Keeping Your Home Mold-Free: Our Proven Steps for Prevention

11/23/2023 (Permalink)

Drying moisture exposed areas to prevent mold

At SERVPRO, we understand the importance of a mold-free home for your well-being and peace of mind. We've seen the devastating effects that mold can have on properties and, more importantly, on the health of those living in them. That's why we want to share some of our proven steps for mold prevention that you can take in your own home.

1. Control Moisture Levels:

Mold thrives in damp environments, so controlling moisture is key to preventing mold growth. Regularly inspect your home for leaks, and promptly repair any plumbing issues, roof leaks, or foundation cracks. Ensure that your home is properly ventilated, especially in areas like the bathroom, kitchen, and basement, where moisture is more prevalent.

2. Maintain Proper Ventilation:

Proper ventilation is essential in mold prevention. Use exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom to reduce humidity levels. Consider installing a dehumidifier in areas with high moisture, like basements or crawl spaces. Adequate ventilation helps to keep the air circulating, preventing moisture buildup.

3. Monitor Indoor Humidity:

Keep an eye on indoor humidity levels. Ideally, indoor humidity should be between 30% and 50%. You can use a hygrometer to measure humidity in your home. If levels consistently exceed 50%, it's time to take action to reduce moisture and prevent mold growth.

4. Regular Cleaning and Maintenance:

Regular cleaning not only keeps your home looking great but also helps prevent mold. Dust and vacuum your home regularly to remove potential mold spores. Pay special attention to areas that are prone to moisture, like bathrooms and kitchens, and clean and dry these areas thoroughly.

5. Address Water Intrusion Promptly:

If your home experiences water intrusion, whether from a leaky roof, burst pipe, or flooding, it's crucial to address it promptly. Remove standing water and thoroughly dry affected areas within 24-48 hours to prevent mold from taking hold. Consult with professionals if needed.

6. Use Mold-Resistant Products:

Consider using mold-resistant building materials and paints in areas where moisture is prevalent, such as bathrooms and kitchens. These products are designed to inhibit mold growth and can be a valuable addition to your mold prevention strategy.

7. Properly Store and Ventilate Items:

Items stored in damp or poorly ventilated areas, such as basements or attics, can become moldy over time. Store items in plastic containers or elevated off the ground to prevent moisture exposure. Properly ventilate storage areas to reduce humidity.

8. Inspect and Maintain Your HVAC System:

Regularly inspect and maintain your HVAC system, including cleaning and changing filters as recommended. A well-maintained HVAC system can help regulate humidity levels and improve air quality, reducing the risk of mold growth.

9. Keep Gutters and Downspouts Clean:

Clogged gutters and downspouts can lead to water buildup on your roof and around your home's foundation. Clean them regularly to ensure proper drainage, preventing water from seeping into your home and causing mold issues.

10. Seek Professional Help When Needed:

If you suspect mold growth in your home or have experienced significant water damage, it's essential to seek professional assistance. SERVPRO's certified technicians have the expertise and equipment to assess, remediate, and prevent mold issues effectively.

Remember, mold prevention is an ongoing effort. By following these steps and staying vigilant, you can create a healthier and mold-free living environment for you and your family. If you ever encounter mold problems beyond your control, don't hesitate to reach out to your local SERVPRO experts for assistance. Your home's safety and your peace of mind are our top priorities.

Dehumidifying Your Pensacola Home- SERVPRO Solutions Explained

9/25/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO crew called out to inspect mold and water damage in home.

When you live in Northwest Florida, humidity is inevitable. The warm weather we enjoy so much is saturated by a significant amount of water, which generates the excessive moisture around you. While many fear what the humidity means for their hair or their skin, have you thought about what it means for your home?

In humid climates, homes run serious risk of damage from collecting all of the moisture the air carries. A common result of high humidity levels in your home is mold. Mold grows quickly in warm, damp conditions and can fester into an entire colony within 24 hours of their spores attaching themselves to surfaces and feeding. As mold grows and spreads throughout your home, allergens and irritants are released into the air which creates a dangerous situation for you and your family. The allergens and irritants can become toxic, causing respiratory problems and other health issues.

