Stay ahead of mold.

7/9/2018 (Permalink)

When you have a flood in your home mold can start to develop in as little as 24 to 48 hours. Your going to want to start to be activewith the clean up as soon as possible. SERVPRO of Baltimore's Inner Harbor is available 24 hours a day, everyday of the year.

Here are some things you can start to do before SERVPRO arrives:

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
• Gather loose items from floors.

SERVPRO uses advanced equipment and techniques to remove the water quickly and properly dry out your home or business.

Let us help you stay ahead of the mold if possible but rest assure if the mold follows the water damage SERVPRO can handle it. We are here for any type of problem.

I found you!

7/9/2018 (Permalink)

Many people may already know the most common places for mold :

Basements or cellars that have been flooded , underneath kitchen and bathroom sinks, underneath or behind refrigerators, behind walls that also house plumbing, under carpeting that may have become wet, stacks of damp or wet newspaper or cardboard boxes, wallboard , and around air-conditioning units.

But I want to tell you some uncommon places to look.

Chimneys, front-loading washing machines, window sashes and seals, dishes ( yep, if you don't dry them well and stack them up ), books ( that old book smell can really be the smell of mold).

Try to stay ahead of the hiding game with Mold, take a monthly check around the house. In this game it's better not to find the mold to win.

Is it an allergy to pollen or mold?

6/13/2018 (Permalink)

I'm sure if you were asked the question, "can you have an allergy to mold?", your answer would more than likely be , "sure".

But if asked what the symptoms are then you might not be so quick to answer. Here's the thing, the symptoms of mold allergies are so similar to plant and animal allergies that you might get them confused. 

Typical allergy symptoms are sneezing, itching, runny nose, congestion, dry and scaling skin. All of these same symptoms are associated with mold allergy as well. 

Mold and mildew are fungi. The spores are the "seeds" of mold that travel through the air. These spores are what we inhale and have a reaction to. These spores can also get into our lungs and trigger asthma.

So if you think your allergies aren't going away, even when you've tried medicines and stayed in doors. It might not be the allergy that you think you have. 

When in doubt have SERVPRO check you home for Mold. We are here to help. 

Mold can't just be " Spring Cleaned Away".

5/22/2018 (Permalink)

Blog | SERVPRO Franchise Website Administration

You’re doing spring cleaning, getting ready for the warm weather and just as you go to wipe down that dark corner in your kitchen, you spot it….mold.

What do you do? Your knee jerk reaction might be to bleach it. Be wary: bleach is not a sufficiently potent mold killer! Bleach might take care of surface mold, but not the base of the problem that actually caused the mold to grow. This means when you’ve bleached down the surface, it might look pretty and clean, but the mold is likely to grow back. Even worse yet, the mold cells might register the bleach as a threat to its existence, which means when the mold regenerates it could become resistant to the bleach.

So how do you rid your home of mold in its entirety?

That’s where we come in.

Removing mold on your own without proper knowledge and training can present numerous hazards and challenges. Using the wrong method to remove it, as aforementioned, can only worsen the problem. It is important to note that warm weather makes mold's usual hiding places more likely to stay warm and damp which puts your home and business at a higher risk if your building isn't climate controlled. 

That’s why our teams are trained to safely remove and help to keep it from ever returning to your home.

If you see or smell possible mold in your home, be smart and be safe. Don’t touch any mold with bare skin and try to not breathe it in.

Remember: before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed!

MOLD REMOVAL???

5/8/2018 (Permalink)

If you see an advertisement for " Mold Removal " don't believe it. That's a fallacy.

There is no way to rid your home or business of all mold. Mold spores exist naturally almost everywhere , indoors and out.

At SERVPRO we understand  mold and are trained to be able to remediate the mold in your home or business.

Every mold situation can be difficult and require a unique process but the general mold remediation stays the same.

Here are the basic steps:

Preform a mold damage assessment

Mold Containment

Air Filtration

Treat, remove the mold-infested materials

Clean contents

SERVPRO can make you feel safe again in your home and business.

We can also help with educating you to understand how mold grows and to try a avoid problems in the future.  

Does Mold Have Warning Signs?

4/5/2018 (Permalink)

There are signs that you may be sharing your home with mold. 

There can be a strange odor.

 Mold can sometimes live within the walls or behind wallpaper. Because of this you might not  immediately associate the smell with a mold problem. If you do notice an unusual persistent odor in your home, the culprit may be mold

You see the appearance of mold. 

Schedule periodic visual inspections of your house. Sometimes it can be seen but is hidden in corners of your home that you might not always be around. 

A known moisture source.

If you had a flood recently or a leak you can grow mold. If the structure wasn't dried out properly you might find you have mold growing.

