Recent Mold Remediation Posts
Mold, it's Everywhere!
2/21/2022 (Permalink)
Mold in Home or office in Shasta county, inspected by Guzi-West inpsection and consulting and cleaned by SERVPRO of North Shasta.
When we think about having a "mold problem," we envision a torn-out wall filled with hairy black stuff starting to creep and grow where it doesn't belong.
Quick question, did you know mold is everywhere? It's common to find it in almost every business or home, making mold a "common" irritating buddy in life. This leads us to the question, who can you trust when your mold buddy turns friend to foe? Well, who do you call when the city is in trouble? The superheroes and Guzi-West inspection and consulting are the superheroes of mold. Pair them with SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties, you have a dynamic duo that can inspect, remove, and clean that allergy-causing mold from your home.
Our homes are supposed to be a retreat from life. A place where you have game nights, cozy romantic dinners, and where you raise your family. Home should not be a place you share with mold and allergies.
Here's our advice to make sure your unwanted friend doesn't unpack his suitcase and make himself cozy.
Check for leaky pipes or appliances.
Mold's favorite companion in life is moisture and it will seek out a place to live in the right environment between the temperatures of 40 and 100 degrees F. If you see mold around pipes, plumbing fixtures, waste lines, etc., you probably have a leak. Identifying the leak and having it repaired is extremely important. Having a routine maintenance check for your appliances or pipes can help prevent having a mold issue.
Controlling Humidity Levels
One of the most common places to find a type of mold is in your bathroom. Heavy steam can cause a lot of moisture in the walls, floor, and around your tub and toilet. Running your exhaust or ventilation fan while in the shower can help keep the humidity levels in your bathroom lower.
Keep your gutters clean.
Keeping your gutters clean can prevent clogs and eventually prevent water damage and mold. Regularly removing all leaves and debris from your gutters can keep your house's foundation free from mold.
Thoroughly clean and dry out flooring, walls, and cabinets after flooding.
If the flooding is extensive, drying out your home might be a bigger job than you can handle. Call the professionals like SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties. Mold can grow in as little as 48 hours of flooding, so you need to dry that water fast. We care about your safety and your home. Check out this blog on how we handle your home after a flood.
Suspect your home has a mold issue? Get your house tested!
Guzi-West Inspection and Consulting can test for mold, asbestos, methamphetamine, lead-based paint in your home. Schedule your quote today and breathe easier (literally).
For more information on mold, check out our website or Call 530-222-0200.
How To Get Rid of Mold
9/11/2020 (Permalink)
Contact us today for mold remediation!
530-222-0200
Mold is a common occurrence in many households and businesses. Being a restoration company for many years, one of the most unfortunate situations we see is either misunderstanding the importance of removing mold quickly, or not having it removed properly. Add to that misconceptions about the nature of mold, and a relatively small situation can cause a large amount of damage.
Mold can be a sign of bigger damage.
Mold is actually found everywhere, even in the air we breathe. This mold doesn’t become a problem until the mold spores reproduce to a high level. Mold can attach itself to most surfaces, and all it needs to grow is moisture.
What this means is that when there is mold, there’s usually a bigger issue. Leaky roofs, damages to your home, or broken water pipes are all causes of unnecessary moisture build-up and causes of mold growth. When you are getting rid of mold, it is important to fix the cause of the mold as well, or you may end up with the same problem in the future.
Don’t use a fan on mold.
Often it is evident that moisture is in the area where mold has grown. Of course, the best thing to do is remove the moisture or dry up the area that is wet, but one of the biggest mistakes some would make is to use a fan to do so.
Mold can grow fast, and spreads easily. Once mold spores have grown, they can easily travel through the air and attach on surfaces nearby. Using a fan near mold can actually spread the mold and cause more damage to your home.
If you have mold damage in your home or business we would love to help. Contact us today!
530-222-0200
Mold In Your Home Or Business
10/21/2019 (Permalink)
Mold Growing in Home? Bad Mildew Odor? Call your Redding, California SERVPRO Mold Cleanup Experts! 530-222-0200
Have you noticed mold in your home or business?
Mold can quickly become an issue where water is introduced into your home or business, such as a leaky pipe or roof. Most people don't realize how rapid mold can grow, typically as soon as 24 hours. Mold can cause significant damage to your property and health. If you suspect your home or business has mold, SERVPRO® is here to thoroughly inspect your property. If we find mold, we are trained, equipped and experienced to handle any mold situation.
SERVPRO® of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties is here to keep you and your family safe from mold, here are a few mold facts everyone should know.
- The water source must be repaired before mold remediation can begin, or else mold can return.
- Mold can be found anywhere, in and outdoors.
- Spores flourish in moisture and can grow into colonies when exposed to water.
- Spores are so small they can float in the air and often enter your home or business through doors, windows, AC units, your clothing, and even pets.
Our Process:
We shut down all heating and cooling systems to prevent the spread of spores.
In some cases, we can set up containment areas to isolate and eradicate the mold.
