How To Identify Black Mold

3/21/2022 (Permalink)

Follow These Tips, Identify Black Mold, and prevent Mold Damage in your Kaysville, UT Home.

If your Kaysville, UT home has a musty, earthy smell, it’s a sure sign that there is mold growing somewhere. When there are no visible spots, getting a mold inspection done by a professional mold damage restoration company will determine the type of fungi that has invaded your home.

What Is Black Mold?

Although “black” may be in its name, Stachybotrys mold isn’t always that color.

Although typically dark, it can range from dark green to dark brown. In some instances, they have orange hues or white specks. Regardless of the color, it often appears fuzzy and grows in a long line like a stain. Nigrospora and Cladosporium are commonly found. They are dark in color. 

Even if you don’t see the mold, its unique smell alerts you to a problem. The smell emitted actually comes from microbial volatile organic compounds, which are gasses produced during reproduction and feeding. As it continues to grow, it releases spores into the air. Once these microscopic spores are floating around, it may affect indoor air quality. This type of mold is most commonly found in the following areas:

• On or near cellulose materials, such as drywall and wood
• Damp areas, especially basements
• Behind walls and ceiling panels
• Condensation prone areas, such as the bathroom and kitchen
• Grout and sealants

Why Get a Mold Inspection?

When you find house mold, know you have a problem. When you can’t see it, you still know there is a problem. If mold is left to flourish, it may mean bigger problems down the road. Since mold spores find new places to build a new colony, the structure of the home is at risk. Large areas of mold eventually need to be replaced, which may get costly.

Calling a professional for an inspection helps ensure that doesn’t happen. Along with the expertise and tools to locate hidden mold, professionals will be able to create a plan of action to eradicate the problem and return your home back to like new. It is worth contacting a professional when:

• There is a musty, moldy smell that lingers but no visible mold.
• The home has experienced recent flooding, plumbing leaks or other moisture issues.
• Mold has been detected before and the homeowner wants to ensure the issue was properly taken care of.
• If it is a new home you are purchasing, there may have been undocumented water damage.

Any home, such as a vacation home, that has been unoccupied or closed up should get a mold test. Varying levels of humidity may have provided the right conditions for mold to form.

While finding or smelling any mold in your home is unpleasant, it is important to know what you are dealing with. A professional mold inspection helps provide those answers, along with solutions to solve the problem.

How To Treat Mold

11/10/2021 (Permalink)

If you detect mold in your Layton, UT commercial building, call a specialist to avoid mold spread and further damage.

A musty odor in your commercial building in Layton, UT, is a clear sign of mold. What may not be clear is the visible presence of the fungus on your walls or ceiling. If you suspect you have mold but you can't see it, an indoor environmental specialist must test the building before remediation can take place.

6 Steps to Treat Mold

Detection

Some business owners try to locate problems themselves using a mold test from the local hardware store. The only thing this test will tell you, however, is that spores are present in the building, and that's always true. Any time the door opens, mold can enter on clothes, hair, and shoes. It doesn't become a problem until it concentrates and begins to grow on surfaces. Sometimes, you can't see the surfaces where it grows, though. Then you need a professional inspection.

Testing

A certified hygienist conducts tests on both surfaces and the air. These tests reveal more than just the presence of mold:

• Location of the greatest concentration of spores
• Type of mold present
• Air quality of the affected area
  

Once the testing is complete, the mold mitigation specialists know where to start.

Assessment

The report from the indoor environmental specialist is an essential part of the overall assessment process. It tells the remediation team members how large an area they need to seal off so that the mold problem doesn't spread any further in the building. From that point, they can create a plan of action for taking care of the issue. At this point, they should also be able to provide a general estimate to supplement your insurance claim.

Removal

One of the first things that technicians must do is tear out any unsalvageable material. If there is mold growth on any porous matter, such as drywall or industrial ceiling tiles, it cannot simply be washed away. The fungus on the surface isn't the only problem. When spores settle, tendrils called mycelia to reach down into the spaces beneath the surface to anchor the growth. Once this happens, the only way to get rid of it is to take the affected materials out altogether.

