7 Tips to prevent mold in your Rosedale Maryland home.

7/25/2018 (Permalink)

Prompt mitagation is vital to avoid mold growth, which can be visible in as little as 24-48 hours under certain conditions. 

Here are 7 tips we recommend to prevent Mold growth in your Rosedale Maryland home.

• Keep Humidity between 30-60 percent.
• Provide for proper drainage away from building foundations. 
• Regularly inspect plumbing leaks and appliances for leaks. 
• Keep gutters and drains clear of debris.
• Inspect the roof, windows and other areas where water might enter the building and perform necessary maintenance
• Respond to all water intrusions immediately.
• Contact SERVPRO of Perry Hall / White Marsh or your local SERVPRO franchise for assistance after a water damage or if you discover mold. 

ABOUT SERVPRO of Perry Hall / White Marsh

SERVPRO of Perry Hall / White Marsh has been serving the community since 2001. This family owned and operated franchise is certified by the IICRC and approved by all insurance companies.  For questions or for more information, please call 410-529-1664 and we will gladly help you out!

Managing Mold: Personal property and other mold infested materials in your Towson Maryland Home.

7/11/2018 (Permalink)

So you have structural mold and you have mold damage on your personal property? SERVPRO of Perry Hall / White Marsh understands mold, mold growth and have the training and equipment to remediate mold in your home or business. This is what SERVPRO of Perry Hall / White Marsh can do for you to restore your mold infected belongings:

Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials and Belongings:

The process of removing mold from belongings and materials depends on the severity of mold growth, and the type of surface on which the mold appears. Professional-grade anti-fungal and anti-microbial treatments  will be used to eliminate mold colonies and help prevent new colonies from forming (yes, colonies). However if the material is porous, such as drywall, and flooring then it may be necessary to be removed in order to re-mediate the mold, and most importantly to keep mold from returning. Don't worry, we can reinstall the drywall, baseboard, carpet, and flooring when the process is complete.

SERVPRO of Perry Hall/White Marsh will clean your furniture, decorative items, and curtains as well as other restore-able items affected by mold. We have ultrasonic machines which can gently remove, kill and detail clean the nooks and crannies out of every knick-knack in your home. On top of that, we will use a variety of cleaning and sterilization techniques as well as deodorize. Anything that cannot be restored will be brought to the homeowner or tenants attention and the homeowner can sign off on its disposal if they choose so. If you'd rather not throw it away - don't worry, we have a form for that too.

To start the mold remediation process, please call SERVPRO of Perry Hall / White Marsh (Baltimore County, Maryland) at 410-529-1664 and we will help get you started!

Rossville Maryland: The beginning stages of the certified mold remediation process.

6/4/2018 (Permalink)

Although every mold damage scenario begins when you call SERVPRO of Perry Hall / White Marsh, the general remediation process stays the same. Here is what the "typical" mold remediation process looks like:

When you call SERVPRO of Perry Hall/ White Marsh:

A representative will ask you a series of questions to determine the severity, necessary equipment, resources and if personnel (such as an environmental hygienist) is needed.

Inspection and Damage Assessment:

Depending on the size of visible mold, your property will be inspected by an environmental hygeniest or by SERVPRO of Perry Hall/White Marsh mold certified professional. It will be inspected using technology, air samples, and hidden water sources.

Mold Containment:

Various containment procedures will be placed to prevent the spread of mold, and isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure. This will keep the spores from spreading during the clean up process

Air Filtration: 

Specialized filtration equipment captures microscopic mold spores out of the air. SERVPRO of Perry Hall / White marsh technicians  utilize powerful air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in progress. 

Restoration:

Depending on the species of mold, drywall, subfloors and other building material may be removed, and some contents may need to be disposed. SERVPRO of Perry Hall White Marsh will be able to reinstall drywall, baseboard, as well as flooring once the home has been cleared of mold.

If you need help with a mold problem in your Rossville Maryland home please call SERVPRO of Perry Hall/White Marsh at 410-529-1664. We are located just down the street in Rosedale, off of Yellowbrick road!

Mold inside your Towson Maryland home and what to do about it.

