Leaky Appliances

2/24/2020 (Permalink)

Who knew that appliances could be so destructive! Dishwashers, laundry machines, refrigerators, toilets, and more can do serious damage to your home if they begin to leak. Many of these leaks can go unnoticed for an extended period of time and result in serious structural damage. If you have any reason to believe that an appliance is leaking, it is important to get it checked out immediately. It is likely that moisture has gotten into the structure of your home and has already started deteriorating it and growing mold. If a musty smell is present, it is likely that mold growth has already begun. It is important that you do not attempt to manage it yourself. Mold can easily spread and become a bigger problem if not taken care of correctly. We have equipment to help locate hidden moisture and discover how extensive the damage really is.

Self Drying Dangers

3/25/2019 (Permalink)

The water table tends to rise drastically in the spring with snow thawing and heavy rains. When this happens, it is not uncommon to experience a flooded basement. It can be difficult to differ between something that can be self-resolved, and something in need of professional attention. If this is a question you find yourself asking, it is best to go with the latter. A variety of issues can arise from attempting to self dry your home after experiencing water damage. If the moisture is not dried quick enough, there is a large possibility that you could experience mold. If the moisture is dried in an adequate amount of time, but a dehumidifier is not set up, mold could begin to grow as well. When it comes to water damage and its ability to quickly turn into a mold issue, call the professionals. It is better to be safe than sorry.

SERVPRO of Holland/West Ottawa County: 616-396-8180

Travelling Mold

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

Moisture within a home or business can be the result of a variety of different situations. Maybe you recently experienced a water loss or maybe you have above average humidity levels. No matter the case, it doesn't take a lot of stagnant moisture to begin the process of mold growth. If you have discovered mold in your home or business, the best thing that you can do is to not disturb it and call us. Mold spores have the ability to go airborne once they are disturbed. This can result in mold growth in other areas of your home or business where the spores land, as well as respiratory issues for occupants. 

We have the equipment and training to safely remediate the mold situation in your home or business.

Signs of Mold? Call Today – (616) 396-8180

Pipe Breaks Causing Mold

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

Throughout the winter season of pipe breaks, many West Michigan homeowners experienced a water loss of some degree. Whether it be a small loss, or a large loss, both have the ability to bring about a variety of other issues. One of the main issues that often times stem from a residential water loss is the entrance of mold.

Many homeowners who experience a minor water loss will attempt to handle the situation themselves. Although some are able to do this successfully, many soon realize that it is too much for them to handle. If a water loss is not successfully dried completely, mold can begin to set in. This mold can begin to appear on drywall, carpet, floor joists, and a variety of other surfaces. Once mold has set in, the restoration process becomes more extensive since not only is mold remediation required, but it is also a sign of additional moisture presence that is generating more damage. Our highly trained technicians can make it "Like it never even happened."

Be Aware and Use Precautions

6/4/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa County technicians take care of water damages on a daily basis. We know that acting quickly is a requirement if we want to prevent mold growth. When there is an ongoing moisture problem in a home or building, be alert for:

• Evidence of mold you can see.
• Strong musty odors can be an indication that mold is present.
• Evidence of moisture problems in the past that could have caused and mold growth that was undetected.
• Excessive amounts of humidity and a lack of air circulation.

When the conditions listed above are present, you may require the expertise of a qualified Indoor Air Quality Environmental Professional to inspect the building or home for mold growth and water damage problems. 

Signs of Mold? Call Today – (616) 396-8180

Got MOLD?

6/1/2018 (Permalink)

Any time there is a water intrusion like a water line or a roof leak, the potential for having a problem with mold in your home or business is there. Mold can not only cause health issues but it can also cause damages to your property. Thankfully SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa County has the specialized equipment, training and protective gear necessary to handle a mold problem. Every mold damage is different and each require specific solutions however the mold remediation process stays the same. Here are steps to illustrate a "typical" mold remediation process.

Call SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa County

The process to cleanup and restore a mold loss begins when you call us. We gather all the pertinent information thru a series of questions and that helps us determine what equipment, personnel and resources are needed. 

Assess the Damages with an Inspection

We send a certified specialist to your property to carefully inspect looking for signs of mold. We use specialty equipment designed to detect water sources and mold which can be hidden from plain sight. Mold feeds on water and cellulose.

Mold Containment

Isolating the mold using various containment procedures is critical to prevent the spread of mold. During the cleanup process we use physical barriers and negative air pressure to keep the mold spores from spreading.

