Recent Mold Remediation Posts

Dealing with Mold: Your Comprehensive Guide to Mold Remediation

9/6/2023 (Permalink)

Dealing with mold can be a daunting task, but with the right knowledge and precautions, you can effectively address the issue and protect your home

Mold thrives in damp, dark, and humid environments, making basements, bathrooms, and kitchens susceptible areas. Not only is mold unsightly, but it can also pose health risks if left unaddressed. Here is what to do if you discover mold in your home and how to effectively tackle this issue.

Identify the Mold: Before you can effectively deal with mold, you need to identify the type and extent of the infestation. There are various types of mold, with some being more harmful than others. Common indoor molds include black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum), green mold (Aspergillus), and white mold (Penicillium). If you are unsure about the type of mold you are dealing with, consider hiring a professional mold inspector who can provide an accurate assessment.
Safety First: When dealing with mold, safety should be your top priority. Mold can release harmful spores and mycotoxins into the air, which can be dangerous when inhaled. To protect yourself, follow these safety precautions:

Wear protective gear, including an N95 respirator, gloves, and eye protection.
Isolate the contaminated area to prevent mold spores from spreading to other parts of your home.
Ensure proper ventilation by opening windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate.

Remove Moisture Sources: Mold thrives in moist environments, so the first step in mold remediation is to identify and eliminate the source of moisture. Fix any leaks, repair roof damage, and improve ventilation in damp areas like basements and bathrooms. A dehumidifier can also help reduce humidity levels in your home.
Cleaning and Mold Removal: The method of mold removal depends on the extent of the infestation and the affected materials. Here are some general steps to follow:

For small surface mold growth, clean the affected area with a mixture of soap and water or a commercial mold cleaner.
For larger infestations, you may need to remove and replace contaminated materials, such as drywall, insulation, or carpet. Be cautious not to disturb the mold, as this can release more spores into the air.

Consider Professional Help: If the mold problem is extensive, toxic mold is suspected, or you have health concerns, it's advisable to hire a professional mold remediation service. These experts have the necessary equipment and expertise to safely and effectively remove mold from your home.

After you have successfully removed the mold, take steps to prevent it from returning:

Maintain proper ventilation and humidity levels in your home.
Regularly inspect and repair any leaks or water damage.
Clean and dry damp areas promptly.
Use mold-resistant materials in areas prone to moisture.

Dealing with mold can be a daunting task, but with the right knowledge and precautions, you can effectively address the issue and protect your home and health. Remember that safety should always come first, and when in doubt, seek professional assistance. By identifying and addressing the source of the problem and following proper remediation procedures, you can create a healthier living environment for you and your family.

SERVPRO Of Newton Wellesley is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire, mold, water, and storm damage. If you are looking for assistance, just click on the contact us page, and someone will be in touch shortly.

Can Mold Cause A Smell To The House?

5/24/2023 (Permalink)

If you discover mold in your home, it's important to take action to remove it as soon as possible.

Mold is a common problem that homeowners face, especially in humid or damp areas of the house. Not only can mold cause damage to your home and pose health risks, but it can also create a foul smell that can be difficult to get rid of.

What Causes the Smell?

Mold releases a musty odor that can be quite unpleasant. This smell is caused by the chemicals released by mold as it grows and breaks down organic matter. Mold thrives in damp environments, such as bathrooms, basements, and areas with water damage. If you notice a musty odor in your home, it could be a sign that mold is present.

Health Risks Associated with Mold.

Mold not only creates a foul smell but can also pose health risks to you and your family. Exposure to mold can cause allergic reactions, respiratory problems, and other health issues. Children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable to mold-related health problems. If you suspect that mold is present in your home, it's important to take action to address the issue as soon as possible.

Here are some steps you can take to prevent mold growth in your home:

Reduce humidity levels: Mold thrives in humid environments, so it's important to keep humidity levels low. Use dehumidifiers in areas prone to moisture, such as basements and bathrooms.
Fix leaks: Mold needs moisture to grow, so fixing any leaks in your home is crucial. Check for leaks around windows, doors, and pipes, and repair them promptly.
Use ventilation: Proper ventilation can help prevent mold growth. Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens, and open windows to increase airflow.
Clean regularly: Regular cleaning can help prevent mold growth. Clean surfaces regularly with a solution of bleach and water, and use mold-resistant paint in areas prone to moisture.

If you discover mold in your home, it's important to take action to remove it as soon as possible. Here are some steps you can take to remove mold:

Identify the source: Identify the source of the moisture that's causing the mold to grow. Fix any leaks or water damage before removing the mold.
Use protective equipment: Wear protective equipment, such as gloves and a mask, to avoid inhaling mold spores.
Clean surfaces: Clean surfaces with a solution of bleach and water. Use a scrub brush to remove the mold from porous surfaces, such as drywall.
Dry the area: After cleaning the mold, dry the area thoroughly to prevent the mold from returning.

Prevention is key when it comes to dealing with mold. Reduce humidity levels, fix leaks, use ventilation, and clean regularly to prevent mold growth. If you discover mold in your home, take action to remove it promptly.

