Top Tips Reducing Mold Growth in the Kitchen

5/10/2019 (Permalink)

Top Tips Reducing Mold Growth in the Kitchen

In the kitchen:

• Use exhaust fans to move moisture outside (not into the attic) whenever you are cooking, washing dishes, or cleaning.
• Turn off certain appliances if you notice moisture on windows and other surfaces.
• Check for leaks around the kitchen sink, refrigerator ice makers, and other sources of water. Repair if necessary.
• Empty and clean refrigerator drip pans if necessary.
• Put a plastic cover over dirt in crawl spaces to prevent moisture from coming in from the ground. If there is standing water or the soil is wet, dry it out with fans before covering the floor.
• Be sure crawl spaces are well ventilated by using fans and having vents installed in outside walls if necessary.
• Consider painting concrete floors and using area rugs instead of wall-to-wall carpet in basements. If you plan to install carpet over a concrete floor, it may be necessary to use a vapor barrier (plastic sheeting) over the concrete and cover that with sub-flooring (insulation covered with plywood) to prevent a moisture problem.
• Have your basement floor checked for leaks and have them repaired if necessary. Water can enter your home by leaking or by seeping through basement floors or walls.
• Make sure gutters are working properly and that outdoor landscaping causes water to run away from -- not toward -- the house.
• Do not finish basement walls with insulation and wall board unless your basement is very dry.

Source: webmd Jan 2019

How to Prevent Mold on Your Patio Furniture

10/8/2018 (Permalink)

How to Prevent Mold on Your Patio Furniture

If you’re hoping to save your current furniture or you’ve bought a new patio set and want to keep it from falling victim to the same problem, you can take steps to prevent mildew and mold. When purchasing new furniture, look for water-resistant fabrics and materials and check to see if the dyes used are also weather-resistant. Acrylic and polyester are usually the most durable. You can also waterproof your patio furniture yourself by purchasing a waterproofing kit at your local supply store.

Note that sunscreen and bug spray are known to soak into cushions, so always use a towel to sit on as added protection, and never sit down directly after coming out of the pool. If you do spill water or otherwise soil the furniture, clean it immediately, and do routine cleaning every few weeks. If you do not use your patio furniture year round, consider using furniture covers, or find a shed, garage or storage unit to house it during the off season.

Now that you know how to remove mold and mildew from patio furniture, you can clean up your chairs, table and umbrella to return it to good condition. You’ll be back to lounging out in the summer heat in no time.

Source: https://learn.livingdirect.com/patio-furniture-mold-removal/

Keep an eye on your water bill in order to detect slow leaks

10/8/2018 (Permalink)

Keep an eye on your water bill in order to detect slow leaks

With so many water pipes hidden behind walls and in the floors in your house, you might not know there’s a leak until the damage is done. That’s why it’s a good idea to keep a close eye on your monthly water bill. If you see it starting to creep up, or get one that’s uncommonly high, it’s a pretty good sign that you may have a leak somewhere.

It's not uncommon for us to get a call from a homeowner who has mold behind their dishwasher or mold behind their sink because there has been a slow leak in a pipe in their walls. It's always a good idea to take care of any water leak as soon as possible in order to prevent mold from forming in addition to the water damage.

How to Decrease Your Mold Exposure

8/21/2018 (Permalink)

How to Decrease Your Mold Exposure

How can people decrease mold exposure?

Molds grow best in warm, damp, and humid conditions, and spread and reproduce by making spores. Sensitive individuals should avoid areas that are likely to have mold, such as compost piles, cut grass, and wooded areas. Inside homes, mold growth can be slowed by controlling humidity levels and ventilating showers and cooking areas.

Specific Recommendations:

• Keep humidity levels as low as you can—no higher than 50%–all day long. An air conditioner or dehumidifier will help you keep the level low. Bear in mind that humidity levels change over the course of a day with changes in the moisture in the air and the air temperature, so you will need to check the humidity levels more than once a day.
• Use an air conditioner or a dehumidifier during humid months.
• Be sure the home has adequate ventilation, including exhaust fans.
• Add mold inhibitors to paints before application.
• Clean bathrooms with mold killing products.
• Do not carpet bathrooms and basements.
• Remove or replace previously soaked carpets and upholstery.

