Black Mold

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

This can be one of many forms of black mold.

What is black mold?

You may have heard on many reports that warn you about "black mold" or "toxic mold". These reports can be very alarming and confusing but there are beneficial on getting the facts to better understand mold.

Stachybotrys chartarum is the scientific name black mold. Stachybotrys Chartarum (Black mold) produces allergens and irritants that can have some serious health effects on humans and animals. Even though many molds can cause allergens and irritants you should treat every mold with caution and care. You should avoid the affected areas and you should not touch or disturb the mold.  

How do I know if it is black mold?

Due to the fact that many molds can create allergens and irritants; no matter the color, size, smell. You should contact SERVPRO of North Central San Antonio immediately so we can inspect the mold and determine the best remedy for the mold. In many instances multiple molds can be living in the same house or structure. 

If you see any signs of mold contact us today at (210)899-1017

4 Steps to preventing mold growth after Flood

1/9/2020 (Permalink)

Bathroom wall with Mold

Step One – Remove Affected Materials

Aside from stopping the source of the moisture, it’s important to promptly remove wet furnishings and porous materials from the flooded area to enable a thorough damage-assessment, and drying and restoring contents that have not been compromised. 

Some of it - such as wet/moldy carpet, drywall, upholstery and fabrics - will need to be discarded.

Vacuum using HEPA-wet-dry vacuums to remove moisture, mold and soils without spreading allergenic or unhealthy mold and dust particles around your home. According to the IICRC, "It is preferable to use a HEPA vacuum, but a simple wet/dry vacuum can work. When using a wet/dry vacuum, attach a hose to the exhaust and vent the exhaust air to the outside. This keeps dust, spores and other fine particles from being suspended in the air and settling back on clean surfaces."  

In the case of minor “clean” flooding, say from a small burst indoor water pipe, homeowners can remove smaller wet items themselves, but should wear goggles, gloves, long sleeves and an N-95 respirator to avoid exposure to mold spores that may already be present in the environment. 

Clean mold from smooth surfaces using a weak bleach-water solution (1/4 - 1/2 cup bleach per gallon of water). Use gloves, eye and skin protection and plenty of ventilation. If you are sensitive to mold or chemicals, have someone else do it.

If the flooding is excessive and/or “dirty” - e.g., from a rising river or sewer backup - expert help is needed to protect health and property.
 

Step Two – Dry It Out and Quickly

Mold spores are everywhere, but need moisture to “germinate” – so drying affected areas is Step Two. Since mold can grow within 24 to 48 hours, quick action is critical.

Aside from obviously wet areas, experts using special meters can check for and locate moisture - even finding hidden wet/moldy places, such as inside wall cavities - and implement techniques to enable a thorough drying-out process. They may also use special fans or “air-scrubbing” equipment with HEPA filters. See also Step Three. 

Step Three – Air It Out

The flooded, wet area will need fresh air and ventilation to dry it out, but take care not to spread mold spores around your home by improper “airing”. Consult with an IICRC-certified firm to set up “containment”– a fancy word that means keeping doors closed, putting up plastic sheeting, exhausting air to the outdoors, and other measures to enable the drying and ventilation process without exposing loved ones to contaminated air from the flooded area.

Step Four – Keep it Dry to Keep It Out

The cardinal rule for preventing mold growth is – Keep it Dry. Strive to ensure your home’s insides are staying dry.  It’s also a way to protect the investment of your home, since excess mold growth and moisture will damage the structure, in addition to potentially causing health effects.

Try to keep indoor humidity below 50% using air conditioning or a dehumidifier. Have carpets cleaned by professionals that use equipment to clean and properly dry your carpet.

SERVPRO of North Central San Antonio are professional mold specialists who can help you with your mold problem! (210) 899-1017

http://www.SERVPROnorthcentralsanantonio.com/

Understanding Mold

1/9/2020 (Permalink)

Mold infestation let SERVPRO North Central Help!

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 on a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water.
• 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

SERVPRO North Central San Antonio Dangers of Mold

11/15/2019 (Permalink)

Don't Let mold spread contact SERVPRO North Central San Antonio today at (210) 899-1017

When you notice mold growing in your home, the spot may look like nothing more than a nuisance. But for many people, mold can present a wide range of health risks — particularly when the problem is widespread. To help you protect your household — and recognize the importance of mold remediation — here are few important details to know about how this type of fungus can harm the body.

