Six Helpful Tips to Prevent Mold from Forming in Your Home

7/15/2024 (Permalink)

Your home is your refuge & mold can throw a monkey wrench into the peace and relaxation your home brings.

Mold can grow and thrive in places where you least expect it. Some signs of mold are visible, but others are not. Not only is it an eyesore, but also a health hazard.  As a result, it's crucial to prevent mold from your home at all costs.

In this article, we list down easy ways to prevent the formation of mold in your home. Read on below to get started.

#1 - Identify Mold Hotspots

It's difficult to prevent mold from your home if you don't know where it's coming from. Before you start taking proactive measures to prevent mold, you need to know where it hides out.

Here are some areas in your home where mold can thrive:

• Behind your walls
• Behind your dishwasher
• Under the sink
• The corners of your bathroom
• Pots and pans in low cabinets
• Ceilings
• Basements

If you want to prevent mold from your home, you should regularly check these spots.

#2 - Dry Any Wet Area in Your Home

Even if you're not seeing any signs of mold in your home, you should always keep it dry. Moisture is a breeding ground for mold. For this reason, you should regularly dry up wet areas in your home.

The best way to dry up wet areas is by using a dehumidifier. A dehumidifier will absorb excess moisture in the air. In addition, this device also cleans the air in your home and purifies it. 

#3 - Ensure Your Home Has Proper Ventilation

Proper ventilation ensures that the air in your home is well-circulated. It helps to promote the flow of fresh air. This is important because mold thrives in stagnant areas.

Make sure you don't put anything blocking the airflow of your vents. If you want to prevent mold from your home, you should also ensure that your doors and windows are open at least once a week. Additionally, you should also replace your furnace filters regularly. This will help your furnace and air conditioner to circulate air in your home.

#4 - Install Mold-Resistant Products

Your home has a lot of products that are prone to mold. To prevent mold from your home, you should buy products made of mold-resistant material. For example, you can replace your shower curtain after a month of use. Additionally, you should replace these products regularly to ensure that they‘re in good condition.

#5 - Clean or Repair Your Roof Gutters

If your roof gutters are leaking, water will collect in them. Water accumulation in your gutters can then become a breeding ground for mold.

The best way to prevent mold from your gutters is by using a gutter guard. This tool will prevent water from building up in your gutter. It also ensures a proper flow of water in your gutter.

#6 - Keep Your Carpets Clean

Carpets are one of the most common sources of mold in the home. To prevent mold from your carpets, you should regularly clean and vacuum them at least once a week. After vacuuming, you should use a carpet shampooer to clean your carpets.

Conclusion

Mold is a natural phenomenon. However, it can cause so many health problems. Many people don't realize that it's essential to prevent mold from your home until they experience it. With the tips above, you can prevent mold growth in your home.

SERVPRO of Monroe, Madison & Monticello provides top-quality mold remediation services in Georgia. We offer safe and eco-friendly solutions to ensure your home will be safe, all for affordable prices. Contact us today to request a quote!

SERVPRO of Monroe, Madison & Monticello Hiring Experienced Production Technician

5/24/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Monroe, Madison & Monticello- Fire & Water Cleanup has immediate openings in our Emergency Services & Restoration departments.

40 hours/week on average, flexible to work overtime when required.
Hours vary between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.
On-Call rotation for 24-hour emergency service
Some night and weekend work is required
Starting wage is based on relevant experience
Do you love helping people through difficult situations?

We're seeking someone who is comfortable working hard in challenging situations, meeting new people, with excellent communication skills, and who is self-motivated.

Our idea of the ultimate candidate is one who is proactive, trustworthy, truly enjoys providing superior service, and loves taking ownership of their responsibilities.

Some of the Responsibilities include:

Provide excellent customer service.
Perform on-site cleaning and restoration services in structures damaged by water and fire.
Leave jobsite with a clean and orderly appearance.
Develop production expertise: services, cleaning products, and equipment.
Follow the SERVPRO uniform policy.
Complete documentation, as appropriate.
Minimum Requirements

Must have a professional appearance and great attitude.
A valid driver license with a reasonable driving record.
Ability to pass a criminal background check with no felony convictions or misdemeanors involving violence or theft.
Must be able to pass a drug test.
Must be able to lift a minimum of 50 pounds.
Must have a high school diploma or a GED certificate.
Job Type: Full-time

Experience:
Supervisor 2 years (Required)

Education:
High school or equivalent (Required)

License or certification:
Driver's License (Required)

Job Type: Full-time

Call SERVPRO of Monroe, Madison & Monticello 706-549-3366
Email Resume to: admin@SERVPROofathens.com

Conditions In Monroe, Madison, & Monticello Might Be Right For Mold

5/21/2018 (Permalink)

It’s estimated that more than 1 million types of mold exist, yet less than 10 percent have actually been named. This means mold is very common in both indoor and outdoor environments. While mold and humans can sometimes co-exist without issue, there are certain species of mold that can cause health effects for some people.

