Proper Ventilation helps prevent Mold

9/12/2018 (Permalink)

Mold can spring up very quickly in humid environments and many homes have areas that are prone to mold growth for this reason. Bathrooms, kitchens, attics, and basements all have the highest chance of developing mold because humid air often circulates in these rooms.  Proper ventilation can help to significantly reduce the chance of mold growth in these areas of your home. It is important to take steps to ensure that each room is well-ventilated and that the air is circulating well.

Some of the most important areas to vent are the bathrooms and the attic. Bathrooms are usually quite small with a lot of warm, moist air circulating within them regularly.  This makes them very susceptible to rapid mold growth.  Investing in vents and fans that push the humid air outside of the home will help to keep mold growth to a minimum.  Attics often have poor ventilation and many homeowners are tempted to quickly ventilate bathrooms by placing vents in the bathrooms that push the humid air into the attic.  This will result in mold growth in the attic, which could then spread into the ducts as well as tight, difficult-to-reach spaces.

Avoid these potentially costly problems by investing in quality fans and vents that will draw humid air out of the rooms, sending it outside of the home, rather than into the attic.

If you see mold, call SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge at 703-583-8484.

Mold and Your Business

9/12/2018 (Permalink)

In the business world, time is money, as the saying goes, and you should spend your time growing your business in Dale City/Lake Ridge, not repairing water damage or removing mold from your property. Protect your business with mold prevention.

What Causes Mold?

The short answer is simply water. Did you know mold exists nearly everywhere water exists? Mold is a natural occurrence, and any type of moisture can lead to mold growth in a short period of time. Water damage is worrisome because it can unbalance natural mold levels. Your commercial building could experience water damage from various sources:

• Natural disasters
• Heavy rainfall
• Broken pipes
• Leaky plumbing

Untreated leaks, humidity, and moisture may lead to mold, which will continue to spread until the source of the moisture is repaired. 

If you have concerns of mold please call us at 703-583-8484 to schedule an inspection.

Is there MOLD hidden in your home?

7/6/2018 (Permalink)

Mold can occur anywhere in a home but mainly is concentrated to areas where moisture is present. These moisture areas are common to the bathroom and basements. Mold can cause respiratory problems and should be removed, if found, as soon as possible. Most restoration companies only do mold inspections if the mold is visible, an industrial hygienist would come in and search for traces of mold that are not visible.

One of the first places mold can collect and you may not think to check is under the refrigerator. Under the fridge tends to collect moisture and dirt which can cause a breeding ground for bacteria and mold.

Another place is the AC unit. AC units are known to collect debris, dust and moisture from the air, which can lead to mold spores.

Mold can even grow in or around a washing machine or its parts. Moisture and lint can cause a presence of mold spores.

Other area in the house include anywhere moisture and dirt may form such as window corners.

Mold Professionals at your service

6/25/2018 (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.  SERVPRO Dale City/Lake Ridge 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 703-583-8484 Your local SERVPRO Professionals

The mold cleanup and restoration process begins when you call.  A representative will ask a series of questions to help determine the necessary equipment, resources and personnel needed.

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.

Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials

The mold remediation process depends on the amount of mold growth and the types of surfaces on which the mold appears.  Antifungal and antimicrobial treatments will be used to eliminate mold colonies and help prevent new colonies from forming.  Removing and disposing of mold-infested porous materials, like drywall and flooring, may be necessary to remediate heavy mold growth.

Cleaning Contents and Belongings

SERPVRO Dale City/Lake Ridge Professionals clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains and other restorable items affected by mold.  They are also trained to remove odors and deodorization using fogging equipment.

Restoration

Depending on the level of 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 reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

SERVPRO Dale City/Lake Ridge Professionals understand mold and mold growth and have the training and equipment to remediate mold in your home or business.  If you have concerns of mold growth call 703-583-8484 to schedule a visual inspection.

Finding Mold?

6/22/2018 (Permalink)

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 Dale City/Lake Ridge has the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem.

If you have a mold problem in your home or business, consider the following facts:

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 SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge 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.

If you have any questions about Mold, do not hesitate to contact us directly at 703-583-8484

Mold Removal vs. Remediation

6/21/2018 (Permalink)

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 703-583-8484
• 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

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.

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.

Mold - What to do

8/1/2017 (Permalink)

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 703-583-8484
• 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

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.

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.

Visual Inspection vs. Testing of Mold

8/1/2017 (Permalink)

Most of our customers think a company that remediates mold would also do the testing of mold.  Well that is not the case, we only provide a visual inspection and will recommend an indoor hygienist when we feel it is necessary for all parties.  We will recommend an indoor hygienist in circumstances such as but not limited to things such as: selling the home, infants, children or elderly in the home or multiple areas impacted.

Given that we are a Cleaning and Remediation Company, we have determined that being certified to be an Industrial Hygienist (IH) is deviating too far from our profession.  Mold remediation and mold testing require different sets of skill sets of training, certifications, and professional equipment.  For remediation purposes, the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) offers a course called, Applied Microbial Remediation Technician (AMRT).  In this course technicians learn how to properly remediate mold, but not test for it.  To become an IH, for testing purposes, you must have a 4 year bachelor’s degree in the particular field as well as specific IH courses.

In addition, a company that does both testing and remediation of mold could potentially appear to be skewing test results in order for their remediation to pass; it is like grading your own final exam.  To avoid this, we not only have another company do the testing but we also have the customer call in the IH rather than bringing them in ourselves as a subcontractor of our services.  We can recommend several in the area if you are in need of these services.  This ensures that the IH is working for the customer’s best interest.

So where do you start?