Retesting

After the growth has been removed, the remaining surfaces are cleaned and dried to prevent the problem from returning. Then the area must be retested. This crucial step of the process ensures that the actions taken by the mitigation team are effective and that no mold issue persists. Remediation must be completed before the structure can be rebuilt.

Restoration

The final phase is getting the building back to normal. New tiles and drywall are installed. Paint and wallpaper are matched to the existing space so that no one can tell where the problem occurred. The job isn't done until your building looks like there was never a problem at all.

If you suspect that you have mold in your building but you don't see any visible evidence, you should call an indoor environmental specialist. A professional test reveals what kind of problem you have and how big it is. This is exactly the information the mitigation team needs in order to do its job well.

How Long Does Mold Removal Take? 3 Important Factors That Affect Time

9/7/2021 (Permalink)

If you see signs of mold in your Layton, UT building, hire a professional to stop the damage.

While every business owner hopes that mold removal will only take a day or two, the timeline varies. There are several factors that can influence the timeline, including:

• Type of mold
• Severity of the problem
• Underlying cause of the damage

A mold remediation specialist in Layton, UT, can help you determine a timeline. In most instances, however, the duration of the cleanup will be three to seven days.

Understanding the Extent of the Problem

Before you can properly address a mold problem, you need to determine the extent of it. Mold needs time to establish itself. The cleanup time depends on how long the mold has been growing and how long it took for the mold to become visible.

The proper way to address the issue is to recognize the nature of the problem and take the appropriate action. Although many business owners have been able to remove the moldy material from their buildings, exposure to airborne mold spores still exists.

When dealing with mold growth, especially when you do not know the variety, black mold, or some other variant, it is best to work with a professional. In some industries, commercial insurance might even require professional mold removal.

What Can Influence the Removal Timeline?

The age of the building. The older the building, the longer it will take to clear the mold. Older structures have many little holes and plumbing issues that allow mold to enter. Additionally, the material used to build the building can have an impact on the frequency of wet-dry cycles and other environmental conditions. You will also need to know whether the materials used in the construction of the property have a known lifespan.

Additionally, know the cause of the growth. A leak from a roof or other water-intrusion source can create the perfect conditions for mold growth. While you can search for causes on your own, seeking professional assistance is likely best.

How Long Does Removal Take in the Worst Case Scenario?

There are occasions when mold restoration may take much longer than you’d like. First, you need to consider the source of the mold problem. In many cases, you’ll need to hire a mold remediation contractor to determine the source of the mold. Secondly, the extent of the damage to the building’s structure and/or interior will also affect the timeline of the cleanup. After determining the cause of the mold problem, the remediation specialist will determine the best way to address the problem. You may need to hire a team of specialists in your area to remove the mold from the building and clean the building’s interior.

Mold remediation is something that most business owners take seriously. It can be a daunting task, the important thing to remember is that it is preventable. A number of measures, such as using dehumidifiers, sealing cracks, and keeping your property clean can help keep mold at bay. It’s also a good idea to seek the assistance of a mold remediation specialist in Layton, UT.

Mold removal professionals have the knowledge and skills necessary to tackle the challenges of a cleanup. They are also your best hope for getting back to business quickly.

5 Types of Mold That Can Grow in Your House

6/28/2021 (Permalink)

The most favorable conditions for mold growth are moisture and darkness.

Mold is a type of fungus that is present in nearly every environment, including your home. Most homeowners have probably heard of black mold because of media attention. However, there are actually many different types of mold growth that can occur in your home.

1. Acremonium

This mold usually grows in humidifiers, drain pans, window seals, cooling coils, and other high humidity environments. It begins as a small, moist mold that later becomes fine and powdery. It is usually grey, pink, white, or orange in color.

2. Aspergillus

This type of mold growth is one of the most common household molds. There are more than 185 species of this mold that come in a variety of different colors. Its long, flask-shaped spores can form thick layers on surfaces.

3. Chaetomium

This variety commonly occurs in homes that have water damage. It has a texture that is similar to cotton and changes color from white to grey to brown and then black as it gets older. Common locations for this mold include leaky roofs, sinks, and basements. It gives off a musty odor.

