What Causes Mold?

7/25/2023 (Permalink)

Serpvro specializes in mold removal

If you have ever spent any amount of time in a crawlspace odds are you have been in a moldy environment. Crawlspaces are not the only spot in a home where mold can be present, but it is the most common. This is because the conditions in a crawlspace is perfect for mold growth. This blog will focus on those conditions and what you can do to help prevent mold growth.

- Water Intrusion

This is the number one cause of mold. This can come in many different forms. The most common are roof leaks, frozen water pipes, wet foundations, and outside water. Water is the key ingredient for mold growth. its important to make sure all leaks are stopped immediately and the structure is dried out properly.

- High Humidity

Leaks aren't the only cause of mold. High humidity is also a main contributor to mold growth. You really wan to keep your indoor humidity below 60%. If you are having trouble with high humidity you might want look into purchasing a dehumidifier.        

Are you ready to sell more houses in Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties?

5/10/2019 (Permalink)

It is a fact: A clean, fresh smelling home sells faster.

Unfortunately, not all home are maintained in the same way. Nearly all realtors are faced, at some point, with a difficult listing to show.

Veteran realtors encourage their clients to keep their home in top condition for very important reasons:

• Increased market value
• Reduced list to sale conversion times
• Enhanced reputation for quality listings and quick sales

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties offer a variety of services to help revive your listings to top show condition:

• Carpet, Upholstery, Drapery and Blind Cleaning
• Ceiling, Wall and Hard Floor Cleaning
• Deodorization
• Duct and HVAC Cleaning
• Mold Mitigation and Remediation

If you are currently working with clients in Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties and are in need of services, call our office today at 615-672-1905.

Are you in the process of listing your Cheatham, Robertson or Dickson County home?

2/8/2019 (Permalink)

Prior to listing a property, the following steps can be taken to reduce the potential for moisture buildup or mold growth.

Should a damaging event occur, timely response is the key to preventing further damage – act within the first 24 to 48 hours.

• Correct any water leaks or standing water.
• Remove standing water under cooling coils or air handling units.
• Properly maintain humidifiers, if used.
• Replace wet or visibly moldy insulation materials.
• Steam cleaning and other methods involving moisture should not be used on any kind of duct work.
• Install a ventilation system.

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties can inspect the areas that you feel need attention and provide service to remediate the areas as well to ensure that you are ready to list your home. Call our office today to schedule an inspection at 615-672-1905.

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties Mold and Mildew Service

1/4/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties can help, if you discover something growing in your residence that shouldn’t be there.

Mold ­­and Mildew in Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties thought of starting a band called Mold and the Mildews. We know a lot about the subject and are fungis (lol), but fortunately for you guys, we decided against it.

Mold and mildew are both types of fungi. Mildew is never useful, but some kinds of fungi are okay, like mushrooms (if you like mushrooms) and some molds can be useful, like penicillin. Other kinds of fungi are definitely not okay, like athlete’s foot and you definitely don’t want them growing in your home or office. SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties can help, if you discover something growing in your residence that shouldn’t be there.

It’s good to learn about the different kinds of mold and mildew. Education is important and finding an industry expert is critical. SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties recommends Frost Environmental Services, L.L.C. for an inspection. If you need assistance getting rid of the problem, give SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties a shout and we would be happy to help.

Does Your Dickson County Home Have A Mold Problem?

11/1/2018 (Permalink)

If you see signs of mold call us today - 615-672-1905

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

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 removal all mold, which is 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 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 moister must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.

Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

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

If you see signs of mold call us today – 615-672-1905

Sealing Its Fate

10/30/2018 (Permalink)

Mold travels when it is disturbed and will attach to anything that is a viable food source. When our office receives calls to complete mold remediation’s we are happy to help, but need to follow certain procedures to ensure that when we are cleaning the areas that have mold present we are spreading the mold to other areas of the home or business.

When our trained teams arrive they will assess the damage and if a scope of work is not already created they will create a protocol or scope of work. If our teams are working inside the home they will hang containment (heavy plastic sheeting) to seal off the area and prevent mold spores from traveling to other portions of the home. The area remains sealed off until the work has been completed. In many cases our teams will place air scrubbers in or around the area to aid with the mold particles in the air.

