Understanding the Diverse Causes of Mold Formation | SERVPRO of West Kirkwood/Sunset Hills

2/29/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Kirkwood/Sunset Hills is here to help with mold damage and mold remediation

Mold is a common and potentially problematic issue that can affect homes and buildings. Its presence not only poses risks to the structure but can also have adverse effects on the health of those living or working within the space. To effectively combat mold, it is crucial to understand the various ways it can form in different environments.

1. Excess Moisture

Mold thrives in damp and humid conditions, making excess moisture the primary factor in mold formation. Several scenarios contribute to elevated humidity levels:

a. Leaky Roofs and Windows:

• Leaks in roofs or around windows allow water to seep into the structure, creating an ideal environment for mold growth.

b. Poor Ventilation:

• Inadequate ventilation can lead to stagnant air, allowing moisture to accumulate and mold to develop.

c. Plumbing Issues:

• Leaky pipes, whether hidden or visible, can introduce water into walls, floors, and ceilings, providing a breeding ground for mold.

d. Basement Dampness:

• Basements are prone to dampness, especially if they are not properly waterproofed. This can lead to mold formation on walls and floors.

2. Floods and Water Damage

Homes and buildings that have experienced flooding or significant water damage are at an increased risk of mold formation. The prolonged presence of moisture following a flood creates conditions conducive to mold growth. Quick and thorough drying is essential in such situations.

3. Condensation

Condensation occurs when warm, moist air comes into contact with a cold surface, leading to the formation of water droplets. Areas prone to condensation include:

a. Windows:

• Condensation on windows can create an environment where mold can thrive on window sills and frames.

b. Cold Walls:

• Exterior walls that are not properly insulated can attract condensation, fostering mold growth.

c. Cold Water Pipes:

• Pipes carrying cold water can accumulate condensation, potentially leading to hidden mold growth.

4. High Humidity

Regions with naturally high humidity levels are more susceptible to mold problems. Coastal areas or places with tropical climates often face challenges in maintaining low humidity, making them prone to mold-related issues.

5. Improperly Sealed Buildings

Buildings that are not properly sealed are more susceptible to external moisture infiltration. This can happen through gaps in walls, roofs, or windows, providing an entry point for water and creating an environment conducive to mold formation.

6. Damp Construction Materials

During construction or remodeling, if building materials are exposed to rain or high humidity and are not adequately dried before installation, they can harbor mold. This hidden mold can later become a problem as the building ages.

7. Airborne Mold Spores

Mold spores are naturally present in the air both indoors and outdoors. While they are usually harmless in low concentrations, when provided with the right conditions, these spores can settle and multiply, leading to mold infestation.

8. Household Activities

Certain household activities can inadvertently contribute to mold growth:

a. Drying Clothes Indoors:

• Hanging wet clothes to dry indoors can introduce excess moisture into the air.

b. Cooking without Proper Ventilation:

• Cooking, especially boiling or frying, releases moisture into the air. Without proper ventilation, this can lead to mold problems.

c. Indoor Plants:

• Overwatering indoor plants can increase humidity levels, creating an environment favorable to mold.

Preventing and Addressing Mold Issues:

Understanding the various causes of mold formation is crucial, but so is taking preventive measures and addressing existing problems promptly. Here are some preventive steps and solutions:

a. Maintain Proper Ventilation:

• Ensure that your home or building is adequately ventilated to prevent the accumulation of stagnant air and moisture.

b. Address Leaks Promptly:

• Repair any leaks in the roof, windows, or plumbing as soon as they are identified.

c. Use Dehumidifiers:

• Employ dehumidifiers in areas prone to high humidity, such as basements or bathrooms.

d. Improve Insulation:

• Properly insulate walls and windows to reduce the likelihood of condensation.

e. Regular Maintenance:

• Conduct regular inspections of the building, checking for leaks, and ensuring proper drainage.

f. Promptly Address Water Damage:

• If your home has experienced flooding or water damage, take immediate steps to dry and sanitize the affected areas.

g. Control Indoor Humidity:

• Maintain indoor humidity levels between 30-50% to discourage mold growth.

h. Properly Seal Buildings:

• Ensure that the building is properly sealed to prevent water infiltration.

i. Use Mold-Resistant Products:

• Consider using mold-resistant building materials, especially in areas prone to dampness.

j. Professional Mold Remediation:

• If mold is already present, consult with professional mold remediation services like SERVPRO of West Kirkwood/Sunset Hills  for safe and effective removal.

