a strip to collect microorganisms off a surface. These samples are then sent to a lab for testing, which will then send you results based on whether or not they detected mold spores in your sample.

The issue with those kinds of testing is that you will almost definitely get a positive result. The reason is that mold spores are everywhere—indoors and outdoors. These spores are only an issue if they activate and begin to grow; otherwise, you will never know they are there.

Take-home mold testing kits are generally accurate in that they can detect mold spores, but they don’t actually help the homeowner determine if there is any mold growth, which is when actual issues are present. For this reason, it’s a much better investment to call a professional either to test for mold growth (if you’re uncertain you have any) or to remediate the growth (if you know it is present in your home).

The Truth About Mold

There are a lot of companies and individuals out there who spread misinformation about mold to scare up business, but in most cases, the fear is exaggerated. This is why we wrote a blog post to help ease some of the concerns many homeowners have about mold.

If you have (or suspect you have) mold in your property, please call SERVPRO of Alexander & Caldwell Counties at (828) 396-1070 for quick and effective mold remediation!

Why You Shouldn’t Hire a Company to Perform Mold Removal

7/26/2018 (Permalink)

A good clean-up & restoration company would focus on mold remediation; not mold removal!

Nobody wants mold in their home, which is why many people hire companies to remove it. After all, when mold growth is left alone, it can cause significant structural damage. But the issue is that mold removal companies don’t actually do what they claim to set out to do: remove mold.

Mold Removal vs. Mold Remediation

There’s a fundamental issue with the phrase “mold removal,” namely that it’s impossible to do. The term implies that the all of the mold spores will be removed from the property, which some companies claim they can do. Mold spores, however, are virtually everywhere—indoors and outdoors. In fact, you will not find an area without mold spores unless you live inside a bubble. Therefore, any claim that mold has been “removed” or “eliminated” is false.

Fortunately, the spores themselves do not cause an issue and are not even detectable by the human eye. What homeowners are actually concerned about is mold growth, which occurs when the spores activate and begin to form colonies. This is when you should hire a mold remediation company.

Conversely, mold remediation focuses on stopping and preventing future growth, as well as returning your property to its original condition. Mold remediation companies are aware that it’s impossible to remove the spores, but instead know that it’s possible to eliminate growth. For this reason, it is strongly recommended you choose a remediation company.

SERVPRO of Alexander & Caldwell Counties – Mold Remediation

It should be no surprise that we know so much about mold remediation; SERVPRO of Alexander & Caldwell Counties has years of experience as mold remediation experts. We work with a local 3rd party mold inspector to provide our customers with full evaluations both before and after the remediation process. So if you have mold in your home, call SERVPRO of Alexander & Caldwell Counties today at (828) 396-1070!

What Homeowners Need to Know About Mold

2/19/2018 (Permalink)

Mold growth might seem scary, but our guide will make sure homeowners are prepared!

Many homeowners know only one thing about mold: get rid of it. But with stories and false information floating around on the Internet, there are many misconceptions that often exacerbate problems or create unnecessary fear. In the following sections, you will find general information that every homeowner should know when it comes to dealing with mold.

What is Mold?

Mold is a variety of fungus that grows and spreads from spores. These spores are so small and light that they can be picked up and travel by air. In fact, mold spores travel so easily that they are found virtually everywhere—indoors and outdoors. (Yes, mold is always present in your home.) When the spores find a suitable home, they grow and spread, often consuming the surfaces they land on. This is when mold really becomes a problem.

How Do I Know if I Have Mold?

It’s difficult to take care of mold if you don’t know that you actually have a problem. While you don’t necessarily have to be an expert to identify any growth, knowing some of the telltale signs might help you notice a problem before it’s out of control.

You can see it. This isn’t always the case, but the most obvious sign you have mold growth is if you can see it. You might expect to see greenish/blackish patches or slimy areas, but sometimes mold will appear like specks of dirt or soot. Regardless of appearance, it should be addressed immediately.