What areas have high mold exposures?

• Antique shops
• Greenhouses
• Saunas
• Farms
• Mills
• Construction areas
• Flower shops
• Summer cottages
• Lake Houses

Source: cdc.gov

What are molds?

8/21/2018 (Permalink)

What are molds?

One of the most common questions we receive at SERVPRO® of Taunton and Mansfield is: what exactly is mold.  What kind of mold do I have?  How do I keep it from spreading?

Molds are fungi that can be found both indoors and outdoors. No one knows how many species of fungi exist but estimates range from tens of thousands to perhaps three hundred thousand or more. Molds grow best in warm, damp, and humid conditions, and spread and reproduce by making spores. In addition, mold spores can survive harsh environmental conditions, such as dry conditions, that do not support normal mold growth.

What are some of the common indoor molds?

• Cladosporium
• Penicillium
• Alternaria
• Aspergillus

SERVPRO® can help to remediate the mold in your home.  In addition, SERVPRO® will bring in air scrubbers that will help to remove the mold spores in the air in order to prevent any additional mold from forming.  In most cases, the contaminated area will be sealed off in order to contain the mold spores in the air while the air is being "scrubbed" by the air scrubbers.

In many cases, the mold can simply be remediated.  Please give us a call to schedule an appointment.

Effective Tips on Mold Remediation of Basements

6/6/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Taunton/Mansfield offers the best mold remediation in Taunton & Mansfield. Bristol County residents will no longer have to worry about mold

Mold Eradication Techniques for Basements

Mold is an icky black greenish stuff that can’t be ignored as it deteriorates the look of a house. It also causes health concern to the residents. The availability of moisture, lack of ventilation is a favorable situation that accelerates the growth of mold. The mold removal is necessary to maintain the beauty of a property. If you are worried about removal process, get the services related to mold restoration through hands of expert and skilled restoration technicians.

Mold growth is largely seen in basements due to lack of proper ventilation. The following are some ways to get rid of mold from basement and concrete walls:

Keep Moisture in Check

Mold happens due to favorable conditions which helps spores to grow and spread across the property. One major factor that plays an important role in creating moisture is the lack of ventilation. So, it is necessary to control moisture percentage on your premises if you want to remove mold. The best way is to open windows or passages for air flow throughout the basement. Open the doors and windows of your house so that air can circulate within. Fix water leakages, if any, as mold grows in damp places within 24 to 48 hours. Use dehumidifiers and air conditioners to lower moisture. If you do not have proper ventilation, you’re inviting mold.

Precautions to Be Taken

Since prevention is better than cure, adopting preventive measures can save your home from the harm caused by mold. While you’re in the removal process, wear protective gloves. If you are going to use bleach, wear a respirator mask or dust mask to protect yourself from breathing in mold particles which may have become airborne. Is your commercial property affected by mold? Contact SERVPRO of Taunton/Mansfield for effective residential and commercial mold removal.

Steps for Effective Removal

• Inspect & Prepare the Area

While looking at the area, especially talking about basement, you may see black, white or bluish patches on the wall. If it is left unchecked, it can spread to surrounding organic materials that includes carpeting, cardboard boxes, etc. For proper removal or treatment of mold, firstly remove the belongings away from the wall. This will give enough space to start the removal process and end it in desired results.

• Always Go for Scrubbing

You can find many products available in a market to remediate mold. Bleach is one of these, which is easily available and used for the removal process. One-part bleach and three-part water solution is used to remove mold accompanied by scrubbing using a sponge or a scrub brush. At times, you will have to leave the solution for a while before scrubbing. If this looks tough, the get professional mold remediation.

Tips for Effective Results

Always ensure there is proper air circulation in your house, especially if you live in an area with humid climate. Buy a humidifier for the basement to keep it moist-free. Also, keep a look out for any possible leaks in the plumbing in the basement. If you are going to paint your basement after mold removal, make sure that you use a mold-resistant paint for effective results.