Conclusion: Vigilance and Proactivity are Key

Mold formation can result from a combination of factors, making it essential to remain vigilant and proactive in preventing and addressing potential issues. By understanding the diverse causes of mold growth, individuals can take steps to create an environment that is inhospitable to mold, ensuring the health and longevity of their homes and buildings. If mold damage becomes an issue, don’t hesitate to call the remediation professionals at SERVPRO of West Kirkwood/Sunset Hills.

Defeating Mold Damage: Expert Strategies for a Mold-Free Home | SERVPRO of West Kirkwood/Sunset Hills

9/26/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Kirkwood/Sunset Hills is your trusted choice for mold removal and remediation. Call us today at (314) 858-1688

If you’ve ever experienced issues with mold, you know that it’s more than just an unsightly nuisance. 

Mold can silently wreak havoc on your health and property. In this extensive guide, we will delve deep into the dangers of mold, how to detect its presence, and the indispensable role of professional mold remediation services. Whether you're dealing with mold removal, mold remediation, or the costs involved, this comprehensive resource will equip you with vital knowledge to protect your West Kirkwood or Sunset Hills, Missouri property.

Understanding Mold

Mold, a type of fungus, serves a vital role in nature by breaking down organic matter. However, when it infiltrates our indoor spaces, it can cause a multitude of issues. Let's explore the key aspects of mold:

• Health Risks: Exposure to mold can lead to a range of health problems. Mold spores are allergens that can trigger asthma, allergies, respiratory issues, and skin irritations.

• Black Mold (Stachybotrys chartarum): Often dubbed "toxic black mold," this species is particularly notorious for its mycotoxins, which can lead to severe health problems when inhaled or touched.

• Property Damage:P Mold thrives on organic materials like wood, drywall, and insulation, causing structural damage and costly repairs.

• Airborne Allergens: Mold releases allergenic proteins that can initiate allergies, even in individuals who haven't experienced them before.

• Mold Odor: Mold produces a distinct, musty odor that permeates the environment, making your indoor space uncomfortable and unwelcoming.

Identifying Mold Damage

Early detection is crucial for effective mold remediation. In many cases, it will be necessary to call a professional mold remediation company for mold testing. Mold often grows in concealed, inaccessible areas, rendering it invisible without professional help. Here are some telltale signs of mold damage:

• Visible Mold Growth: The most apparent indication is the presence of visible mold. It can manifest as fuzzy, discolored patches on walls, ceilings, or other surfaces.

• Musty Odor: An enduring, musty smell is a strong indicator of mold growth, even if you can't see it. This scent is a result of the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by mold.

• Water Damage History: Properties with a history of water damage, flooding, or leaks are at higher risk for mold growth. Mold thrives in moist environments.

• Health Symptoms: If occupants experience unexplained health symptoms like coughing, sneezing, congestion, or skin irritation that improve when leaving the property, mold may be the culprit.

• Peeling Paint or Wallpaper: Mold can cause paint or wallpaper to peel or bubble as it grows beneath these surfaces.

The Mold Remediation Process

Mold remediation is a complex, regulated process aimed at identifying, containing, and eliminating mold to ensure the safety and health of occupants. Here's an overview of the standard mold remediation process:

Mold Inspection and Assessment

Before embarking on the remediation journey, a certified mold inspector evaluates the extent of the mold damage. They identify the type of mold, its location, and the underlying moisture source that fueled its growth.

Containment

Effective containment is vital to prevent mold spores from migrating to uncontaminated areas. Professionals utilize plastic sheeting and negative air pressure machines to isolate the affected area.

Mold Removal

The next stage involves the physical mold removal. Depending on the infestation's scale, this may entail removing and disposing of materials like drywall, insulation, or carpeting. Professionals wear personal protective equipment (PPE) and adhere to stringent safety protocols throughout this phase.

