Crawlspaces, Flooding, and Mold Growth Solutions and Information for Area Homeowners

3/4/2020 (Permalink)

YEP!! There’s Mold in that Crawlspace—Better Call SERVPRO for Remediation

Crawlspaces provide access to utilities and help to protect your home from the threat of flooding that seems a persistent concern throughout the area. As vital as these areas are for the construction and stability of your home, they are often poorly managed by homeowners and not given the attention and upkeep required to keep them in top form and prevent damaging effects that could permeate through the flooring and into the home itself.

Moisture is a common concern for this area of your property and without, can lead to a need for mold removal in the crawlspace and beyond. While your crawlspace has gotten partially designed to keep your home out of the line of fire of even moderate flooding throughout the region, dampness and moisture are common elements in these spaces that require removal and effective continued solutions to prevent conditions that can allow for the growth of mold Our SERVPRO® professionals can help.

Mold growing in this area might not feel like a pressing concern to many homeowners, but the spread of mold is deliberate and fast, affecting areas above this crawlspace quickly once the organism begins to affect many surfaces below the flooring. Given that much of your home’s construction is wood-based, including the beams and supports, mold can easily spread to this organic material and erode and decompose these elements as it feeds and grows.

Our SERVPRO professionals can respond quickly at the first sign of mold growth to offer both effective containment solutions and fast mold removal efforts for the affected materials where colonies have formed. We can also offer lasting strategies like crawlspace encapsulation that can help to keep this area of your home free from moisture and dampness, effectively preventing recurrences of mold growth for the future.

Mold growth is a common step to follow persistent moisture in the crawlspace of your home. Let our mold remediation specialists help you to remove this organism and restore the damage it has caused. Give us a call today at (256)-378-1319

The Facts about Black Mold

1/8/2020 (Permalink)

Understanding what this type of mold looks like and how it develops can help you take the right steps to remove it.

It's never a good thing to spot mold in your home. Even small amounts of this fungus can make you feel uneasy. Of all the types, black mold may be the most concerning. It may be more difficult than you think to spot this type, which is why many homeowners order a professional mold inspection. Before you take this step, it is helpful to understand what this fungus looks like, how it forms and what you can do to keep it away.

Prevention Methods

You can never completely eliminate the presence of house mold. The fungus is microscopic, and spores are constantly floating in the air. You can, however, reduce the risk of it growing and spreading in different parts of your home. Follow these tips:

Clean up and dry spills, floods or any water damage promptly.
Make sure your pipes are in good working order.
Properly ventilate humid areas of the home.

What Is Black Mold

This form of the fungus is one of many different types, though it may cause more anxiety than the others. It thrives in moist areas and can grow rapidly. It gives off a musty, mildew-like smell. Though its name suggests otherwise, this type of mold comes in various colors. Black may be the most common, but it can also be gray, brown or green. It has a slimy appearance.

Prompt Attention is Necessary

You should never try to clean up this mold by yourself. Instead, call a certified mold remediation company to do a mold inspection. Professionals have the experience and expertise to properly get rid of the fungi. The team will come equipped with safety equipment and the right tactics to make your home as good as new. Technicians will clean, dry and sanitize the area.

If a mold inspection reveals this invader, call a mold removal specialist today!

Tips to Prevent Mold Damage in Your Home

7/21/2019 (Permalink)

The very mention of the word “mold” is enough to make anyone uncomfortable. We all know that mold can be beneficial, such as when used in penicillin or the making of cheeses, and we are aware of its role in the decomposition of organic matter, but when it comes to finding it in our homes, that is a different matter!

Mold spores spread easily and can never be completely eradicated. It can grow almost anywhere, too: carpet, clothing, food, and other places we never see. It is very difficult and costly to manage once it is detected. It can also produce irritants, allergens, and even toxins that can compromise your health--that’s what makes it such a serious matter when it takes hold in our living spaces.

Here are some tips to help you prevent mold damage in your home:

Identify issues. You can't mold-proof your home, but you can make it mold-resistant. Do an audit of your home and determine the main weak spots. Does your basement flood? Do you notice frequent condensation on an upstairs window, or perhaps a water stain on the ceiling from a persistent leak? Preventing mold from growing or spreading might be as simple as removing carpet in a damp basement, installing mold-resistant products, or repairing damaged gutters. Whatever the case may be, address the problem now.