For more info on mold remediation, call SERVPRO of Taunton/Mansfield at (508) 824-0200.

A List of Useful Tips on Black Mold Remediation

5/11/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Taunton/Mansfield is a leading name in black mold restoration in the areas of Taunton, MA and Mansfield, MA and other areas on Cape Cod.

A List of Ways to Remediate Black Mold at Your Property

Have you ever noticed a black tainted or spotted area in the corners of your rooms and spaces? If it gives off a musty, mildew odor, it is surely black mold. Not only is it an aesthetic nuisance, but it may also become the cause of health concerns in the occupants of your property. This growth gradually deteriorates your property and it can become dangerous if its spores are dispersed in the air. This is when you have to hire competent mold remediation professionals from leading companies such as SERVPRO of Taunton/Mansfield. The most common places to find this culprit is in high-moisture areas such as your bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, etc. The excess of water, be it through damaged/leaky pipes or through storm damage, becomes the primary reason for its growth.

Here’s a list of ways to remediate black mold at your residential or commercial property:

Presence of Mold in Kitchens or Bathrooms

There are numerous factors that lead to the growth of black mold in kitchens and bathrooms. The main reasons are the presence of ideal temperature and the right amount of moisture, both of which trigger the growth of black mold. One of the most effective ways to remediate it is to ensure proper ventilation through the property. If there is a proper flow of air through the various rooms, the moisture will dry out and not become a breeding ground for unwanted mold. If you’re looking for a way out of the mold problem, get the help of professional water damage restoration companies who will eliminate any and all causes before mold becomes a problem for you.

Useful Tips for Mold Prevention

If you’re facing black mold problem, you can do the following to restore the damage done by it:

• Always use glasses, gloves, masks, and other protective safety gear before handling black mold. The mold spores and chemical fumes can be hazardous.

• Ensure proper containment and keep the affected area dry. Never use exhaust fans in the area effected, to maintain the temperature and low humidity use dehumidifiers or heaters. Choose depending on your local climate, area being treated and season.

• Always cover the surrounding immovable surfaces before cleaning and removing the mold. If there is furniture present, move it aside before remediating mold.

• Inspect and clean the vents, airducts, HVAC ducts, etc. in a thorough and meticulous manner. These spaces are highly prone to mold damage because of presence of high moisture content.

• In the local market, you will be able to find effective cleaning agents and liquids that will help you in the removal process. However, only use DIY methods if the area is smaller than 5 square feet.

• For large affected areas, get in touch with SERVPRO of Taunton/Mansfield as we offer the best and the most effective mold remediation solutions for residential and commercial properties.

• There are many DIY homemade solutions that you can opt for when removing mold from small affected areas. These include tea tree oil, distilled white vinegar, grapefruit seed extract, etc. all of which are anti-fungal.

• The chemicals that you can utilize for removal are borax, ammonia, bleach and hydrogen peroxide. Please keep in mind that these chemicals are effective but toxic. Do not use them without proper instruction and supervision.

These tips are useful only when the black mold hasn’t exceeded an area of 5 square feet. If the mold problem is larger than this or hidden behind cabinets, under countertops, in the vents, or any other inaccessible areas, it is better that you call in professionals.

For more information on our competent black mold remediation, feel free to call us at (508) 824-0200.

Why Getting Rid of Mold is Necessary

10/9/2017 (Permalink)

Mold restoration in Taunton, MA and in Mansfield, MA is efficient, effectively and professionally offered by SERVPRO of Taunton/Mansfield.

Why Getting Rid of Mold is Necessary

Getting rid of mold that grows in your house is compulsory as it may become a nuisance in terms of aesthetic appeal. Let’s face it, molds are ugly to look at! Their presence gives out the impression of you being a careless and negligent homeowner. Along with being a pet peeves for some, it may also be a health concern for certain residents. As a professional mold restoration service in Taunton, MA and Mansfield, MA, SERVPRO of Taunton/Mansfield specializes in restoring mold-damaged houses and offices. We understand and cater to mold damage of any magnitude, especially after floods and storms.

