Recent Mold Remediation Posts

The Troublesome Properties of Mold | SERVPRO of Kent

12/22/2023 (Permalink)

Black mold in the corner of room wall Finding mold in your home can feel overwhelming. SERVPRO of Kent is here for the rescue! Give us a call today.

There are many different threats that could impact our homes on a daily basis. Fires, floods and strong storms can leave you with serious damage in a short amount of time. One threat that is not often talked about but can have a significant impact on your home is mold.

Mold infestations can be dangerous in your home, so learning how they form and spread can help you take steps to reduce your risk of an infestation every day.

Getting to Know Mold

Did you know that mold is everywhere? Microscopic mold spores are constantly floating through the air both inside and outside your home. These spores can easily get inside our homes through open windows or doors or even through your HVAC system. While mold spores are everywhere, that doesn’t mean mold infestations will grow everywhere.

Mold grows best in damp, dark environments, so places like attics, basements and bathrooms can easily become the perfect breeding grounds for infestations. Once a few mold spores settle into one of these areas, they can spark the growth of an entire colony in as little as 24 to 48 hours. Mold can be green and slimy, white and chalky or black and fuzzy-looking. No matter how it appears, it often shares the same musty or earthy odor.

Preventing Mold Infestations

Since moisture is the key factor to mold infestations, controlling the amount of moisture in your home and air is crucial. Run fans continually in high-humidity areas like bathrooms and kitchens, and try to completely dry these areas out at least once a day.

You should also make sure your home’s humidity levels are controlled. Aim for between 30 and 50% humidity for optimal comfort and a reduced risk of a mold infestation. 

Another important step in mold prevention is to address water leaks quickly. Lingering moisture anywhere in your home can lead to mold issues, so track down leaks right away and address repairs just as fast. If moisture lingers for even just a day, you could wind up with a stubborn mold infestation on your hands.

Overcoming Mold Infestations

Even if you do everything right in preventing mold, an infestation can still take you by surprise. If you uncover a mold colony when digging around your attic looking for decoration boxes or stumble upon one in your basement while tracking down a water leak, do your best to not disturb the mold. Certain types of mold can be dangerous or toxic if inhaled, so back away and call us instead.

Our team will confidently identify the type of mold, which will then tell us how to approach the restoration. We have the proper safety gear and training to handle any type of mold situation.

We will filter the air, secure the area and give the entire space a deep-cleaning. We can also tackle structural repairs at this time! Depending on how long the mold was left to sit and grow, you could be dealing with some serious structural integrity problems with your beams, joists and floors. Our team will ensure your home is safe and structurally sound in no time at all. 

Mold can grow quickly and without much warning. Contact SERVPRO of Kent for a quick mold mitigation.

Mold Growth Unveiled: 3 Summer Triggers in Homes

7/7/2023 (Permalink)

shower with steam and water Showering can increase the chance of mold growth in the home. Ensuring good air circulation in the home can help prevent mold growth.

While summer brings warmth and sunshine, it also creates an environment conducive to the growth of mold in our homes. Mold not only damages structures but also poses health risks to occupants. Understanding the factors that can trigger mold growth during the summer is crucial for preventing its occurrence. 

High Humidity Levels

One of the primary triggers of mold growth in the summer is high humidity. Warm weather and increased moisture in the air create the perfect breeding ground for mold spores to thrive. Areas with poor ventilation, such as basements, bathrooms, and kitchens, are particularly susceptible to mold growth due to the accumulation of moisture. Additionally, excessive indoor humidity caused by activities like showering, cooking, or drying clothes indoors can contribute to mold growth.

Poor Ventilation and Air Circulation

Insufficient ventilation and limited air circulation promote stagnant, humid environments that favor mold growth. During the summer, when windows and doors are often closed to keep cool air in, inadequate ventilation becomes a prevalent issue. Areas such as closets, storage spaces, and closed-off rooms without proper air circulation can become hotspots for mold development. To mitigate this risk, ensure proper ventilation by using exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens, opening windows when possible, and maintaining airflow through the use of fans or HVAC systems.

Water Intrusion and Leaks

Water intrusion or leaks in your home can quickly lead to mold growth if left unaddressed, and summer presents unique challenges in this regard. Heavy rainstorms, roof leaks, window condensation, and plumbing issues can introduce excess moisture into your home. Damp or wet materials, such as carpets, drywall, or upholstery, provide an ideal environment for mold to grow. Promptly addressing any water intrusion or leaks, repairing damaged areas, and ensuring proper drainage can prevent moisture buildup and subsequent mold growth.

Preventing mold growth in homes during the summer requires attentiveness and proactive measures. High humidity levels, poor ventilation and air circulation, and water intrusion or leaks are common triggers of mold growth. By managing indoor humidity, promoting proper ventilation, and promptly addressing any water-related issues, we can effectively minimize the risk of mold development. Regular maintenance, inspection, and cleaning routines are also crucial to detect and address mold growth at its earliest stages. Remember, a mold-free home not only protects the integrity of your property but also ensures a healthy living environment for you and your loved ones.