A GUIDE TO THE HAZARDS OF MOLD.

How Does Mold Affect Health?

As this variety of fungus grows, it produces microscopic spores that can spread through your home. When inhaled, individuals with sensitivities to mold may experience chronic breathing problems, skin irritation, and congestion.

These reactions are typically more common among those with allergies or asthma. When people have compromised immune systems, mold-related health problems can lead to infections, such as those affecting the lungs. In addition to putting human health in danger, mold growth is also known to similarly affect pets.

How Can You Prevent Mold-Related Health Problems?

The best way to avoid these health risks is to limit the amount of moisture in your home, as this fungus thrives in damp, humid conditions. Some approaches to DIY mold remediation include fixing leaks, using a dehumidifier, and insulating windows to prevent condensation. If your home is subject to water damage, call SERVPRO North Central San Antonio at (210) 899-1017

Protect your home from Mold

11/4/2019 (Permalink)

Mold covered cabinet

Although you may not be able to completely eliminate the presence of mold spores entering your home from the natural environment, there are many ways you can limit or prevent mold growth in your home to protect it.

• ^{Keep your HVAC system maintained and change your air filter regularly, which will prevent the buildup of mold spores in your ducts and prevent the circulation of spores through your indoor air.}
• ^{When remodeling or redecorating, consider using products such as paints and flooring with antimicrobial properties, which makes them less susceptible to mold growth, even if there is a flood or leak.}
• ^{Reduce the amount of moisture in your home by running ventilation fans while bathing and using your air conditioner to extract moisture from the air on hot, humid summer days.}
• ^{Have your roof inspected at least once a year to identify damage or leaks and repair them immediately, as roof damage can otherwise go unnoticed and lead to extensive water damage and mold growth before the issue is caught and addressed.}

^{Call SERVPRO of North Central San Antonio if you suspect Mold in your San Antonio home. (210) 899-1017 or visit us: at http://www.SERVPROnorthcentralsanantonio.com/}

Mold Removal

8/14/2019 (Permalink)

Mold Removal due to Water loss

Mold typically plaques homes that were subject to recent water damage. When a home floods, it does so in a variety of ways, from the initial damages that the water causes, to the erosion of support structures, and eventually mold. This is why our technicians arrive as quickly as possible with all the tools and techniques needed to give you and your home a fresh start with a free visual inspection and professional mold removal. 

Mold spores, especially black mold, can take hold in any location where there is a minimum amount of moisture and a substrate for them to germinate. This means that virtually any surface that remains wet for too long will be a harbor for mold and fungus contamination.Many people don’t realize that mold spores are actually around them at all times. This is why our technicians bring such sophisticated air scrubbers and dehumidifiers to each job. By utilizing the most advanced technology such as vapor barriers, moisture readers, and even infrared technology, our specialists can find, stop, and destroy mold growth no matter where it is.

Call us today at (210) 899-1017 or visit us at www.SERVPROnorthcentralsanantonio.com/

Mold & SERVPRO North Central San Antonio

3/18/2019 (Permalink)

Containment for Mold

Molds will grow anywhere that 3 conditions take place: moisture, oxygen, and an organic food source. Although molds play a large role in maintaining a healthy ecosystem in our world, they can turn from friends to foe instantly. Adverse reactions from exposure can include sensitivities, allergies, asthma, etc. 

Mold can begin to grow 72 hours after water damage has occurred. Molds best grow in warm, damp, and humid conditions, and spread and reproduce by making spores.  

Typically after water a loss has occurred you do not see the growth immediately, as it begins to grow behind baseboards, in-wall cavities and under cabinets. 

At SERVPRO of North Central San Antonio we specialize in Mold Remediation. Call us today for your Mold remediation needs at (210) 899-1017 or visit us at www.SERVPROnorthcentralsanantonio.com

Controling Mold in your home

3/13/2019 (Permalink)

Water & Mold

The key to mold control is moisture control.

• If mold is a problem in your home, you should clean up the mold promptly and fix the water problem.
• It is important to dry water-damaged areas and items within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.  SERVPRO of North Central San Antonio specializes in moisture control and remediating mold.