Why Molds Should Be Removed

Often than not, homeowners ignore molds for as long as possible. They only consider removing it once it is a visible botheration. Even then, only if it is visible on a more frequented area, surface, wall, ceiling, etc. Mold which is secretly plotting against you and your family behind your curtains, below bathtubs, under sink cabinets are left to thrive. It is a big eyesore for many as it ruins the outlook of the surface it grows on, be it a wall, ceiling, cabinet, furniture, etc. Would you want to have the elegance of your house or office ruined by a mold spot? We guess not! Homeowners need to be aware of the fact that mold may also cause health effects.

Who to Call for Removal

For mold growth that is specific in a small reachable area, there are many DIY methods in which you can completely eradicate them yourself without the help of professionals. However, it is advisable to treat the disease instead of just removing the symptoms. So, unless and until you locate the source and get rid of the root cause of mold, it will likely grow again when conditions are favorable. For molds that occupy more than 100 square feet, you should call it in and let the skilled removal crews handle it. Our water removal service in Taunton, MA (and Mansfield, MA) is equipped with the right machinery, expert crews and latest removal best practices to get rid of mold of any size and shape, and in any setting.

DIY Mold Preventions

The most common places where mold is likely to grow inside your homes are kitchens and bathrooms. Since molds thrive in moisture, these areas of moisture enable growth till it becomes an actual problem which needs to be removed.

Here are a few preventive measures you can adopt to avert mold growth within your property:

• Inspect for leakages, even if minor, and fix them immediately
• Don’t let water pool in or accumulate anywhere, especially near or on wood surfaces
• Wipe clean your sinks, countertops, tubs, cabinets, showers, curtains, etc. to keep them moisture-free
• Always utilize ventilation, exhaust fans or air-conditioning before, during and after kitchen or bathroom usage
• Ensure that your kitchens and bathrooms are kept dry

By following these tips, you can make your spaces mold-free for longer durations.

If you have questions about mold restoration in Taunton, MA or mold removal in Mansfield, MA, contact us at (508) 824-0200.

Why Should We Take Mold Growth Seriously

10/9/2017 (Permalink)

Want black mold remediation? Contact SERVPRO of Taunton/Mansfield for mold restoration in Mansfield, MA and get professional results.

Why Should We Take Mold Growth Seriously?

Do you see black stuff collecting on the corners of your walls, ceilings or furniture? Don’t worry, it’s not dark matter, but also worry because it’s black mold which is a concern in terms of aesthetic appearance. This growth will slowly destroy your property if not handled in a timely manner. While it damages, it will also disperse harmful spores into the air, which may cause health implications for certain individuals. The most common places where you will see black mold are kitchens and bathrooms as these are the places where water is frequently used. The moisture provides favorable conditions for mold to grow. Here’s a quick guide on how to get rid of black mold in different areas of your houses along with some useful tips:

Mold in Kitchens and/or Bathrooms

There are numerous reasons which can cause mold growth in kitchens and bathrooms. Ideal temperature and moisture facilitate it by providing ideal conditions for its growth. An effective way to remediate it is to have a proper ventilation system installed. Effective flow of air is necessary to keep the spaces dry and to eliminate moisture content which is necessary for mold growth. There a few DIY methods to prevent it, however, if the situation has escalated, you can hire professional companies such as SERVPRO of Taunton/Mansfield which deal with mold restoration in Mansfield, MA and Taunton, MA.