4. Fusarium

Fusarium also grows in water-damaged homes and can continue growing in cold temperatures. It is often found in wallpaper, carpeting, and other fabrics. It is usually white, pink, or red and sometimes grows on food or in compost.

5. Penicillin

This type can be identified by its distinctive green or blue surface and velvet-like texture. This mold is often discovered in buildings with water damage in Layton, Utah, while the mold remediation is being performed. It spreads quickly and often grows in wallpaper, ducts, mattresses, and carpets. As with many types of mold, it is important to eliminate sources of excess moisture to get rid of it.

These are just a few of the many types of mold growth you may find in your home. Whatever type of mold you have, it is important to have prompt mold remediation done to address the issue before more damage occurs.

What To Do While You Wait for Mold Mitigation

3/19/2021 (Permalink)

Black mold can get out of control quickly.

The musty odor in your home alerts you to a problem. Even if you can't see it, black mold can get out of control quickly if you don't have it mitigated properly. While mold remediation specialists in Layton, UT, are likely to arrive within hours of your call, there are some things you can do in the meantime to stop the spread.

2 Things To Do To Stop the Spread of Mold 

1. Control Moisture

If you have mold growth in your home, a moisture problem is probably how it got started. There are several ways that excess moisture can increase the likelihood of fungus issues:

• High humidity
  
• Standing water
  
• Unresolved water damage
  
• Hidden leaks
  

Try to address these problems to the best of your ability. For example, you can use a dehumidifier to ensure that your home remains at a 40-50% humidity level, and watch your water bill so that you notice unexplained spikes in usage that may indicate a water loss. The more you can control the moisture in your home, the less likely the black mold growth is to spread.

2. Stop Air Flow

The seemingly logical thing to do when you want to lower humidity is to increase the air flow through your home. If you already know you need mold cleanup or suspect you have a fungus issue, however, that can actually make the problem worse. Spores travel by air. If you turn your HVAC unit on high, it is likely to spread the concentrated spores into other areas of your home. What you need to do instead is turn off the unit completely. If you know where the mold is growing, try to seal off that part of the house by closing vents and doors. The more you can keep the concentrated mold contained, the smoother the cleanup process is going to go.

Black mold can multiply in your home quickly, so your primary task is to call the experts as soon as possible. Then control moisture and protect the rest of the house from air flow from the affected area to prevent spread.

Why You Should Always Call a Mold Removal Specialist

1/22/2021 (Permalink)

Always contact a mold remediation specialist.

People often underestimate the complexity of mold cleaning, assuming that all removals are the same and require little skill or knowledge of the numerous fungal species in existence. While some mold infestations do require little expertise, these occurrences are often few and far between. It is better to contact a mold remediation specialist in Layton, UT, to handle a mold problem, regardless of the problem's apparent size, for three specific reasons.

3 Reasons to Always Contact a Mold Remediation Specialist

1. Appearances Are Deceiving

A homeowner will often see a little bit of mold or discoloration on a basement or laundry room wall and incorrectly assume that it is only surface mold. Removing surface mold is necessary and expected in bathrooms or high-moisture areas, but mold cleaning a surface is different from mold removal. While only a little bit of mold shows on the surface, there can be a more significant issue behind the wall. Think of mold like an iceberg, where only 10% shows above the surface of the water.

2. Improper Disposal Can Intensify Infestations

Depending on the severity of the infestation and the species mold damage, removal can make matters worse. When a room is highly contaminated, any mold pocket movement can release spores into the room and home, especially if certain precautions were not taken. Professionals understand the level of caution required with different species and circumstances.

3. Underlying Problems Require Resolution

If you have a mold problem in your home, it is crucial to find the source or cause of the problem. In most situations, the mold collects near areas of moisture, typically stemming from water line leaks or breaks. The leak does not need to be severe, especially if it is steady. If the moisture problem is not corrected, you can expect the mold to return.

DIY mold cleaning is never a good idea. Without the proper knowledge, you can make the situation much worse. It is best to contact a remediation professional if you suspect mold damage.

How To Assess Mold Damage in Your Home

11/17/2020 (Permalink)

Prompt mold assessment and professional removal is important to keep your home safe.

