How Do You Keep Mold Out of Buildings and Your Home?

5/28/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of North Knoxville for all your mold needs and concerns!

In order for you to understand home to keep mold out of buildings, you need to know where mold is more likely to grow and how it may enter your home or business.  Mold will grow in places with a lot of moisture, such as around leaks in roofs, windows, or pipes, or where there has been flooding. Mold grows well on paper products, cardboard, ceiling tiles, and wood products. Mold can also grow in dust, paints, wallpaper, insulation, drywall, carpet, fabric, and upholstery.

How Mold Enters the Home

Per the CDC, Mold can enter your home through open doorways, windows, vents, and heating and air conditioning systems. Mold in the air outside can also attach itself to clothing, shoes, and pets can and be carried indoors. When mold spores drop on places where there is excessive moisture, such as where leakage may have occurred in roofs, pipes, walls, plant pots, or where there has been flooding, they will grow. Many building materials provide suitable nutrients that encourage mold to grow.

How to Keep Mold Out of Buildings and Your Home

Now that you know where mold and grow and how it may enter your home or business, SERVPRO of North Knoxville wants to provide you with some tips on how to keep molding out of your business and home.

Inside your home, you can control mold growth by:

• Controlling humidity levels;
• Promptly fixing leaky roofs, windows, and pipes;
• Thoroughly cleaning and drying after flooding;
• Ventilating shower, laundry, and cooking areas.

Recommendations from the CDC are the following:

• Keep humidity levels as low as you can—between 30% and 50%–all day long. An air conditioner or dehumidifier will help you keep the level low. Bear in mind that humidity levels change over the course of a day with changes in the moisture in the air and the air temperature, so you will need to check the humidity levels more than once a day.
• Use an air conditioner or a dehumidifier during humid months.

• Be sure your home has enough ventilation. Use exhaust fans which vent outside your home in the kitchen and bathroom. Make sure your clothes dryer vents outside your home.
• Fix any leaks in your home’s roof, walls, or plumbing so mold does not have moisture to grow.
• Consider not using carpet in rooms or areas like bathrooms or basements that may have a lot of moisture.

If you believe you may have mold growth in your home or business call SERVPRO of North Knoxville (865) 947- 9992.  We are open 24/7!

Mold and your home

12/26/2018 (Permalink)

According to the CDC:

Mold is found both indoors and outdoors. Mold can enter your home through open doorways, windows, vents, and heating and air conditioning systems. Mold in the air outside can also attach itself to clothing, shoes, bags, and pets can and be carried indoors.

Mold will grow in places with a lot of moisture, such as around leaks in roofs, windows, or pipes, or where there has been flooding. Mold grows well on paper products, cardboard, ceiling tiles, and wood products. Mold can also grow in dust, paints, wallpaper, insulation, drywall, carpet, fabric, and upholstery.

You Can Control Mold

Inside your home you can control mold growth by:

• Controlling humidity levels;
• Promptly fixing leaky roofs, windows, and pipes;
• Thoroughly cleaning and drying after flooding;
• Ventilating shower, laundry, and cooking areas.

If mold is growing in your home, you need to clean up the mold and fix the moisture problem. 

Call SERVPRO of North Knoxville to remediate any possible mold you may have in your home. Call us today at 865.947.9992.

Signs of mold in your home

12/26/2018 (Permalink)

It is awful to find out that what you thought was just a spot of dirt, is actually mold growth. Have you ever moved something, and underneath found what you suspected to be mold? Appliances leaking provides a breeding ground for growth. Here are a few signs that you have mold in your home:

• smelling a mold odor- sort of like an old book store smell or a basement smell 
• mold growth- can be confused for dirt spots
• previous water leaks- under and around the area where there were previous leaks can potentially cause mold growth
• past flooding
• excess condensation- bathrooms, kitchens, and any other room that there may be excess moisture are potential hazards

The best way to confirm growth is to call a professional. Mold growth is one of the many things that is best handled by a professional.The trusted team at SERVPRO of North Knoxville will be happy to help!

How To Prevent Growth

11/12/2018 (Permalink)

Mold Growth

Spores spread very easily and very quickly. They cannot be completely eradicated even after remediation. Growth can be present ANYWHERE: on carpet, clothing, food, paper, and even places you cannot see. Some commonly effected places are drywall, framing, and in ceiling tiles. Not only is the problem costly and difficult to fix, it can become hazardous to your health. You can develop allergies and even breathing problems from the growth.

Concerned about growth in your home? The best way to prevent growth is moisture control. Here are a few tips on how to control moisture in your home:

• Identify problem areas within your home and correct them
• Dry any wet areas IMEDIATELY
• Prevent moisture with proper ventilation
• Equip your home with mold resistant products
• Direct rainwater away from your home
• Clean roof gutters

Not every growth issue can be foreseen, but there are preventative measures you can take to lessen your chances of this affecting your life. If you suspect a leak or possible growth, give SERVPRO of North Knoxville a call. We will be more than happy to come out and investigate the issue for you!

