Archived Why SERVPRO Blog Posts
What is the difference between Mold Removal and Mold Remediation?
12/5/2022 (Permalink)
What’s the Difference Between Mold Removal and Mold Remediation?
Mold spores are pervasive fungi. The natural environment teems with over 100,000 variations of mold. When airborne spores maneuver their way into a building, though, the results are disastrous. Immediate mold remediation is necessary to keep mold from damaging the property and causing health concerns.
The Difference Between Mold Removal and Mold Remediation
The difference between mold removal and mold remediation is that mold removal is physically removing all mold spores while mold remediation focuses on returning mold levels to normal, natural levels.
The terms Mold remediation and mold removal are interchangeable. However, achieving the latter is impossible. Since airborne mold spores are microscopic and abound in both the outdoor and indoor environments, it is technically impossible to remove all mold in the atmosphere.
Mold remediation of a mold-infested property will return mold levels to an acceptable, natural level. Bear in mind there is no such thing as completely removing mold from the environment. The remediation process will just clean up the spores so mold levels are no longer harmful to the building or its inhabitants.
When a mold outbreak is extensive (equal to or greater than 10 square feet), consulting a professional mold remediation service is recommended. Property owners can otherwise typically clean up minor mold issues. Building owners should recognize when mold becomes an issue.
Signs of Mold
Homeowners may fail to realize they have a mold problem until someone in the home starts to cough, sneeze, or experience watery eyes, runny nose, and congestion. Sudden allergy symptoms like these usually point to a mold infestation in the building.
<pattachment-10723">If the mold covers an area larger than 10 square feet, it’s best to hire a professional mold remediation company.
When symptoms disappear when not inside the property, it is a telltale sign that indoor mold is the culprit. Some molds are toxic to people and pets. Extremely dangerous molds can trigger life-threatening health issues and provoke severe asthma attacks, or even neurological problems.
Lingering, musty smells inside the property can reveal the presence of certain molds; not all molds produce odors, however. Visual inspections can also pinpoint mold growth. Black, green or white clusters may be mold. Some molds that grow behind wallpaper may be orange or pink in color.
A property that has sustained long-term water damage is susceptible to mold growth. Mold spores can latch onto damp surfaces within 48 hours. Water leaks also lead to mold outbreaks. A stealthy eruption of mold can even occur along plumbing systems behind walls.
Common Types of Mold
A professional mold assessor will be able to accurately distinguish between toxic molds and household molds via mold sampling and laboratory testing.
Aspergillus molds, for instance, can cause pulmonary infections in vulnerable individuals. Some types of Aspergillus molds produce mycotoxins and trigger allergic reactions.
Penicillium molds cause food spoilage. Some types of Penicillium molds produce mycotoxins. When a Penicillium mold outbreak is extensive, it may adversely affect the health of building occupants, causing allergic reactions and hypersensitivity pneumonitis. A musty odor reveals the presence of this mold.
The removal or cleanup of copious Stachybotrys molds from indoor environments must be handled by experienced mold remediation technicians due to the toxic components these types of spores contain. Stachybotrys molds produce mycotoxins and satratoxins, which are extremely noxious when inhaled.
<pattachment-13155">Mold grows wherever there is a food source, like moisture or cellulose.
Why Mold Grows in Your Home
As mentioned, mold spores are abundant in the atmosphere. Spores are necessary to help decompose natural materials, like leaves. The beneficial aspect of mold reverses and becomes harmful when spores latch onto materials inside a building. The mold eats away organic substances, causing structural damage.
In dry indoor environments, mold is plentiful and is usually not a problem. Mold poses as a serious issue only when materials inside a property remain damp for prolonged periods of time. Consistent moisture in combination with an organic food source nourish hungry mold spores.
Mold feeds on organic materials, like the wood in drywall, dust in the property, paper and even carpeting. It is common to find mold growing behind the walls, along ceilings and under carpeting—so long as these organic materials remain damp for a sustained period of time.
How to Prevent Mold from Spreading
Mold Remediation will be ineffective if the water source that caused the mold outbreak is left unaddressed. Even if the spores are wiped away, the mold colonies will return when ample moisture is available. Repairing the moisture source is critical to stopping the mold growth.
A regrowth of mold leads to serious structural issues for a building. Mold is also indicative of a water problem. Rotting of structural components is a major safety hazard for building occupants. Additional leakage can occur. Failing to address mold will also attract unwanted pests.
How to Remove Mold
Property owners can usually tackle a small mold outbreak. Cleaning up the infestation requires either a vinegar or bleach solution, both of which are common household staples. Allow the vinegar to sit on the mold splotches for two to five minutes and wipe the spores away.
A large outbreak of mold requires a professional mold remediation service. Any company hired should possess industry experience, professional equipment and permits to execute the mold remediation task. Some companies will also fix the cause of the water damage that led to the initial mold growth.
Professional Mold Remediation
Whether you call it mold remediation or mold removal, eliminating mold from indoor areas is critical to preserving the health of inhabitants and the structural integrity of the building. When you need a rapid response to a mold outbreak, consult a reputable mold remediation professional.