If you’re like most homeowners in Layton, UT, when you see small, dark spots or suddenly get a whiff of something musty in your basement, you fear the worst: black mold. The good news is that with a thorough mold assessment, you can pinpoint the source of any mildew or mold-related issue and combat it quickly.

2 Types of Testing For Mold Damage

Mold Testing Kits

The EPA refuses to endorse any home testing kit. Instead, it strongly encourages you to have your home tested by professionals if you suspect you have mold on the premises.
Still, some homeowners choose to go the retail testing kit route. Kits are sold at most home improvement stores, as well as online, and are typically straightforward to use:

• Expect the assessment process to take several days.
  
• If your home tests positive for mold, be prepared to send your test to a lab to uncover what type of mold you have.
  
• Tests range in price from $25 to $45.
  Specimen analysis, when necessary, will cost another $40 to $75.
  
  

Professional Testing

When you contact your local mold remediation company for a mold assessment, it will send a team of technicians to your home to determine the following:

• The source of the mold
  
• The type of mold involved
  
• How much of your home has been impacted, including any airborne spread
  
• Whether structural materials have been affected
  
• How to best remove the mold from you home given the above factors
  

After the inspection, you can expect a written report that states the specialists' findings and proposed remediation plan.

Once you sign off on a mold removal strategy, work should begin right away. The exact scope of the job varies based on the specific materials and areas of your home affected, but generally speaking, mold removal professionals will contain the contaminated area, remove the mold, scrub the air and clean and sanitize the premises.

Mold is a homeowner’s nightmare, but it doesn’t have to be. With a prompt mold assessment and professional removal, your home can safely return to its comfortable, spore-free state.

3 Reasons Mold May Come Back After Remediation

6/29/2020 (Permalink)

Mold may return after remediation

While black mold often jumps to the mind of any homeowner dealing with a mold infestation, they likely do not have to worry about toxic mold. However, what many homeowners may need to worry about is the resurgence of an outbreak after a mold cleanup. Do not blame the mitigation company in Layton, UT. Sometimes mold comes back, and it doesn't mean the company failed. 

Three reasons for the return of your home's infestation.

• Water issue not resolved
  
• Mold remediation incomplete
  
• Spores spread
  

Water Issue Not Resolved

The primary reason mold will continue to grow after remediation is that the underlying water issue was not resolved. The company you chose may have fixed a plumbing issue, but depending on the age of your house, there may be several small leaks that went undetected. Have the company back out to the site to inspect your property for more leaks.

Mold Remediation Incomplete

The problem with black mold, or any mold, is that it is resilient. While a remediation company may believe that they have removed every last spore from the affected room, it is nearly impossible to tell, which is why many companies recommend purchasing dehumidifiers and fans to help control moisture levels in the room.

Spores Spread

It is also possible that the initial mold remediation fails because the mold spores spread farther than the mitigation crew anticipated. If your home has central cooling, it is possible for the spores to be sucked through air vents, making infestations seem sporadic, which is hard to identify without a thorough assessment of the property and its vital mechanics.

While a homeowner may not need to worry about toxic black mold, it is still necessary to be vigilant about mold growth. Even when a house is cleaned of an infestation, development can reoccur. Contact a mitigation company to discuss your concerns.

What To Do When You Suspect Mold

2/18/2020 (Permalink)

Mold growth under linolium in Layton, UT home.

When you notice the presence of mold in your Layton, UT, home, a quick offense is the best defense against significant damage. If you've noticed any of the following signs, don’t wait to schedule a professional mold assessment.

• A musty smell in a certain area of the home
• The heater or air conditioner has a moldy smell
• The sight of mold, especially on grout, the wall, floor, and ceiling
• High levels of humidity
• Condensation on windows and exposed pipes
• Damp areas in the basement
• Wall or ceiling stains

Of course, there are other warning signs, such as warping or peeling paint and clogged gutters. Don't wait for several symptoms of mildew to appear; take action at the first sign of trouble.