Health Symptoms.

If you feel tired all the time , congested or experience watering eyes, can be signs that you have mold. 

Don't ignore the signs that you may have mold living with you. Locating the source of mold and addressing it is important.

Masters of Mitigation

9/5/2017 (Permalink)

Where there's water, there is mold risk. Mold can not only affect your health, but it can also cause significant damage to your property. It is for the very same reasons that our SERVPRO of Howard County teams have the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle any mold problem. Although every mold damage scenario is unique, and requires an equally unique solution, the general mold remediation process stays the same, so as to meet top industry standards.

Curious how we do it? Here are the basics for a "typical" mold job:

Dial 410-465-7333

The mold cleanup and restoration process starts when you call us and tell us about the problem affecting your home. One of our fabulous office admins will ask you a series of questions that help determine the necessary equipment, resources, and personnel needed to get your home back to normal

Inspection & Damage Assessment

Our team will inspect your home or business for signs of mold using technology designed to detect spores and any hidden water that might be feeding the mold and growing it

Mold Containment

Various containment procedures are followed prevent the mold from spreading and to isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to also keep the mold spores from spreading during the rest of the cleanup process

Air Filtration

Special filtration equipment captures microscopic mold spores in the air. Our professionals use powerful air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums to further prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in progress

Removing Mold & Mold-Infested Materials

The mold remediation process depends on

a variety of factors, but mainly the amount of mold, and the types of surfaces the mold appears on. Antifungal and antimicrobial treatments are then employed to eliminate mold colonies and help prevent new ones from forming. Removing and disposing of mold-infested porous materials, like drywall and flooring, is sometimes necessary to remediate heavier mold growth

Cleaning Contents & Belongings

Our SERVPRO pros thoroughly clean your furniture, miscellaneous items, curtains, and other restorable items affected by mold. We use a variety of techniques to clean and sanitize your belongings. Our teams are also trained to remove odors/deodorize using fogging equipment

Restoration

Depending on the extent of the mold damage, drywall, subfloors, and other building materials may be removed. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet, or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business. Our Rebuild division is more than happy to help replace and restore after the remediation process is complete.

This process might seem like a lot to deal with, but that is what the SERVPRO of HoCo mold specialists are here for!

A Mold Defense Is Your Guaranteed MVP

8/21/2017 (Permalink)

Save this graphic to have on hand for mold defense tips at a glance!

Defending against mold growth can feel like such a major feat to take on, but have no fear. Your local mold specialists are on the case. However, just because we are on hand to help whenever mold should occur, we think you should be prepared to prevent mold on your own. Use the following tips to amp up your mold defense.

• Keep the humidity in your home or business between 30-60%
• Make sure your property has property drainage to keep water away from your building's foundation
• Regularly inspect your plumbing and other appliances for any leaks. Water left to sit is mold's favorite food!
• Keep your gutters and drains clear and free of any debris
• Inspect your roofs, windows, and any other potential entryways for water. Perform maintenance ASAP when necessary
• Immediately deal with water intrusions in your home
• Never try DIY mold removal!
• If your home experiences water damage, call SERVPRO of Howard County for immediate assistance, as improper mitigation of water damage can lead to secondary damages such as mold

Dealing with any damage to your home or business can feel so daunting, but that is what SERVPRO of HoCo is here for. Other mold cleaning services might not take the time to educate you and answer any questions you might have, but we know how important it is to make sure you understand the process your home is undergoing in such stressful times.

410-465-7333

Special Summer Mold Strains

6/6/2017 (Permalink)

Believe it or not, summer is prime time for mold to spawn in your home. Mold thrives in temperatures above 77 degrees, which is, as you know, around the average summer temperature in Howard County. Follow these handy tips to keep your mold risk low so you can enjoy the summer months.

• Use your air conditioner when it's hot. By keeping the inside of your house cool, you're already starting the mold abatement process
• Look for condensation or moisture in any of your air ducts. Air conditioning units can produce a small drip of water that can serve as food for mold spores
• Try to keep humidity down in your home. Moisture in the air is the prime condition for mold to form and thrive when humidity is above 50 percent. Dehumidifiers will help with this by keeping your home or business dry
• If rain starts to fall, keep your windows closed. This locks moisture and excess water out
• If rainfall is heavy, keep an eye on your roof for any leaks. Any ceiling discoloration can be indicative of a leak or even mold 
• If you notice any appliances or pipes in your home are leaking, clean the water and fix the leak ASAP
• Your dryer should be vented to the outdoors, not your attic or crawlspace to build moisture in dark spaces (which mold loves)
• Keep an open pathway for air when you take a shower. Whether it be the fan or a window, the circulation of air can keep moisture down.
• Keep carpeting out of your bathrooms or other commonly wet spaces

If you suspect mold in your home, call us (the real mold remediation professionals) ASAP for an inspection. 