Molds produce tiny spores to reproduce. Mold spores flow through the indoor and outdoor air continually. When mold spores land on a wet spot indoors, they may begin growing and digesting whatever they are growing on in order to survive. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, furniture, and foods. When excessive moisture or water accumulates indoors, mold growth will often occur, particularly if the moisture problem remains undiscovered or un-addressed. There is no practical way to eliminate ALL mold and mold spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.  Call SERVPRO of North Central San Antonio today if you suspect mold growth in your Bexar County home.

Call SERVPRO of North Central San Antonio today at (210) 899-1017 for your mold remediation needs. 

Also, visit us at www.SERVPROnorthcentralsanantonio.com/ 

Why Choose SERVPRO of North Central San Antonio

3/11/2019 (Permalink)

Mold in Bathroom Cabinet

SERVPRO of North Central San Antonio offers Mold removal services to stem the tide of mold, as well as cleaning and sanitization, including mold odor removal to restore your home or business to its original condition. Removal of mold can be a serious endeavor, and SERVPRO of North Central San Antonio has the expertise and technology for the job. 

SERVPRO of North Central San Antonio begins by restoring the affected area to normal conditions and then shift their attention to mold or odor removal. Our professional deodorization techniques will leave your home or business fully restored and help avoid recurrences. We can provide a complete estimate, including photos, to the agent or adjuster within 24-48 hours. Our commitment to excellence includes you, which means that you can expect effective, ongoing communication from us.

CALL SERVPRO of North Central San Antonio today at (210) 899-1017 or visit us at www.SERVPROnorthcentralsanantonio.com.

Insurance & Mold

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

Mold under cabinet after a leak

Whether or not mold damage is covered by your homeowner's insurance often comes down to the source of the moisture. Take an hour or so to review your policy, especially as it pertains to water damage. Look for mold exclusions or limitations. Call your agent if you are unsure.

Most basic home owner’s insurance policies exclude coverage of damage caused by mold, fungi, or bacteria.  That doesn’t mean a mold claim will be denied automatically.  In most situations, if mold results from a sudden and accidental covered peril, such as a pipe bursting, the cost of remediation could be covered. That’s because technically the pipe burst is the reason for the claim, not the mold itself. Claims are more likely to be rejected if mold is caused by neglected home maintenance: long-term exposure to humidity, or repeated water leaks.

If you are worried and prone to mold in your home it might be possible to purchase a mold rider as an add-on to your existing home owner’s insurance policy. Ask your agent. A rider will offer additional mold coverage.

Call SERVPRO of North Central San Antonio today if you have questions or concerns in your home.

210-899-1017

Getting to know Mold

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

Containment for Mold

Mold in your home or business can be a dangerous problem.  Mold is part of the environment and plays an important part in our ecosystem.  Without it, we would not have penicillin.  Certain types of cheese rely on the mold for their flavor.  Mold breaks down dead plant and animal material, returning useful nutrients to the soil.  The problem occurs when water damage supplies mold with the moisture it needs to colonize inside structures.  Elevated mold spore counts can cause adverse health effects on otherwise healthy people.  People with allergies, asthma, or immune-compromised people, may have more serious reactions.  Call SERVPRO of North Central San Antonio if you suspect you have a mold problem. If mold is found, we have the training, equipment, certifications, and expertise to remediate your mold damaged areas.  SERVPRO of North Central San Antonio can make it "Like it never even happened."  Call us today 210-899-1017

http://www.SERVPROnorthcentralsanantonio.com/

Mold Prevention Tips

7/30/2018 (Permalink)

Mold Prevention Tips

Mold Prevention Tips:

• When water leaks or intrusions occur, act quickly! Wet or damp material that is dried within 24 – 48 hours of the leak, in most cases, will NOT grow mold.
• Remove wet carpet or furniture that cannot be dried within 24 – 48 hours.
• Do not install carpet in areas of water usage such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
• Remove wet clothes from the washer promptly.
• Do not leave damp clothes or towels lying around.
• Keep indoor humidity levels below 60%. The ideal level is between 30 – 50%. Relative humidity can be measured by a moisture or humidity meter, a small and inexpensive instrument available at most hardware stores.
• If you see condensation or moisture collecting on windows, walls or pipes, act fast to dry the wet surface and reduce the moisture or water source.
• Use air conditioners or dehumidifiers to keep humidity low.
• Keep air conditioning drip pans clean and the drain lines free of obstructions.
• Be sure dryers, stoves, heaters and exhaust fans vent to the outside, not into the walls or attic.
• Use a bathroom exhaust fan or open the window when you shower.
• Dry shower walls after a shower.
• When cooking or using the dishwasher, use an exhaust fan or open the window.
• Keep furniture from blocking air returns and vents.
• Dust and vacuum often.
• Clean and repair gutters regularly.
• Repair any roof leaks as soon as you discover them.
• Make sure the ground slopes away from the building foundation so that water does not enter or pool around the foundation.
• Insulate cold surfaces such as cold water pipes to prevent condensation.
• Repair any plumbing leaks as soon as you find them