Handy Tips for Prevention

If your property has been affected by black mold growth, you may try the following handy tips to prevent and even eradicate it by doing-it-yourself:

• Use gloves, glasses, and mask before cleaning affected area. Spores and fumes from the chemicals used can be hazardous
• Proper ventilation is required to keep the area dry. Exhaust fans, humidifiers and air-conditioning in summer and heaters in winters can be used for this purpose
• Cover the surrounding before cleaning and removal process
• Check vents, ducts properly as these may fall victim easily due to not being used or cleaned over longer durations
• Get cleaning agents from the market to clean mold from small areas that have been affected
• For larger areas of the house, always hire a professional company to carry out this task. SERVPRO is a leader in mold restoration in Mansfield, MA and Taunton, MA
• Homemade cleaners can also be utilized for the removal process. These include grapefruit seed extract, tea tree oil, and distilled white vinegar, all of which are anti-fungal
• Besides this borax, hydrogen peroxide, ammonia, and bleach can be utilized. These mold-killing chemicals should be handled carefully

Effective Measures to Remove Mold

The proper removal of black mold is necessary to avoid further damage to your property, furniture, etc. If the black mold growth is beyond the capabilities of DIY solutions, don’t waste more money and simply hire a competent and professional mold remediating service such as SERVPRO of Taunton/Mansfield. Only professionals can know how to remediate it completely and stop it from further growth.

For further inquiries, contact us at (508) 824-0200

Rehoboth Residents: Do You Need a Mold Inspection or Mold Testing?

7/9/2016 (Permalink)

This Rehoboth home had a severe mold problem before SERVPRO of Taunton/Mansfield did the Mold Remediation.

Mold Inspection Vs. Mold Testing

At SERVPRO of Taunton/Mansfield, inspecting for mold is a standard part of what we do. We know the signs to look for and how to identify a problem. Once we detect signs of mold, we search for the cause. After determining the source of the moisture, we begin the process of fixing the problem. If there are no visible signs of mold, but there are some symptoms, allergens for example, the homeowner can choose to have their house tested for mold. In this case, we recommend that they call in an unbiased, third party to do the testing. This eliminates any doubt or questions about the test results and makes for a good system of checks and balances. At SERVPRO of Taunton/Mansfield, we sell our services based on information and not scare tactics.

What to consider when choosing a company to remove mold from your home

Step 1: Choosing a reputable company to treat a mold issue is as important as using the right process to eradicate the mold spores. Look for a company that is experienced and trained in mold remediation. Is the company certified and do they require their employees to receive on-going training to stay on top of the most updated techniques for mold remediation? At SERVPRO of Taunton/Mansfield, we are professionals that are trained and certified and are equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Step 2: Check to make sure the company you are hiring has insurance and not just worker’s compensation. Any reputable company will hold pollution insurance, since mold can be an environmental issue. Can the company do more than just treat your mold problem? Do they have the resources and licensures to do the necessary reconstruction work or will you have to hire a separate contractor for the part of the project? We hold a General Contractor License #: CS-108357

Step 3: Find out if your mold and water damage are covered under your homeowner’s insurance policies.

Step 4: Finally, don’t let price drive your decision. The cheapest isn't always the best choice and neither is the most expensive.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Taunton/Mansfield 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. We know that there are choices in restoration companies, that’s why we, at SERVPRO of Taunton/Mansfield, believe that delivering a full complement of services, from the initial assessment of mold spores to the final reconstruction services and everything in between, along with outstanding customer service should be a standard part of every project, no matter the size.

What to Do:

What Not to Do:

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 508-824-0200

Norton Residents: Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

6/10/2016 (Permalink)

Got Mold? SERVPRO of Taunton/Mansfield provides mold remediation and reconstruction services to help property owners in Norton, MA 02766

Mold…it’s everywhere. It’s present inside and outside and while you will never completely eradicate mold spores from your life, there are situations when it can do significant damage to your property and compromise the integrity of your structure. The first question that comes to most people’s minds is how does mold suddenly appear in a home. The answer is rather simple: it doesn’t suddenly appear… with the proper environment, which is water, and a food source, which come in many forms such as simple everyday items like sheetrock, wood molding, paint, cardboard and even leather mold spores grow over a period of time.

Mold is more than just unsightly…it also has an odor. Though you might be tempted to spray bleach on the affected areas, I wouldn’t recommend doing so, since that can actually increase the damage. Even if you are successful at covering up the unsightly stain, the mold spores spread and continue to grow and travel. If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home.

What to Do:

What Not to Do:

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Taunton/Mansfield 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 – 508-824-0200