3 Steps to Follow When You Suspect Mold 

Store-Bought DIY Tests

There are a few options when it comes to completing a mold assessment. You could simply buy a test kit. There are sometimes available at home improvement stores. Of course, this route is inexpensive, but it's also a notoriously unreliable and inaccurate option. These kits generally provide a limited picture of the existing particles within a specific area at that time. You may get a positive or negative response, but you won't get information such as how widespread the mold is and the types of mold within the space. If you do use a test kit, get a few kits and perform multiple tests.

Professional Testing

Professionals, such as certified mold specialists, may use one or more types of tests to get thorough information. These tests are often done on the air, surfaces of the home, and bulk materials. Samples are sent to a laboratory where particles are views under a microscope. Laboratory results can give you an idea of whether you have black mold, what other types of mold are present, and the concentration of the molds. The technicians completing the assessment can give you an estimate of how much the damage has spread.

Safe Cleanup and Recovery

If the mold assessment is positive and spores have spread throughout your Layton, UT, home, turn the situation over to mold cleanup and remediation professionals. These experts have the equipment and training necessary to complete the job safely and efficiently.

5 Reasons Rain May Lead to Mold Growth

10/29/2019 (Permalink)

Mold containment used in Layton home for the mold remediation process.

Black mold can show up in your Layton, UT, house seemingly overnight. Have you noticed a connection between rainy days and mold growth? There are a few instances when rain can lead to mold popping up in your home.

Likely Places to Find Mold in Your Home

1. Faulty Roof: If your roof is missing shingles, it may not be able to keep water out of your home like it should. This can lead to water buildup in your attic or drips down your walls, which invites mold spores to make a home.
2. Bad Foundation: Cracks in your foundation could be another way excess moisture makes it into your home. During the rain, the falling water goes into the ground and starts to travel. If your foundation isn't properly sealed, the water can find its way into your home.
3. Poor Attic Ventilation: When the attic does not have proper ventilation, condensation can start to build up in the space. Even condensation is enough of a moisture problem to allow black mold to make a home.
4. Worn-Out Weather Strips: Weather stripping around windows and doors can become cracked and faded over time. When it rains, the water may seep its way into these crevices. Mold may start to build up around your windows and doors because of the trapped moisture.
5. Too Much Water: Heavy rains can lead to too much water for an environment. When this happens, floods can fill your basement or garage. Flooding is a common cause of mold growth.

No matter what issue has caused your moisture problem, you need to get to the heart of the issue. Wiping away the surface mold won't help you rid your home of the fungus. Instead, you need to call in a professional mold cleanup crew.

Rain sometimes exacerbates issues with your home. If you notice black mold pop up after every downpour, it could be tied to a bigger issue with your house.

3 Things Homeowners Should Know About Assessing Mold Damage

5/23/2019 (Permalink)

Signs of mold damage often include a musty odor

3 Things Homeowners Should Know About Assessing Mold Damage 

Mold can appear in almost any part of a home in Fruit Heights, UT, and in order to know the best way to remove the mold, an assessment is often important. Although a mold evaluation can be useful to homeowners, not all mold assessment types are equally valuable.

1. Mold Kits Aren’t Always Accurate

Though many people may think that they can assess the mold in their home with mold testing kits, this often isn’t the case. The majority of mold kits will indicate that mold is present in your home because spores are present everywhere. Most kits won’t be able to tell you if the mold in your home is hazardous or not and won’t identify what type of mold present in your home. Also, kits often must be sent to labs. The results from these labs aren’t guaranteed to be accurate, and it can be time-consuming to wait for results.

2. Mold Damage Isn’t Always Obvious

Many homeowners believe that a mold assessment isn’t necessary if there are no clear indicators of mold in their homes. Signs of mold damage often include a musty odor and obvious discoloration on surfaces. When mold growth is widespread, it’s often hard to miss. However, mold is not always immediately apparent, and it can be easy to mistake mildew for mold. Overall, it can be unwise to assume mold isn’t present in your home just because it isn’t visible.

3. Mold Assessments Aren’t Equal

Though you may be tempted to perform an assessment independently, it’s often wise to employ professionals to make an evaluation of fungi levels in your home. Assessing without the proper equipment, especially if black mold is present, can be hazardous. Experts in mold remediation will know where to look for mold damage and are likely to know what signs may indicate that your home has a problem.