Dry wet areas immediately. Mold can't grow without moisture, so take care of wet areas right away. Any wet areas should be dried within 24 to 48 hours. Even everyday wet areas need attention: don't leave wet items lying around the house, and make sure to dry the floor and walls after a shower. Don't leave wet clothes in the washing machine, where mold can spread quickly. Hang them to dry outside or in areas with good air circulation.

Proper ventilation. Make sure an activity as simple as cooking dinner, taking a shower, or doing a load of laundry doesn't invite mold by providing proper ventilation in your bathroom, kitchen, laundry room, and any other high-moisture area. Use A/C units and dehumidifiers, but make sure they don’t produce moisture themselves by checking them periodically and cleaning them as directed by the manufacturer.

Use mold-resistant products. Use mold-resistant products like mold-resistant drywall or mold-resistant Sheetrock, and use mold inhibitors for paints when building or renovating.

Direct water away from your home. If the ground around your home isn't sufficiently sloped away from the foundation, water may collect there and seep into your crawlspace or basement. You may be experiencing leakage just because your gutters are full or damaged. Have your roof gutters cleaned and inspected regularly to make sure they are sending water away from your structure. Repair them as necessary, and keep an eye out for water stains after storms that may indicate a leak has started.

There is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to mold prevention. Knowing what works for your climate and your home is an important first step, and always keep in mind that the SERVPRO team at SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties is here to help with any mold issues. We also handle damages from fire or water, such as flooding. Contact us today by phone at (256)-378-1319

History Of Mold

3/28/2019 (Permalink)

Why has mold become a bigger issue?

Population shifts, new energy - efficient buildings, double/triple - paned windows, caulking, windows that don't open & faulty construction. Also other reasons are rising property values, more plumbing, advances in medical sciences, increased public awareness, government action, mold industry & success breeds imitation. 

The biology of mold is that mold is a fungus and number of species is not known. At least 20,000, but may be as many as 300,000 different species of mold. Mold is also classified as a saprophyte. Mold ends up growing by sending out branches that are called hyphae, root-like hyphae, surface hyphae & spore-producing structure. To prevent mold growth you need to make sure to concentrate on moisture control. If you need any help with mold remediation in your home do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties @ 256-378-1319 where we are always here to help. 

Managing Mold

6/26/2018 (Permalink)

When there's a water intrusion, like a roof leak or leaking water line, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business. Mold can cause health effects and can also cause significant damage to your property. Fortunately, SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Cos Franchise Professionals have the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem. Although every mold damage scenario is different requiring a unique solution, the general mold remediation process stays the same. The following steps illustrate a "typical" mold removal process. 

Call the Team in Green

The mold cleanup and restoration process begins when you call us SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Cos Franchise Professionals. A representative will ask a series of questions to help determine the necessary equipment, resources, and personnel needed. 

Mold Management

6/26/2018 (Permalink)

Inspection and Damage Assessment

Your property will be carefully inspected for signs of mold using technology designed to detect mold and hidden water sources. Mold feeds on cellulose and water and can be hidden from plain view. 

Mold Containment 

Various containment procedures will be placed to prevent the spread of mold and isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to keep the mold spores from spreading during the cleanup process.

Air Filtration

Specialized filtration equipment captures microscopic mold spores out of the air. SERVPRO technicians utilize powerful air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in progress. 

Cleaning Contents and Belongings

SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Cos Franchise Professionals clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains, and other restorable items affected by mold. They use a variety of cleaning techniques to clean and sanitize your belongings. They are also trained to remove odors and deodorize using fogging equipment.

Mold!

5/10/2018 (Permalink)

Mold Removal vs. Mold Remediation

What’s the Difference?

Since microscopic mold spores exist naturally almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors, removing all mold from a home or business is impossible. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold. This is a fallacy.

A qualified restoration company understands the science behind mold and mold growth. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have the training and expertise to remediate the mold in your home or business. Mold remediation focuses on getting mold levels back to normal, natural levels.

Every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same. To learn more about our mold remediation process.

• Step 1: Emergency Contact 256-378-1319
• Step 2: Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
• Step 3: Mold Containment
• Step 4: Air Filtration
• Step 5: Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
• Step 6: Cleaning Contents and Belongings
• Step 7: Restoration

Signs of Mold? Call Today 256-378-1319!

Understanding Mold

When water intrudes into your property, mold growth can start in as little as 48 hours. Consider the following mold facts:

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

Mold Growth Problems!

5/10/2018 (Permalink)

Mold

In as little as 48 hours, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business when there’s a water intrusion, like a roof leak or leaking water line. Mold can cause health effects and can also cause significant damage to your property. SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Cos Franchise Professionals have the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem.