You smell it. The second-most obvious sign (and the one you’ll most likely encounter) is a musty odor. Even if you don’t necessarily see any, musty smells are almost always accompanied by mold growth, so be sure to thoroughly inspect your home if you notice the odor!

You’ve had a leak/water damage. Moisture is an essential ingredient for mold growth, so excess moisture in your home is a good indication that you probably have a problem. If you suffer any water damage, be sure to regularly inspect your home for signs of growth. In ideal conditions (generally in a lab), mold growth can start within 48 to 72 hours; in many cases, it will be present after a couple of weeks or more.

Mold is Growing in My Home. Help!

If you suspect that mold really is growing in your home, then it’s time to take action. Because mold can cause negative health effects and damage the surfaces it grows on, it’s best to respond immediately to minimize effects. Depending on whether or not you can confirm the growth, you can take a few different actions.

You can visually confirm mold growth. If you can actually see mold growth, then you already know you have a problem. Instead of spending money on testing, you can go ahead and call a mold remediation company. They will address moisture issues, treat the growth, and advise you on ways to prevent future growth.

You cannot confirm you have mold growth. When you cannot visually confirm you have a mold issue, it’s best to call in a professional mold inspector. An inspector will collect samples and provide a report that compiles their findings. If they confirm you have mold growth but think it is small enough to handle yourself, they may offer advice. If it is large enough, they will refer you to a mold remediation company.

NOTE: Do not use take-home testing kits. They are largely unreliable and will likely confirm you have spores (remember, spores are everywhere) but not actual growth. If you want to test for actual mold growth, call a reliable mold inspector.

How do I Prevent Mold Growth?

Whether you just had mold growth remediated or you have never had an issue to begin with, you probably want to know what you can do to prevent it from happening in the future. Here are a few steps to keep your homes mold-resistant:

Control your home’s humidity. As we’ve already said, moisture is a key ingredient in mold growth, so it makes sense that you want to keep your home’s humidity low. According to the EPA, you should keep levels below 60% (though 30-50% is ideal), which you can monitor with a moisture meter.

The simplest way to lower humidity is to constantly run fans and/or your HVAC system to let the air circulate. Leaving doors between rooms open will also help with circulation.

Dry wet areas immediately. If you have water damage or condensation builds on susceptible surfaces, you should attempt to dry them immediately. This will reduce or eliminate the moisture mold needs and prevent it from growing. Depending on the extent of the water damage, you might have better results with a professional water damage restoration company who has the capabilities to locate and dry hidden moisture.

Clean and dust regularly. Sometimes mold can appear to grow on inorganic substances like glass and aluminum. Since it cannot feed on those structures, it eats dust, which is organic. If you clean and dust on a regular basis, you can deprive mold of the food it needs to grow.

Don’t Let Mold Stress You Out

Despite the many horror stories people like to share online, mold is a natural occurrence that lives around us all the time. As long as you address any issues quickly and appropriately, you can prevent or eliminate mold growth before it becomes a major problem.

If you are still uncertain or need professional help, contact a mold inspector or a mold remediation company. Either one will get you started on the process and help you make it “Like it never even happened.”

What To Expect During Mold Damage Restoration In Your Bethlehem Home?

11/14/2017 (Permalink)

Mold is one of the most significant problems that a homeowner faces after water damage.

What To Expect During Mold Damage Restoration

Mold is one of the most significant problems that a homeowner faces after water damage. If the moisture is not promptly and efficiently removed from the property after flooding, mold damage is almost inevitable. Apart from jeopardizing the structural integrity of your Bethlehem property, the mold may also pose a health risk.

It is essential to act fast and take steps to control mold damage in your Bethlehem home as soon as possible. Mold remediation is a complex process that should be carried out by professionals. Thankfully, here at SERVPRO, we have a team of mold remediation experts that can help you tackle this problem. We use a state-of-the-art, multi-step process to contain and eliminate mold as safely and efficiently as possible. Here are the steps involved in a typical mold remediation process.