410-465-7333

Managing Mold

5/22/2017 (Permalink)

Pictured here is one of our moisture/mold meters. We are sure to check these readings before and after the remediation process.

You've found mold in your Howard County home or business...now what?

Your first step should be limiting your exposure to the area, as you can't be certain of the negative health effects of mold.

Then you should be sure to call 410-465-7333. That's where the mold abatement, cleanup, and restoration process begins. One of our representatives will ask you some questions to gain additional insight on the mold you've found. This helps our crews determine the equipment, personnel, and resources they need to have at their disposal. 

Next, a SERVPRO HoCo team member will be inspected for mold via technology designed to detect hidden mold or water sources feeding the mold. Our SERVPRO professionals then follow various contaminant procedures that prevent mold spreading. They utilize barriers and negative air pressure to isolate the mold. Our teams are trained to use specialized air filtration equipment that captures and removes microscopic mold spores from the air in your property. Power air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums prevent the spreading or spores while the remediation is in progress. 

Depending on the amount of mold growth and the type of surface it has latched onto, the mold remediation process is customized to match the damage. Antifungal and antimicrobial treatments are used to eradicate mold colonies. We are also sure to remove mold infested porous materials like drywall and flooring to ensure mold does not return. If necessary, SERVPRO also cleans your furniture, decorative items, curtains and other restorable items that have been damaged or affected by mold. Our professionals are also trained in deodorization so special fogging equipment is used to ensure your items no longer smell like mold.

In extreme cases, replacing drywall, painting, and new carpet may need to be put in. In rare, but still possible cases, entire areas or rooms of your property may need to be rebuilt. If that is the case, we have a specific Rebuild team that can take care of such needs.

When you spot mold, it can be stressful or even scary. That's why SERVPRO of Howard County should be your first call.

Who's Afraid of The Big Bad Mold?

4/26/2017 (Permalink)

Who's afraid of the big bad mold? We all really should be! 

Mold carries a number of risks with it when it shows up in your home or business...and sometimes it carries no risk at all. The variation in risk is nothing to gamble with...which is yet another reason why our specially certified teams should be your first call immediately upon suspecting or finding mold. 

According to the CDC, if you're sensitive to mold, you're at risk for

• nasal stuffiness/congestion
• throat irritation
• coughing or wheezing
• eye irritation
• and/or possibly skin irritation

The CDC also notes that if you have a mold or mold related allergy you could have a far more severe reaction just as those with an immune compromise or a chronic lung illness. 

You should do your best to keep away from mold as you never can really be sure how your body will react to it. When our SERVPRO mold mitigation and remediation specialists come on scene, they wear special gear and use equipment that keeps them from dangerous mold exposure. As the warmer weather approaches, it's especially important to keep a close eye on any dripping from AC units or any other source of water. As many of us know, mold loves warm hiding places just as much as it loves damp spots.

To see more of our mold related work check out some before and afters here. For some fast facts on how to understand if your problem is mold, read up here.

DIY Mold Removal?

4/5/2017 (Permalink)

You’re doing spring cleaning, getting ready for the warm weather and just as you go to wipe down that dark corner in your kitchen, you spot it….mold.

What do you do? Your knee jerk reaction might be to bleach it. Be wary: bleach is not a sufficiently potent mold killer! Bleach might take care of surface mold, but not the root of the problem that actually caused the mold to grow. This means when you’ve bleached down the surface, it might look pretty and clean, but the mold is likely to grow back. Even worse yet, the mold cells might register the bleach as a threat to its existence, which means when the mold regenerates it could become resistant to the bleach.

So how do you rid your home of mold in its entirety?

That’s where we come in.

Removing mold on your own without proper knowledge and training can present numerous risks and challenges. Using the wrong method to remove it, as aforementioned, can only worsen the problem. That’s why our mold remediation teams are trained and certified to remove mold safely and keep it from ever returning to your home.

If you see or smell possible mold in your home, be smart and be safe. Don’t touch any mold with bare skin and try to not breathe it in.

Remember: before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed!

When mold attacks, call SERVPRO of Howard County 410-465-7333 immediately to get a team on site.

Howard County Residents: Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

8/30/2016 (Permalink)

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

What to Do:

Stay out of affected areas.
Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
Contact SERVPRO of Howard County for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

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

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Howard County specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business. Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (410) 465-7333

Does Your Howard County Home Have A Mold Problem?

8/30/2016 (Permalink)

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (410) 465-7333