Air Filtration

To capture mold spores from the air, we use specialized filtration equipment. With the use of powerful air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums, our SERVPRO technicians prevent the spread of mold spores while the remediation is in process. 

Removing Mold and Materials Infested with Mold

Depending on the amount of mold growth and the types of surfaces the mold appears on will determine the remediation process needed. Solutions such as an Antifungal or an Antimicrobial are used to eliminate mold colonies. It also helps to prevent new colonies from forming. Mold-infested porous materials may need to be removed and disposed of like flooring and drywall.

Cleaning Contents and Belongings 

SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa County technicians will clean your furniture, decorations, and any other restorable items affected by mold. We use a wide variety of cleaning techniques to sanitize and clean your belongings. And we are trained to remove odors and deodorize using fogging equipment.

Restoration

Removal of building material such as drywall, subfloors, etc. could be necessary depending on the level of mold damage. The restoration process may involve minor repairs if such building materials need to be removed. Drywall replacement, painting and installing new carpet may be needed. Sometimes major repairs including reconstruction of areas or rooms in a home or business is possible. 

SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa County understands mold and mold growth. We have the training and equipment to remediate mold in your home or business.

Can You Prevent & Stop Mold Growth?

5/20/2018 (Permalink)

Can you Prevent & Stop Mold Growth? YES

Indoor mold has the potential and power to damage building materials and finishes. Mold spreads like weeds. It goes on surfaces like walls, ceilings and tile grout. Thankfully mold growth can be stopped and SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa County can help you before it's too late.

MOLD DAMAGE

Mold loves and needs moisture, it cannot thrive and grow without it. You can find mold develop in areas where there has been water damage from a broken pipe, leaking window or roof, or after a basement flood. Many homes develop mold issues in bathrooms without adequate ventilation and closets that share a wall with those bathrooms. Mold can cause deterioration of ceiling tiles, grout, caulking around tubs and showers and it destroys any type of paperboard quickly.

HOW TO STOP MOLD

The key to eliminating mold indoors is to cut off its moisture supply. Mold thrives in moist, humid conditions. Eliminate those conditions and you can stop mold growth and prevent it's return. Whether your foundation is cracked and seeping water, you have a leaky roof or a broken water line, standing water needs to be extracted quickly.

After standing water is removed, the drying and the dehumidification process can begin. Keep in mind, it is all about removing the moisture including the excess moisture in the air. Dehumidifiers and fans can be a tremendous help during this part of the mold removal process.

Area rugs will need to be removed, cleaned and dried. Wall-to-wall carpeting may need professional cleaning to remove all traces of mold and its musty smell. Certain situations may require furniture, draperies and other upholstered items to be cleaned. Remove any cardboard boxes that have been contaminated with mold and only transfer their contents to totes after everything has been inspected and treated for mold growth.

In the bathroom: for mold issues in a bathroom, ensure a working exhaust fan is working. Always run the exhaust fan when a shower or bath is in use to reduce the risk of too much humidity or moisture in the air. Wipe down the bath and shower tiles after use to keep the moisture to a minimum and to eliminate mold growth.

SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa County knows how to stop mold growth effectively and how to prevent mold from returning to your home or business. When you discover mold, don't hesitate. Contact the mold remediation professionals at SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa County with more than 20 years experience along the Lake Michigan Coast. We have the expertise to deal with mold safely. You will not have to worry about the mold spreading to other areas or it affecting your employees, family or pets during the remediation process.

SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa County is ready for whatever happens. Contact us at 231-733-7601 for all your microbial needs.

Information provided by SERVPRO of the Beaches/Ponte Vedra

Controlling MOLD In Your Environment

4/5/2018 (Permalink)

Mold – It is a four letter word that makes most people cringe. But contrary to popular belief, not all mold is dangerous; some mold is even quite useful. Fungi and mold naturally occur in our environment. More than 100,000 different types of fungi have been identified. You can find fungi in our everyday lives in bread and baked products; the unique flavor of blue cheese is the result of mold. Though some types of mold can be useful, many other forms can be harmful. Excessive amounts of mold and mold exposure may present health concerns for some people.

The intrusion of water into your home or business can result in mold growth. Water intrusions can result from storm damage, plumbing or equipment failures, long standing leaks and poor humidity control. When these water intrusions are not addressed right away, the resulting damage can be an increased risk of harmful mold growth. Mold spores are normally present in most environments. If the humidity and moisture levels in a water damaged environment are not controlled, mold spores can grow and multiply. Organic materials found inside a building, like wood, drywall, paper and insulation, provide a food source for mold, allowing growth to flourish. This can lead to indoor environmental conditions that pose a health threat.

SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa Co. handles water damage everyday and know prompt action is required to prevent mold growth. Mold is more likely to spread when an environment has been subject to moisture for an extended period of time. If your property has sustained a recent water damage, it is vital to remove excess water and dry the structure promptly. Once the environment is dry, it is important the structure is properly cleaned. When determining if you have a mold problem, be alert for: the presence of visible mold, strong musty odors, evidence of past moisture problems and excessive humidity.

If you fear you have a mold problem, call SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa Co. 616-396-8180. A technician trained in mold remediation will examine the structure and determine the steps needed to contain and  clean the affected areas.

What is BLACK MOLD?

3/1/2018 (Permalink)

You may have seen sensational news reports that warn about the dangers of “black mold” or “toxic mold”. These reports can be alarming and confusing so it’s beneficial to get the facts to better understand mold.

Stachybotrys chartarum is the type of mold often called black mold, and it does produce allergens and irritants. However, many types of mold can produce allergens and irritants. Treat any mold with caution – stay out of affected areas and don’t touch or disturb the mold.

Learn more about mold and what to do until help arrives by visiting Mold Damage Tips.

How Do I Tell If It’s Black Mold?

Since many types of mold can cause reactions, you should contact us regardless of the color or  type of mold. In many instances, multiple types of mold may exist in the same house or structure. If you suspect you have a mold problem, contact SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa Co. immediately at 231-733-7601.

"Mold Removal" vs Mold Remediation

3/1/2018 (Permalink)

What’s the Difference?

Since microscopic mold spores exist naturally almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors, removing all mold from a home or business is impossible. Many restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold. This is a fallacy. We understand mold and mold growth. SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa Co. has the training and expertise to remediate the mold in your home or business.

Signs of Mold? Call Today – 616-396-8180

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 - (616) 396-8180
2. Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
3. Mold Containment
4. Air Filtration
5. Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
6. Cleaning Contents and Belongings

Don't Let MOLD Grow!

2/23/2018 (Permalink)

Mold caused by a leaking water heater into a crawl space with high humidity and no ventilation.

From the Ordinary

Fungi and mold naturally occur in our environment. In fact, over 100,000 kinds of fungi have been identified. Fungi produce some very useful results. Yeast is a type of fungi used in preparing breads, baked goods and other food products, including some alcoholic beverages. The unique flavor of blue cheese is a result of mold. An edible mushroom is simply a type of fungi, and lifesaving penicillin is a product of mold (Penicillin chrysogenum). Even though some forms of mold can add value to our lives, other forms can be harmful. Excessive amounts of mold, different types of mold, and/or exposure to molds may present health concerns for some people.

To the Unhealthy

Intrusion of water into your home or place of business can result in mold growth. Water intrusions can result from storm damage, plumbing or equipment failures, long-standing leaks and poor humidity control. When water intrusions are not addressed right away, the resulting damage can present increased risk of harmful mold growth. Some amount of mold spores are normally present in most environments. If the humidity and moisture levels in a water-damaged environment are not promptly returned to normal, mold spores may grow and multiply. Organic materials found inside a building, such as wood, paper, drywall and insulation, provide food sources for mold to flourish. Excessive mold growth can lead to indoor environmental conditions that pose a health threat.

Take Precautions

SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa Co. handle water damages every day and know prompt action is required to prevent mold growth. Mold is more likely to spread when an environment has been subject to moisture for a long period of time. If your property has sustained a recent water damage, it is vital to remove excess water and dry the structure promptly. If there is an ongoing moisture problem in the building, it is important to be alert for:

• The presence of visible mold.
• Strong musty odors which may indicate mold is present.
• Any evidence of past moisture problems that might have caused undetected mold growth.
• Excessive humidity.

These conditions may require the expertise of a qualified Indoor Air Quality/Environmental Professional to inspect the building for mold growth and water damage problems.

Help is Here

If you think you might have a mold problem, call SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa Co. and a Professional trained in mold remediation will examine the structure for any visible signs of mold. In the event mold is found, you will be asked to approve and sign a work authorization form prior to any mold cleanup or related work being performed. The technician may also recommend you leave the affected area while the mold cleanup and associated containment process is being safely completed. If extensive mold growth is present, additional assistance may be required. Some situations require the addition of an Indoor Air Quality/Environmental Professional with the specialized equipment and services needed to assess and/or repair property. You may wish to consult your adjuster if needed.