1. Containing The damage
The first step toward restoring mold damage is to contain the mold and prevent it from spreading to the unaffected areas. Installing containment barriers, establishing a negative air pressure in the containment area and sealing HVAC vents are some of the crucial steps during this phase of the process.

2. Removing The Mold Contamination
SERVPRO professionals have expertise in removing mold contamination safely and efficiently. We use vacuum pumps equipped with High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters to remove mold from non-porous surfaces. If the mold has contaminated porous material such as carpet, drywall, and insulation, our technicians eliminate the mold by removing the source of contamination itself.

3. Cleaning And Eliminating Settled Spores
The settled spores are removed by HEPA vacuum. The HEPA filtration system can remove microscopic mold spores with an efficiency of up to 99.97% to prevent secondary growth. The cleaning of settled spores takes time and is usually performed in multiple stages to ensure complete elimination.

4. Drying
Drying is perhaps one of the most critical steps to prevent further mold growth. Once the cleaning process is complete, and spores have been eliminated, drying can begin. SERVPRO experts use state-of-the-art air movers and dehumidifiers to get rid of the moisture from the mold.

Mold remediation is a delicate process that requires a lot of skill and expertise. Make sure that you are seeking professional help as soon as you spot damage to limit the extent of damage and prevent it from spreading.

Call SERVPRO of Alexander & Caldwell Counties at (828) 396-1070 to schedule an inspection today. Our experts can help you devise a plan to combat mold damage and restore your home to preloss conditions in no time.

For more regarding the wonderful city of Bethlehem click here.

Look for Mold Damage in These 3 Hidden Places in Your Bethlehem Home

10/6/2017 (Permalink)

Dirty bowls, plates and silverware in a white sink It is important to rinse your dishes immediately after use before setting them in the sink to prevent mold growth.

Regularly Checking Your Home for Mold Can Prevent Further Damage

Mold damage is the bane of all householders. The fungi are present in most homes which makes it impossible to eradicate. Often mold appears to have vanished when in fact it has merely gone dormant, ready to resurface once more as soon as it has moisture and enough organic material to grow. Bethlehem homeowners are most likely aware of the typical places mold likes to grow, including damp areas such as bathrooms or laundry rooms, or cold, wet places like basements or porches. The telltale black or green patches alert you to the fact that the spores have taken up residence in your house.

Mold damage in your Bethlehem home gets worse when it is left unchecked. Colonies release new spores which travel to other areas of your house – they travel through the air, or even on your clothes or boots, or household pets. Keeping on top of the mold is important to stop it from spreading, which is why SERVPRO recommends you check out these three unexpected places spores settle in your home.

1. Air Conditioners Air conditioners are the perfect breeding ground for mold because they draw in moisture, which the fungus needs to grow, and pollen, which makes an ideal meal. Check your AC unit regularly for signs of growth and call in SERVPRO at once at the first sign of a problem. Our IICRC-certified technicians have specialist equipment and tools to clean even hard to reach nooks and crannies.

2. Dishes After you wash your dishes, you think of them as clean – and that is a good thing! However, dirty dishes are an ideal breeding ground for mold. Stacks of dirty, damp dishes provide both the moisture and the food source fungus needs to grow. Prevent mold growing on your crockery by running it under a tap immediately after your meal. Do not leave dirty dishes standing around, and always dry plates and bowls completely before storing.

3. Window Seals Window ledges and surrounds typically collect dust and dirt, which provide a food source for fungus. Add condensation or even leaks from rainfall, and you have an ideal breeding ground for mold. Keep window surrounds clean and dry at all times. Invest in a dehumidifier to reduce humidity, and replace worn window seals.

Our IICRC-certified technicians are ready to help with mold remediation. We clean and scrub visible mold, vent contaminated air from your home, and reduce humidity to discourage regrowth.

For help with fungus in Taylorsville, Kings Creek, Sawmills and surrounding areas, call SERVPRO of Alexander & Caldwell Counties at (828) 396-1070 for assistance today.

Click here for more information about Bethlehem, North Carolina.