Call SERVPRO of North Central San Antonio today at (210) 899-1017 or visit us for more info at: 

www.SERVPROnorthcentralsanantonio.com/ 

Recognizing Mold

3/16/2018 (Permalink)

Mold in Home? SERVPRO can Help!!

You may recognize mold by:

• Sight (Are the walls and ceiling discolored, or do they show signs of mold growth or water damage?)
• Smell (Do you smell a bad odor, such as a musty, earthy smell or a foul stench?)

 Safely Preventing Mold Growth

Clean up and dry out the building quickly (within 24 to 48 hours). Open doors and windows. Use fans to dry out the building.

• ?When in doubt, take it out! Remove all porous items that have been wet for more than 48 hours and that cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. These items can remain a source of mold growth and should be removed from the home. Porous, non-cleanable items include carpeting and carpet padding, upholstery, wallpaper, drywall, floor and ceiling tiles, insulation material, some clothing, leather, paper, wood, and food. Removal and cleaning are important because even dead mold may cause allergic reactions in some people.
• To prevent mold growth, clean wet items and surfaces with detergent and water.
• Homeowners may want to temporarily store items outside of the home until insurance claims can be filed

If you see Mold in your home call us at (210) 899-1017 or visit our website at www.SERVPROnorthcentralsanantonio.com/ 

SERVPRO’s mold removal remediation plans.

3/1/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Central San Antonio have seen individuals try to conduct mold abatement on their own, using various methods recommended by family and friends, including the application of bleach. Unfortunately, these methods may appear to work initially, but actually result in the mold continuing to grow and/or returning. Due to the serious potential consequences of mold contamination, using a certified, experienced mold remediation professional such as SERVPRO is the only way to guarantee mold removal and future mold growth in an affected area.

SERVPRO of North Central San Antonio provides visual inspections and estimates of the affected area. Our mold removal plans include addressing the source of the moisture causing the mold growth. Our certified technicians properly contain the contaminated area so mold spores do not travel to other areas in your home causing further problems. Here at SERVPRO we have specialized equipment for mold cleanup and restoration, including HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter vacuums, which remove mold spores from the affected areas. Our company also uses approved antimicrobial fungicides to kill mold spores and fungicidal protective coating to prevent future mold growth in the mold affected areas.

 If you have mold in your home call SERVPRO of North Central San Antonio at: (210) 899-1017 or visit our website at: www.SERVPROnorthcentralsanantonio.com/ 

Four Steps to Preventing Mold Growth after a Flood

2/21/2018 (Permalink)

Mold problem - San Antonio

Step One – Remove Affected Materials

Aside from stopping the source of the moisture, it’s important to promptly remove wet furnishings and porous materials from the flooded area to enable a thorough damage-assessment, and drying and restoring contents that have not been compromised. 

Some of it - such as wet/moldy carpet, drywall, upholstery and fabrics - will need to be discarded.

Vacuum using HEPA-wet-dry vacuums to remove moisture, mold and soils without spreading allergenic or unhealthy mold and dust particles around your home. According to the IICRC, "It is preferable to use a HEPA vacuum, but a simple wet/dry vacuum can work. When using a wet/dry vacuum, attach a hose to the exhaust and vent the exhaust air to the outside. This keeps dust, spores and other fine particles from being suspended in the air and settling back on clean surfaces."  

In the case of minor “clean” flooding, say from a small burst indoor water pipe, homeowners can remove smaller wet items themselves, but should wear goggles, gloves, long sleeves and an N-95 respirator to avoid exposure to mold spores that may already be present in the environment. 

Clean mold from smooth surfaces using a weak bleach-water solution (1/4 - 1/2 cup bleach per gallon of water). Use gloves, eye and skin protection and plenty of ventilation. If you are sensitive to mold or chemicals, have someone else do it.