Our team then uses powerful commercial-grade air filtration devices known as "air scrubbers" and HEPA vacuum, to stop the spread of mold in your property.
Any mold-infested materials like carpeting or drywall may be necessary to remove and dispose of to stop mold growth.
We use a SERVPRO® antimicrobial product to remove mold and stop new mold colonies from forming.
We also clean your belongings such as clothing, furniture or other possessions affected by mold.
Our staff also is trained to remove odors from mold in your home or business.
Click here for more information on how we can help with mold.
SERVPRO® is here to help restore your home or business to pre-damaged conditions or better. Please call us to help you in your time of need. 530-222-0200
Black Mold On Drywall
8/20/2019 (Permalink)
Redding Mold Cleaning | Professional Restoration Company
Black Mold On Drywall
While removing or cleaning small portions of black mold on drywall may not be one of the most challenging projects, the problems and causes associated with mold usually lie deeper than the task at hand.
Mold grows when dormant spores become active again under high humidity and moisture. Discovering where the moisture is coming from can prove to be a challenge and, your health is something to consider as well. According to the EPA and World Health Organization, some molds can cause health problems.
Black mold on drywall can be an indicator for mold in surrounding areas as well as inside the drywall. Mold spores are airborne which makes it easy to travel, and many times once the mold is visible externally, it has already caused damage internally. Another issue that mold can and usually does indicate is water leaks from pipes, roofs, sewage overflow, and other sources that if untreated can cause water damage.
It is best to handle black mold on your drywall quickly and professionally. Waiting too long will allow its affects to spread through your home, and potentially be harmful to your health. Additionally, not having the situation handled professionally can lead to further damage, or not fully containing the problem, allowing the mold to continue growing.
For professional Mold Removal, contact the professionals at SERVPRO® of North Shasta today!
530-222-0200
https://www.SERVPROnorthshastatrinitygreatertehamacounties.com
Dangerous Mold is a living organism – a fungus spore.
2/1/2019 (Permalink)
Mold Growing in Home? Bad Mildew Odor? Call your Redding, California SERVPRO Mold Cleanup Experts!
530-222-0200
Good mold can be used to make life saving Penicillin based antibiotics. Everyday foods we all enjoy such as yogurt and certain types of cheese are produced with mold. Dangerous mold, the type found in your home under sinks and especially hidden within rain-soaked moisture rich wall insulation and unventilated leaking attic spaces is our concern.
We are professional mold remediators and use specific SERVPRO proprietary commercial grade biocides such as the newly released SERVPROXIDE™ unleashing a new weapon on mold, virus and bacteria outbreaks.
Read our blog article: Mold Cleaning – Residential, Commercial & Hospital Disinfectant
We Know How to Kill Mold! 530-222-0200
Mold Preventative Measure Techniques
- Schedule regular plumbing checks in your laundry, kitchen and bathroom (especially under cabinets) for leaks and slow drips into wall spaces and porous surfaces.
- Regular cleaning, for example, along shower door runners; anywhere standing water can remain undried for long periods of time, does wonders to provide healthy living and prevent mold from forming.
- Carpeting and Wallpaper in Bathrooms, in particular, are mold growth havens because of long-term high-humidity levels from hot showers. Extra cleaning is necessary.
- Believe it or not, our over two decades of experience providing hundreds of Redding, California and Shasta County homes with mold remediation and restoration has shown that a hidden mold breeding ground exists between the sheetrock, the glue and the paper-cellulose covering in toilet facilities and kitchens where homeowners have used wall coverings as decoration components. When wet, from water leaks and / or long-term moisture condensation, the glue and paper, overtime, turn into a dark unventilated fertile slurry of nutrients feeding mold colonies. Unless performed by a mold damage restoration expert removing the wallpaper can result in the accelerated activation and large-scale release of mold spores thus making the homeowners problem exponentially worse.
- Paint and Mold. Our IICRC trained and certified mold mitigation specialists at SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties recommend not simply painting over mold. Latex residential interior paint, some of which can contain mold resistant additives, does not kill mold. Like the wallpaper example above, over time water seepage sinks through paint layers and produces the same toxic environment facilitating the continuation of mold growth and spore release.
- Mold outbreaks in the back of closets are quite common. Long term storage of shoes and clothes are ripe for all forms of mold. Unsanitized and moist footwear tracking in outside pollutants along with unwashed clothing provide ripe conditions for what we have seen as the green mold dust on garments. Allow adequate dry airflow when hanging up items. Sweat, body fluid and hair, reside in the fabric weave and hold onto toxic spores.
If you smell recurring mildew and / or building residents are reporting health problems, then you may be correct in your suspicions that mold and resulting toxic indoor air quality could be present.
Your Redding Storage Unit and Toxic Mold
1/16/2019 (Permalink)
Mold Growing In Your Storage Unit? Call SERVPRO immediately for fast Mold Removal and Deodorization! Redding, California - 530-222-0200
Is mold growing in your storage unit?