Mold Is Sneaky -- Hire Professional Mold Detectives To Catch It in Taylorsville

7/16/2017 (Permalink)

Whether mold is visible or you can just smell that something is not quite right in your home, SERVPRO can find the source of the mold and remediate.

SERVPRO Technicians Use the Latest in Detection Tools to Locate Moisture and Mold in Your Home

Homeowners are often driven crazy by a musty, funky smell without finding the source of the underlying mold growth. Just because you cannot see mold colonies does not mean they are not hiding, possibly damaging the structure of your home and making individuals reactive to molds uncomfortable. Contact SERVPRO if you suspect mold is present and we do our best to locate and remediate.
 
Certain areas of your home hold a musty smell. You notice it most clearly on an outside wall, sometimes stronger if you sniff at a light switch or electrical outlet. To manage mold damage to your Taylorsville home you need to find it and then hire a reliable mold remediation firm that follows Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) protocols. We inspect for signs of mold in all the likely places, and some not so likely, to find and remediate mold growth in your home.
 
When the moldy smell confines itself to exterior walls with no visible evidence of microbial growth, SERVPRO is likely to suspect an outdoor source of moisture. The mold may be growing in the recesses between the exterior and interior walls. If your home is insulated, the materials used possibly are contaminated as well.
 
Expect SERVPRO technicians to inspect the exterior of your home. We seek areas of siding that appear warped or bulging. Other signs include paint peeling unevenly or much sooner than is reasonable given when the house last received a new coat. If your home features stucco or brickwork, we look for cracks or missing pieces. Leaky or poorly hung gutters or loose flashing may have been the areas of ingress for rain, snow, or other forms of precipitation.
 
We may also remove plaster or gypsum board in the interior of the house near the smell to investigate whether mold colonies exist between the walls. When we find the infestation, the EPA protocol of containment, removal, and disinfection removes the current problem. We remove wet and moldy insulation as well, replacing it after remediation finishes. Remediation is not complete until the moisture source is removed, so gutters, flashings, and siding or brick/stucco need repair to limit the recurrence of the mold problem.
 
Call on SERVPRO of Alexander & Caldwell Counties at (828) 396-1070 if you fear mold colonies hide in your walls. Relentless detective work finds the mold and EPA directives followed remediate the outbreak.

For more information regarding Taylorsville, click here

SERVPRO - Taylorsville Mold Damage

6/14/2017 (Permalink)

When a mold infestation strikes your home, our SERVPRO crew strikes back!

Dealing with Mold in Your Taylorsville Home?

Summer has arrived, and with it hot weather. That does not mean, however, that water and mold are no longer a concern in your home. As priorities change to yard work and outdoor activities, many residents forget to check their basements and laundry rooms for any possible problems.

Since most types of mold grow just fine at 85 degrees, Taylorsville homes still need to be checked for mold damage. It is not enough to wait for that tell-tale musty odor since certain types of mold do not even emit an odor. If you have waited too long, SERVPRO can still help you recover and return your home to its condition before the spores began to expand, grow and form masses. We have developed a four-step method that best uses our local personnel with a nationwide network of equipment and experience to get the job done in North Carolina.

First, we isolate the contaminated area. Technicians hang plastic sheeting over doorways, windows, and other openings to establish physical containment and ensure the mold does not spread to the rest of the home. They also seal HVAC vents to prevent accidental contamination of the ductwork. The final component is to create negative air pressure using air movers and fans. With particular airflow direction, this forces loose spores out of your home.

Next, our restoration team wipes down and cleans surfaces to remove the contaminating mold. We wipe down nonporous surfaces like glass and metal with a dry or wet cloth, depending on the thickness of the mold. If it is very thick or is growing in a layer of dust and dirt, technicians apply an anti-fungal agent to loosen and break up the growth so it can be wiped down. After wiping, team members vacuum surfaces using HEPA filters which can trap a single mold spore. Porous surfaces such as drywall and carpets are tough and costly to try and clean; we recommend disposing and replacing them in most cases.