When mold is present in your home, having an accurate evaluation is often important. Understanding why a mold assessment matters can help homeowners better understand the mold remediation process.

What To Know About Mold Prevention

3/4/2019 (Permalink)

Black mold in a Kaysville, UT bathroom

Prevention Steps You Can Take for Black Mold

As a homeowner in Kaysville, UT, you may be concerned about issues with black mold. Fortunately, many mold remediation professionals have recommendations for some prevention steps you can take. They include the following.

1. Control the Moisture Levels in Your Home

One of the first steps you can take to prevent mold is to control the moisture levels in your home. Mold grows best in damp and dark locations, meaning that areas like attics, basement, and areas of water damage are susceptible. If you find a wet area in your home, it's best to take care of it as quickly as possible.

2. Mold Can be Tested For

Many types of mold, including black mold, can be tested for. This means that if you believe you may have mold in your home but can't find it, a remediation professional has the tools to locate any potential mold problems. Testing methods include an air test, a surface test, or even taking a sample of a suspect material.

3. Talk to a Remediation Professional

If you find mold in your home, then mold remediation may be your best option. Talking to a professional about your needs can help you both get rid of any mold present in the building, as well as take preventative steps. Some things that may be recommended include taking care of any water damage as quickly as possible, keeping an eye on areas that tend to accumulate moisture such as basements and bathrooms, and regularly checking your home over for any places where water might leak in after a storm.

When dealing with black mold, quick mold cleanup is important. If you believe you have mold in your home, you may want to talk to a mold remediation professional. They can perform any mold tests that may be required. Remember, controlling moisture can be an important prevention step.

Questions To Ask Yourself When Dealing With Mold-Damaged Belongings

1/21/2019 (Permalink)

Dealing With Mold-Damaged Belongings

When mold grows inside your Kaysville, UT, home, your house isn’t the only thing that can be affected. Sometimes, mold can damage your personal belongings, as well.

Mold cleaning is not always the solution. There are a few things that you should consider when deciding what to do with items that have been affected by mold.

1. How Bad Is the Damage?
When determining how to treat belongings affected by mold, the extent of the damage is important. If the damage is minimal, then you may be able to salvage them. Non-porous items are more easily cleaned and disinfected, so it is less likely that they will need to be thrown away.

2. How Valuable Is the Item?
Even if the damage is extensive, you might be reluctant to get rid of an item if it is very valuable. In this case, instead of tossing the item, you might want to consider mold cleaning specialists. They can help restore the items that have been damaged.

3. Is There a Sentimental Attachment to the Item?
Monetary value isn’t the only thing to consider when determining the worth of a belonging. In many cases, it can be more upsetting to lose something with a sentimental value. Cleaning items such as books, paintings, and paper documents is difficult because they are highly porous, but with help from mold remediation professionals, it is not impossible.

4. Can the Item Be Replaced?
If there is mold damage on items that do not have a high monetary or sentimental value, the easiest course of action would be to simply throw them away and replace them. Because mold is difficult to remove, the effort might not be worth it for easily replaceable items.

It can be distressing when your belongings are damaged, but mold cleaning isn’t always the best option. If you are wondering whether to replace or restore an item, try asking yourself the above questions first.

Key Areas to Assess for Mold Growth Inside Your Home

9/6/2018 (Permalink)

Mold damage in a Layton, UT home

Mold spores are very small, and they can grow in numerous areas of your home. The key ingredient for mold growth is moisture. How many items in your home encounter water on a regular basis? Your list may include dishes, the toilet, bathtub, shower and dishwasher, and each of these items and many more are indeed susceptible to mold.

Appliances

Two appliances in your home that regularly utilize water are the dishwasher and washing machine. If you keep the doors or lids of these devices continuously closed, moisture may be constantly present, creating a potential breeding ground for mold. To reduce the risk, you should routinely clean these appliances according to manufacturer recommendations.

The Bathroom

Nearly everything you do inside your bathroom involves water, so it’s not uncommon for mold to grow in this area. Specific locations that you should routinely check include:

• Tile floors and showers
• Inside and around sinks
• Toilets
• Toothbrushes

To reduce the risk of mold in the bathroom, you should use mold-resistant caulking around your tub and sinks. You can also turn on the vent while taking a shower and wipe down the shower’s surface when you finish. To prevent mold growth on your toothbrush, you should replace it approximately every three months.