If the flooding is excessive and/or “dirty” - e.g., from a rising river or sewer backup - expert help is needed to protect health and property.
 

Step Two – Dry It Out and Quickly

Mold spores are everywhere, but need moisture to “germinate” – so drying affected areas is Step Two. Since mold can grow within 24 to 48 hours, quick action is critical.

Aside from obviously wet areas, experts using special meters can check for and locate moisture - even finding hidden wet/moldy places, such as inside wall cavities - and implement techniques to enable a thorough drying-out process. They may also use special fans or “air-scrubbing” equipment with HEPA filters. See also Step Three. 

Step Three – Air It Out

The flooded, wet area will need fresh air and ventilation to dry it out, but take care not to spread mold spores around your home by improper “airing”. Consult with an IICRC-certified firm to set up “containment”– a fancy word that means keeping doors closed, putting up plastic sheeting, exhausting air to the outdoors, and other measures to enable the drying and ventilation process without exposing loved ones to contaminated air from the flooded area.

Step Four – Keep it Dry to Keep It Out

The cardinal rule for preventing mold growth is – Keep it Dry. Strive to ensure your home’s insides are staying dry.  It’s also a way to protect the investment of your home, since excess mold growth and moisture will damage the structure, in addition to being unhealthful.

Try to keep indoor humidity below 50% using air conditioning or a dehumidifier. Have carpets cleaned by professionals that use equipment to clean and properly dry your carpet.

SERVPRO of North Central San Antonio are professional mold specialists who can help you with your mold problem! (210) 899-1017

http://www.SERVPROnorthcentralsanantonio.com/

Mold Growth Infiltrates Wet Dark Environments

2/12/2018 (Permalink)

Signs of Mold San Antonio

Mold requires certain conditions and environments to exist in order to proliferate. And those spores can really move when that happens! Excess water and moisture are the primary catalysts, so the time to be aware of the possibility of mold growth is when you’ve experienced any type of water invasion. We’ve listed below the many ways that mold can enter and take hold in your home and pose Mold related health risk.

THE RIGHT CONDITIONS

Mold needs the right conditions to grow and spread throughout your home. All it needs are a food source, darkness, heat source, oxygen, water – and very little time. That’s why, once some mold is detected, it is extremely important to deal with it before it gets worse!

LEAKS

Even the smallest of leaks can cause mold to grow quite rapidly. This seepage often goes unnoticed until items and materials are compromised or the mold becomes so bad it is clearly visible on walls, flooring or furnishings. By this time, you may even smell the mold – which can have a negative effect on your health as time passes.

FLOODING

Flooding can cause some of the most dangerous kinds of mold, particularly if the flooding is caused by outside influences such as sewage – even the dirty water from your washing machine or dish washer. This type of “black” and “grey” water usually contains contaminants that can grow along with the mold, causing the spores to be breathed in or even inadvertently ingested.

HAVING A PROBLEM WITH MOLD?

Don’t delay – you’ll need an expert to handle the situation. Don’t wait while the problem becomes worse! SERVPRO of North Central San Antonio are fully capable of dealing with any type of emergency. All of our technicians are fully certified and trained in all facets of damage restoration. We will respond quickly and get your property back to its original state in no time at all. 

We are available for 24/7 emergency services. Give us a call today (210) 899-1017 or visit us at : http://www.SERVPROnorthcentralsanantonio.com/

Why Ignoring the Signs of Mold Damage is Dangerous

2/8/2018 (Permalink)

Got Mold?

A little mildew here and there seems perfectly normal in any home or commercial locations, but a little mildew here and there is often a sign of much larger issues. While a little mildew might simply mean a bathroom needs nothing more than a good cleansing, the presence of mildew is a strong indicator there might be mold damage somewhere in your home or office. Commercial mold damage and mold in the home are both serious problems you simply cannot afford to ignore. It’s dangerous to allow mold damage to continue without professional remediation and mitigation. If you suspect you have some fungus growing in the house, it’s time to call for professional mold removal and remediation.

Ignoring Mold Damage is Risky

Perhaps you don’t consider mold in the home or commercial mold damage much of an issue when it’s in small increments, but this is where the danger comes into play. Mold in the home can cause many additional issues with your family and your structure when it’s left untreated, and the same goes for commercial mold damage. Mold is a fungus, and this is a fungus that grows quickly. This particular type of fungus needs only humidity higher than 40% as well as a little moisture to grow rapidly and spread quickly. This kind of mold in the home or commercial mold damage means air quality changes rapidly, and it means you have bigger problems to deal with.