If you feel that you have mold in your home or business call SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County today to schedule an appointment.

It’s The Water You Don’t See

10/11/2018 (Permalink)

Even small water damages have the potential to cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time if not properly mitigated in a timely manner.

The key to avoiding costly future restoration is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property. SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County have the equipment, training and experience to find and dry unseen water before secondary damages occur. The proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing the damage expense during a water loss. When time matters, technology and equipment must be counted on to perform.

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County will answer your call with a team ready to respond and a full arsenal of drying equipment to help prevent secondary damage from occurring. Call our office today at 615-672-1905.

Understanding Mold

10/8/2018 (Permalink)

Mold is a hot topic these days. Although molds have been on the Earth for millions of years, there have been recent studies linking mold to a variety of health conditions. Mold is found indoors and out and can attach itself to clothing, bags and pets and be carried indoors. Mold can also travel indoors through open windows and doors, as well as through your HVAC system. Mold requires moisture to grow and can flourish in certain ideal conditions.

How You Can Control Mold Growth In Your Home

• Humidity Levels – Again, mold loves moisture. Control the moisture/humidity control the mold.
• Fix ALL leaks
• Clean ALL spills immediately
• Thoroughly dry after any flooding within 24 – 48 hours
• Proper ventilation

If you feel that you have a mold problem in your home call SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County today at 615-672-1905 to schedule an inspection.

Are Your Ducts In Order

10/4/2018 (Permalink)

Did you know, your ventilation system is often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality? Inspecting the ductwork in you facility or home should be a high priority. In most cases, the HVAC system has been operating for some time without much attention. Dirty ducts can circulate odors, contaminants such as mold and irritating dust throughout your building or home.

A routine part of SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County is inspecting the heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping the HVAC and ductwork clean can potentially extend the life span of the equipment by allowing it to operate at peak condition, which may help save you money. Duct cleaning may not always be necessary. SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County professionals will inspect your HVAC system and ductwork and make recommendations about the best way to address the indoor air quality concerns. This inspection can help save you money and provide peace of mind on the health of your HVAC system and duct work.

Call SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County today to schedule your inspection 615-672-1905.

Call The Cleanup Team

9/26/2018 (Permalink)

There’s no such thing as a small disaster, especially when the water you don’t see contains bacteria or can cause mold, rot and other unseen damage. Water damage can drastically affect the value of your property if not properly taken care of. Before you get out the mop bucket and try to clean it yourself, consider how the damage will affect your property.

SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County knows how disruptive water damage can be for your business. Luckily SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County has trained professionals equipped to manage the drying process. By utilizing the proper equipment and moisture measuring devices, your building will be quickly and thoroughly dried to industry standards, which will help prevent secondary damages such as mold and rot. With rapid response time and a full line of water cleanup and restoration services, SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County can help you regain control quickly, by helping to ensure that your property and its contents are properly dried, deodorized and protected.

Before you risk further damaging the value of your property by attempting to clean the mess yourself, call SERVPRO® of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson County today at 615-672-1905.

Efflorescence or Mold? Do you know the difference?

8/23/2017 (Permalink)

If you are uncertain as to whether you’re dealing with mold or efflorescence we suggest calling our office to schedule an inspection.

Efflorescence or Mold? Do you know the difference?

Efflorescence and mold can look quite similar. Although they look similar, that is the only quality they have in common. Distinguishing between the two is important for your piece of mind and treatment of the affected area.

What is Efflorescence?

Efflorescence is the migration of salt to the surface of a porous material, where it forms a white chalky coating. Efflorescence is found on masonry, stucco or concrete surfaces. It forms from salt deposits that remain on the surface of the materials when groundwater and sometimes rain water evaporate. Although it is unsightly, it does not pose a health risk. It does however indicate that there is excessive moisture entering and can be problematic if not addressed.

What is Mold?   

Mold is a term used to refer to fungi that grow in the form of multicellular thread-like structures and comes in a rainbow of colors. Mold grows and spreads in unconditioned spaces and sometimes in structures that do not have proper ventilation or have experienced a leak. With the exception of the winter months mold is always present outdoors. Exposure to damp and moldy environments can cause a variety of health effects, or none at all.  