Mold Cleaning and Sanitization

All surfaces within the containment area undergo thorough cleaning and sanitization, utilizing specialized equipment and antimicrobial agents to eliminate any lingering mold spores.

Drying and Dehumidification

To prevent future mold growth, experts employ industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers to fully dry the affected space. Addressing the moisture source is pivotal in mold prevention.

Post-Remediation Testing

After remediation, a certified mold testing company may perform post-remediation testing to confirm the successful resolution of the mold issue and ensure safe indoor air quality.

Assessing Mold Remediation Costs

The cost of mold remediation can vary considerably based on factors such as the extent of the infestation, the type of mold, and its location within the property. Several factors may influence mold remediation costs:

• Infestation Size: Larger mold infestations typically necessitate more extensive remediation efforts, leading to higher costs.

• Location Complexity: Mold in confined or challenging-to-reach areas may require additional labor and equipment, impacting the overall cost.

• Mold Type: Hazardous molds, including toxic black mold, may necessitate more elaborate safety measures, driving up costs.

• Structural Damage: Mold that has caused structural deterioration may entail expensive repairs, such as drywall replacement or subfloor restoration.

• Insurance Coverage: Depending on your insurance policy, a portion or the entirety of the remediation costs may be covered, reducing your financial burden.

It's crucial to remember that while mold remediation costs are a concern, the health and safety of occupants should take precedence. Cutting corners during mold remediation can result in incomplete removal and recurrent mold problems.

A Mold Remediation Company You Can Trust: SERVPRO of West Kirkwood/Sunset Hills

When seeking mold remediation services, it's essential to choose a reputable and experienced mold removal company. Here are some essential considerations for selecting the right professionals:

• Certifications: Seek out companies and technicians certified by renowned organizations such as the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) or the National Association of Mold Professionals (NAMP).

• References: Request references or peruse online reviews on sites such as Google or Yelp to gauge the company's reputation and customer satisfaction.

• Experience: Opt for a company with extensive experience in mold remediation. Their knowledge and expertise will be indispensable in handling your specific situation.

• Transparency: The chosen company should provide a detailed scope of work, including a written estimate and a clear explanation of the

In your quest for mold removal and remediation services, consider the mold remediation experts at SERVPRO of West Kirkwood/Sunset Hills, experienced professionals dedicated to ensuring your safety and restoring your peace of mind.

Preventing Future Mold Infestations

After successfully remedying mold, it's imperative to implement preventive measures to stave off future mold issues. Here are some strategies to maintain a mold-free environment:

• Moisture Control: Identify and rectify moisture sources, such as leaks, plumbing issues, or inadequate ventilation. Keeping indoor humidity levels below 60% is a potent preventive measure.

• Routine Maintenance: Perform regular inspections and maintenance to spot and address potential problem areas early, before they become breeding grounds for mold.

• Proper Ventilation: Ensure ample ventilation in moisture-prone zones like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. Consider using exhaust fans and dehumidifiers if necessary.

• Effective Drainage: Channel rainwater away from your property by maintaining gutters, downspouts, and proper grading.

• Timely Repairs: Swiftly attend to water damage issues. Do not delay in fixing leaks, roof damage, or plumbing problems that can spawn mold growth.

Conclusion

Mold damage is a formidable adversary that poses health risks, property damage, and persistence without proper management. Mold removal and remediation are tasks best entrusted to certified professionals who possess the expertise, equipment, and experience to ensure thorough and safe mold cleanup. By understanding the perils of mold, recognizing its presence, and taking proactive measures, you can safeguard your property and the well-being of your loved ones. Always remember, when it comes to mold, prevention is paramount, but prompt and effective remediation is your first line of defense.

SERVPRO of West Kirkwood/Sunset Hills is here to help with your mold remediation services needs. We have 24/7  emergency services and are always available for mold testing and mold estimates. Call us today at (314) 858-1688. 

Should You Get Your West Kirkwood/Sunset Hills Home Tested For Mold?

5/24/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Kirkwood/Sunset Hills is here to help with mold remediation.

SERVPRO of West Kirkwood/Sunset Hills is here to help with mold remediation.

When is time to get a sample for mold? If visible mold growth is present, sampling is unnecessary.