5/23/2018 (Permalink)

Hey Towson, it’s estimated that more than 1 million types of mold exist, yet less than 10 percent have actually been named. This means mold is very common in both indoor and outdoor environments. While mold and humans can sometimes co-exist without issue, there are certain species of mold that can cause health effects for some people.

If the right conditions exist, mold will grow.  Those conditions include:

• Water - Different mold types require varying amounts of liquid before growth begins.   
• Temperature - Normal indoor temperatures will promote mold growth.
• Time - Initial mold colonizers can take hold within one day after being exposed to an adequate water supply.

Mold growth can occur in any home, so it’s important to keep an eye out for situations that might promote mold activity. Roof/chimney leaks, wet basements, or condensation from ducts that dampen surrounding insulation are just a few examples of issues that make a house a prime target for mold growth.

If you suspect mold in your home, call SERVPRO of Perry Hall/White Marsh to assess the situation. We have the knowledge, tools and track record to effectively remediate mold in your home or business.

If you suspect mold, call SERVPRO of Perry Hall White Marsh at 410-529-1664 and we will help get you started.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Perry Hall/White Marsh for mold remediation services.

Mold Prevention Tips for Parkville Carney MD

4/18/2018 (Permalink)

Mold Prevention Tips for Parkville county MD!

• 
  Fix leaky plumbing and leaks in the building envelope as soon as possible.
• Watch for condensation and wet spots. Fix source(s) of moisture problem(s) as soon as possible.
• Prevent moisture due to condensation by increasing surface temperature or reducing the moisture level in air (humidity).
• To increase surface temperature, insulate or increase air circulation.
• To reduce the moisture level in air, repair leaks, increase ventilation (if outside air is cold and dry), or dehumidify (if outdoor air is warm and humid).
• Keep heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) drip pans clean, flowing properly, and unobstructed.
• Vent moisture-generating appliances, such as dryers, to the outside where possible.
• Maintain low indoor humidity, below 60% relative humidity (RH), ideally 30-50%, if possible.
• Perform regular building/HVAC inspections and maintenance as scheduled.
• Clean and dry wet or damp spots within 48 hours.
• Don't let foundations stay wet. Provide drainage and slope the ground away from the foundation.

Source - http://www.epa.gov/mold/mold_remediation.html

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Perry Hall/White Marsh 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.

Tips on how to prevent mold in your Loch Raven bathroom

3/14/2018 (Permalink)

Bathrooms are a common place for mold to occur in your home. Here are some tips on how to avoid mold in your Loch Raven bathroom. 

Tips on how to prevent Bathroom Mold

• Use exhaust fans to remove moisture to the outside (not into the attic).


• Use area rugs, which can be taken up and washed often instead of wall-to-wall carpeting.


• Check for leaks around basins and tubs and have them repaired if necessary.


• Open a window when showering.


• Avoid leaving damp towels on the floor or in laundry hamper.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Perry Hall/White Marsh 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 – 410-529-1664

Tips on how to prevent mold in basements and crawl spaces in Overlea MD

2/14/2018 (Permalink)

Tips to avoid mold

In basements and crawl spaces:

• Put a plastic cover over dirt in crawl spaces to prevent moisture from coming in from the ground. If there is standing water or the soil is wet, dry it out with fans before covering the floor.
• Be sure crawl spaces are well ventilated by using fans and having vents installed in outside walls if necessary.
• Consider painting concrete floors and using area rugs instead of wall-to-wall carpet in basements. If you plan to install carpet over a concrete floor, it may be necessary to use a vapor barrier (plastic sheeting) over the concrete and cover that with sub-flooring (insulation covered with plywood) to prevent a moisture problem.
• Have your basement floor checked for leaks and have them repaired if necessary. Water can enter your home by leaking or by seeping through basement floors or walls.
• Make sure gutters are working properly and that outdoor landscaping causes water to run away from -- not toward -- the house.
• Do not finish basement walls with insulation and wall board unless your basement is very dry.

About SERVPRO of Perry Hall/ White Marsh Mold Remediation Services for Overlea MD

SERVPRO of Perry Hall/White Marsh 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 – 410-529-1664

Tips on how to prevent mold in laundry rooms in Towson

2/14/2018 (Permalink)

Tips for how to prevent mold In the laundry room:

You may not think about mold being in the laundry room, but mold can be anywhere. Here are some ways to keep an eye out for mold and prevent it from starting in the first place

• Vent your clothes dryer to the outside.


