How Water Damage Can Lead to Mold Growth

3/1/2024 (Permalink)

Window or Side paneling can cause a water damage that will create a mold

Water damage is more than just a nuisance – it's a catalyst for a host of problems, with mold growth being one of the most insidious. Whether it's from a leaky pipe, a flooded basement, or a roof leak, water intrusion into buildings creates the perfect environment for mold to flourish.

Water is the lifeblood of mold, providing the moisture necessary for its growth and proliferation.

When water infiltrates building materials such as drywall, wood, or carpeting, it creates conditions conducive to mold spore germination and colonization.

Even minor water leaks or high humidity levels can sustain mold growth over time if left unchecked.

If you have a mold at your residence please let us assist you . SERVPRO of Malibu 310-456-2135

The Silent Menace: Dishwasher

3/1/2024 (Permalink)

Dishwasher leak caused damages to cabinets in the kitchen resulting in mold issue

The Silent Menace: Dishwasher Leaks and the Damage They Cause

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, the dishwasher stands as a silent servant, streamlining household chores and freeing up precious time. However, lurking beneath its convenience lies a potential threat – leaks. When left undetected or unaddressed, dishwasher leaks can wreak cabinets, flooring and walls.

When dishwasher leaks go unnoticed, water can seep into the base of cabinets, causing wood to swell, warp, or rot. Over time, this can compromise the structural integrity of cabinets and necessitate costly repairs or replacements.

Prolonged exposure to water from dishwasher leaks can damage various types of flooring, including hardwood, laminate, tile, and vinyl. Water seepage can lead to warping, discoloration, and mold growth, requiring extensive remediation efforts to restore the affected areas.

Dishwasher leaks may seem innocuous at first glance, but their potential for causing widespread damage to cabinets and flooring should not be underestimated. By understanding the causes of dishwasher leaks, recognizing the signs of water damage, and implementing preventive measures, homeowners can protect their investment and preserve the integrity of their kitchen spaces.

Can leaking windows cause a mold growth?

3/1/2024 (Permalink)

Poor installation, deteriorating seals, or structural damage, even minor leaks can allow moisture to infiltrate the home

Leaking windows may not always be immediately apparent to homeowners, yet their consequences can be far-reaching. Whether due to poor installation, deteriorating seals, or structural damage, even minor leaks can allow moisture to infiltrate the home, creating an ideal breeding ground for mold. As water seeps in through cracks and gaps around the window frames, it accumulates within the walls, ceilings, and insulation, providing the perfect conditions for mold spores to flourish.

Once moisture levels reach a critical threshold, mold spores – which are ubiquitous in the environment – can germinate and begin to proliferate rapidly. From unsightly patches of black mold creeping along walls and ceilings to musty odors permeating the air, the signs of a mold infestation are not to be ignored. Beyond the cosmetic damage, mold poses serious health risks, particularly for individuals with allergies, asthma, or compromised immune systems.

SERVPRO of Malibu can assist you with a mold issue in your residence. Call us at 310-456-2135

Testing for Mold: Safeguarding Your Health and Property

1/4/2024 (Permalink)

Environmental testing allows you to detect mold issues before they become severe, potentially saving you time and money on remediation.

Mold is a common household nuisance that can potentially lead to a host of health issues and property damage. In order to understand and mitigate the risks associated with mold growth, environmental testing is a crucial step.

Mold is a type of fungus that thrives in damp, humid conditions. It can grow on various surfaces, including walls, ceilings, floors, and even in hidden areas like crawl spaces or within the walls themselves. Mold reproduces by releasing spores into the air, which can easily spread throughout a building. While some types of mold are harmless, others can produce mycotoxins that can lead to health problems, especially when inhaled or ingested.

SERVPRO Malibu 310-456-2135 can assist you providing you information about environmental testing.

If you suspect mold issues or want to ensure the safety of your environment, consider investing in professional environmental testing. It's a small investment that can lead to significant long-term benefits for your well-being and property value.  

Can water filtration system cause damages to your kitchen ?

1/3/2024 (Permalink)

Filtration systems improve the quality of their drinking water but can cause damages too.

The answer is -YES!!

Under-the-sink water filtration systems have become increasingly popular for households seeking to improve the quality of their drinking water. These systems promise clean, safe, and great-tasting water with the convenience of installation right under your kitchen sink. While they do provide numerous benefits, it's important to be aware of potential issues, including the risk of causing damage to your kitchen. The complex plumbing required for installation can create opportunities for leaks to occur. If not properly maintained, these leaks can lead to water damage in your kitchen, causing issues like mold growth, wood damage, and ruined cabinets. Always hire a professional plumber to install your water filtration system. They will ensure proper installation, reducing the risk of leaks or water pressure issues. If you notice a significant drop in water pressure after installation, contact a professional to address the issue promptly. If there is already visible water damage or Mold growth call SERVPRO Malibu at 310.456.2135 for assistance.

How important are containments during mold remediation?