Surface sampling may be useful to determine if an area has been adequately cleaned or remediated. Sampling for mold should be conducted by professionals who have specific experience in designing mold sampling protocols, sampling methods and interpreting results.

Sample analysis should follow analytical methods recommended by the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA), the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH), or other professional organizations.

Are there federal regulations or standards regarding mold testing?

Standards or Threshold Limit Values (TLVs) for airborne concentrations of mold, or mold spores, have not been set. Currently, there are no EPA regulations or standards for airborne mold contaminants.

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.
• 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.

The Mold Remediation Process

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

1. Emergency Contact - (314) 858-1688
2. Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
3. Mold Containment
4. Air Filtration
5. Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
6. Cleaning Contents and Belongings

What is Microbial Contamination?

10/28/2019 (Permalink)

What is Microbial Contamination? Where does mold come from? Is microbial contamination a health concern issue? How do you properly get rid of a microbial contamination? 

Microbial contamination refers to a variety of microorganisms, including mold, bacteria, viruses and protozoa; and fungi, which includes molds, yeasts, and their by products and toxins. All of these can affect the health of a building and its occupants. 

As a starting point the proper job sequencing for a typical microbial-remediation project includes but it not limited to: identifying and stopping the source of moisture; setting up containment; establishing negative air; removing contaminated building materials; cleaning surfaces; drying the affected areas; conducting a post remediation evaluation. 

Mold spores are a major concern for our project managers. Because of their very small size, mold spores can be anywhere there is air, including under carpet, inside wall cavities, under kitchen cabinets, virtually everywhere. Molds are usually not a problem unless mold spores land on a damp spot and begin growing. They digest whatever organic material they grow on in order to survive. Some molds grow on wood, paper, carpet, foods and insulation, while other molds feast on the everyday dust and dirt that gather in the moist regions of a building. Generally mold spores are hydrophobic. This means that spores do not like water itself. While mold spores need water to colonize (germinate and grow), they like wet organic substances, not a puddle of standing water.  

Never use a DIY mold test, Heres why!

8/27/2018 (Permalink)

If you look on the internet, there are scores of DIY mold test kits. Before you invest in one of these kits, here are things you ought to know about mold:

• Mold is everywhere and every single house has some form of “mold.”
• Most self-test mold kits only tell you if your home has mold, but often provides false negatives and positives. It also does not tell you what kind of mold or how to kill it.

A true mold test can only be conducted by a Professional Environmental testing company; they determine the type of mold, the source of the moisture, and how to kill the mold at the core. They create a protocol, which can be read by an IICRC professional (like us!).  It’s best to use a testing company that does not do cleaning themselves because their assessment will be unbiased.

• Mold is more often hidden, sometimes under the floor or in the walls, or in your air ducts

Where the mold is located, often dictates where the moisture is affecting the building

• Untreated water damage may result in mold growth within 24-48 hours of the event

Wood, insulation, fiberglass, carpet and other organic substances become a thriving environment for mold once there is moisture present for more than 24 hours. After a week, it is almost guaranteed.

Free estimates or removing mold yourself cost homeowners more in the long run

Be wary of companies who advertise free mold testing. Free mold tests are often offered by people who are uncertified or inexperienced and if they do the mold testing themselves, they are using these kits mentioned above. Unless they are a certified Environmental Hygienist and have a PhD in microbiology, they do not have the knowledge or resources to truly diagnose the mold condition in your home.

• The source of the mold is never addressed, so the problem is reoccurring.
• They use the “self-test” kits mentioned above instead of environmental testing with diagnostics
• Remove only topical mold instead of killing it at the source
• They often remove more walls and floors than needed which increases the price to rebuild.
• They do not remove enough, or don’t use the right materials which brings the mold back.

This means you have to pay to have it removed again, and have more sanitation and demolition performed, which increases the price to rebuild and replace tremendously.

What you should do instead

Having mold can be scary, especially if anyone in your home is prone to getting sick (people with asthma, low immune systems, allergies, babies and the elderly). We recommend the following course of action if you need to have mold removed from your home.

1. Measure the area affected and check for moisture.
2. Call your insurance company, ask:

• If you are covered for mold
• What is your deductible
• What is your coverage
• Ask for a company that they approve of for mold mitigation (Chances are, it’s us.)