• Make sure the vent is clear of obstructions, such as lint, and that there are no holes that leak air. If the vent duct is damaged, replace it with a metal duct. Have the duct cleaned at least once a year.


• Avoid leaving damp clothes in the laundry basket or dryer. Wash and dry them promptly.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Perry Hall/White Marsh 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 – 410-529-1664

Tips to avoid mold in kitchens in Overlea MD

1/10/2018 (Permalink)

Tips to avoid mold in the kitchen

• Use exhaust fans to move moisture outside (not into the attic) whenever you are cooking, washing dishes, or cleaning.
• Turn off certain appliances if you notice moisture on windows and other surfaces.
• Check for leaks around the kitchen sink, refrigerator ice makers, and other sources of water. Repair if necessary.
• Empty and clean refrigerator drip pans if necessary.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Perry Hall/White Marsh 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 – 410-529-1664

12/13 Tips to prevent mold for around the house in Perry Hall MD

12/13/2017 (Permalink)

Tips to prevent mold for around the house

• Use dehumidifiers and air conditioners, especially in hot, humid climates, to reduce moisture in the air.
• Keep indoor humidity below 60% if possible. You can measure relative humidity with a hygrometer, an inexpensive instrument available at many hardware stores.
• Keep air conditioning drip pans clean. Make sure drain lines are free of obstructions and flow properly.
• Keep the house warm in cool weather. As the temperature goes down, the air is less able to hold moisture and it condenses on cold surfaces, which can encourage mold growth.
• Add insulation to cold surfaces, such as exterior walls, floors, and windows to reduce condensation.
• Dry wet areas within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mold growth.
• Fix leaks and seepage. The ground should slope away from your house. If water is entering the house from the outside, your options range from simple landscaping to extensive excavation and waterproofing.
• Have a heating and cooling contractor check your heating and cooling system to make sure it's sized and operating properly to remove humidity. If your system is too big or the airflow is incorrect, your air conditioner will not remove humidity like it should. Also, ask the contractor to check your duct system for air leaks, and proper size and air flow to each room.
• Open doors between rooms to increase circulation, which carries heat to cold surfaces. Increase air circulation by using fans and by moving furniture from wall corners.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Perry Hall/White Marsh 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 – 410-529-1664

11/8 Safety Tips While Investigating and Evaluating Mold and Moisture Problems

11/8/2017 (Permalink)

11/8 Safety Tips While Investigating and Evaluating Mold and Moisture Problems

• Do not touch mold or moldy items with bare hands.
• Do not get mold or mold spores in your eyes.
• Do not breathe in mold or mold spores.
• Consult Table 2 and text for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and containment guidelines.
• Consider using PPE when disturbing mold. The minimum PPE is an N-95 respirator, gloves, and eye protection

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Perry Hall/White Marsh 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 – 410-529-1664

• Do not touch mold or moldy items with bare hands.
• Do not get mold or mold spores in your eyes.
• Do not breathe in mold or mold spores.
• Consult Table 2 and text for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and containment guidelines.
• Consider using PPE when disturbing mold. The minimum PPE is an N-95 respirator, gloves, and eye protection

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Perry Hall/White Marsh 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 – 410-529-1664

Here are some mold prevention tips from the EPA

10/11/2017 (Permalink)

Here are some mold prevention tips from the EPA

• Fix leaky plumbing and leaks in the building envelope as soon as possible.
• Watch for condensation and wet spots. Fix source(s) of moisture problem(s) as soon as possible.
• Prevent moisture due to condensation by increasing surface temperature or reducing the moisture level in air (humidity). To increase surface temperature, insulate or increase air circulation. To reduce the moisture level in air, repair leaks, increase ventilation (if outside air is cold and dry), or dehumidify (if outdoor air is warm and humid).
• Keep heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) drip pans clean, flowing properly, and unobstructed.
• Vent moisture-generating appliances, such as dryers, to the outside where possible.
• Maintain low indoor humidity, below 60% relative humidity (RH), ideally 30 – 50%, if possible.
• Perform regular building/HVAC inspections and maintenance as scheduled.
• Clean and dry wet or damp spots within 48 hours.
• Don’t let foundations stay wet. Provide drainage and slope the ground away from the foundation.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Perry Hall/White Marsh 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 – 410-529-1664

How to investigate your Rosedale home for Mold

9/13/2017 (Permalink)

If you suspect mold, follow these steps to evaluate your mold problem. Please practice caution; wear personal protective equipment such as gloves, organic face mask and protective glasses. If you discover mold turn off the HVAC system immediately to prevent mold from spreading throughout the home.