Have a Mold Problem? Call Today 256-378-1319!

Problem in your home or business, your primary focus should be safety:

• Significant mold growth can occur in 48-72 hours.
• Mold may present a greater risk to children, the elderly, and anyone with respiratory problems.
• A strong, musty odor may indicate hidden mold behind drywall or under carpeting.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact a SERVPRO Franchise Professional 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.

Managing Mold!

4/3/2018 (Permalink)

FROM THE ORDINARY...

Fungi and mold naturally occur in our environment. In fact over 100,000 kinds of fungi have been identified. Even though some forms of mold can add value to our lives, other forms can be harmful. Excessive amounts of mold, different types of mold, and/or exposure to molds may present health concerns for some people.

TO THE UNHEALTHY...

Intrusion of water into your home or place of business can result in mold growth. water intrusions can result from storm damage, plumbing or equipment failures, long-standing leaks, and poor humidity control. When water intrusions are not addressed right away, the resulting damage can present increased risk of harmful mold growth. If the humidity and moisture levels in a water-damaged environment are not promptly returned to normal, mold spores may grow and multiply.

TAKE PRECAUTIONS...

SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Cos. handle water damages every day and we know prompt action is required to prevent mold growth. If there is an ongoing problem in the building, be alert for:

• The presence of visible mold.
• Strong musty odors, which may indicate mold is present.
• Any evidence of past moisture problems that might have caused undetected mold growth.
• Excessive humidity.

These conditions may require the expertise of a qualified Indoor Air Quality/Environmental Professional to inspect the building for mold growth and water damage problems.

SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Cos. are about proper restoration of your structure and, in most water damage situations, can safely restore your building to preloss condition. Don't hesitate to call us @ 256-378-1319 and we can make it "Like it never even happened."

Mold Problems? It will be ok!

3/2/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has the expertise and experience to restore your property... Like it never even happened. 

Protect Your Investment

When mold damage affects your home, you want to know it will be restored to preloss condition.You can not afford to let the marketability of your home be affected. That is why SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have been professionally restoring property since 1969. 

SERVPRO is the trusted choice of hundreds of insurance companies because they know we have the experience to do the job right.

• Recognized industry leader in fire and water cleanup as well as mold remediation and restoration.
• Serving America since 1969.
• Over 1,300 national locations.
• Board Members of IICRC.

SERVPRO Professionals are trained and experienced and arrive with a van full of clean. 

We are only good as our last job.

Mold You Must Be Informed

6/20/2017 (Permalink)

One of our favorite ways to connect with our clients is to host CE classes. It gives us a chance to educate our customers on topics important to them and it allows our clients to complete required CE credits for their businesses. Throughout the year we hold various CE classes on the following topics: Fire, Water, Mold, and Ethics. We at SERVPRO have been approved by the insurance industry to host these classes for agents and adjusters. We follow strict guidelines on course content, course facilitators, and attendee certification procedures in order to meet all the requirements to host these classes for our clients.

Mold is a hot topic in our area because the weather conditions in Alabama are ideal for mold growth. It is something home and business owners are calling us about frequently. And certainly something that our agents and adjusters have to field questions about often.  The class objectives are:

- Understand the evolution of mold awareness

- Acknowledge mold as part of our environment

- Understand the basics of mold remediation

- Understand the effect of mold on buildings

- Recognize how mold is affecting Insurance Professionals and the Insurance Industry

Mold is a reality in our area and being informed on how to handle it is the first line of defense! "Find and remove the source" is an important tip that was repeatedly emphasized in the class.

How To Try To Understand Mold

6/20/2017 (Permalink)

Microscopic mold spores exist almost everywhere, outdoors and indoors, making it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. 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 on a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. 
• 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.

Mold!

5/10/2017 (Permalink)

Mold begins as an airborne spore mass. Mold is microscopic with many smaller spores, so when something causes these spores to stir up, these thousands of smaller spores are set free. The spores will remain airborne until they settle onto a surface. These spores need an organic material, or food source, water, as little as two days time, and temperatures between 32 and 122 degrees Fahrenheit to grow.

Organic matter can be, paint, paper, insulation, natural fibers, plants, potting soil, caulk and many more items. Controlling the humidity in your home, will help with mold growth prevention. This is why SERVPRO of Tuscaloosa sends its employee's to WRT training for water damage restoration. The SERVPRO crew team will make sure the conditions in your home are correct to dry out the area after the damage and prevent mold from the beginning.