If your insurance company says you can use anyone – or if you are not going through insurance then look for someone who is certified in

• IICRC, Water Restoration Technician
• IICRC, Mold restoration
• IICRC, Applied Structural Drying
• Now that you’re armed with knowledge, it’s time to start making some calls.

Now that you know your coverage, how much visible mold there is in your home, and whom your insurance company approves as mold remediation specialists. It’s time to start making some calls.

Remediation does Not address ongoing moisture issues!

5/22/2018 (Permalink)

We can all agree that the physical removal of mold under controlled conditions is the proper way to address remediation. Seasoned owners and technicians are often quick to remind people that, “as long as you remediate properly and keep the area dry once remediated, you wont have future problems”.

However, while this is true, the thing that this industry seems to be missing is the relationship with between temperature and humidity, otherwise known as dew point. It doesn’t matter how dry and area is today. If the dew point rises and condensation occurs, moisture content in structural substrate rises, producing conditions conducive to mold growth. We see examples of this daily in attics, basements, crawlspaces and exterior wall cavities. There was no water intrusion or no leaky pipes, but there was the condensation caused by temperature changes that resulted in hitting the dew point over enough cycles that moisture content increased and the resulting conducive condition lead to mold growth. So while, yes, keeping an area dry is an absolute must, it takes specific engineering controls to prevent condensation from leading to moisture content increases and therefore mold growth. Our crews here at SERVPRO west Kirkwood and Sunset Hills have all the necessary equipment to treat and make sure that everything is taken care of. Give us a call at 314-858-1688.

Three Helpful Tips For A Mold Free Home While Your Away!

2/7/2018 (Permalink)

Vacation time is just around the corner so, you want to make sure you're West Kirkwood/ Sunset Hills home is the best condition so no tragic situations occur. In order to get the most out of your vacation, you probably want to make sure that your house is in the right condition to leave it. No matter where you live, mold can spread while you aren’t there. It’s important to make sure that you don’t have to come home only to start a cleanup effort. These three easy tips on mold prevention while on vacation should help ease your mind.

1. Check Home in Advance

As the date of your vacation comes closer, the checklist of things you need to do before you can leave gets longer and longer. The one thing that you don’t want to skip out on is ensuring that there isn’t any mold in your home. The first tip in mold prevention is to make sure that there isn’t any fungus that can spread. If you want extra reassurance, you can have a specialist perform a mold test.

2. Keep Heat Low

What to do with your thermostat when you leave has everything to do with what time of year you vacation. Heat helps create the perfect environment for mold growth. If you’re leaving in the winter, then it’s a good idea to turn off your thermostat entirely. However, if you’re leaving in the summer, you may want to set it cooler. While you don’t want to waste energy on your air conditioning, you can keep your home at a temperature about five degrees higher than what you find comfortable.

3. Turn Off Water

Together, moisture and heat can derail your efforts against mold. If you’re leaving for a significant period of time, it’s smart to turn off your water entirely. After all, if there are any leaks while you’re gone, you won’t be able to catch them in time to prevent water damage.

If you’re on vacation, you deserve to relax without worrying about what might go wrong in West Kirkwood/ Sunset Hills while you’re not there. Simple mold prevention can help reduce the risk of mold. Visit http://www.SERVPROwestkirkwoodsunsethills.com/mold-remediation for more information on mold.

Mold Growth From Water Leaks

9/19/2017 (Permalink)

A leaky faucet in your home can be very annoying, but it has the potential to be much more than an annoyance. The moisture caused by leaks can make your home into the perfect environment for spring mold growth. Mold spores may cause health effects and can grow rapidly if you fail to notice a leak shortly after it starts, especially in humid climates. Knowing the risks that mold presents and quickly fixing your water leaks can help to protect your home from mold growth. 

 If you see black and white spots in the area of the leak, this is a sign that you have mold. Kitchens and basements are some of the areas in your home where there is a high risk of mold growth as these areas are prone to leaks. It is therefore important that you properly maintain your plumbing fixtures.

If you spot any types of mold growth or smell a funny smells give SERVPRO West Kirkwood and Sunset Hills a call at 314-858-1688 and we'll make it "Like it never even happened."