If the right conditions exist, mold will grow. Those conditions include:

• Water - Different mold types require varying amounts of liquid before growth begins.   
• Temperature - Normal indoor temperatures will promote mold growth.
• Time - Initial mold colonizers can take hold within one day after being exposed to an adequate water supply.

Mold growth can occur in any home, so it’s important to keep an eye out for situations that might promote mold activity. Roof/chimney leaks, wet basements, or condensation from ducts that dampen surrounding insulation are just a few examples of issues that make a house a prime target for mold growth.

If you suspect mold in your home, call SERVPRO of Monroe, Madison, & Monticello to assess the situation. We have the knowledge, tools and track record to effectively remediate mold in your home or business.

If you suspect mold, call us today at (770) 267-0023.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Monroe, Madison, & Monticello for mold remediation services

Mold Remediation Standard

5/8/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Monroe, Madison & Monticello is ready to take your call and assist with mold remediation!  Our technicians follow the IICRC S520 Mold Remediation Standard.  There are five principles to this standard:

• Principle 1- Provide for Health and Safety.  We protect the health of our technicians and the occupants of the structure. 
• Principle 2- Document Conditions and Processes.  SERVPRO of Monroe, Madison & Monticello documents and records all services that are completed including monitoring of any equipment placed.
• Principle 3- Control the Mold Contaminant at its Source.  Our technicians use specialty equipment and containment to keep the mold from contaminating other areas of the structure.
• Principle 4- Remove Contamination.  If the mold has grown beyond normal levels it may be necessary to remove the contamination completely by physically removing the contaminated surfaces, vacuuming excessive spores into HEPA filters, and/or wiping soiled surfaces with detergent cleaning products.
• Principle 5- Correct the Moisture Problem.  Stop the source of moisture that contributed to the mold growth.  If a building continues to have moisture problems, even the best cleanup efforts will not stop the mold from returning.

SERVPRO of Monroe, Madison & Monticello professionals communicate with your insurance adjuster and IAQ (Indoor Air Quality) professionals.  The IAQ will perform initial testing and clearance testing in order to make sure the mold has been restored to a safe level.

SERVPRO of Monroe, Madison & Monticello is ready to assist with any mold related questions or problems.  Call today!  770-267-0023

Mold in Monroe, Madison and Monticello, Georgia

10/12/2017 (Permalink)

Mold can spread a home in as little as 48 hours!

Mold remediation has increased throughout Georgia. Energy-efficient buildings, faulty construction, increased plumbing, and public awareness are all reasons of why mold has threatened properties.

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 – SERVPRO of Monroe, Madison & Monticello 770-267-0023

Duct Cleaning

5/4/2017 (Permalink)

It’s “Thyme” to Clean Your Ducts!

According to the EPA, the air inside your home may be 10 times dirtier than outside air. Dirty duct work is a major part of that problem. The EPA recommends that you should consider cleaning your air ducts if: 

• There is substantial visible mold growth inside hard surface (e.g., sheet metal) ducts or on other components of your heating and cooling system
• Ducts are infested with vermin, e.g. (rodents or insects)
• Ducts are clogged with excessive amounts of dust and debris and/or particles are actually released into the home from your supply registers.

Our superior cleaning system, in combination with Benefect can help you breathe easier this spring. Benefect uses the essential oil of the thyme plant as our Active Ingredient, not a synthetic chemical substitute. Using real, food grade ingredients makes Benefect products a sustainable option for disinfecting and cleaning. 

The process we use for cleaning your system are as follows: 

• Set up and operate a 3-stage vacuum and filter system to remove and filter debris from the ductwork
• Access all return ducts, agitate to remove settled soils, vacuum and clean with compressed air.
• Access all supply ducts, agitate to remove settled soils, vacuum and clean with compressed air.
• Remove, clean, and reinstall air registers
• Repair all HVAC access points to original condition using professional repair techniques.
• Re-inspect HVAC system to certify level of cleanliness

Call SERVPRO of Monroe, Madison, & Monticello at (770) 267-0023 today to schedule your duct cleaning! 

Monroe, Madison & Monticello Residents: Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

2/23/2017 (Permalink)

Be careful! Without proper training, you could be spreading mold throughout your 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 Monroe, Madison & Monticello 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 Monroe, Madison & Monticello 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 – 770-267-0023