For all your Mold Remediation needs contact us 256-378-1319

Mold In Your Home or Business Contact Us!

5/10/2017 (Permalink)

What you can do until help arrives:

In as little as 48 hours, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business when there’s a water intrusion, like a roof leak or leaking water line. Mold can cause health effects and can also cause significant damage to your property. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem.

Have a Mold Problem? Call Today 256-378-1319

If you have a mold problem in your home or business, your primary focus should be safety:

• Significant mold growth can occur in 48-72 hours.
• Mold may present a greater risk to children, the elderly, and anyone with respiratory problems.
• A strong, musty odor may indicate hidden mold behind drywall or under carpeting.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact a SERVPRO Franchise Professional 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.

From the Ordinary to the Unhealthy Health Concerns

3/22/2017 (Permalink)

From the Ordinary

Fungi and mold naturally occur in our environment. In fact, over 100,000 kinds of fungi have been identified. Fungi produce some very useful results. Yeast is a type of fungi used in preparing breads, baked goods and other food products, including some alcoholic beverages. The unique flavor of blue cheese is a result of mold. An edible mushroom is simply a type of fungi, and lifesaving penicillin is a product of mold (Penicillin chyrsogenum). Even though some forms of mold can add value to our lives, other forms can be harmful. Excessive amounts of mold, different types of mold, and/or exposure to molds may present health concerns for some people.

To the Unhealthy

Intrusion of water into your home or place of business can result in mold growth. Water intrusions can result from storm damage, plumbing or equipment failures, long-standing leaks or poor humidity control. When water intrusions are not addressed right away, the resulting damage can present increased risk of harmful mold growth. Some amount of mold spores are normally present in most environments. If the humidity and moisture levels in a water-damaged environment are not promptly returned to normal, mold spores may grow and multiply. Organic materials found inside a building, such as wood, paper, drywall and insulation, provide food sources for mold to flourish. Excessive mold growth can lead to indoor environmental conditions that pose a health threat.

Health Concerns

Health concerns may arise when excessive mold grows indoors. Concerns are more likely to arise for "at risk" people, which might include immune suppressed or compromised individuals, young children and individuals with chronic inflammatory lung diseases such as asthma and sever allergies. However, anyone may experience health problems associated with exposure to mold in damp buildings. Possible health effects may include: runny nose, sneezing, coughing, aggravation of asthma, sore throat or inflammation of the sinuses.

People most at risk include:

• Infants and children.
• Pregnant women.
• The elderly.
• People with compromised respiratory systems or asthma and allergies.
• People with weakened immune systems.

Control Moisture Reduce Mold

3/2/2017 (Permalink)

Don't Let It Grow!

The following steps can be taken to reduce the potential for moisture buildup or mold growth. Should a damage event occur, timely response is the key to preventing further damage--act within the first 24 to 48 hours.

• Correct any water leaks or standing water


• Remove standing water under cooling coils or air handling units


• Properly maintain dehumidifiers, if used


• Replace wet or visibly moldy insulation materials


• Steam cleaning and other methods involving moisture should not be used on any kind of duct work


• Install a ventilation system

Take Precautions

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals handle water damages every day and know prompt action is required to prevent mold growth. Mold is more likely to spread when an environment has been subject to moisture for a long period of time. If your property has sustained a recent water damage, it is vital to remove excess water and dry the structure promptly. If there is an ongoing moisture problem in the building, it is important to be aler for:

• The presence of visible mold.


• Strong musty odors which may indicate mold is present.


• Any evidence of past moisture problems might have caused undetected mold growth.


• Excessive humidity

These conditions may require the expertise of a qualified Indoor Air Quality/Environmental Professional to inspect the building for mold growth and water damage problems.

Help Is Here

If you think you might have a mold problem, call 256-378-1319. A SERVPRO Franchise Professional trained in mold remediation will examine the structure for any visible signs of mold. In the even mold is found, you will be asked to approve and sign a work authorization form prior to any mold cleanup or related work being performed. The technician may also recommend you leave the affected area while the mold cleanup and associated containment process is being safely completed.

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals of Talladega, Clay, Randolph & St. Clair Co. care about proper restoration of your structure. In most water damage situations excessive mold growth is not a problem and SERVPRO Franchise Professionals can safely restore your building to preloss condition. The need to address the presence of mold can only be determined by an on-site, indoor environmental inspection. Please keep in mind SERVPRO Franchise Professionals do not interpret insurance policies or coverage; you must consult your insurance company to determine the scope of policy coverage.