We all like to have the peace and security of storing our extra household items and important business documents in a storage unit. Mold growth, believe it or not, is still quite common. Perhaps, more so, because storage units are frequently closed, dark environments holding unmoved and uncleaned paperwork, artwork, business equipment, sentimental family heirlooms and especially mold spore containing objects like clothing, curtains and fabric covered furniture.
SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties is a Redding, California Mold Removal and Clean Up Hero.
Storage units could be described as non-living environments. In other words, the frequency of human presence to quickly see a mold spot growing and take preventative measures for sanitization is low. Most storage units are left unattended for months and even years at a time. We don’t really know what is occurring. Certainly, with outside units, we are left at the mercy of storage facility property owners and managers to maintain enough dry air and rain water leak-proof roofing to ensure toxic mold protection from moisture build up and retention. Once again, because these units never see the light of day for long periods of time a rich and fertile, humid and dark habitat exists within which mold spores grow, multiply and thrive.
Climate controlled units help with lowering humidity levels. What happens is that even in the best of circumstances a once clean unit becomes the epicenter of a mold outbreak because of unclean items transported in from your home or business at the outset. Quite often mold prevention begins at home.
Mold Awareness and Prevention is the Key to Keeping a Moldy Storage situation from getting worse.
- Before you store, check the ceilings, walls and floor of you unit for any musty odor or obvious signs of mold.
- Be aware that roof leaks may not be immediately visible. Especially here in the North State and Shasta County we experience long periods of harsh summer heat. Left unchecked, winter storms bring high levels of rainfall to an isolated and frequently unvisited home or business storage area.
- Be aware of any standing water around the storage facility and ask your storage provider about on-site unit checks.
- Proper ventilation is very important to maintain a standard level of dryness. Especially after an extreme wet weather event
- When bringing any items to the unit, or removing them, check the floors, ceilings and walls for any signs of mold. That musty smell we are all familiar with will help you here.
Here at SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties we provide a full stack of mold removal and cleaning services because where there is water there is mold. We provide as necessary full onsite mold assessment, water drying extraction, HEPA and ODOR air scrubber filtration and sanitization, content cleaning.
If you open the door of your storage unit and see the reality of mold you had long suspected was there lurking in the darkness; that bad mildew smell and the green, black and orange spots of a mold colony eating away at your precious assets then call us immediately here at our Redding, California office.
SERVPRO – 530-222-0200.
Like it never even happened. ®
How to Kill Mold Growth in Redding, California
10/2/2018 (Permalink)
Toxic Black Mold in the Kitchen. Call Us Now! 530-222-0200
...in residential and commercial building structures, caused by water and humidity intrusion from a sudden storm flood or broken water pipe to an unseen long term leak within a dark crawlspace, is where the expertise and experience of our SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties technicians comes to light. Mold is everywhere. Because we are ANSI / IICRC S520 certified we carry with us the tactical knowledge to perform microbial remediation on mold damaged structures and contents.
Mold Problems? Call Now! 530-222-0200
Redding, California property managers, insurance field adjusters, claims processors, insurance producers and real estate agents; up and down the Shasta County Northern California gateway extending from our Tehama County customers in Willows, Cottonwood, Corning and Red Bluff all the way to our Trinity County friends in Weaverville and up the Interstate 5 corridor into Siskiyou County and Mt. Shasta, Dunsmuir, Yreka and Weed, know and trust our fast response to toxic mold damage outbreaks.
SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity and Greater Tehama Counties has years of experience dealing with the practical elements of water damage restoration. Our technicians have faced "real-life" mold remediation challenges. SERVPRO is a leader in the mold remediation industry. Water damage restoration and mold remediation go hand in hand. Mold feeds on moisture. Regular home and business property maintenance, includes inspection of visible and hidden evidence of water leaks, condensation, infiltration, flooding and mold prone wall and crawl spaces.
Specific Mold Reduction Best Practices:
- Maintain low humidity levels ideally below 50%. Because humidity levels can change quickly during the day. Use an air conditioner or dehumidifier to level out moisture and air temperatures.
- Use exhaust fans to ensure adequate ventilation in high-moisture areas like the kitchen, bathrooms and food service areas.
- Modern exterior and interior paints can include mold inhibitors which help to significantly reduce mold growth.
- Frequently cleaning of faucets, showers, and sinks, including under storage cabinets with anti-viral, bacterial and microbial disinfectants kills the expansive growth of mold spores within moisture heavy surfaces.
- Whenever possible remove carpeting from toilet and shower area floors.
Read our article: Mold Cleaning – Residential, Commercial & Hospital Disinfectant introducing SERVPRO’s new state-of-the-art cleaning product SERVPROXIDE™ - a new weapon on mold, bacteria, virus contamination and killer germs.
Learn more about Mold Prevention and Remediation in homes, commercial buildings and schools by visiting this link at the EPA website: https://www.epa.gov/mold/mold-remediation-schools-and-commercial-buildings-guide.
Also view this helpful resource for residential properties: A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture and Your Home
Call Us Now! Your Toxic Mold Clean Up Experts: SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties.
530-222-0200
Mold Cleaning in Redding, CA and Shasta County
7/2/2018 (Permalink)
Severe Mold Infestation! Call the Mold Experts - SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties -
(530) 222-0200
Does you home or business have a mold problem?
Mold remediation essentially reduces the mold outbreak spore count to what is known as a “natural base line.” Mold spores occur naturally both inside and outside businesses and homes. Mold removal is in fact a drastic “clean up” and reduction of mold growth in a particular area through water and moisture drying and application of mold inhibitors.
SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties would like you to consider the following mold facts:
• Mold is found almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Microscopic mold spores travel through the air. These may enter you home through doors, windows, air conditioning and heating systems. Pets and unwashed or wet clothing can certainly introduce a variety of fungus and mold spores to living and work spaces.
• Mold spores feed and grow on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water and may produce irritants and allergens.
• 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.
• Keeping indoor humidity below 45 percent can reduce and offset ongoing mold growth.
SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties 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 – (530) 222-0200
Mold, Moisture, Damp Indoor Home and Commercial Spaces
6/1/2018 (Permalink)
Extreme mold infestation. Phone SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties! (530) 222-0200
Apartments, condos, homes and commercial buildings, at some point, will experience leaks, flooding, or other forms of destructive indoor moisture damage.
Dangerous personal health consequences can result from exposure to mold and microbial growth as well as the chemical fumes released by home furnishings, building materials and commercial facility equipment. SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties mold experts utilize the proper personal protective equipment (PPE) and disinfecting products (like SERVPROXIDE™) to kill fungus and toxic “black mold” growth.
Modern buildings contain closed ventilation HVAC systems. However, moisture build up and long term, repeated, water damage produces a nutrient-rich environment reaching a tipping point for mold (fungal) proliferation. Office workers, in particular, because of the artificial “closed-loop” commercial air conditioning systems often are exposed to highly toxic levels of fungal spores, cell fragments, microbes and mold spores. Mold can cause health effects.
It is found everywhere. Lurking in the dark, unseen area of personal work and living spaces. Be aware of musty odor, water spots and intrusion, high indoor humidity and indoor-outdoor temperature variations produces large amounts of condensation around window and door frames. Mold outbreaks can produce concentrations of Cladosporium, Penicillium, and Aspergillus spores which could cause health effects.
SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties is highly aware of the extreme toxic dangers mold can cause to personal health and safety. Our highly trained technicians understand the risks and know the urgency required to mitigate and stop mold growth in its tracks. Please phone us immediately for a fast-on-site evaluation. We are always here to help!
Phone us 24/7 – 365 at (530) 222-0200
Mold Cleaning – Residential, Commercial & Hospital Disinfectant
6/1/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPROXIDE™ - Call SERVPRO (530) 222-0200 to unleash the new weapon on mold, bacteria and virus contamination and killer germs.
Mold grows just about everywhere.
SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties recently acquired a new mold, mildew, virus and bacteria killing product called SERVPROXIDE™
The severe level of mold growth contamination our technicians routinely find in the city of Redding and Shasta County homes and businesses is, quite frankly, astonishing! Disease, bacteria and the toxic clusters of green and “black mold” growing in normal living spaces produces a ripe environment for extreme personal health and safety concerns. This is why our ability to apply the new game-changing SERVPROXIDE™ as a front-line disinfectant to kill mold and mildew at the roots ups the ante on the war on mold.
Mold killing is required everywhere moisture is present which includes, homes, schools, locker rooms, sporting facilities, nursing homes, emergency first responder (police, fire, ambulance) vehicles and certainly OSHA certified food handling and restaurant facilities. Commercial public spaces, shopping malls, public restrooms would also be considered danger zones. High moisture businesses such as horticultural growing rooms, greenhouses and the surrounding plant racks, shelves and watering equipment attract fungus spores and mold contamination.
Chlorine Dioxide, Alkyl and Ammonium Chloride work together in a specific chemical treatment to kill (MRSA) – Staphylococcus aureaus - (Staph Infection), Listeria monocytogenes (Listeria), Legionella Pneumophila – (Legionnaires Disease), Salmonella, Rotavirus, Hepatitis A, B and C virus, Swine Influenza (H1N1), Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV Type 1), Canine Distemper Virus, and a whole host of other varieties of sicknesses, disease and pestilence.
SERVPROXIDE™ eliminates fire, smoke, tobacco smoke, musty and stale cooking odors working by oxidation, not by masking odors.
This makes it an effective treatment for ceilings, walls, floor and pre-cleaning fabric, upholstery, spot cleaning carpet soil and stains, disinfecting non-porous surfaces on kitchen counters, toilets, bath and shower. Ductwork and intake vents of home and commercial heating and air conditioning systems (HVAC) benefit greatly from allergen, fungal and mildew removal. High level disinfection is required in hospital and healthcare facilities for blood and body fluid removal.
SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties brings the best trained technicians, equipment and products to every fire, water, storm and mold damage restoration job we encounter in Northern California.
Please phone us immediately for a fast emergency response at (530) 222-0200. 24 / 7 – 365.
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Mold Damage Remediation Services
4/16/2018 (Permalink)
Black Mold - Toxic and Dangerous. Call 530-222-0200.
Mold is an often-hidden toxic spore growing in the damp and wet crevice and crawlspaces in your home or businesses’ public or living areas, bathrooms and food production areas. Mold does more than just grow and spread. Black mold mycotoxins can poison a person’s respiratory tract causing asthma attacks, allergic reactions, severe sinus problems and quite frequently lead to extreme fatigue and depression.
Because mold and mildew develop in damp areas these microorganisms are found everywhere. No home or business is immune from a mold outbreak. Unseen leaking water collecting in dark unseen areas behind cabinets and storage closets can unknowingly affect the health and wellbeing of your possessions, clothing, bedding, drywall, insulation and the structural integrity of the building itself.
Drying
A key point to defeating a mold outbreak is to quickly extract residual water and to bring in our professional grade water drying equipment to stop the spread of water, mold and mildew.
We are a Redding California fire and water damage restoration company certified and trained to perform all types of mold damage remediation resulting from commercial or residential water emergencies including, firefighter water residue, storm flooding, and sewage water contamination, ranging from dry rot to dangerous black mold and pink, yellow and white molds. Mold can grow virtually anywhere, and we frequently see these problem areas:
- Bathrooms
- Basements
- Window frames
- Caulking
- Ventilation systems
- Plumbing
- Cabinets and furniture
- Drywall and subflooring
- Fabrics
- Wallpaper or painted walls
- Wet walls
- Carpeting
- Water-damaged mattresses
SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties professionals are trained and certified in mold remediation to ensure that hard to reach toxic spores are removed quickly and state of the art sanitizing technology is used to clean and prevent further outbreak.
Our Residential and Commercial Mold Removal Service Include:
- 24/7 emergency fast response
- Our trained SERVPRO professionals have the personal protective equipment to safely inspect the mold.
- Because we are a SERVPRO franchise we have at our disposal the highest industrial-grade water extractors, dehumidifiers, air movers and drying technology available.
- Air quality testing, containment and safe removal of the mold infected area.
- Cleaning and sanitizing of contents and other personal possessions.
- We structural treatment disinfectants and antimicrobials used inhibit and prevent futher mold growth.
- Sanitation, deodorization and air purification
When you have a mold problem in your home or business call the mold damage restoration experts at SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties at (530) 222-0200
Toxic Mold in Commercial and Residential Buildings
3/12/2018 (Permalink)
Water Damaged Walls, Moisture, and Mold
Home and Business Mold and Water Damage
Mold is multicellular fungi such as Penicillium colonies and other thread-like growths known as hyphae. Single cell fungus is known as yeasts. Some mold organisms provide useful benefits such as found in bread and yogurt, antibiotics and various enzymes. However, as the SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties technicians encounter on a routine basis in the moist walls and dark crawl spaces of Redding commercial and residential properties, mold is a very toxic growth to the wellbeing, air quality and health of tenants, owners and occupants.
In fact mold outbreaks particularly within commercial office buildings have increased as a response to the 1970’s energy crisis because of the new building codes aimed at conserving energy and thus making spaces more airtight. There is much to be said for healthy outside air and balanced cross-ventilation. The term “sick building syndrome” is derived from these air quality concerns in modern air conditioning and building construction. SERVPRO’s vast experience in mold mitigation inside Redding and Shasta County commercial and residential structures supports that conclusion.
Mold species number in the thousands. Six are considered to be the most virulent and common toxic molds outbreaks found in buildings: Aspergillus, Fusarium, Paecilomyces, Penicillium, Stachybotrys and Trichoderma. The associated links provide more information.
Damp building materials caused by a burst water pipe or by a leaking roof after a rain storm retain moisture and water initiating the growth of dormant microbes. Home and offices, although under routine circumstances appear to be healthy and mold-free, contain all forms of highly destructive fungus. One in particular, Dry Rot Fungus (Serpula lacrymans) is found in older water damaged buildings that have repeatedly experienced the wet-dry-wet cycle. Surprisingly, this type of mold is generally undetected by typical mold inspections. This dry rot bores into wood structural supports and flooring allowing it’s root system, the mycelium, to deeply embed into masonry and grow into inner wood panels.
Mold feeds on carpet, paper, clothes, leather, drywall, wood, insulation and food by breaking down organic matter and requires moisture. Everyday household activities of washing, cooking and winter cold weather condensation create water vapor and increased humidity inside poorly ventilated living and work spaces. Certainly, plumbing and corroded toilet pipes break at unexpected moments and produce large, sometimes unseen, pools of standing water.
As a SERVPRO Franchise we have access to the latest mold damage mitigation and restoration technologies, containment and training to effectively deal with any moisture and fungus issue.
Call us 24 / 7 / 365 at (530) 222-0200.
Home Mold and Water Damage
11/1/2017 (Permalink)
Mold infestation from water damage
Leaking Water Leads to Serious Mold Problems
Redding and Shasta County residents call us every day for home water emergencies. A water valve breaks, a toilet leaks, a tenant moves out and breaks a water line, no pun intended but when it rains it pours. SERVPRO North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties is an emergency water and mold damage service priority responder to just such unexpected incidents. The following are front line examples of just how quickly a water line break can expand into extensive residential property damage.
SERVPRO water restoration professionals arrived at a vacant manufactured home and found furniture was still inside increasing the expanse of the mold infestation. The purpose was to inspect for a serious mold problem which is exactly what they discovered. There was mold on the exterior walls in three bedrooms (probably leaking from the siding and windows). The walls were constructed of drywall and the interior of the walls needed asbestos abatement because of the age of the dwelling.
On another emergency call priority response technicians discovered the dishwasher leaked producing a wet, squishy floor. Removing the laminate flooring to expose the sub-floor they found migration lines of mold continued into cabinets and the trim from the affected walls and into the dishwasher cavity. The mold finding was very serious. Mold spore containment sheeting was placed over the area. In fact, the cabinets needed removal to address the mold issue throughout the drywall.
Broken water pipes hidden within a wall are quite common. Servicing a Shasta County home we discovered the culprit was a cracked and leaking copper pipe. The kitchen and dining room area were heavily water damaged through tile flooring and sheet rock. The walls required baseboard and drywall removal. Our highly trained technicians cut out the drywall in the kitchen including mildew and mold soaked insulation. We needed to install extensive SERVPRO drying equipment.
Toilets, from our several decades of experience, can become major sources of water damage.
We arrived at a job site and found that a toilet float valve assembly broke causing overflow to an upstairs bathroom, living room, entry, kitchen, closet, stairway, master bedroom and lower level game room, bedroom, closet, HVAC room (the ducting had water pouring out) and bathroom. The water damage also affected the insulation in the crawlspace between the floors and a second crawlspace below the lower level. We pulled out the refrigerator and found the drywall to be dry but the ceramic tile floor had a wet area under the fridge. We cut out the carpet and pad from the living room and closet since it was delaminating and set up our dehumidifier and powerful air movers to quickly dry the sub-floor. Our SERVPRO team removed laminate, tile with cement board upstairs, cabinets, and an upstairs bathroom vanity. Lower story insulation and drywall were removed from ceiling and walls.
Our advice to home and residential property owners is to regularly check your water connections – toilets, faucets, pipes and flow valves into home appliances. Be aware of the external location of the water shut off valve and how to shut it off. When water damage does occur SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties is here to help 24 Hours a day 365 days a year.
(530) 222-0200
Mold Facts: Shasta County Home or Business Cleaning
8/28/2017 (Permalink)
Mold in the corners home wood and wallboard.
The Mold Cleaning Baseline
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.
SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties would like you to 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, SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties 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 – (530) 222-0200
The Dos and Dont's of Mold Removal
8/28/2017 (Permalink)
Dangerous Mold
Dangerous Mold
Even if you are a clean person, that doesn’t guarantee that you won’t have an issue with mold. Unfortunately, mold, like bed bugs, doesn’t care about your level of cleanliness, level of income, or where you went to college. Anyone can have a mold problem in their home or business at any time.
The scary thing is that mold can be growing for quite a while before it becomes noticeable, your professional at SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity and Tehama Counties has compiled this handy list of some dos and don’ts you should follow when it comes to mold removal:
24/7 support - (530) 222-0200
Do:
- Examine your home or business regularly. Most types of mold share some obvious warning signs. For example, a musty smell in a damp basement usually means there’s mold around. Black, gray, brown, or even white clusters of mold on walls, carpeting or flooring are easy to spot with the naked eye. Be observant about your home and check it regularly for mold.
- Call us 24/7 - (530) 222-0200. A professional can determine which type of mold you might have, where it originates from, and how to safely perform mold removal.
Don’t:
- Try the DIY approach. It’s not safe to tackle this problem on your own. Call the professionals, they are safety trained and know how to keep you and your family safe.
- Wait. Mold can grow quickly and can be dangerous. If you suspect a problem, call it in ASAP!
- Make the mold feel welcome. Mold likes the darkness and warm, moist air. Don’t roll out the red carpet with their favorite things! Fix the leaks, install dehumidifiers, and don’t ignore the warning signs of more mold growth.
For more mold dos and don’ts, contact our trusted mold removal professionals at SERVPRO North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties today.
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(530) 222-0200
Mold Damage Questions Answered by SERVPRO, Shasta County, California Professionals
8/28/2017 (Permalink)
Understanding Mold is the Key.
How to Understand Mold Damage
When it comes to mold in our homes, there are many old misconceptions circulating to this day. Once you bust the myths, you will have a better understanding of mold and its impact to your health and home. SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties have put together a list of 5 common mold myths and the truth behind them, so you can use this information to your benefit when you encounter a mold problem:
Myth 1: All mold is toxic
Truth: While many molds can affect your health due to long-term exposure, there are beneficial molds as well. The mold found in natural environments helps decompose organic material, allowing other organisms to grow. Certain molds, such as Aspergillus flavus, are used in the production of cheese. Some molds are used in medicine, as well. For instance, the Penicillium mold has been used to create Penicillin, the first antibiotic discovered.
Myth 2: Bleach kills mold
Truth: Many people use bleach as a mold removal solution in their home. However, they are unaware that bleach kills only live mold, but not mold spores. The worst part is that removing mold with bleach and water can allow mold to regrow even faster. Instead, use a mix of household detergent and water for small-scale mold remediation.
Myth 3: There should be no mold in my home
Truth: The truth is that mold spores are present everywhere, indoors and outdoors. The air you are breathing contains mold spores, and completely eliminating it is almost impossible. The problem lies in the concentration of mold in your home. Greater amounts of mold can pose health risks and damage your home if you don’t take care of the mold infestation.
Myth 4: You shouldn’t worry about a small spot of mold
Truth: In reality, a small area affected by mold can grow larger and larger if the moisture problem is not addressed. What’s more, mold can spread to any organic surface, as well as to the heating and ventilation system in your home. This can result in widespread damage and costly repairs.
Myth 5: You can clean up mold infestations yourself
Truth: Even though you may be able to clean areas smaller than 10 square feet yourself, bigger infestations require professional mold removal services. In fact, your efforts of removing mold using UV light or high-heat drying can accelerate mold growth. Well-trained mold remediation professionals have the specialized equipment and know the necessary techniques to get rid of mold infestations much more efficiently.
Visit our Mold Information Page. Essential mold removal do’s and don’ts are available here. Contact SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties
(530) 222-0200
It only takes a small water leak, or even excess humidity, for mold to form in your Redding / Shasta County California home or business. Then, mold can spread quickly through the property in as little as 48 hours. Mold can produce allergens and irritants, and it has the potential to cause other health effects. 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.
Learn more about mold and what to do until help arrives by reviewing these mold damage tips.
If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today –(530) 222-0200
Hidden Mold - HEPA Vacuum Remediation
8/25/2017 (Permalink)
Hidden Mold Solutions - Water Damage Restoration
Hidden Mold and Microbial Growth
A home owner phoned us in a frenzy after discovering hidden mold damage to her rental property. The tenants had moved out a few weeks prior and when she went to take a look she noticed the musty odor throughout as well as some visible growth on the back of the kitchen wall.
She discovered only later just how bad this microbial growth or mold had been growing behind the cabinets. As it turns out, the water source was caused by a leak in the supply line to the sink.
The Solution
We contained the affected area to prevent cross contamination into unaffected areas of the home. Then, we began with our mold remediation process. All affected drywall and cabinets were discarded. The remaining wood framing was sanded and the entire area was detail cleaned with HEPA Vacuums and the room was placed under negative air to capture the mold and mold spores to return home to favorable air quality and begin reconstruction.
Mold Remediation
SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity and Greater Tehama Counties, as long-time professionals in the Mold Removal & Mold Remediation business, will be your #1 resource for all of your mold damage, mitigation and remediation services - (530) 222-0200
Give us a call - 24/7. We would like to be your #1 resource for all your mold concerns and services.
Water Heater Blowout Creates Terrible Mold Problem
8/25/2017 (Permalink)
Mold caused by a leaking water heater.
Professionally Handling Mold Damage
We are experienced at handling the most extreme of mold situations SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity and Greater Tehama Counties is available 24/7 - (530) 222-0200
On this particular mold project, the customer was away at another home, and when they returned after not being in the home for over a month, they found the water heater in the garage had blown off and was still leaking. A bad hail storm ensued and helped wreak havoc on the home also.
This steam and water created a terrible mold problem in their garage.
We were able to help this homeowner by removing everything in the garage, sheetrock, and insulation, and by soda blasting the remaining stud walls.
If disaster should ever strike, make sure to call SERVPRO® of North Shasta, Trinity and Tehama Counties to make it “Like it never even happened.” 530-222 0200.
#SERVPRONorthShasta #SERVPRONorthShasta23Years #DISASTER #CaliforniaRealEstate #LikeItNeverEvenHappened #HereToHelp #ReBuildingStories
Expert Advice:Home Basement Mold and Water Damage
8/25/2017 (Permalink)
Flooded basement caused by a recent Northern California storm.
SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties
"A plumbing pipe broke in a house while the owners were away," according to the owner of a mold removal and water restoration business in Northern California.
"In the basement, there was 5 ft of water. Because it was summer, the water evaporated and rose to the upper floors in the day, and then rained back down into the basement during the night. The humidity was so high that we had to pry the front door open.”
"Once inside, there was something even more surprising. Everything was covered with mold – every wall, every carpet, every bed and every chair. There was even mold on the piano’s felt hammers. The house was literally infested from top to bottom."
"The mold removal expert attributed the enormity of the damage to the fact that mold had existed for several weeks before being discovered. Nonetheless, he said, any type of flooding in a home – whether caused by a bashing from Mother Nature, a clogged sewer line or a broken pipe – can cause serious problems."
"He warns people that there are some things you should never do when water is where it doesn’t belong, the most important of which is not to touch anything electrical if you’re standing on a wet floor. While this might seem obvious, you’d be surprised at the number of people who have a flooded basement and casually wade through the water in order to turn off appliances or switch lights on. Just a few inches of water can saturate electrical outlets near a floor. In fact, said the mold removal and water restoration expert, you should not be there in the first place – it is very dangerous."
SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties in Northern California has been in the mold and water damage repair business since 1993.
Call Us 24/7 (530) 222-0200
Does Your Shasta, Trinity or Tehama County California Home Have A Mold Problem?
8/23/2017 (Permalink)
Mold Remediation
Mold damage can spread through a home in as little as 48 hours.
SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.
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.
- 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.
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If You See Signs of Mold, Call SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties 27/4 at: (530) 222-0200
Redding, North Shasta, Trinity and Tehama County Residents: Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold
8/23/2017 (Permalink)
Specializing in Mold Cleanup and Restoration.
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 Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties for mold remediation services 24/7: (530) 222-0200
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 Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties 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 – (530) 222-0200
Nobody Wants a Moldy Bathroom in Shasta County
8/23/2017 (Permalink)
Strategies for your Mold Free Bathroom!
You may already know SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties employs highly trained mold remediation technicians that tackle commercial jobs large and small. However, mold also appears in homes in various situations. So let’s prevent mold appearing in one place we have seen it often - in your bathroom!
Understanding how and why mold grows in a bathroom will help to prevent it's appearance. Bathroom mold is most commonly caused by excessive dampness. So try these tips to keep or clean it out.
Steam moisture on your mirror is fun to draw on! It is important to run your exhaust fan while you shower or bathe. Let it continue to fan out the moisture for twenty minutes after you bathe as well.
Squeegee the tile and your bathroom wall to rid it of excessive moisture as well. Also, make sure the tile is waterproofed with a standard grout sealer.
If you currently have mold, use the 90/10 water / bleach blend to scrub it away and call the professionals at SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties to check for any unseen mold in your crawl spaces or attics.
Call Us 24/7: (530) 222-0200
Mold is nobody’s friend, so give it the boot and breathe easy again! We are here to handle any jobs.
Mold Cleanup - Don't Do it Yourself
4/26/2017 (Permalink)
Mold damage discovered
This "do-it-yourselfer" had an extensive water leak in the roof. After calling a few local companies he decided the charges were more then he could afford. After a few hours on "google" and "YouTube” he thought the job seemed simple enough. Mr. “do-it-yourself” rented a carpet cleaner and bought a small dehumidifier to complete the job. After a few days of running the machines he decided it "was good enough".
Within a week he started noticing a musty smell. He called "SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity and Greater Tehama Counties”. All he wanted to do was deodorize the home, however our technicians wanted to find the location of the smell. After pulling the baseboards and the corners of the carpet up, we noticed immediately the water and the mold starting.
(530) 222-0200
After the initial inspection was done we provided him with a full estimate to fix the damages. He was shocked at how much lower our estimate was from all the others he had received. Within hours we began our work, returning his home to "like new" condition in only two weeks!
Shasta County, CA Mold and Water Damage Remediation
3/20/2017 (Permalink)
Secondary damage in the form of mold, after initial water damage.
Mold Mitigation - IICRC Certification - Shasta County, CA
Limiting Your Exposure on Disclosure and Tenant Suits
The IICRC (Carpet Cleaning Repair Installation Certification) provides the primary standard with government agencies and trade groups when dealing with litigation regarding water and mold damage.
Since these law suits are handled on a contingency basis, it is imperative that you can show that this is the standard that was followed and documented. This could strongly persuade the plaintiff’s lawyer to reconsider spending time and money on a case that will usually take years to settle. These cases will most likely be viewed by the courts as frivolous, resulting in a dismissal.
In my experience, the cases where IICRC standards were followed, law suits were denied because the jobs were well documented and followed proper guidelines.
Also recognize that any party who provided work on the structure - buyer’s agents, the seller’s agents, home inspectors, termite inspectors, restoration companies, plumbers, and property managers are possible participants in the case.
There are lawyers that advertise that they are mold experts, and there are doctors that will side with the plaintiffs in these law suits. These
doctors will testify that the affected party will never recover from the mold exposure. This is a ridiculous claim, but a doctor on a stand can
be very intimidating and convincing.
To add fuel to the fire as of January 1st mold is considered a substandard housing condition. So be aware when dealing with water and mold issues. I would strongly recommend always using a professional on all water and mold issues, and being absolutely sure that they are IICRC certified.
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