That’s why it’s critically important to take steps in preventing mold growth in the first place. We recommend starting with a dehumidifier for your home. Using a dehumidifier will help you maintain optimal humidity levels that are both healthy and comfortable. Running fans, and checking on your HVAC system will also help keep the humidity down. Make sure everything is running smoothly and functioning properly to help circulate air flow, and if you need help with an inspection you can always call SERVPRO of Downtown and North Pensacola. We’ll also help check your vents, filters, and make sure everything is in good working condition.

If you do discover mold growing in your home, it should be dealt with immediately - it can be harmful to your home and your health. Call SERVPRO of Downtown and North Pensacola at 850-466-3076 and our quick response team will be there to begin the mold remediation process right away.

What to do if You Suspect You Have Mold in Your Pensacola Home

8/24/2023 (Permalink)

Team in Pensacola called in to perform a mold assessment on a residential structure.

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 North Pensacola 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 North Pensacola 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.

Breaking the Hold of Mold in Molino

1/30/2020 (Permalink)

Don't allow mold to take over your life.

It is impossible to entirely eliminate mold from the planet, so the best we can do is keep mold from growing. It starts as a tiny spore, but the spores are too small to see, and too tough to kill. We can get rid of growing mold because it is visible, and we can control the moisture it needs to grow.

If a home- or business-owner in or around Molino suspects or sees water damage, the person should expect mold. Call SERVPRO® of North Pensacola at 850-466-3076 or send a message online. SERVPRO is available 24/7 without exception.

Why hurry? Why SERVPRO of North Pensacola?
• Mold can start growing between 24-28 hours after exposure to moisture, so if we can deprive it of moisture earlier, the spores will not grow
• To prevent further problems, we are Faster to any size disaster
• SERVPRO has the right equipment
• The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends that homeowners who attempt to mitigate mold do so only if it covers a small area
• The EPA requires business owners to hire professionals
• If the spores land inside a wall that is not completely dry, the mold grows
• Substances that kill growing mold are harsh enough that people need to wear personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Ignoring the mold will not make it go away
? Mold grows only on surfaces that it can consume, which means the mold will destroy whatever it lives on
? The more mold there is, the more it can grow
? It is smelly
? It is unsightly
? It may trigger allergies or other problems

SERVPRO of North Pensacola will make the area look “Like it never even happened.”

Links:
https://www.epa.gov/mold

https://www.fema.gov/pdf/rebuild/recover/fema_mold_brochure_english.pdf

SERVPRO of North Pensacola is independently owned and operated.

Dehumidifying Your Home

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

When you live in Northwest Florida, humidity is inevitable. The warm weather we enjoy so much is saturated by a significant amount of water, which generates the excessive moisture around you. While many fear what the humidity means for their hair or their skin, have you thought about what it means for your home?

In humid climates, homes run serious risk of damage from collecting all of the moisture the air carries. A common result of high humidity levels in your home is mold. Mold grows quickly in warm, damp conditions and can fester into an entire colony within 24 hours of their spores attaching themselves to surfaces and feeding. As mold grows and spreads throughout your home, allergens and irritants are released into the air which creates a dangerous situation for you and your family. The allergens and irritants can become toxic, causing respiratory problems and other health issues.

That’s why it’s critically important to take steps in preventing mold growth in the first place. We recommend starting with a dehumidifier for your home. Using a dehumidifier will help you maintain optimal humidity levels that are both healthy and comfortable. Running fans, and checking on your HVAC system will also help keep the humidity down. Make sure everything is running smoothly and functioning properly to help circulate air flow, and if you need help with an inspection you can always call SERVPRO of North Pensacola. We’ll also help check your vents, filters, and make sure everything is in good working condition.

If you do discover mold growing in your home, it should be dealt with immediately - it can be harmful to your home and your health. Call SERVPRO of North Pensacola at 850-466-3076 and our quick response team will be there to begin the mold remediation process right away.

Residents:  Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

3/9/2017 (Permalink)

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 North Pensacola 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 North Pensacola 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.