Mold damage not professionally treated usually comes right back. Professional remediation requires the use of specialized tools and equipment designed to allow professional mold removal services to do their job adequately. When you have this type of mitigation occur, chances of mold coming back into the home or business are much slimmer than when you attempt this on your own. It’s costly to forgo professional remediation, because you’ll end up needing mitigation regardless no matter what you try on your own.

Don’t Ignore the Signs

Mildew is one potential sign of mold damage, but it’s certainly not the only sign. A smelly odor anywhere in the house could be a sign. This smelly odor might come across as slightly damp, and it’s a smelly odor with an old house smell to it. When you begin recognizing a smelly odor such as this, don’t assume deodorization is the answer. While deodorization is a temporary fix to a smelly odor, it doesn’t kill mold or prevent it from growing rapidly.

Since mold needs less than 48 hours to spread throughout your home or office, deodorization is only recommended to remedy a smell. Professional mitigation is the way to get rid of mold, though you can use deodorization for your own sanity.

When mold occurs in a home or office, there might be many signs. One sign it could grow quickly is the humidity level. The goal is to keep the humidity in your home or office at or below 40 percent. This is ideal for keeping mold at bay. Any higher than this and it has the potential for rapid growth. Even a small leak can cause mold to grow quickly. Since not all leaks are found easily, it’s helpful to keep an eye on the smelly odors you notice, and it’s helpful to keep the house or office as unfriendly for mold as possible. Mold removal is necessary when you find even the smallest amount.

Professional mold removal is designed to help rid your home and/or office of mold, and it’s necessary. The biggest problem for many is the idea they can do it themselves and save a little money, but it’s less expensive to pay for professional services right away and handle the problem effectively than it is to pour money into fixes that don’t work in the long run. Mold is dangerous on many levels, and getting rid of it the right way is necessary. 

If you notcie Mold in your home or office contact us today at (210) 899-1017 or visit us at 

http://www.SERVPROnorthcentralsanantonio.com/

Mold Facts for your San Antonio Home

7/31/2017 (Permalink)

^{Mold is a common problem associated with leaks and flooding; furthermore, mold growth can cause damage to your property and the belongings within. Addressing a mold problem as soon as you notice it is the best way to prevent damage from spreading and restore the appearance and safety of your property. SERVPRO of North Central San Antonio offers fast, effective mold remediation for homes and businesses that have sustained damage from flooding.}

^{Mold requires certain ingredients to grow, including warm temperatures, a ready supply of water, and available food. In nature, mold is responsible for the breakdown of organic material; most molds prefer to consume cellulose, a plant-based fiber, which is found in many household building and decorative materials. Thus, certain areas and items in your home can be more susceptible to mold, either because of their composition or their ability to readily absorb water.}

• ^{Drywall, gypsum, wood, and plywood are all easily digestible materials for molds, and common places to discover mold growth.}
• ^{Molds can also attack paper, cardboard, and organic adhesives, as well as wallpaper and particle board.}
• ^{Mold also grows easily on painted surfaces, tile grout, and fabrics such as carpeting, upholstery, and curtains.}

^{Call SERVPRO of North Central San Antonio if you suspect Mold in your San Antonio home. (210) 899-1017 or visit us at http://www.SERVPROnorthcentralsanantonio.com/}

Limit Mold Growth in Your San Antonio Home

7/31/2017 (Permalink)

^{Although you may not be able to completely eliminate the presence of mold spores entering your home from the natural environment, there are many ways you can limit or prevent mold growth in your home to protect it.}

• ^{Keep your HVAC system maintained and change your air filter regularly, which will prevent the buildup of mold spores in your ducts and prevent the circulation of spores through your indoor air.}
• ^{When remodeling or redecorating, consider using products such as paints and flooring with antimicrobial properties, which makes them less susceptible to mold growth, even if there is a flood or leak.}
• ^{Reduce the amount of moisture in your home by running ventilation fans while bathing and using your air conditioner to extract moisture from the air on hot, humid summer days.}
• ^{Have your roof inspected at least once a year to identify damage or leaks and repair them immediately, as roof damage can otherwise go unnoticed and lead to extensive water damage and mold growth before the issue is caught and addressed.}