The third step is to let dust and mold spores in the air to settle. After enough time, technicians wipe down all surfaces again. We do this from top to bottom and in the direction of the negative air pressure to help force loose spores out of your home.

The fourth and final step is to lower the humidity level of your home to stop growth and return spores to a dormant state. We do this by placing dehumidifiers and specially designed heaters in the affected areas to raise the temperature while removing moisture from the air. These devices are also effective in drying structural and personal property.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

Stopping mold and restoring your home from the damage is not a quick and easy procedure. At SERVPRO of Alexander & Caldwell Counties, we work hard to help put you back in your home as quickly and safely as possible. Call us today at (828) 396-1070 to schedule an inspection if you suspect there may be a problem.

For more information regarding the city of Lenoir, click here: http://www.cityoflenoir.com

Mold Damage in Your Taylorsville Home Needs a Fast Response

3/24/2017 (Permalink)

Don't let the mold spread. Call SERVPRO quickly to remediate.

Timely Professional Mold Remediation Will Lead to Success

Mold is the real danger of water damage, as it is something we might not be able to see physically. However, once it finally shows itself, it is only a matter of time before your entire home could be covered with the stuff. Usually, if your home is not completely dried and correctly ventilated in twenty-fours or less from the initial water damage incident, additional damage occurs, bringing mold along with it.
 
One of the biggest hazards that is found during water and flood damage restoration is mold infestation plus the infestation of other potentially dangerous microbes. Mold damage in your Taylorsville home, therefore, needs mold remediation as quickly as possible. The areas which have been wet for longer than forty-eight hours start to sprout mold.
 
Molds are a part of the natural environment and reproduce using tiny spores. These spores are not visible to the naked eye and float through air both indoors and outdoors. Mold can start growing indoors when the spores land on surfaces which are wet. There are several types of mold, but none will grow without moisture of some kind.
 
At SERVPRO, we realize that long term exposure to mold and mold spores causes health effects to you and your loved ones. We also recognize that if mold remediation and mitigation is not performed in a timely fashion, mold has the potential to damage your home severely, therefore causing its market value to fall dramatically, amongst other detriments.
 
When you call a SERVPRO technician to your home, you can expect a fast response. An estimate of the damages is drawn up after your home is properly inspected. We find what started the mold infestation, and we explain to you that just cleaning or bleaching these visible areas of infestation is not the solution. Unless all of the moisture is eliminated, the potential for the mold to grow back is high. Mold spores will always be present, but mold will not grow or spread if it does not have the moisture and the right environment to feed off of. You can also do things such as using exhaust fans while cooking, turning on air conditioners and dehumidifiers in warmer weather, and increasing ventilation in your home.
 
We also figure out what the extent of the damage is and how much time elapsed before we were called in. We take you through each step of the way during the restoration and mitigation of the mold, so you can have peace of mind and fully understand all that is happening.
 
Time is of the essence with a mold infestation and inspection for mold and remediation. At SERVPRO of Alexander & Caldwell Counties, we realize this and that the longer it takes to tackle the outbreak, the more damage you have. Therefore, as soon as you call us at (828) 396-1070, we make arrangements to have technicians to your home as soon as possible.

How Mold Can Damage Your Home in Sawmills

1/16/2017 (Permalink)

Mold in Sawmills Gets Cleaned Up by SERVPRO

Remediation Done Quickly Mitigates Mold Damage

There are many different substances in the air we breathe in addition to the oxygen we need. These things include microorganisms such as mold, bacteria, and viruses, plus water vapor and dust of all types. Occurring naturally, these substances are impossible to eliminate from a home, no matter how clean it is kept.

Sawmills homes can often have signs of mold damage that are sometimes ignored by homeowners. A very common warning sign of mold growth is a musty odor that rarely goes away completely, although it may seem to decrease at times. This ebb and flow of this odor do not mean that the mold is going away or dying off.
 