Mold Prevention Tips

3/22/2018 (Permalink)

The key to mold control is moisture control. Solve moisture problems before they become mold problems with these tips:

• 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, ideally 30-50%, if possible.
• Perform regular building?HVAC inspections and maintenance as schedules.
• 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

Questions to Consider About Mold Remediation

3/22/2018 (Permalink)

Here are some questions to consider:

• Are there existing moisture problems in the building?
• Have building materials been wet more that 48 hours?
• Are there hidden sources of water or is the humidity too high?
• Are building occupants reporting health problems?
• Are building materials or furnishings visibly damaged?
• Has maintenance been delayed or the maintenance plan been altered?
• Has the building been recently remodeled or has the building use changed?
• Is consultation with medical or health professionals indicated?

SERVPRO of North Knoxville's highest priority is to protect the health and safety of the building occupants. It is also important to communicate with building occupants when mold problems are identified. In some cases, especially those involving large areas of contamination, the remediation plan may include temporary relocation of some or all of the building occupants.

Mold 101

3/6/2018 (Permalink)

Mold can spread through a home in as little as 48 hours. Don't wait, call us today!

Health concerns may arise when excessive mold grows indoors. Concerns are more likely to arise for “at risk” people, which might include immune suppressed or compromised individuals, young children and individuals with chronic inflammatory lung diseases such as asthma and severe allergies. However, anyone may experience health problems associated with exposure to mold in damp buildings. Possible health effects include: runny nose, sneezing, coughing, aggravation of asthma, sore throat or inflammation of the sinuses. 

Fungi and mold naturally occur in our environment. In fact, over 100,000 kinds of fungi have been identified. Fungi produce some very useful results. Yeast is a type of fungi used in preparing breads, baked goods and other food products, including some alcoholic beverages. The unique flavor of blue cheese is a result of mold. An edible mushroom is simply a type of fungi, and lifesaving penicillin is a product of mold (Penicillin chrysogenum). Even though some forms of mold can add value to our lives, other forms can be harmful. Excessive amounts of mold, different types of mold, and/or exposure to molds may present health concerns for some people.

Intrusion of water into your home or place of business can result in mold growth. Water intrusions can result from storm damage, plumbing or equipment failures, long-standing leaks and poor humidity control. When water intrusions are not addressed right away, the resulting damage can present increased risk of harmful mold growth. Some amount of mold spores are normally present in most environments. If the humidity and moisture levels in a water-damaged environment are not promptly returned to normal, mold spores may grow and multiply. Organic materials found inside a building, such as wood, paper, drywall and insulation, provide food sources for mold to flourish. Excessive mold growth can lead to indoor environmental conditions that pose a health threat.

If you think you might have a mold problem, call 865.947.9992 A SERVPRO® Franchise Professional trained in mold remediation will examine the structure for any visible signs of mold. In the event mold is found, you will be asked to approve and sign a work authorization form prior to any mold cleanup or related work being performed. The technician may also recommend you leave the affected area while the mold cleanup and associated containment process is being safely completed. If extensive mold growth is present, additional assistance may be required. Some situations require the addition of an Indoor Air Quality/Environmental Professional with the specialized equipment and services needed to assess and/or repair property. You may wish to consult your adjuster if needed.

If you suspect the presence of mold, contact SERVPRO® of North Knoxville today! 865.947.9992

Source: SERVPRONet

Mold Tips

12/26/2017 (Permalink)

The dreaded "M" word. Nobody likes to see that they have growth and not knowing the amount of money it is going to take to fix the problem is stressful. Here are a few tips on how to prevent mold growth from starting in the first place:

• keep the humidity as low as you can- condensation creates a breeding ground
• be sure your home has enough ventilation
• fix any leaks in your homes roof, walls, and plumbing
• clean up and dry out your home within 48 hours after flooding
• add mold inhibitors to paint before painting
• clean with mold killing products
• Remove and replace carpets that cannot be dried promptly

Nothing is 100 percent preventable, but with a few preventative measures you can significantly lessen your chances for losses. If you suspect a growth, be sure to call SERVPRO of North Knoxville. We will be glad to assist you. 