SERVPRO Of Newton Wellesley is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire, mold, water, and storm damage.

We service Dedham, East Dedham, Endicott, Medfield, Norwood Centre, Norwood, Walpole, MA, and Westwood, MA

What to do if there is mold in your walls

4/7/2023 (Permalink)

If you have mold on your walls, it's important to take action as soon as possible to prevent it from spreading

If you have mold on your walls, it's important to take action as soon as possible to prevent it from spreading and causing further damage.

Here are some steps you can take to deal with mold on your walls:

Identify the cause of the mold: The first step in dealing with mold on your walls is to identify the underlying cause. Mold thrives in damp, humid environments, so it's important to identify any sources of moisture that may be contributing to the problem. Common causes of mold on walls include leaky pipes, roof leaks, high humidity levels, and poor ventilation.
Remove the mold: Once you have identified the cause of the mold, it's time to remove it from your walls. Depending on the severity of the mold, you may be able to clean it yourself using a mixture of water and bleach or vinegar. However, if the mold has spread over a large area or is particularly stubborn, it's best to call in a professional mold remediation company to ensure that it is completely removed.
Repair any damage: Once the mold has been removed, it's important to repair any damage to your walls. This may include replacing any damaged drywall or insulation, repairing leaks, or installing a dehumidifier to help control moisture levels.
Prevent future mold growth: To prevent mold from growing on your walls in the future, it's important to take steps to control moisture levels in your home. This may include repairing any leaks promptly, using a dehumidifier in areas with high humidity, and ensuring that your home is properly ventilated.

Dealing with mold on your walls can be a daunting task, but it's important to take action as soon as possible to prevent it from spreading and causing further damage.

We service Needham Junction, Needham, Newton Highlands, Newton Lower Falls, Newton Upper Falls, Thompsonville, Waban, and Wellesley, MA

SERVPRO Of Newton Wellesley is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire, mold, water, and storm damage.

How to prevent mold damage in Newton Wellesley MA

3/5/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Of Newton Wellesley is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire, mold, water, and storm damage.

Mold is a common problem that affects many households. It can cause significant damage to your property and even pose a health risk to you and your family. Mold grows in damp and humid environments, and it can thrive on various surfaces, including walls, ceilings, carpets, and furniture. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent mold damage in your home.

Keep your home dry: Mold thrives in damp and humid environments, so the best way to prevent mold damage is to keep your home dry. You can do this by fixing any leaks in your plumbing, roof, or windows. Make sure that your home is properly ventilated, especially in areas like the bathroom, kitchen, and laundry room. Use a dehumidifier if necessary to reduce the humidity levels in your home.
Clean and maintain your HVAC system: Your HVAC system plays a crucial role in maintaining the air quality in your home. It can also help to prevent mold growth. Make sure to clean and maintain your HVAC system regularly to prevent any buildup of dust or moisture, which can lead to mold growth. Replace your air filters at least once every three months to ensure that your system is running efficiently.
Use mold-resistant products: When renovating or building your home, consider using mold-resistant materials such as drywall, paints, and insulation. These materials are specially designed to resist mold growth and can help to prevent mold damage in the long run.
Monitor indoor humidity levels: Mold thrives in humid environments, so it's important to keep an eye on indoor humidity levels. The ideal humidity level is between 30 and 50 percent. You can use a hygrometer to measure the humidity levels in your home.
Clean and dry any water damage promptly: Water damage is one of the leading causes of mold growth. If you experience any water damage in your home, it's important to clean and dry the affected area as soon as possible.

Mold damage can be a significant problem for homeowners, but it's a problem that can be prevented.

We service Needham Junction, Needham, Newton Highlands, Newton Lower Falls, Newton Upper Falls, Thompsonville, Waban, and Wellesley, MA

SERVPRO Of Newton Wellesley is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire, mold, water, and storm damage.

How Does Mold Damage Happen?

2/15/2023 (Permalink)

Mold damage is a serious problem that can have a number of negative effects on a building and its occupants.

Mold is a type of fungus that thrives in damp and humid environments. It grows quickly and can spread rapidly, causing damage to the structure of a building and posing a health risk to its occupants. Mold damage is a serious problem that requires immediate attention and remediation. In this blog post, we will explore the causes and effects of mold damage, as well as how to prevent and address it.

Causes of Mold Damage

Mold thrives in damp and humid conditions. This means that any area of a building that is exposed to moisture is at risk of developing mold. Some of the most common causes of mold damage include:

Water leaks: Leaky pipes, roofs, and windows can all contribute to the growth of mold.
Flooding: If a building is flooded, the excess water can create a perfect breeding ground for mold.
Humidity: High levels of humidity in a building can create conditions that are ideal for mold growth.
Poor ventilation: Without adequate ventilation, moisture can become trapped in a building, providing a perfect environment for mold to grow.

Effects of Mold Damage

Mold damage can have a number of negative effects on a building and its occupants. Some of the most common effects include:

Structural damage: Mold can weaken the structure of a building, leading to cracks, warping, and other forms of damage.
Health risks: Exposure to mold can lead to a number of health problems, including respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and skin irritation.
Property damage: Mold can damage walls, floors, and other surfaces, requiring expensive repairs and replacements.