Dusting is one way that dust and mold spores can end up in the air after having settled on surfaces. When the mold is left on these surfaces, though, it has the time needed to ruin many of your belongings. Items made of organic matter, particularly cellulose, are favorite targets of mold. Books, especially older ones, can provide a treasure trove for mold to survive on. Because of the vast surface area of the pages of even just one book, mold has room to grow. The absorbent nature of paper adds to the situation in mold's favor by capturing moisture from the ambient air.
 
While mold spores are circulating in the air, they can travel anywhere in your home. When they settle on something, they are inactive and not growing. A small amount of moisture, along with some time in low-light conditions, and mold can soon begin to flourish. Before long, newly established colonies send off their spores. Colonies can take on various patterns on the surfaces they grow on. Sometimes it is a solid dustiness covering a wall or ceiling (like mildew). Other displays of mold growth can be much more dramatic. Different colored round areas in a variety of sizes happen with high frequency. While they may seem colorful, the mold is damaging the underlying drywall, disintegrating the materials. This mold growth and hyphae penetration cause drywall to crumble easily. It can also mean that mold is growing inside of the walls, affecting supporting wall beams.
 
When spores land on clothing and other textiles, spotting and staining of these items is almost unavoidable without some intervention. Washing regularly can help prevent this from happening, but once the mold has started to grow, special equipment must be utilized. SERVPRO has used the ESporta system with excellent results to remove stains that were otherwise permanent. Clothing, stuffed toys, draperies and curtains, furniture cushions, and bedding are among some of the many items that we have been able to restore.
 
When mold damage is threatening your home and your belongings, call us, SERVPRO of Alexander & Caldwell Counties at (828) 396-1070.

Bethlehem Mold Damage--How Mold Grows and Spreads

10/20/2016 (Permalink)

Moisture Invites Mold Damage in Bethlehem

SERVPRO Expertly Remediates Mold Damage in Homes and Businesses in Bethlehem

One of the first questions we get whenever we find a mold infestation is "How did I get that?" Many homeowners get offended, thinking that we are accusing them of keeping a dirty house. In reality, housekeeping has little to nothing to do with getting mold.

Mold damage to Bethlehem homes starts with tiny spores smaller than even a mustard seed. Even a mass of these spores can still be smaller than the head of a pin and be hidden away in the corner of a basement or on the back of an air vent. If something disturbs the mass, then the released spores can spread through a home very quickly. When that happens, SERVPRO is ready to deal with what comes next.

The mold spores will eventually find a surface to settle on. If the conditions aren't good for growth, the spores can lay dormant for a very long time. What they need to start growing is moisture, a high enough temperature, and a food source. Lack of sunlight also helps.
Enough moisture is the first step. With it, the spores begin to swell and send out hyphae which can act as a type of root or grow across a surface looking for food and producing more spores. For most molds, the ideal temperature range for growth is between 68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit. There are though that can grow at 32 degrees or in an area as hot as 122 degrees.

When it comes to food, mold likes any organic material in your house. The paper material in drywall is usually the largest food source and why mold growth tends to show up there first. That said, the wood in floors and every type of carpet is equally at risk considering that these are the hardest areas to dry to prevent mold growth properly.

SERVPRO of Alexander & Caldwell Counties is dedicated to getting our fellow Carolinians back into their homes as quickly as possible. If we can't clean it for you, we'll remove it in the safest manner possible. If you suspect that you have a mold infestation, call us at (828) 396-1070 today.

How to Prevent Mold from Growing in Your Home

6/14/2016 (Permalink)

Don't let mold damage your Bethlehem home! Let SERVPRO of Alexander and Caldwell Counties get rid of the mold infestation for you.

Preventing Residential Mold damage 

 In Bethlehem, mold damage cannot only compromise your health, but it can also be costly. Fortunately, there are things you can do to prevent mold from forming in your home. Here are several tips to help you get started.   