Experienced remediation crews arrive onsite quickly to determine the extent of the mold growth. They also assess the moisture and humidity levels to see if water damage restoration is necessary. Containment of the area prevents spores from contaminating other rooms.
SERVPRO North Lauderdale / West Tamarac uses a professional mold remediation processes that thoroughly removes mold growth from the property. Materials that are heavily damaged by mold are appropriately disposed of. Anti-microbial agents are applied to deter future mold growth. Skilled technicians also repair any goods damaged by mold.
If you feel your home or business may be affected, call us today: 954-960-5322
Best Ozone/Thermal Fogging Treatment Services in Tamarac and North Laudedale Broward County
12/6/2021 (Permalink)
Ozone/thermal fogging treatment are two of the BEST proven techniques in the restoration industry that eliminate odors arising from water, fire, and m
Ozone/thermal fogging treatment are two of the BEST proven techniques in the restoration industry that eliminate odors arising from water, fire, and mold and mildew damage right now!
Is your home or business suffering from harsh odors and smells after fire, water, or mold damage? Contact SERVPRO Tamarac / North Lauderdale today for the best of the best ozone treatment and thermal fogging to remove those odors fast.
WHAT IS OZONE?
In the outdoors, nature eliminates odors and microorganisms using both UV light and O3. Nature creates O3 as a natural cleaner during thunderstorms and also from sunlight striking the earth’s atmosphere.
As an example, we’ve all taken a walk after a thunderstorm and experienced the clean, fresh smell in the air. That’s O3, or ozone, at work. Normal oxygen (O2) is converted to O3, which is commonly called ozone. It reverts back to O2 in about an hour if the O3 is unused. For instance, this leaves the air fresh and clean because the source of the odor has been permanently removed.
OZONE TREATMENT IN YOUR BROWARD COUNTY HOME
However, indoors, most places that generate odors receive very little UV light or O3 leaving Mother Nature out in the cold. Our odor-free purifier creates O3, or ozone, in a special process that utilizes an electrical current. Ozone sanitizes by breaking down odors, microorganisms, and other pollutants at their source.
Every space with odors tends to be somewhat unique. As an example, the source of the odor, as well as how deeply embedded it has become, is just as important as the actual size of the space. Some areas can be treated in a short period of time, whereas other areas of the same size will take longer.
WHAT IS THERMAL FOGGING?
In a case like fire damage, heated air expands and drives odor-causing smoke particles into cracks, crevices, and ductwork and other hidden areas. Thermal fogging mimics this process by expanding a water-based thermal fogging agent into those same areas. Molecules of water-based thermal fogging agents attach themselves to the odor-causing smoke particles and inhibit their ability to release odorous gases. Odors are permanently eliminated, virtually on contact.
Do you have questions for our professional restoration company? To get more info on ozone/thermal fogging treatment services right now in Tamarac, North Lauderdale and Broward County, call 954-960-5322 today.
OUR OZONE/THERMAL FOGGING TREATMENT SERVICES
SERVPRO Tamarac/ North Lauderdale offers a wide variety of services necessary to prevent loss of personal and business property due to:
These services include special techniques such as water extraction and pump outs, use of dehumidification and air movement, mold mitigation, sewage mitigation, hydroxyl generators, thermal fogging, and ozone treatment. SERVPRO Tamarac offers plenty of indoor controlled environment storage for our customers’ contents. Our large facility also allows us the room to clean and restore contents before storing them away safely.
During our cleaning process, we use a Hydroxyl Generator system in our cleaning room to assure all odors and the particles/compounds that make these odors are neutralized. Once the cleaning process is complete, contents and or structures can sometimes require further treatment for odors where the use of the hydroxyl generator or an ozone treatment may be necessary for additional deodorization.
OZONE TREATMENTS EFFECTIVE ON SERIOUS ODORS
Ozone deodorization is extremely effective for more serious odors. For this reason, it is the primary method for clothing, upholstered items, papers, books, or any other porous material affected by odor. The machine takes oxygen out of the air (O2), charges it electrically and turns it into ozone (O3). Ozone is highly reactive and combines with malodor molecules to chemically alter their structure and rid the property of odor.
Because ozone has the ability to penetrate into fabrics and surfaces to the same extent that the odor did, it is the most effective means of long-range deodorization and it is permanent. There is no residual odor from the process itself and no damage to the property. Ozone also kills bacteria and fungi and works as a sanitizing agent. It is a permanent method — once the item is deodorized, the odor cannot and will not return.
CHOOSE SERVPRO TAMARAC FOR ODOR ELIMINATION IN TAMARAC AND NORTH LAUDERDALE, BROWARD COUNTY
Ozone/thermal fogging treatment is an advanced odor removal technique that will leave your home or business smelling great again.
If you need restoration services after a disaster, contact SERVPRO Tamarac/North Lauderdale 954-960-5322
Why SERVPRO? We are different
8/24/2021 (Permalink)
We don't just care for the job. We care for our clients!
That emergency you never thought would happen has now affected your home or business and now you are wondering who to call. Here is why you should call SERVPRO.