If you see MOLD in your home or business, contact the Professionals at SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa Co. 616-396-8180.  Working hard in our community to help make it "Like it never even happened."

What is the Mold Mitigation & Remediation Process?

6/1/2017 (Permalink)

When there’s a water intrusion, like a roof leak
or leaking water line, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business. Mold can affect your health and can also cause significant damage to your property. Fortunately, SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa Co. Professionals have the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem. Although every mold damage scenario is different, requiring a unique solution, the general mold remediation process stays the same. The following steps illustrate a “typical” mold removal process.

Call SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa Co. Professionals

The mold cleanup and restoration process begins when you call SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa Co. 616-396-8180. A representative will ask a series of questions to help determine the necessary equipment, resources, and personnel needed. 

Inspection & Damage Assessment

Your property will be carefully inspected for signs of mold using technology designed to detect mold
and hidden water sources. Mold feeds on cellulose and water which can be hidden from plain view.

Mold Containment

Various containment procedures will be placed to prevent the spread of mold and isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to keep the mold spores from spreading during the cleanup process.

Air Filtration

Specialized filtration equipment captures microscopic mold spores out of the air. SERVPRO® technicians utilize powerful air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold
remediation is in progress.

Removing Mold & Mold-Infested Materials

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

Cleaning Contents & Belongings

SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa Co. Professionals clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains, and other restorable items affected by mold. They use a variety of cleaning techniques to clean and
sanitize your belongings. They are also trained to remove odors and deodorize using fogging equipment.

Restoration

Depending on the level of mold damage, drywall, subfloors, and other building materials may be removed. Restoration may involve minor repairs,
such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet, or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business. SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa Co. Professionals understand mold and mold growth and have the training and equipment to remediate mold in your home or business.

Prevent & Stop Mold Growth

4/29/2016 (Permalink)

Prevent and Stop the Growth of Mold

Indoor mold has the power to damage building materials and finishes.  Like weeds, mold spreads, growing on surfaces like walls, ceilings, and tile grout. Fortunately, mold growth can be stopped and SERVPRO of Muskegon and Holland/ W. Ottawa Co. can help you before it's to late.

Mold Damage

Mold loves moisture and cannot thrive without it.  Mold often develops in areas where there has been water damage from a broken pipe, leaking window or roof, or after a basement flood.  Many homes develop mold issues in bathrooms without adequate ventilation and closets that share a wall with those bathrooms. Mold causes the deterioration of ceiling tiles, grout, caulking around tubs and showers and it destroys any type of paperboard quickly.

How to Stop Mold

The key to eradicating mold indoors is to cut off its moisture supply.  Mold thrives in moist, humid conditions.  Eliminate those conditions and you can stop mold growth and prevent its return.  Quick extraction of flood water is the first step. Whether it’s seepage from foundation cracks, a leaky roof or a broken water line, that standing water needs to be removed quickly.

After any standing water is removed, the drying and dehumidification process can begin. Remember, it’s all about removing moisture, including excess moisture in the air. Dehumidifiers and fans can be a great help during this part of the mold removal process.

Area rugs will need to be removed, cleaned and dried and wall-to-wall carpeting may need professional cleaning to remove all traces of mold and its musty smell. Depending on the situation, furniture, draperies and other upholstered items also will need cleaning. Remove any cardboard boxes that have been contaminated with mold and only transfer their contents to totes after everything has been inspected and treated for mold growth.

In the bathroom: For mold issues in bathrooms, make sure the room has a working exhaust fan (which usually installed in the ceiling near the light fixture). Run the exhaust fan whenever anyone takes a shower or a bath to reduce as much humidity (moisture) from the air. Wipe down bath and shower tiles after use to keep moisture to a minimum and inhibit the growth of mold.

SERVPRO of Muskegon and Holland/ W. Ottawa Co. knows how to stop mold growth effectively and how to prevent mold from returning to your home or business.  When you discover mold, don’t hesitate.  Contact the mold remediation professionals at SERVPRO of Muskegon and Holland/ W. Ottawa Co. with more than 20 years of experience along the Lake Michigan Coast, we have the expertise to deal with mold safely. You won’t have to worry about the mold spreading to other areas or it affecting your employees, family or pets during the remediation process.

SERVPRO of Muskegon and Holland/ W. Ottawa Co. is ready for what ever happens, Contact us at (231) 733-7601- Muskegon, or (616) 396-8180 for all your microbial, water, fire, smoke damage or other cleaning needs.

information provided by SERVPRO of The Beaches/Ponte Vedra