Investigate and evaluate moisture and mold problems

• Assess size of moldy area (square feet) –this is the first question all mold removal companies should ask for. If its more than 3x3 you have a more serious problem and it will require an environmental hygeniest to do testing.
• Consider the possibility of hidden mold – there are hundreds of types of mold that only grow behind walls, wallpaper, under carpets, in air duct systems and such.
• Clean up small mold problems and fix moisture problems before they become large problems
• Select remediation manager for medium or large size mold problem – the SERVPRO of Perry Hall White Marsh has a very thorough process to reduce the chances of the mold reoccurring.
• Investigate areas associated with occupant complaints
• Identify source(s) or cause of water or moisture problem(s)
• Note type of water-damaged materials (wallboard, carpet, etc.) – again some types of mold can only grow here and not on other fibers. Do not disturb it, if not handled properly it could spread to other areas of the home.
• Check inside air ducts and air handling unit
• If you feel the mold is too much to handle or are

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Perry Hall/White Marsh 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 – 410-529-1664

In Parkville MD, mold can spread through a home in as little as 48 hours.

8/9/2017 (Permalink)

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 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.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today –410-529-1664

Risks of hidden mold in Parkville MD

8/9/2017 (Permalink)

Hidden mold and undiscovered leaks go hand in hand. Sometimes what you smell or what you see on the surface is only a fraction of what’s really going on. In some cases, indoor mold growth may not be obvious. You may suspect hidden mold if a building smells moldy, but you cannot see the source, or if you know there has been water damage and building occupants are reporting health problems. It is possible that mold maybe growing on the back side of drywall, wallpaper, or paneling. Mold can even be in the ceiling, HVAC or under the carpets and carpet padding. Laminate flooring is especially susceptible to mold because of its ability to trap pools of water beneath the boards.  

Possible locations of hidden mold can be where there is a high concentration of condensation such as  pipe chases and utility tunnels,walls behind furniture,condensate drain pans inside air handling units, porous thermal or acoustic liners inside duct work. Unknown roof leaks can also cause mold and aren’t typically inspected if the roof is above a crawlspace or unused attic.

Some building materials, such as drywall with vinyl wallpaper over it or wood paneling, may act as vapor barriers, trapping moisture underneath their surfaces and thereby providing a moist environment where mold can grow.

Exercise caution when investigating hiding mold and make sure to use PPE. For example, removal of wallpaper can lead to a massive release of spores from mold growing on the underside of the paper. If you believe that you may have a hidden mold problem, you may want to consider testing from an Environmental hygienist and hiring SERVPRO of Perry Hall White Marsh.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Perry Hall/White Marsh 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 – 410-529-1664

Moores Orchard MD Residents: Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

6/14/2017 (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 Perry Hall/White Marsh 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 Perry Hall/White Marsh 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 – 410-529-1664

Reasons how mold got into your White Marsh basement

5/10/2017 (Permalink)

While mold occurs naturally in the outdoors, it needs excessive moisture to survive indoors. That’s why mold is problem when there is a water damage, high levels of humidity or dampness. Here is a guide on where to find sources of moisture-causing mold.

Common Source of excessive mold-causing moisture:

• Flooding from storms coming from outside
• Sump pump overflow
• Roof leaks from damaged roofs, ice dams or blocked gutters
• Rain from storms through window frames, exterior walls, or doors
• Leaking pipes
• sewer back-ups or overflows
• Damp basements due to high water table or badly managed water drainage
• Condensation on cold surfaces

Then mold needs these 3 main factors to thrive and survive!