How do you know the difference?

-Efflorescence dissolves in water, whereas mold does not.

-If rubbed between your fingers, efflorescence turns powdery. Mold does not

-Mold can be any color, but is often black or grey. Efflorescence, is almost always white or yellow.

-Efflorescence develops on inorganic building materials, like masonry, stucco or concrete. Mold typically grows on organic materials, such as wood or drywall.

If you are uncertain as to whether you’re dealing with mold or efflorescence we suggest calling our office to schedule an inspection. Once the problem of mold or efflorescence is distinguished we can provide you with an estimate for cleanup.

Understanding Mold Management

8/10/2017 (Permalink)

Moisture control and rapid response are a key component in controlling mold growth in your home or outside structure.

Understanding Mold Management

Mold is an essential part of nature and returns carbon as well as other elements, back into our ecosystem. However, mold is not a word that homeowners want to use when describing their homes. Mold cannot be completely eradicated, but it can be managed to a sanitary extent.

Moisture control and rapid response are a key component in controlling mold growth in your home or outside structure. Controlling the indoor and outdoor moisture of your home are the first steps in preventing mold growth.

Indoor Moisture Control:

                -Fix any indoor plumbing that is dripping or “sweating”.

                -Limit indoor humidity levels

                -Improve air movement in poorly ventilated areas of the home

Outdoor Moisture Control:

                -Inspect and maintain roofs, gutters and flashing

                -Ensure that the home has proper grading to direct water runoff away

                -Install air conditioners in outside buildings for air flow

                -Keep outside doors to the home closed on humid days

If you find that you have mold in your home or outdoor structure it is important to locate and correct the problem. Once the problem that is causing the mold growth is corrected the area needs to be cleaned and porous materials need to be removed.

Call our office today for an estimate on mold removal.

Inadequate Venting Causes Mold Damage In Dickson Home

4/28/2017 (Permalink)

Consulting with SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties helps you identify the reasons your dwelling supports mold growth.

Does Your Dickson Home Have Mold Damage?

Mold needs one thing to grow: water. It may not be a significant amount of water nor does it matter if it is clean or contaminated. Mold spores always inhabit the same spaces as you and your family, unseen microscopic particles floating in the air or lying on surfaces. SERVPRO helps you to learn about mold, so it peacefully coexists with you.

One common way mold damage gains a hold in your Dickson home is when kitchens, bathrooms, and other humid areas have improper venting. Spores swell and grow even if the water available is in a vaporous state. When you run your dishwasher, boil water for pasta, shower, or do laundry, water vapor builds in the air. The vapor that remains in the air because of no or improper venting activates nearby spores. Mold growth follows, attaching to areas like backsplashes, walls, grout, shower curtains, vanities, and hoses. The growth accelerates if any real leaks are present in plumbing or if damp towels or clothing offer the mold another source of moisture and an organic place to grow.

Consulting with SERVPRO helps you identify the reasons your dwelling supports mold growth. Our mold remediation training program thoroughly prepares our technicians to search successfully for mold growth and to isolate the moisture source. We use scientific methods and instruments to test for airborne mold and humidity levels that encourage microbial growth. If the humid areas of your home have fans or other venting systems, we urge you to use them to reduce ambient humidity. Rooms that are often steamy but have no venting are a different kind of problem. Opening windows, using free standing fans, or exploring other venting options are all options we suggest.

Regardless of the water source, we follow EPA protocols to contain, remove, and disinfect areas that show mold growth. When the mold is bagged and discarded, our staff measures the humidity and help you reduce it to below 60 percent. Mold is always likely to regrow if the moisture spikes again so controlling humidity, eliminating seepage and leaks, and extracting hidden areas of water are crucial in mold damage remediation.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

Frustration about recurrent mold growth is a challenge SERVPRO of Cheatham, Robertson and Dickson Counties frequently handles with success. Call (615) 672-1905 and begin working with us on a plan that remediates current mold colonies and limits future infestation.