Signs of Mold in House

12/26/2017 (Permalink)

It is awful to find out that what you thought was just a spot of dirt, is actually mold growth. Have you ever moved something, and underneath found what you suspected to be mold? Appliances leaking provides a breeding ground for growth. Here are a few signs that you have mold in your home:

• smelling a mold odor- sort of like an old book store smell or a basement smell 
• mold growth- can be confused for dirt spots
• previous water leaks- under and around the area where there were previous leaks can potentially cause mold growth
• past flooding
• excess condensation- bathrooms, kitchens, and any other room that there may be excess moisture are potential hazards

The best way to confirm growth is to call a professional. Mold growth is one of the many things that is best handled by a professional.The trusted team at SERVPRO of North Knoxville will be happy to help!

How to Prevent Growth

11/10/2017 (Permalink)

Growth on wall

Spores spread very easily and very quickly. They cannot be completely eradicated even after remediation. Growth can be present ANYWHERE: on carpet, clothing, food, paper, and even places you cannot see. Some commonly effected places are drywall, framing, and in ceiling tiles. Not only is the problem costly and difficult to fix, it can become hazardous to your health. You can develop allergies and even breathing problems from the growth.

Concerned about growth in your home? The best way to prevent growth is moisture control. Here are a few tips on how to control moisture in your home:

• Identify problem areas within your home and correct them
• Dry any wet areas IMEDIATELY
• Prevent moisture with proper ventilation
• Equip your home with mold resistant products
• Direct rainwater away from your home
• Clean roof gutters

Not every growth issue can be foreseen, but there are preventative measures you can take to lessen your chances of this affecting your life. If you suspect a leak or possible growth, give SERVPRO of North Knoxville acall. We will be more than happy to come out and investigate the issue for you!

Mold Prevention Tips!

3/22/2017 (Permalink)

The key to mold control is moisture control. Solve moisture problems before they become mold problems with these tips:

• 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, ideally 30-50%, if possible.
• Perform regular building?HVAC inspections and maintenance as schedules.
• 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

Questions to Consider About Mold Remediation

3/22/2017 (Permalink)

Here are some questions to consider:

• Are there existing moisture problems in the building?
• Have building materials been wet more that 48 hours?
• Are there hidden sources of water or is the humidity too high?
• Are building occupants reporting health problems?
• Are building materials or furnishings visibly damaged?
• Has maintenance been delayed or the maintenance plan been altered?
• Has the building been recently remodeled or has the building use changed?
• Is consultation with medical or health professionals indicated?

SERVPRO of North Knoxville's highest priority is to protect the health and safety of the building occupants. It is also important to communicate with building occupants when mold problems are identified. In some cases, especially those involving large areas of contamination, the remediation plan may include temporary relocation of some or all of the building occupants.

Mold 101

3/3/2017 (Permalink)

Mold can spread through a home in as little as 48 hours. Don't wait, call us today!

Health concerns may arise when excessive mold grows indoors. Concerns are more likely to arise for “at risk” people, which might include immune suppressed or compromised individuals, young children and individuals with chronic inflammatory lung diseases such as asthma and severe allergies. However, anyone may experience health problems associated with exposure to mold in damp buildings. Possible health effects include: runny nose, sneezing, coughing, aggravation of asthma, sore throat or inflammation of the sinuses. 

Fungi and mold naturally occur in our environment. In fact, over 100,000 kinds of fungi have been identified. Fungi produce some very useful results. Yeast is a type of fungi used in preparing breads, baked goods and other food products, including some alcoholic beverages. The unique flavor of blue cheese is a result of mold. An edible mushroom is simply a type of fungi, and lifesaving penicillin is a product of mold (Penicillin chrysogenum). Even though some forms of mold can add value to our lives, other forms can be harmful. Excessive amounts of mold, different types of mold, and/or exposure to molds may present health concerns for some people.

Intrusion of water into your home or place of business can result in mold growth. Water intrusions can result from storm damage, plumbing or equipment failures, long-standing leaks and poor humidity control. When water intrusions are not addressed right away, the resulting damage can present increased risk of harmful mold growth. Some amount of mold spores are normally present in most environments. If the humidity and moisture levels in a water-damaged environment are not promptly returned to normal, mold spores may grow and multiply. Organic materials found inside a building, such as wood, paper, drywall and insulation, provide food sources for mold to flourish. Excessive mold growth can lead to indoor environmental conditions that pose a health threat.

If you think you might have a mold problem, call 865.947.9992 A SERVPRO® Franchise Professional trained in mold remediation will examine the structure for any visible signs of mold. In the event mold is found, you will be asked to approve and sign a work authorization form prior to any mold cleanup or related work being performed. The technician may also recommend you leave the affected area while the mold cleanup and associated containment process is being safely completed. If extensive mold growth is present, additional assistance may be required. Some situations require the addition of an Indoor Air Quality/Environmental Professional with the specialized equipment and services needed to assess and/or repair property. You may wish to consult your adjuster if needed.

If you suspect the presence of mold, contact SERVPRO® of North Knoxville today! 865.947.9992

Source: SERVPRONet