1. High Relative humidity
2. Warm or temperate temperature
3. Poor ventilation

Mold is easier to prevent than it is to clean so keeping a watch on common sources of mold and maintaining a dry, ventilated home and drying homes from water damage within 24 hours of the incidence is the best way to prevent mold from happening in the first place. If you have a mold problem and you would like information about how to get it professionally cleaned, please call us and we will direct you on where to get your mold tested.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Perry Hall/White Marsh 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 – 410-529-1664

What to do if you see mold in your Perry Hall Home

4/12/2017 (Permalink)

If you see or smell mold in home, the most important step is to locate the source of moisture and make repairs to stop them. Cleaning only the mold without fixing the problem, the mold will recur and may not be as easy to find (it is a living breathing organism).

Places to inspect for moisture if mold is present in home:

• Foundation


• Pipes


• Leaking roof

IF you do not see mold but only smell it, it may be growing behind previously water damaged walls carpet or wallpaper. Resulting in more extensive mold damage. Once the moisture source has been fixed, you need to decide if removing the mold requires a professional.

If the mold is from a sewage back up, other contaminated water such as a water damage left for an unknown amount of time –it is best if you contact a professional.

IF you see mold in more than one area in one room, or on walls, carpet or ceiling it is best to call a professional, check out our mold gallery photos and before and after pictures to get an idea of what professionals are called in to clean up. You’ll see some examples where the mold isn’t visible and others where it is very VERY visible.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Perry Hall/White Marsh 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.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 410-529-1664

How common is Stachybotrys Chartarum (black mold) in Perry Hall?

2/13/2017 (Permalink)

Stachybotrys Chartarum (sometimes referred to as "black mold") is less common than other species of mold, however, it is not rare.

About Stachybotrys:

Stachybotrys is greenish-black in color, and can grow on material with a high cellulose and low nitrogen content such as:

• fiberboard

   

• gypsum board
• paper
• dust
• lint
• wall paper

Is Stachybotrys dangerous?

Stachybotrys is classified as Hazard Class A which means it is highly dangerous and requires immediate attention. 

Stachybotrys is a Hydrophillic mold -meaning it requires a high water activity to exist so constant moisture is required for its growth. Stachybotrys is more likely to occur when there is moisture from water damage, excessive humidity, water leaks, condensation, water infiltration or flooding present. If you experienced a flood and now see mold you need to get the mold and water cleaned up immediately.

Is all black mold stachybotrys?

If you have black colored mold it does not mean it is stachybotrys - there are over 36,000 mold types in a variety of hues ranging from black, white, green, to orange and even blue. In fact depending on the infestation, there could be multiple types of mold present, requiring multiple different protocols for clean up - this can only be done by an environmental hygienist. 

How common is Stachybotrys Chartarum (black mold) in Perry Hall?

2/13/2017 (Permalink)

Stachybotrys Chartarum (sometimes referred to as "black mold") is less common than other species of mold, however, it is not rare.

About Stachybotrys:

Stachybotrys is greenish-black in color, and can grow on material with a high cellulose and low nitrogen content such as:

• fiberboard


• gypsum board


• paper


• dust


• lint


• wall paper

Is Stachybotrys dangerous?

Stachybotrys is classified as Hazard Class A which means it is highly dangerous and requires immediate attention. 

Stachybotrys is a Hydrophillic mold -meaning it requires a high water activity to exist so constant moisture is required for its growth. Stachybotrys is more likely to occur when there is moisture from water damage, excessive humidity, water leaks, condensation, water infiltration or flooding present. If you experienced a flood and now see mold you need to get the mold and water cleaned up immediately.

Is all black mold stachybotrys?

If you have black colored mold it does not mean it is stachybotrys - there are over 36,000 mold types in a variety of hues ranging from black, white, green, to orange and even blue. In fact depending on the infestation, there could be multiple types of mold present, requiring multiple different protocols for clean up - this can only be done by an environmental hygienist. 

Why DIY Mold Kits are Risky

10/14/2016 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Perry Hall/White Marsh for all of your mold concerns. We can refer you to a certified environmental hygienist to perform the labwork

Why Do-it-yourself Mold Testing Kits are Useless

If you look on the internet, there are scores of DIY mold test kits. Before you invest in one of these kits, here are things you ought to know about Mold:

Mold:

1. Mold is everywhere, and every single house has some form of “mold”.

2. There are Mold kits only tell you if your home has mold, but often provides false negatives and positives. It also does not tell you what kind of mold or how to kill it.