You Could Be Spreading Mold Through Your Sunset Hills Home

6/22/2017 (Permalink)

If you see visible mold in your Sunset Hills/West Kirkwood home, or business, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can then 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 West Kirkwood and Sunset Hills 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 Service SERVPRO West Kirkwood and Sunset Hills 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. Our crews will make your home or business "Like it never even happened." Give us a call at 314-858-1688.

For more mold information visit: http://www.SERVPROwestkirkwoodsunsethills.com/mold-remediation

Areas In Your Home That Mold Can Hide From You.

4/13/2017 (Permalink)

Mold can occur anywhere in your Kirkwood or Sunset Hills 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.

If you think you may have a mold problem die SERVPRO of West Kirkwood and Sunset Hills a call at 314-858-1688 and we will make it Like It Never Even Happened!

Bleach Does NOT Kill Mold!

3/24/2017 (Permalink)

Most people think that bleach with completely get rid of their mold problem. In fact, bleach will only  remove the color or stain of mold and will, in some cases, will allow toxic mold to grow where it was not present before. Read below to see how mold is properly cleaned and the affects that bleach has on mold. 

Mold - that scary four letter word that no home or business owner ever wants to hear. If you do end up in the unfortunate situation that mold is growing in your building, what do you do? Many have been told “simply wash down the affected area with a bleach solution”. Yes, bleach is a powerful product that can sanitize surfaces and kill bacteria, however, bleach does not kill mold!

A bleach mixture is a great solution to use when cleaning your non-porous shower stalls or wiping down your hard surface countertops. However, using bleach on a porous surface such as wood or drywall where mold is traditionally found, is a different story.

Mold is a term that refers to fungi that grow in the form of multicellular thread-like structures, which grow into colonies. On a porous surface, the mold colonies grow into the pores of the material, much like a tree’s roots grow deep into the ground. Bleach is only able to kill what lies on the surface of the porous material, leaving what lies below the surface to continue to grow. To the eye, it appears that you’ve killed the mold that is growing, but unfortunately this is not true. The mold will then grow back stronger, deeper, and spread more since it’s embedded into the pores of the material.

If your home or business are affected by mold, call us today at 314-858-1688. SERVPRO of West Kirkwood and Sunset Hills will completely restore your property from mold damage with the correct equipment and solutions. 

The four W's of Mold

2/27/2017 (Permalink)

THE VARIOUS SCENERIOS OF MOLD REMEDIATION

Protecting your home from the ravages of mold can be a daunting task if you don't know what to look for or don't know you have it. However, it's a process that every homeowner should consider in order to protect the structural integrity of their home as well as the health and wellness of their family.

The Four W's of Mold...

Who...

The process of determining if you have mold, and if so, what type begins with 5 questions that cover a number of considerations. It's a given that mold only grows in damp conditions. As a result, you must ask yourself if you or a neighbor has a water leak? Mold only takes a few days to form in moist situations. Even if you don't have a leak, your neighbor's leak could become a true bone of contention for you if you live in an apartment or duplex.

What Where and When...

Obviously, if you can visibly see mold you know you have a problem that needs resolving. Determining what type of mold you have becomes the obvious next step. Additionally, if you have water that pools against the exterior of your house when it rains, the moisture will affect not only exterior walls but the interior walls as well. It's just a question of "when."

Other Indicators...

In addition to visibly seeing mold, a musty moldy smell is a good indication that your dwelling has a mold issue. If the atmosphere in your home is humid, and your windows sweat revealing condensation, these are conditions that are ripe for developing a problem with mold if you don't already have one. Flair ups with allergies and illness in your pets are also strong indicators of a mold problem. Mold is a serious issue that can impact not only the infrastructure of your house but the health of you and your family members. Even if you plan on moving it's a good idea to have your new home tested for the presence of mold as a safety measure.

Having your home tested for mold is a good investment to protect the health and the integrity of both your family and your homes structure. After all, an ounce of prevention is always worth a ton of cure.Our crews here at SERVPRO of West Kirkwood/Sunset Hills have all the necessary equipment to treat and make sure that everything is taken care of. Give us a call at 314-858-1688!