^{Call SERVPRO of North Central San Antonio if you suspect Mold in your San Antonio home. (210) 899-1017 or visit us at http://www.SERVPROnorthcentralsanantonio.com/}

Understanding Mold

3/15/2017 (Permalink)

Mold in your home or business can be a dangerous problem.  Mold is part of the environment, and plays an important part of our ecosystem.  Without it, we would not have penicillin.  Certain types of cheese rely on mold for their flavor.  Mold breaks down dead plant and animal material, returning useful nutrients to the soil.  The problem occurs when water damage supplies mold with the moisture it needs to colonize inside structures.  Elevated mold spore counts can cause adverse health effects on otherwise healthy people.  People with allergies, asthma, or immune-compromised people, may have more serious reactions.  Call SERVPRO of North Central San Antonio if you suspect you have a mold problem. If mold is found, we have the training, equipment, certifications and expertise to remediate your mold damaged areas.  SERVPRO of North Central San Antonio can make it "Like it never even happened."  Call us today 210-899-1017

http://www.SERVPROnorthcentralsanantonio.com/

Keys to Control Mold?

3/15/2017 (Permalink)

The key to mold control is moisture control.

• If mold is a problem in your home, you should clean up the mold promptly and fix the water problem.
• It is important to dry water-damaged areas and items within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.  SERVPRO of North Central San Antonio specializes in moisture control and remediating mold.

Molds produce tiny spores to reproduce. Mold spores flow through the indoor and outdoor air continually. When mold spores land on a wet spot indoors, they may begin growing and digesting whatever they are growing on in order to survive. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, furniture, and foods. When excessive moisture or water accumulates indoors, mold growth will often occur, particularly if the moisture problem remains undiscovered or un-addressed. There is no practical way to eliminate ALL mold and mold spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.  Call SERVPRO of North Central San Antonio today if you suspect mold growth in your Bexar county home.

210-899-1017

10 Things to know about Mold

3/15/2017 (Permalink)

1. Potential health effects and symptoms associated with mold exposures include allergic reactions, asthma and other respiratory complaints.
2. There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.
3. If mold is a problem in your San Antonio home or school, you must clean up the mold and eliminate sources of moisture.
4. Fix the source of the water problem or leak to prevent mold growth.
5. Reduce indoor humidity (to 30-60%) to decrease mold growth by:
6. Venting bathrooms, dryers and other moisture-generating sources to the outside Using air conditioners and de-humidifiers, Increasing ventilation, and Using exhaust fans whenever cooking, dishwashing and cleaning
7. Clean and dry any damp or wet building materials and furnishings within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.
8. Clean mold off hard surfaces with water and detergent, and dry completely. Absorbent materials such as ceiling tiles, that are moldy, may need to be replaced.
9. Prevent condensation: Reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces (i.e., windows, piping, exterior walls, roof, or floors) by adding insulation.
10. In areas where there is a perpetual moisture problem, do not install carpeting (i.e., by drinking fountains, by classroom sinks, or on concrete floors with leaks or frequent condensation).

It is important NOT to attempt to clean up mold without first consulting with a Licensed professional.  Call SERVPRO of North Central San Antonio today if you suspect mold growth in your Residential home or Commercial Building.

210-899-1017

http://www.SERVPROnorthcentralsanantonio.com/

San Antonio Mold Damage Covered by my Insurance

3/1/2017 (Permalink)

Whether or not mold damage is covered by your home owners insurance often comes down to the source of the moisture. Take an hour or so to review your policy, especially as it pertains to water damage. Look for mold exclusions or limitations. Call your agent if you are unsure.

Most basic home owner’s insurance policies exclude coverage of damage caused by mold, fungi, or bacteria.  That doesn’t mean a mold claim will be denied automatically.  In most situations, if mold results from a sudden and accidental covered peril, such as a pipe bursting, the cost of remediation could be covered. That’s because technically the pipe burst is the reason for the claim, not the mold itself. Claims are more likely to be rejected if mold is caused by neglected home maintenance: long-term exposure to humidity, or repeated water leaks.

If you are worried and prone to mold in your home it might be possible to purchase a mold rider as an add-on to your existing home owner’s insurance policy. Ask your agent. A rider will offer additional mold coverage.

Call SERVPRO of North Central San Antonio today if you have questions or concerns in your home.

210-899-1017