A true mold test can only be conducted by a Professional Environmental testing company; they determine the type of mold, the source of the moisture, and how to kill the mold at the core. They create a protocol, which can be read by an IICRC professional (like us!).  It’s best to use a testing company that does not do cleaning themselves, because their assessment will be unbiased.

3. Mold is more often hidden, sometimes under the floor or in the walls, or in your air ducts

Where the mold is located, often dictates where the moisture is affecting the building

4. Untreated water damage may result in mold growth within 24-48 hours of the event

Wood, insulation, fiberglass, carpet and other organic substances become a thriving environment for mold once there is moisture present for more than 24 hours. After a week, it is almost guaranteed.

Free estimates or removing mold yourself cost homeowners more in the long run

Be wary of companies who advertise free mold testing: free mold tests are often offered by people who are uncertified or inexperienced and if they do the mold testing themselves, they are using these kits mentioned above. Unless they are a certified Environmental Hygienist and have a PHD in microbiology, they do not have the knowledge or resources to truly diagnose the mold condition in your home.

• The source of the mold is never addressed, so the problem is reoccurring.


• They use the “self-test” kits mentioned above instead of environmental testing with diagnostics


• Remove only topical mold instead of killing it at the source


• They often remove more walls and floors than needed which increases the price to rebuild.


• They demo not enough, or not the right materials which brings the mold back.

This means you have to pay to have it removed again, and have more sanitation and demolition performed, which increases the price to rebuild and replace tremendously.

What you should do instead

Having mold can be scary, especially if anyone in your home is prone to getting sick (people with asthma, low immune systems, allergies, babies and the elderly). We recommend the following course of action if you need to have mold removed from your home.

1. Measure the area affected and check for moisture


2. Call your insurance company, ask about:

• If you are covered for mold


• What is your deductible


• What is your coverage


• Ask for a company that they approve of for mold mitigation (Chances are, it’s us because we are approved by all insurance companies as are our price lists).

3. If your insurance company say you can use anyone – or if you are not going through insurance then look for someone who is certified in

• IICRC, Water Restoration Technician


• IICRC, Mold restoration


• IICRC, Applied Structural Drying


• Lead certified (requirement in the state of Maryland

Now that you’re armed with knowledge, it’s time to start making some calls.

Now that you know your coverage, how much visible mold there is in your home, and whom your insurance company approves as mold remediation specialists. It’s time to start making some calls.

Managing Mold in your Fullerton Maryland Home

8/16/2016 (Permalink)

Fungi and mold naturally occur in our environment. Especially in an area as humid as the baltimore metro area. There are over 100,000 kinds of mold that have been identified, and even though some forms add value to our lives, other forms are harmful. Excessive amounts of mold, types of mold, and levels of exposure may be threatening for some people. 

Intrusion of water in your home or business can result in mold growth. Water can enter your home through storm damage, plumbing or equipment failures such as your sump pump, HVAC or Hot water heater. When your Baltimore basement floods, if not cleaned up properly and if humidity is not properly monitored, mold could start to grow in as little as 24 hours and will multiply. 

TAKE PRECAUTIONS

SERVPRO of Perry Hall/ White Marsh handle water damages every day and know action is required to prevent mold growth. If there is an ongoing moisture problem in the building, be alert for:

• The presence of visible mold
• strong musty odors, which may indicate mold is present
• Any evidence of past moisture problems that migh thave caused undetected growth. 
• Excessive humidity

These conditions may require the expertise of a qualified indoor air quality/Environmental profession to inspect the building for mold growth and water damage problems. 

IF you have think you have a mold problem, call your SERVPRO of Perry Hall White Marsh today to protect your health and your property. We will point you in the right direction on where to get your mold tested and we will take the clean up from there

Does Your Perry Hall Home Have A Mold Problem?

4/27/2016 (Permalink)

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 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.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 410-529-1664

Fullerton Residents: Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

4/27/2016 (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 if You See Mold:

Stay out of affected areas.

Turn off the HVAC system and fans.

Contact SERVPRO of Perry Hall White Marsh for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do If You See Mold:

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 Perry Hall/White Marsh 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. We not only service Perry Hall and white marsh, but also Fullerton, Parkville, Carney, Rosedale and Overlea!

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 410-529-1664