  • Monitor the humidity levels for any potential Bethlehem mold damage problems. Indoor humidity monitors can be purchased at your local home improvement store. Ideally, levels should be between 35% and 50%. However, in the middle of the summer, you may have readings that reach as high as 55%. Anything higher and you need to investigate and repair the source of the extra moisture. 
  • Get rid of clutter. Clutter can block airflow in your home and prevent your HVAC system from properly circulating air. In addition to getting rid of any excess items, be sure that furniture and curtains are not blocking any vents or grilles in your home.
  • Be sure your thermostat is set to the right temperature. If a thermostat is set too low, your home is prone to cold surfaces that result in water condensation. However, thermostats that are set at too high a temperature often prevent your air conditioner from dehumidifying the air properly and create mold in the Bethlehem home. To combat moisture, it is suggested that you set your thermostat to 78 degrees F during the summer months. When you are away from home, set it to 80 degrees F, but don’t go any higher. 
  • When the air is running, shut the windows and doors. Open windows and doors to allow humid air into your home, which often causes condensation.  
  • SERVPRO suggests addressing any standing water immediately. Take the time to check for dampness or puddles around basement doors, freezers, hot water tanks, windows, and hot water tanks, while also inspecting crawl spaces for foundation leaks or groundwater dampness. If you identify a potential Bethlehem mold damage problem, call the appropriate service person to take care of it. 
  • Invest in a dehumidifier. Dehumidifiers are designed specifically to remove extra moisture from the air. Both portable and whole-house systems are available. 

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Alexander and Caldwell Counties is ready to respond to your mold damage emergency. Our highly trained technicians have access to top quality equipment and are ready to help residents of Lenoir, Stony Point, Bethlehem, Granite Falls, and the surrounding areas. Call us at (828) 396-1070 today! 

Mold Myths and Mold Remediation for Your Property

10/21/2015 (Permalink)

There are a lot of misconceptions about mold, but the truth is less scary than you think!

Many, if not most, homeowners in Taylorsville and Lenoir will have to deal with a mold infestation at some point. This being the case, it's important for property owners to get the facts about mold remediation. Homeowners are inundated with false information about mold that precludes them from acting appropriately and effectively when it begins growing in their home. Today we’re sharing 3 mold myths you should be aware of!

Myth #1: Black Mold is Toxic.

When people discover they have mold, they often ask if they have black mold, which they know to be toxic and dangerous. Fortunately for them, even if the mold is black, it doesn’t necessarily pose more of a threat than any other species of mold. For starters, no species of mold is toxic, a claim supported by the CDC. Second, molds are generally only a potential health threat for those with respiratory or immune system issues, those with severe allergies, and the young and elderly. While it’s not recommended to expose yourself to mold-infested environments over long periods of time, you’re certainly not exposing yourself to toxic materials.

Myth #2: Bleach is an Effective Mold Killer.

It’s commonly believed that the easiest way to kill mold is to simply pour bleach on it. While bleach certainly can kill mold, its effectiveness is limited. For example, if you have mold growing on non-porous materials—such as glass, plastics, and metal—bleach would likely kill the growth (this is ignoring any corrosion or lingering fumes). The issue, however, is that bleach is unable to kill mold inside porous materials, which is where many mold growth issues occur. If you have anything other than surface mold, you’re likely going to want a mold remediation company.

Myth #3: Mold Companies Can Eradicate Mold.

It’s a common misconception that mold companies can eradicate all of the molds in a home. The truth is that mold spores are found in virtually every environment—both indoors and outdoors. However, unless there’s active growth, the spores are generally in low concentrations and are unlikely to bother you. Instead, mold companies aim to remediate active mold growth, which contributes to the increase in spore counts. Any mold remediation company that tells you they’re going to get rid of all the mold is one you probably don’t want to trust.

Your Local Mold Remediation Company

If you live in the Lenoir or Taylorsville communities and notice mold growth, rest assured you have a local mold remediation company nearby. After 10 years of service, SERVPRO of Alexander & Caldwell Counties has the experience and the resources to treat any mold issues. Call us anytime at (828) 396-1070 to make it “Like it never even happened.”