Hidden Spots

Mold can also find hiding places inside your home that are not readily visible. If your home floods from excessive rainfall or a burst pipe, you must quickly remove wet items and dry the affected area. Failing to remove saturated building materials may result in moldy drywall and mold-infested carpets. If moisture is not efficiently eliminated, you may also find mold on wooden cabinets and under laminate flooring.

A Manageable Problem

Mold growth is an unpleasant find for any homeowner in Layton, UT, but monitoring potential hiding spots inside your home can help you quickly address the issue, if it arises. Additional prevention strategies include efficiently addressing leaks and eliminating excessive moisture. In the event of a flood, a cleanup and restoration specialist can provide professional assistance, including mold remediation.

Mold in an Apartment

7/26/2018 (Permalink)

If you live in or own an apartment building in Layton, UT or anywhere else in the country, it is not unthinkable that there is mold sharing your space. Incredibly, there are over 1000 different U.S. varieties of this organism, but the good news is that there are professionals who stand ready to help.

Tenant Responsibilities.

The first thing to do is to contact your landlord in writing about the need for mold cleanup in your apartment so that there is a record of the notification. Since mold spores can spread quickly, it is best not to postpone this step. More tips include:
• Take photos. Digital shots can be sent as email attachments when you report the presence of mold.
• Stay in communication with your landlord. Give him or her sufficient time to schedule inspections for mold and air quality.
• Once the inspections are completed, inquire in writing about the plan for remediation.
• Prevent a recurrence by always thoroughly cleaning up water damage.

Mold cleanup need not involve lawyers or lawsuits, and you always have the option of moving out if the situation becomes untenable.

Landlord Responsibilities.

It is the responsibility of the building owner to provide a safe environment for tenants. Once evidence of mold has been presented, it is important to move quickly to prevent mold contamination from worsening. In addition:
• Schedule a professional inspection for mold.
• Schedule an indoor air quality inspection.
• Be honest with your tenants about the results and send them written plans for remediation.
• Take care of the mold cleanup in a timely fashion.
• Educate your tenants about how to prevent a recurrence

The presence of mold can be worrisome to tenants and building owners alike. Honest conversations conducted civilly will go a long way in getting over the bump in the road this common problem can cause.

For more information, please visit us at http://www.SERVPROlaytonkaysville.com.

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

6/6/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Davis County Home

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

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Layton/Kaysville for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

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

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Layton/Kaysville 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 – 801-298-4272

Using EPA Registered Disinfectants

6/6/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Layton / Kaysville uses EPA registered disinfectants for mold jobs. For the most part we remove the building materials that have mold damage and then we use the disinfectant.

The cleaning simply ensures that all of the mold, bacteria, viruses and other pathogens are completely eradicated from the area. Then, and only then can a complete restoration. Restoration takes place by building back the affected area to its original state. Most likely, new flooring,carpeting, wall studs, drywall, electrical work, fixtures and so forth will need to be rebuilt and installed. Only in this way can a homeowner or a business owner be certain that there is no mold residue that will possibly cause problems later on.

About SERVPRO of Layton/Kaysville

SERVPRO of Layton/Kaysville specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration.

Does Your Davis County Home Have A Mold Problem?

6/5/2018 (Permalink)

In Davis County, mold can spread through a home in as little as 48 hours

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

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

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

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 801-298-4272

Why Does Mold Love Bread So Much?

5/15/2018 (Permalink)

You may love bread, but so does mold – and if you don’t eat your baked goods quickly enough, it’s likely mold will set up camp and start devouring it for you, even if you keep it in your fridge. Anyone who’s left bread out for any period of time knows the pain of opening the breadbox to see fuzzy green and white sprouting everywhere. But why does mold love bread so much, and why does it grow so quickly?