Prevention of Mold Damage

Preventing mold damage is much easier than dealing with it after it has already occurred. Here are some tips for preventing mold growth in your building:

Keep humidity levels under control: Make sure that your building has adequate ventilation and use dehumidifiers to control humidity levels.
Repair water leaks: Fix any leaks as soon as they are detected to prevent moisture from building up.
Keep your building clean: Regular cleaning can help prevent mold growth by removing any spores that may be present.
Inspect your building regularly: Regular inspections can help you identify any potential problems before they become major issues.

Remediation of Mold Damage

If you suspect that you have mold damage in your building, it is important to address the problem as soon as possible. Here are the steps involved in mold remediation:

Identify the source of the problem: Determine the source of the moisture that is causing the mold growth.
Contain the mold: Use barriers to prevent the mold from spreading to other areas of the building.
Remove the mold: Use specialized equipment and cleaning agents to remove the mold.
Repair any damage: Repair any damage that was caused by the mold growth.
Take steps to prevent future mold growth: Take steps to prevent future mold growth by addressing any moisture problems and keeping the building clean.

Mold damage is a serious problem that can have a number of negative effects on a building and its occupants.

SERVPRO of Newton Wellesley is your premier choice for fire damage and restoration. Our teams are ready to respond 24 hours a week, any day of the year. When you bring us on the job our team of licensed contractors and certified technicians will work collaboratively with you throughout the duration of the project. They will keep you updated on the project's status and ensure that your expectations are met. We will help you to move forward and make it “Like it never even happened” for all of your fire damage.

SERVPRO of Newton Wellesley Shares Preventing Mold Damage: Essential Tips for a Healthy Home

2/5/2023 (Permalink)

By following these tips, you can help prevent mold damage in your home, protecting your family's health and your home's structure.

Mold damage can be a major problem in many homes, causing health problems and damaging the structure of the building. In order to prevent mold damage, it is important to understand the conditions that allow mold to thrive and what steps can be taken to prevent its growth.

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

Control humidity levels: Mold thrives in moist environments, so it is essential to keep indoor humidity levels low. Use a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture from the air
Fix leaks: Promptly fix any leaks in your roof, walls, or plumbing to prevent water damage and mold growth
Keep surfaces clean and dry: Regularly clean and dry surfaces in high-risk areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. Use a mold-resistant cleaning solution
Increase ventilation: Ensure that your home has proper ventilation to help prevent mold growth. This can be achieved by opening windows and doors regularly, using exhaust fans, and keeping air vents clear.
Inspect and maintain HVAC systems: Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems can become a breeding ground for mold if not properly maintained.
Store items properly: Store items, especially paper products and organic materials, properly in sealed containers to prevent mold growth.
Regularly inspect your home: Regular inspections of your home can help identify mold damage early, allowing you to take action before it becomes a bigger problem.
Look for discoloration on walls and ceilings, a musty odor, or any other signs of moisture damage.

By following these tips, you can help prevent mold damage in your home, protecting your family's health and your home's structure.

SERVPRO Mold Remediation

12/2/2018 (Permalink)

When approaching mold clean up a lot of people wonder which method is best, “Dry Blast” vs “Sand Blast”, The answer is neither , the reality in today’s world is this is unnecessary because; dry ice is costly, it only removes surface mold, and porous materials require a deep cleaning. SERVPRO technicians use anti-fungal and anti-microbial treatments that kill mold colonies and help prevent new colonies from forming

When tackling mold we make it a priority to set up containment. All remediation companies will set up containment, but when and how is the issue. We set up containment prior to applying the “eyeball test”. Which is as follows

The “Eyeball Test” – Assessing the Environment

Has there been a previous water damage

Do you smell musty odors of mold

Do you see areas of mold contamination

Our competitors cut 4 x 8 holes in the wall from the ground up

We cut a 2 x 4 in the center of the wall

Our Four Legged Best Friends Can Also Help Detect Mold In Our Homes

10/4/2017 (Permalink)

Many professional home inspectors use specialized tools such as water pressure gauges, infrared thermometers, devices to detect moisture and some even use mold detecting dogs!

That’s right, dogs.

These highly trained dogs are qualified to detect at least 18 kinds of mold that are deemed harmful to humans. Their training is similar to bomb-sniffing dogs and drug-sniffing dogs.

When a home inspector cannot see behind the wall, their dogs are trained to sniff for mold in hidden places. They alert the inspector of where mold was detected by immediately sitting down in front of that area.

The home inspector can then do a more in-depth investigation in that area, pulling back the baseboard, cutting a small hole in the dry wall, or pulling out all of the contents of the bathroom or kitchen cabinets.

This additional investigation may also lead to spore sampling. This is a process where the inspector pulls a sample of the material, seals it in a vial, identifies it, and ships it off to an independent laboratory for analysis.

Luckily for our fury friends, the mold is not harmful to them as they have the special ability to purge odor and contaminments from their noses.

Another reason to love our best friend!

If you have a fire or water emergency, please call us now at (617) 332-9000