Does Your White House Home Have A Mold Problem?

10/27/2016 (Permalink)

In White House, mold can spread through a home in as little as 48 hours.

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 – 615-672-1905

10 Unexpected Places Where Water Damage & Mold Creeps Into Your Springfield, TN Home

7/1/2016 (Permalink)

Mold can cause significant damage, but it can be prevented with proper precautions.

If a fixture or appliance in your home uses water, chances are it will leak at some point. These are 10 places many Springfield homeowners overlook when checking for water damage or mold:

1. Dishwasher 

There are two connections under each dishwasher that have the potential for mold and mildew to get started–the water supply and the discharge connection. The water supply needs to be lubricated with the right sealant and properly tightened periodically. The discharge connection involves a rubber hose and clamp, and installing the hose before the dishwasher is installed ensures it is done properly. Hoses wear out over time. If you’re buying an older house, it doesn’t hurt to check the dishwasher connections — especially if there’s an odd smell when you open the door. 

2. Icemaker Connections 

Refrigerators often get moved, either for cleaning or other projects. This can weaken or break the water line connection to the icemaker, causing leaks behind the refrigerator. 

3. Washing Machine Connections 

When installing a washing machine, always install a new hose, using the rubber washers the manufacturer recommends. Also, use Teflon tape and make sure to tighten the connection with vice grips so there are no drips or leaks. 

4. Hot Water Heater 

Many states have laws regarding the installation of hot water heaters, and most of them involve overflow pans that are piped to drain outside the house. The pan must be tilted at least ¼ inch to ensure the water does drain. Newer heaters with quick connect connectors should be properly lubricated and tightened so the shut-off valve doesn’t leak. 

5. Plastic P-Traps 

Under every sink in your home is a ?P-Trap,? almost always made of PVC pipe, which expands, and contracts. This process eventually loosens the connection and can cause leaks. Use Teflon tape to seal every P-Trap and check them periodically, tightening them by hand to ensure their connections don’t loosen and leak. Be careful, over tightening PVC can cause it to crack. 

6. Toilet Connections 

The base of the toilet is where most mold grows. Toilets should be installed with a horned wax ring, and then the base of the toilet grouted in with tile grout. The grout serves as a filler between the bowl and the floor to keep the bowl from rocking – which can compromise the wax ring. Also, make sure the toilet supply line is well-connected. 

7. Shower Doors 

To insure proper installation, we recommend shower doors be installed by a licensed plumber. Mold growing at the base of the tub may be from leaking or improperly installed shower doors. Shower doors need caulking on all three rails — the two side rails as well as the bottom rail. 

8. Tub 

The best way to prevent a leak from a tub is to make sure it is installed properly. If installed improperly, water and moisture can drip down under the tub causing water damage and mold issues. 

9. Exterior Water Connections 

If you’ve used a hose, you know how a poor connection or missing rubber washer can cause water to spray onto the house. This uncontrolled spray allows water to enter the space between the siding or into the wall leading to water damage and mold growth. 

10. Outdoor Water Sprinklers 

Make sure your sprinklers are well away from the house when turned on. The siding on your house is engineered to shed falling water (rain), not sprinklers shooting water up. 

If you take the proper precautions and monitor your home regularly, you should be able to avoid mold or at least catch it very early at its onset. 

Information from Homes.com article ’10 Unexpected Places Where Mold Creeps Into Your Home’

"Mold Removal" vs. Remediation in Dickson, TN - What's the Difference?

6/20/2016 (Permalink)

What’s the Difference?

Since microscopic mold spores exist naturally almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors, removing all mold from a home or business in Dickson is impossible. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold. This is a fallacy.

A qualified restoration company understands the science behind mold and mold growth. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have the training and expertise to remediate the mold in your home or business. Mold remediation focuses on getting mold levels back to normal, natural levels.

Every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same. To learn more about our mold remediation process.

1. Emergency Contact - (615) 672-1905
2. Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
3. Mold Containment
4. Air Filtration
5. Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
6. Cleaning Contents and Belongings

Understanding Mold

When water intrudes into your property, mold growth can start in as little as 48 hours. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic, 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 that odor can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.