It’s About the Ingredients

Bread mold isn’t something unique to Layton, UT even if sometimes, the attack on your baked goods can feel personal. It’s a universal problem that takes place because mold is in the air around you at all times, with spores constantly looking for somewhere to set up shop. Bread is particularly hospitable to mold because:

• It’s often moist and warm, offering the perfect environment for mold to grow
• The yeast, starch, and other ingredients are perfect fuel for mold to feed on
• It’s often left out in the open where mold spores can land
• Its porous nature means mold can dig in deep to grow

Bread mold may not be fatal, but it’s still not safe to eat. If you find even one slice of moldy bread, it’s time to throw out the entire loaf. One infested slice means the entire loaf is likely riddled with mold spores.

Refrigerating Doesn’t Help

Even if it tends to make bread stiff and dry, you may be tempted to refrigerate your bread to keep mold away. This won’t help, when refrigerators allow for condensation and trapped moisture that can also allow mold to grow. Your best bet is to keep bread only for a limited time and buy fresh bread frequently. If you find your problem getting out of control, though, you may need to look into mold remediation services.

For more information, please visit us at http://www.SERVPROlaytonkaysville.com.

The Gear to Get Mold Out

4/17/2018 (Permalink)

No matter how it got there, the mold in your Layton, UT, has only one place left to go: outside. However, purging it from your building is not always an easy task. Out of all the steps involved in a mold cleanup, using the right equipment to protect yourself from hazardous toxins is key. Sometimes, a professional can take that burden off your shoulders, but even he or she must first wear the following gear:

1. Hair Covers

Because contact with mold can result in a number of risks, the mold pros typically cover themselves from head to toe. This includes proper head coverage. If a hood is not part of the picture, a hair cover may be necessary. These look like shower caps and can help shield those subtle mold spores floating around.

2. Disposable Gloves

Gloves play another important part in the mold cleanup process. Mold growth can affect any vulnerable surface in your building, so it is important that you protect your hands, too. Gloves come in a number of materials, such as vinyl, latex, and synthetic rubber. It is essential that your gloves fit properly, as well; any wiggle room could allow spores to trickle in. In addition, be sure to leave the gloves at the door when coming and going, since carrying them with you into other parts of the building could lead to further spreading.

3. Protective Suits

The primary protective equipment you'll want to use involves the appropriate suit. Some experts recommend wearing Tyvek suits over normal clothing. Safety goggles and respirators may also be necessary components, depending on the situation. Whatever clothing you choose, be sure to follow the same procedures as with hair covers and gloves and leave the suit in the workspace only.

Your commercial building deserves only the best maintenance and mold protection. In the process, don't forget to protect yourself as well. Part of this preventative step includes wearing the right gear for the job.

For more information, please visit us athttp://www.SERVPROlaytonkaysville.com.

Why Does Mold Grow in Houses?

3/28/2018 (Permalink)

Have you ever wondered why mold grows in houses? The short answer is that mold spores are already everywhere. A combination of moisture and organic material provide the conditions necessary for these spores to land, multiply, and spread. The presence of a moisture problem in your home substantially increases the possibility that various types of mold, including black mold, may develop.

Here are three major reasons mold grows in houses:

1. A portion of your home has been exposed to excessive moisture. Moisture is the most common cause of mold growth in residential structures. If you have recently experienced a broken pipe or supply line, sewage backup, or a leaky appliance or roof, your home may be at risk for developing some type of mold.

2. Moisture has been allowed to linger for 24 hours or more. Limit the secondary damage that results from water damage and lower the risk of mold developing by making sure that excess moisture does not linger after a leak. Use towels that you plan to promptly wash and dry, a mop, or a wet-dry vac and run a dehumidifier to reduce moisture levels in areas affected by leaks.

3. Mold spores land and multiply. Mold spores are present indoors and outdoors, but they will not land and begin to grow unless certain conditions exist. All types of mold, including black mold, grow on the surfaces of organic materials when sufficient moisture is present.

If you see evidence of mold or suspect that hidden mold is growing in your home, contact a mold testing and remediation service in Layton, UT, as soon as possible. Experts who are skilled at identifying black mold can help you determine which type of mold is growing. Mold starts to form quickly, so it is a good idea to follow up on testing with mold cleanup sooner rather than later.

For more information, visit us at http://www.SERVPROlaytonkaysville.com.