Here at SERVPRO we go the extra mile to ensure that you are fully satisfied with the final product. Staffed with a hard working team we are prepared to help you feel like you have someone in your corner. One of the ways we do this is by prioritizing your comfort and safety, we understand that time is of the essence and we are not just there to get the job done. We actually follow up afterward to ensure your needs were met. We want to do everything we can to not only restore the damage, but to ensure your comfort and satisfaction.
We work hard to make it "Like it never even happened."
Call us today
SERVPRO N Lauderdale W Tamarac
954-960-5322
We Make Mold Remediation Painless for Your Home or Business.
8/24/2021 (Permalink)
It isn't as scary as it seems.
Looking For Mold Remediation In Tamarac?
Like all cities in the state of Florida, Tamarac's subtropical climate produces a lot of rain and humidity. Sometimes this moisture seeps into your home and mold begins to form. Are you asking yourself "what is that musty odor is in my home?"
Well, it's probably mold. Not sure how to find it? Or do you already know where the mold is growing?
Well then you have come to the right place!
Why SERVPRO Of Tamarac and N Lauderdale?
We are the one-stop shop for mold remediation. We can help locate, assess, and then clean any mold growth inside your Tamarac home. Our first class professionals can handle mold jobs of any size, and return your home to its original mold-free condition.
If any of the above questions make you think about your home, it's time to give SERVPRO of Tamarac/ N Lauderdale a call.
The bad news: If you have ever asked or thought any of the above questions, you may be dealing with a mold issue in your home.
The good news: We are experienced professionals in mold remediation! Our crew would be happy to come out and inspect your home and the area of concern to see what you may be dealing with - at no cost to you, of course.
Mold in your home can be scary...In some cases, it may even mean health concerns for your family. But don't worry, SERVPRO of Tamarac/ North Lauderdale is here to serve you and help get your life back to normal and your home mold-free!
Give us a call today: 954-960-5322
IICRC Certified Firm
6/9/2021 (Permalink)
We are an IICRC Certified Firm
SERVPRO of N Lauderdale/ Tamarac is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the golden standards for the restoration industry and provides extensive training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.
IICRC Certified Firms must
• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.
The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry
The IICRC has been the principle driving force in establishing the chief industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.
Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.
About SERVPRO of N Lauderdale/Tamarac
SERVPRO of N Lauderdale/Tamarac specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are proudly an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program
4/19/2021 (Permalink)
Our defensive cleaning program gives your business a way forward by providing your employees and customers ongoing safety and assuredness.
Let us help you get back to business
As we near the last mile of the Covid saga, our communities open up. We’re all moving back toward a new kind of normal. The expectations of visitors, customers, and employees who come into our establishments have changed, and staying safe is a top concern. The global COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean, and we’ve developed a program to help your business meet the new higher standard of clean that is now expected.
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program we are now offering to businesses and commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 pandemic. This proactive viral pathogen cleaning program goes well beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. By choosing Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you, your employees, your customers, and your community can rest assured that you’ve selected a higher cleaning standard – your business will be Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.
Extensive training and specialized products
As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration*, we stand on more than 50 years of experience and expertise to help your business become Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned. Beyond fire, water, and mold SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills – always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities.
From formulating and creating our proprietary cleaning products, like SERVPROXIDE, at our headquarters in Gallatin, TN, to taking the utmost care while disinfecting, we will ensure you and your business are set up to inspire consumer confidence as the economy continues to reopen.
3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify
When the stakes are this high, you want a partner who has developed an industry leading, proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes over decades. We’ve cleaned up some of the most challenging biohazards imaginable. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned reflects our unique experiences and capabilities. The program is grounded with our unique 3 C’s: Consult, Clean, and Certify.
- Consult – Every business is different, and we will research to understand your business needs and will create a cleaning program to meet your specific safety requirements. This program will be developed based on your business type, size of space, amount of high frequency touchpoints, foot traffic and congestion points.
- Clean – Based on your specific business needs, your location will undergo a thorough, deep clean, using exclusive cleaning products, according to protocols set forth by the CDC. Our employees have years of experience, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process, and disposal of hazardous materials. In the event of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 event, we will be there cleaning within 24 hours to ensure you get back to business as quickly as possible.
- Certify - Once your business location has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you will gain access to proprietary signage, digital emblems, and other collateral that communicates that you’ve selected a higher standard of clean available to help protect your employees and customers. And because we add the day, month, and year to that proprietary stamp of clean, your guests will know that not only did you choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, but that your location is being cleaned regularly at this standard.
Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation
We’re Here to Help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – until life is back to normal in the communities we all call home.
Call SERVPRO of North Lauderdale West Tamarac today at 954-960-5322 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.
* #1 Choice in cleanup & restoration based Commercial Attitude & Usage Tracking study. Polling 816 commercial business decision makers on first choice for future needs related to cleanup & restoration work. Study conducted by C&R Research: October 2019
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned means professionally trained SERVPRO franchises perform the requested cleaning, sanitizing and disinfection services according to proprietary SERVPRO protocols and recognized industry and CDC standards with EPA approved cleaning products to deliver a SERVPRO certified cleaning experience. Each SERVPRO franchise is independently owned and operated.
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