If you believe that you have a mold problem your first step is to find the source and stop it.  Next, we would recommend that you call in an Industrial Hygienist to come out and test the area.  A protocol will be written based off of the testing and if you do indeed have a substantial amount of mold present that needs to be remediated that is where SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge comes in.  With the protocol in hand we are able to properly assess the area and determine the extent as well as type of cleaning that will be needed to get your home or business back to preloss condition.

Is there mold hidden in your home?

6/28/2017 (Permalink)

Mold can occur anywhere in a home but mainly is concentrated to areas where moisture is present. These moisture areas are common to the bathroom and basements. Mold can cause respiratory problems and should be removed, if found, as soon as possible. Most restoration companies only do mold inspections if the mold is visible, an industrial hygienist would come in and search for traces of mold that are not visible.

One of the first places mold can collect and you may not think to check is under the refrigerator. Under the fridge tends to collect moisture and dirt which can cause a breeding ground for bacteria and mold.

Another place is the AC unit. AC units are known to collect debris, dust and moisture from the air, which can lead to mold spores.

Mold can even grow in or around a washing machine or its parts. Moisture and lint can cause a presence of mold spores.

Other area in the house include anywhere moisture and dirt may form such as window corners.

What to do if you find Mold in your home

6/20/2017 (Permalink)

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 Dale City/Lake Ridge has the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem.

If you have a mold problem in your home or business, consider the following facts:

• 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 SERVPRO of South Tulsa 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.

If you have any questions about Mold, do not hesitate to contact us directly at 703-583-8484

Each Surface Type Warrants a Different Approach When it comes to Mold

6/20/2017 (Permalink)

Finding hidden mold is our specialty. Call SERVPRO so we can investigate the damage or smell on your property.

Mold can go undetected for days, weeks or even months, depending on where it is hiding. While small amounts of mold spores are everywhere and pose no threat, a large colony can destroy building materials and pose a health threat. 

Restoring property from the effects of mold damage in Dale City homes requires trained professionals. Every SERVPRO office maintains a crew that is trained to identify mold infestations and determines the best method available to remove or clean it off surfaces. 

We determine the method used to remove mold depending on the type of surface the mold is on. It is simpler to clean nonporous materials. These surfaces include glass, metal, certain kinds of plastics, marble, and smooth stone. We remove dry mold by vacuuming the surfaces with special HEPA filters that catch even a single mold spore. Wet mold is wiped off with a cloth dampened with water. If the mold is growing in a layer of soil, our team members use a detergent solution.

Porous materials with visible mold growth often should be removed from the home and disposed of according to state regulations. These materials include carpets, carpet pads, drywall, and insulation. Technicians can clean fabrics such as upholstery, drapes, and curtains using foam, spray, or immersion techniques depending on the thickness of the mold and the colors used. Before starting with those methods, crew members vacuum the items to remove loose mold fragments. If needed, they agitate the materials to loosen more mold and then vacuum them again. 

Semi-porous materials require methods not usable on porous or even nonporous surfaces. The surfaces (wood and concrete) may require sanding, wire brushing, and other abrasive methods. The cleaners we use on these surfaces have abrasive agents mixed in to be certain the agent gets into and agitates cracks and grooves that non-abrasive agent’s miss. If exposed to mold for too long, the structural integrity of the wood might be compromised by rot. 

Restoring your home after a mold infestation is a long process. SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge is here to help you through every step. If you need our services or simply want to schedule an inspection to check on any concerns, call us at 703-583-8484. 

The Mold Mitigation & Remediation Process

6/12/2017 (Permalink)

Mold Mitigation

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 affect your health and can also cause significant damage to your property. Fortunately, SERVPRO® Dale City/Lake Ridge 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 SERVPRO® Dale City/Lake Ridge

The mold cleanup and restoration process begins when you call 703-583-8484. A representative will ask a series of questions to help determine the necessary equipment, resources, and personnel needed.

Inspection & 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 which 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® Dale City/Lake Ridge technicians utilize powerful air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums to 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 the amount of mold growth and the types of surfaces on which the mold appears. Antifungal and antimicrobial treatments will be used to eliminate mold colonies and help prevent new colonies from forming. Removing and disposing of mold-infested porous materials, like drywall and flooring, may be necessary to remediate heavy mold growth.

Cleaning Contents & Belongings

SERVPRO® Dale City/Lake Ridge 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.

Restoration

Depending on the level of 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.

SERVPRO® Dale City/Lake Ridge understand mold and mold growth and have the training and equipment to remediate mold in your home or business.

Managing Mold

8/3/2016 (Permalink)

Call on a restoration system serving insurance companies and their insureds, as well as thousands of commercial property owners.

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.  SERVPRO Dale City/Lake Ridge 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 703-583-8484 Your local SERVPRO Professionals

The mold cleanup and restoration process begins when you call.  A representative will ask a series of questions to help determine the necessary equipment, resources and personnel needed.

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.

Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials

The mold remediation process depends on the amount of mold growth and the types of surfaces on which the mold appears.  Antifungal and antimicrobial treatments will be used to eliminate mold colonies and help prevent new colonies from forming.  Removing and disposing of mold-infested porous materials, like drywall and flooring, may be necessary to remediate heavy mold growth.

Cleaning Contents and Belongings

SERPVRO Dale City/Lake Ridge Professionals clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains and other restorable items affected by mold.  They are also trained to remove odors and deodorization using fogging equipment.

Restoration

Depending on the level of 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 reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

SERVPRO Dale City/Lake Ridge Professionals understand mold and mold growth and have the training and equipment to remediate mold in your home or business.  If you have concerns of mold growth call 703-583-8484 to schedule a visual inspection.

“Mold Removal” vs. Remediation

8/3/2016 (Permalink)

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.

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.

What to Do:

What NOT to Do: