How to Deal with a Mold Issue at Your Aberdeen Business

12/20/2023 (Permalink)

Dealing with a mold issue at your business is crucial for maintaining a safe and healthy environment for employees and customers alike. Mold can not only damage the physical structure of your building but also pose serious health risks to individuals, particularly those with allergies or respiratory conditions. Addressing a mold problem promptly and effectively requires a systematic approach.

From identifying the source of moisture that promotes mold growth to conducting thorough inspections, proper remediation, and implementing preventive measures, it's essential to take immediate action. By following a well-organized plan, you can ensure the safety of your employees, protect your business assets, and maintain a positive reputation within your community.

Signs You May be Experiencing

Musty Odor: A musty smell within a building can often be an indicator of a potential mold issue. Mold growth thrives in damp and humid environments, and the must odor is a result of the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released by mold spores.

If you notice a persistent musty smell in your building, especially in areas prone to moisture like basements, bathrooms, or crawl spaces, it is essential to investigate further. Ignoring this sign could lead to a more significant mold problem, causing health issues and structural damage. Quickly addressing the musty smell by identifying and eliminating the source of moisture is crucial to preventing potential mold growth and ensuring a safe work environment.

Peeling Wallpaper: Peeling wallpaper can serve as a visible sign of potential mold growth within a building. When mold develops behind wallpaper, it can cause the adhesive to weaken, leading to the wallpaper peeling away from the surface. This occurrence is often a result of moisture seeping into the walls, providing an ideal environment for mold spores to thrive.

If you observe peeling wallpaper, especially in areas prone to dampness or water leaks, it is essential to investigate the underlying cause quickly. Ignoring this sign may allow the mold to spread further, posing health risks to occupants and potentially causing extensive damage to the building's structure. Addressing the issue at its source, fixing leaks, and ensuring proper ventilation are crucial steps in preventing mold growth and maintaining a healthy indoor environment.

Stains on Walls: Stains on walls can be a telltale sign of potential mold presence within a building. These stains often appear as discolored patches, indicating water damage and the subsequent growth of mold or mildew. Mold thrives in areas with excessive moisture, making walls near leaky pipes, roofs, or windows susceptible to infestation. If you notice unexplained stains on your walls, it's essential to investigate the source asap.

Check with Your Insurance Company

Checking with your insurance company to see if you have mold coverage is crucial for several reasons. Mold infestations can cause significant damage to your property and pose health risks, making timely remediation essential. Most standard insurance policies have specific limitations or exclusions related to mold damage, and coverage varies widely.

Acting promptly to determine your coverage can help you understand the extent of financial assistance you can expect in case of mold-related issues. Waiting to address this matter can lead to delays in remediation efforts, allowing the problem to worsen and potentially resulting in higher repair costs.

By clarifying your insurance coverage as soon as possible, you can make informed decisions, expedite the cleanup process, and minimize both property damage and health concerns associated with mold growth.

Common Places in Buildings to Find Mold

Mold can thrive in various areas within a business, especially where there is moisture, warmth, and organic matter for it to feed on. Identifying these areas is crucial for effective mold prevention and remediation. Here are some common places within a business where mold can be found:

1. Bathrooms: Bathrooms provide an ideal environment for mold due to the presence of water and high humidity. mold can grow on tiles, grout, shower curtains, and even inside cabinets.
2. Kitchens: Kitchens, particularly near sinks, dishwashers, and refrigerators, are prone to mold due to water leaks and spills. Mold can develop on food, in drains, and on kitchen surfaces.
3. Basements and Crawl Spaces: Basements and those small storage spaces are often damp and poorly ventilated, making them susceptible to mold on walls, floors, and stored items.
4. HVAC System: Mold can thrive in HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems if there is moisture buildup. Mold spores can then circulate throughout the building via the air ducts.
5. Roofs and Attics: Leaky roofs and poorly ventilated attics can create conditions for mold growth on roof sheathing, insulation, and wooden structures.
6. Ceilings and Walls: Mold can grow on ceilings and walls, especially if there are plumbing leaks or inadequate insulation, causing condensation.
7. Carpet and Upholstery: Mold can develop on carpets and upholstery if they get wet and are not dried properly, providing an organic surface for mold.
8. Office Equipment: Mold can grow on electronic equipment, papers, and cardboard if they come into contact with moisture.
9. Storage Areas: Items stored in damp or humid areas, such as cardboard boxes and wooden furniture, are susceptible to mold.

Regular inspections, proper ventilation, controlling humidity levels, and addressing water damage promptly are essential steps in preventing mold in these areas within a business.

How to Prevent Mold

Preventing mold in a business requires a proactive approach and vigilant maintenance.

• First and foremost, it's crucial to control indoor humidity levels, keeping them between 30-50% to discourage mold growth.
• Regularly inspect and maintain the building's HVAC system, ensuring proper ventilation and preventing moisture buildup in ducts.
• Address any leaks or water damage promptly, whether from roofs, plumbing, or windows as mold thrives in damp environments.
• Utilize dehumidifiers in areas prone to high humidity, such as basements and storage spaces.
• Encourage employees to promptly clean up spills and ensure that wet items and surfaces are dried within 24-48 hours.
• Regularly clean and maintain carpets, upholstery, and other surfaces that can trap moisture.
• Store paper, cardboard, and other organic materials in dry areas.
• Lastly, conduct routine inspections of common mold-prone areas to catch any signs of moisture or mold growth early, allowing for swift remediation and a mold-free business environment.

Mold Remediation and Restoration

In Aberdeen/Holmdel, even a minor water leak or excess humidity can trigger mold in your home or business premises. Once mold takes hold, it can rapidly spread throughout the property within 48 hours, releasing allergens and irritants that pose various health problems.

Although tackling mold might seem daunting, SERVPRO specializes in effective mold removal services. Our skilled experts are well-equipped to assess your property and address any mold issues using specialized training and advanced equipment.

If you suspect mold in your home or business, our team can inspect, assess, and remediate the problem efficiently. Mold eradication may be challenging, but with our expertise and the right chemicals, we can restore your property to its pristine, mold-free condition.

The Mold Remediation Process

Every mold infestation is different, from the amount of mold to the types of materials affected. Each scenario requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our process for a "typical" mold remediation infestation:

1. Emergency Contact
2. Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
3. Mold Containment
4. Air Filtration
5. Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
6. Cleaning Contents and Belongings
7. Restoration

About SERVPRO

SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel is proudly owned by Lance and Jennifer Harvey - a husband and wife duo that owns two other SERVPRO locations, including SERVPRO of West Somerset County, and SERVPRO of Hoboken/Union City.

We understand the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage and the disruption it causes your home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it “like it never even happened.”

7 Signs You Have Mold in Your Home

8/14/2023 (Permalink)

One of the worst things you can have in your home is mold. Mold is not only disgusting, but it's also hazardous to you and your family's health. When it comes to mold, there are different types, many causes, and the best way to remediate it is with a professional mold remediation company, like SERVPRO. If you're not familiar with mold growth and the signs that it could be in your home, keep reading!

1. Discoloration

The easiest way to spot mold is by noticing any kind of discoloration or staining on your walls, floors, ceilings, or even upholstery. If you see gray, black, green, or blue specks along grout lines, anywhere on your walls, or any surface, that's a sure sign that you have mold spores living rent-free in your home.

You can also spot dark water stains on or near walls, on floors, ceilings, etc. This is another indication that you either have mold, or mold growth will start due to some kind of water damage.

2. Gross, Musty Odor

Seeing mold is the easiest way to know if you have it in your home or not, but smelling it is the next sign. If you start to smell a musty, earthy, or sour odor, this usually indicates that mold is present or you have to get rid of the milk in your refrigerator.

Smelling mold can be tricky because it will lead you to search high and low, and if you don't find it, you may think it's something else. Chances are you do have mold, but it's in hidden colonies within the walls, crawl spaces, or somewhere that is hard to see without tearing things apart. To be sure, contact a professional.

3. Dampness

Feeling dampness on your walls, ceiling, or floors can mean 1 of two things: either you have some kind of water damage in your home or the humidity levels are too high. Either way, both of these instances will cause mold to grow. If you don't see or suspect leaky pipes or standing water, chances are it's the humidity - in which case you should invest in a dehumidifier or run your HVAC system.

4. Leaky Pipes

If you discover that you do have leaky plumbing somewhere in your home, this moisture will encourage mold and cause more of an issue to your home. In the case that you have a problem with your plumbing, contact a plumber ASAP before mold has the chance to start growing.

5. Condensation

If you start to notice condensation on your walls, windows, around the air conditioner, or even around the fridge, there's a large chance that mold will start to grow in those areas. When you're reviewing the situation, be careful and wear gloves, just in case mold is present. In this case, it's important to figure out why this is happening to prevent further damage and, of course, prevent mold.

6. Pay Attention to Taste

If your daily routine includes making a cup of coffee in the morning, followed by water, you should know what these taste like. If your coffee starts to taste off, chances are there may be mold growing in the coffee maker. Thoroughly take apart and wash every piece that you can before making another cup. This is also the case for water coolers.

Water coolers are very convenient and give you cold water just from pushing a button, however, many water coolers' nozzles are rubber, and after a while, mold can start to grow within it. Pay attention to the taste and remember to clean both the coffee and water coolers out monthly.

7. Allergies

Allergies to mold are not exactly the same as allergies to pollen. If you or someone in your family starts to sneeze, cough, or develop rashes, the first step is to visit the doctor. If nothing can be found, this is an indication that you may have mold in your home. This is very dangerous for you, your family, and your pets that live inside the home. Call a professional like SERVPRO so we can come out and remediate the problem before it gets worse.

Understanding Mold

Some restoration companies advertise "mold removal" and may even guarantee to remove all mold. This is false advertising because removing mold from a home or business is impossible. Microscopic mold exists almost everywhere, both indoors and outdoors. Here are some facts about mold.

• 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. They can even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or pet.
• Mold thrives on moisture. They 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 problems 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 humidity can support mold. Keep indoor humidity below 45%.

What is Black Mold?

You may have seen sensational news reports that warn about the dangers of "black mold" or "toxic mold." These reports can be alarming and confusing, so it's beneficial to get the facts to better understand mold.

Stachybotrys chartarum is the type of mold often called black mold, and it does produce allergens and irritants. However, many types of mold can produce this as well. Treat any mold with caution - stay out of affected areas and don't touch or disturb the mold.

Our Mold Remediation Process

Every mold damage scenario is different, and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same. These steps illustrate our "typical" process:

1. Emergency Contact (732) 201-6751
2. Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
3. Mold Containment
4. Air Filtration
5. Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
6. Cleaning Contents and Belongings
7. Restoration

About SERVPRO Team Harvey
SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel is proudly owned by Lance and Jennifer Harvey - a husband and wife duo that owns three other SERVPRO locations, including SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan, SERVPRO of West Somerset County, and SERVPRO of Hoboken/Union City.

We understand the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage and the disruption it causes your home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it “like it never even happened.”

Appliances That Need to Be Checked for Mold Growth

2/20/2023 (Permalink)

Mold growth occurs naturally and in many areas, especially in locations that have high moisture. Many people are unaware of the fact that mold might even be present in their appliances, so inspecting these machines is a great way to find hidden mold so that it can be removed before it becomes problematic.

Washing Machines

If you notice a musty odor when opening your washing machine, this could be a sign that mold is present. Washing machines are manufactured to be watertight, which makes them an ideal environment for mold. Clean your washing machine’s gasket with water and soap, and then run it on a cycle that is empty using baking soda, hot water, or bleach. If the musty smell persists, this means the mold has probably entered the filter, drum or drain, which means you’ll need professional assistance.

Air Conditioning Vents

The vent of your air conditioner is another place where mold can develop. It can usually be identified visually by peeking through the vents or smelling them to see if an unpleasant odor is present. If it is, you’ll want to consult with an A/C expert.

Humidifier

A lot of the new humidifiers are advertised to be antimicrobial, but in reality they require regular cleaning as well. Once a day, prior to refilling them, you will want to empty, then rinse and dry, and once per week you can remove the scale using vinegar and then apply disinfectant according to the instructions of the manufacturer.

Refrigerator

If you see or smell mold inside your fridge, it can be easily addressed with some fungicide, baking soda and warm water. Remove all of the contents first, and then carefully wipe the walls and insides, which include the hard-to-reach crevices. Don’t forget to take out the shelves and bins so you can clean under them as well and be sure to clean out the freezer!

While mold growth may seem impossible for remediation, the experts at SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel know better. We are renowned for our successful mold removal services. If you suspect your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property, using specialized training, equipment and expertise to remediate it. Mold can be tricky to get rid of but with the right chemicals and our technicians, it doesn’t stand a chance. Let us return your home or business to its pristine, mold-free environment.

About SERVPRO Team Harvey
SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan is proudly owned by Lance and Jennifer Harvey - a husband and wife duo that owns three other SERVPRO locations, including SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan, SERVPRO of West Somerset County, and SERVPRO of Hoboken/Union City.

We understand the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage and the disruption it causes your home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it “like it never even happened.”

Steps to Manage a Mold Issue at Your Monmouth County Business

11/3/2022 (Permalink)

Steps to Manage a Mold Issue in Your Monmouth County Business

If you believe you may have a mold issue in your business’ structure, you should take action right away. So, what do you do after you’ve come to this realization? SERVPRO of Holmdel/Aberdeen is here to provide you with steps to manage a mold issue in your Monmouth County business.

1. Test Your Home

To be safe, do not touch or attempt to clean up any mold until a company has tested it to determine what type of mold you have and how bad the issue is. The test must be expansive and thoroughly done by a professional that will manage the mold cleanup, and of course, the remediation process.

2. Identify the Cause

It is crucial to figure out what is causing the mold to grow. If you don’t find the root of the problem, it’s possible the mold will grow back after removal. Some reasons could be a water leak in the wall, the humidity levels of your building, or a busted pipe. Whatever the case may be, fixing this and getting the mold remediation process done will stop your issue.

3. Got Coverage?

Check if your insurance policy covers mold removal so you know how much the cleanup is going to cost you ahead of time.

4. Hire a Professional

Research mold removal companies in your area. Look for companies with good references and reviews and choose those who respond quickly to your call and those who come with liability insurance. It’s also important to make sure they are properly certified and praised in the community.

Keep in mind that mold removal isn’t an easy process and is rather complex. The good news is with a reputable mold remediation company like SERVPRO of Holmdel/Aberdeen, the job will be done the right way, preventing further health issues and damage to your business. 

Reach out with any and all of your questions and inquiries: (732) 290-3170

About SERVPRO Team Harvey

SERVPRO of Holmdel/Aberdeen is proudly owned by Lance and Jennifer Harvey - a husband and wife duo that owns three other SERVPRO locations, including SERVPRO of West Somerset County, SERVPRO of Hoboken/Union City, and SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan. 

We understand the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage and the disruption it causes your home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it “like it never even happened.” 

How to Detect Mold in Your Home

4/20/2019 (Permalink)

Have you ever wondered how to detect mold in your home? Are you concerned that water in basement areas is dangerous to your health? Flooding and water damage are very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture and more. If you don’t act fast, mold, water damage and more can destroy your home or business.

SERVPRO Can Inspect Water in Basement

When it comes to mold and water in basement areas, there are a few ways to inspect:

• Let your nose lead the way. Mold often produces a strong, musty odor, and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Get familiar with the state of your plumbing, which will help you be able to catch leaks and other issues quickly.
• Check if your bathroom is getting especially steamy during bathing or you see a small drip in your basement ceiling.
• Be sure gutters are in their proper positions and downspouts are properly connected and turned away from your foundation. Water should be diverted at least 5 feet away from your foundation, so it doesn’t pool against your home or collect water in basement.

At SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel, our highly trained technicians follow a simple process that can detect mold and guarantee results. Call us at (732) 290-3170 when you need us, and we’ll be there.

What Are the Most Common Signs of Mold?

4/20/2019 (Permalink)

No one wants not see signs of mold in their home Not only is it unsightly and smelly, it’s dangerous to your home and health. Mold exposure symptoms can go unnoticed without some basic knowledge and it all starts with understanding how and why it grows.

How to Know if You Have Mold Exposure Symptoms?

Microscopic mold spores occur naturally 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. Consider the following mold facts:

• 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 and can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold exposure symptoms including Mold allergy symptoms and signs include wheezing, rash, watery eyes, runny nose, itchy eyes, coughing and redness of the eyes.
• 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 Aberdeen/Holmdel can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment and expertise to remediate your mold infestation. If you suspect signs of mold, call us today at (732) 290-3170.

Mold Prevention Tips

10/24/2018 (Permalink)

No one wants to find mold in house areas. Not only is it unsightly and smelly, it’s dangerous to your home and health. Mold prevention starts with understanding how and why it grows.

What Causes Mold in House?

Mold spores thrive on moisture, oxygen, humidity, organic matter and warmth. When exposed to water, it can quickly grow into colonies producing allergens and irritants. Because many of these elements are found organically in nature, it may be hard to remove them from your home to discourage mold growth. However, you can control the moisture levels in your house with preventative measures and mold testing.

• Inspect Plumbing: A regular inspection of toilets, dishwashers, pipes and other sources of water can help you better understand where leaking water could be. When you are familiar with the state of your plumbing, you will be able to catch leaks and other issues quickly. This can help stop water damage from taking place.
• Respond to Leaking Water and Other Moisture Immediately: Whether you notice your bathroom getting especially steamy during bathing or you see a small drip in your bedroom ceiling, you need to act quickly when you notice water issues to prevent mold from growing.
• Make a Plan: While not quite part of a mold prevention plan, know who you’re going to call should you find leaking water or mold in your home. The faster you get a mold testing and remediation team into your house the sooner your living space will be free of the unwanted growth.

When you call SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel to assist with your mold prevention and problems, we will ask several questions to determine what equipment and resources are required, including how many trained experts from our crew will be needed. Prepare for the call with these tips!

Flooded House: Does Your Home Have Mold?

8/2/2018 (Permalink)

If you're dealing with a flooded house, a burst pipe or water in basement or another room, you may be understandably concerned about mold. Mold is a health hazard: it can produce allergies and other health problems. And unfortunately, mold is a fast little bugger—it can grow in just 48 hours. Of course, mold spores exist everywhere you go…indoors and outdoors, so getting rid of every single spore from your home is simply impossible. A smart home restoration company will tell you that.

So, if you have water in basement or anywhere, and mold is on your mind, consider these facts about mold and then, we'll share what to do if you believe your house has a mold issue:

• So tiny! Mold spores are microscopic and can enter your house in many ways, like: windows, doors, AC or heating systems, your family pet, etc.
• Mold loves moisture! Mold spores will grow like wildfire in a moist environment and the mold will then produce allergens and irritants.
• Watch your humidity! Keep your home (indoors) humidity under 45%.
• What's that smell? Mold produces a nasty, musty smell, so trust your nose!
• Remediation, the right way! Before mold removal companies can properly handle mold remediation and cleanup in your home, the company must find the source of water or moisture that's growing mold…otherwise, the mold will most certainly come back again.
• Signs you've got a mold issue! If you or your loved ones are dealing with symptoms like: allergies, sore throat, fatigue, headaches, sinus issues, itchy eyes, etc., see a doctor and mention you may have a mold problem.

Mold Cleanup & Ways To Manage Your Mold Issues

So, you think you have a mold issue…now what?

Here are steps to take to manage your mold problem:

1. Test Your Home:

Don't clean up a drop of mold until a company has tested to determine what type of mold you have and how bad the issue is. The test must be expansive and thoroughly done by professional that will then manage the mold cleanup and of course, remediation process.

2. Identify The Cause:

It's very important as we mentioned earlier, to figure out what is causing the mold to grow.  Otherwise, you can hire a company to remove the mold, but it will just grow right back! So whether it's a water leak in a wall, the humidity levels in your home, a busted pipe or what have you, that issue needs to be tackled first.

3. Got Coverage? Or Not?:

Check if your insurance policy covers mold removal…this way you know how much the cleanup is going to cost you.

4. Hire A Professional:

Research mold removal companies in your area. Look for companies with good references and reviews, who respond quickly to your call, who come with liability insurance and are properly certified and praised in the community.

Keep in mind that mold removal isn't an easy process and is rather complex. The good news is that with a reputable mold remediation company, the job will be done the right way, preventing further health issues and damage to your home.

Mold Remediation

7/20/2017 (Permalink)

Mold Damage

If You See Signs of Mold,Call Us Today –SERVPRO OF ABERDEEN/HOLMDEL

732-290-3170

Does Your MONMOUTH COUNTY AREA Home Have A Mold Problem? Mold can spread through a home in as little as 48 hours.

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 Aberdeen/Holmdel 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 Aberdeen/Holmdel specializes in mold cleanup and restoration. Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water.These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold,Call Us Today –SERVPRO OF ABERDEEN/HOLMDEL 732-290-3170