1/3/2024 (Permalink)

he use of a containment barrier is crucial during mold remediation

The use of a containment barrier is crucial during mold remediation for several important reasons. Mold is not only unsightly but can also pose significant health risks and damage to property. Containment barriers create a physical barrier between the mold-affected area and the rest of the building. Mold spores are microscopic and can become airborne during remediation. Without proper containment, these spores can easily spread to unaffected areas of the building, making the problem worse and potentially creating new mold growth sites. Effective containment can help prevent the spread of mold and reduce the overall scope of remediation. This, in turn, can help minimize the cost and duration of the remediation process. When dealing with mold issues, it is highly advisable to engage certified professionals as SERVPRO Malibu, who understand the importance of containment barriers and can carry out safe and effective mold remediation.

How important are containments during mold remediation?

11/7/2023 (Permalink)

he use of a containment barrier is crucial during mold remediation

The use of a containment barrier is crucial during mold remediation for several important reasons. Mold is not only unsightly but can also pose significant health risks and damage to property. Containment barriers create a physical barrier between the mold-affected area and the rest of the building. Mold spores are microscopic and can become airborne during remediation. Without proper containment, these spores can easily spread to unaffected areas of the building, making the problem worse and potentially creating new mold growth sites. Effective containment can help prevent the spread of mold and reduce the overall scope of remediation. This, in turn, can help minimize the cost and duration of the remediation process. When dealing with mold issues, it is highly advisable to engage certified professionals as SERVPRO Malibu, who understand the importance of containment barriers and can carry out safe and effective mold remediation.

Mold

3/1/2023 (Permalink)

Mold found behind the full high cabinet. Source of damage is a roof leak

Did you know mold can start to grow in less than 48-72 hours? If water caused your basement to flood, mold can start to appear on surfaces that day!

The first step to preventing mold growth, is to identify the cause and fix the source of moisture. Mold thrives with moisture. Steam from a shower, damp basements, plumbing leaks, and flooding are examples of sources of moisture. Also, it's important to keep the humidity levels down in your home.

Mold Basics

Here's what you need to know about mold:

• Mold is a type of fungi
• Like all fungi, mold needs moisture to thrive
• Mold does not thrive in well-lit places
• Mold releases spores and can therefore multiply quickly

If your home has a moisture problem, chances are that it also has mold. Black mold, like most other fungi, thrives in moist, dark areas. Mold is involved in biodegradation, which means that it plays a key role in the breakdown of materials and objects. If allowed to spread, the mold in your home could begin to eat at your home’s structure and contents and result in costly damages.

Call SERVPRO of Malibu/Topanga Canyon/Pacific Palisades at 310-456-2135 to help remediate your mold issue today. Not only can our team help to identify the mold, they can help with options for removal and remediation of surfaces affected.

How Do We Find Hidden Mold?

3/1/2023 (Permalink)

hidden mold may be present behind the cabinets in the kitchen

If you have noticed a mold smell, but do not see any signs of visible mold, hidden mold may be present. A fungus smell or mildew smell can be one of the most reliable indicators of the presence of mold that cannot be seen on surfaces. If this odor is present but you cannot find any evidence of mold, the next step is to contact a professional mold testing and clean-up service and stop searching on your own. If you disturb a colony while looking for hidden mold, it can be easy to spread spores and worsen the problem.

Experts rely on several tools and methods to locate hidden mold including:

• Borescopes
• Moisture meters and hygrometers (humidity)
• Thermal cameras
• Confirming mold smell
• Making test cuts or pulling up small sections of carpet
• Checking for signs of leaks

These methods may vary in effectiveness depending on the length of time since water damage created conditions conducive to mold growth. If a commercial property has recently experienced flooding or a severe leak, it is a good idea to contact a mold testing, clean-up and remediation service as soon as you suspect that mold may be growing. Mold can quickly develop on drywall, masonry or ceiling tiles that have been exposed to moisture. Some of these methods are more reliable once the source of the leak has been addressed but while there is still evidence of water damage.

If you are experiencing a persistent mildew smell or mold smell in a commercial or residential property in Malibu/ Topanga Canyon/ Pacific Palisades, without any visible indications of mold growth, you should contact a reputable mold testing and clean-up service as soon as possible. These specialists can identify the source of a fungus smell and use the most effective tools and methods to confirm whether mold is present and start the clean-up process.

Asbestos testing and mold

3/1/2023 (Permalink)

Asbestos is Highly Toxic and Inhaling its Fibers can cause lung scarring and cancer over time.

Do you have Mold or Water and Fire Damage that requires Demolition to Affected Materials?  Is Your Home Built before 1979?  If so, Testing for Asbestos and Lead will be required.  

Asbestos and Lead is no longer used in Homes; however, many older structures still contain the Substances.  Asbestos is Highly Toxic and Inhaling its Fibers can cause lung scarring and cancer over time.  

California Law has strict Regulations for Removing Asbestos and Lead contaminated Materials.  Asbestos is found in Blown-In Insulation, Drywall Joint Compounds, Furnaces, Ductwork, Pipe Insulation, Vinyl Tile Flooring and Roofing Materials.   Lead is usually Found in the Paint.  

Only Licensed Professionals, Industrial Hygienists, with Specialized Equipment are allowed to Test, Detect and Report Asbestos and Lead Presence.  The Testing is Completed Prior to Any Demolition or Disturbance of the Substances.  Identifying Asbestos and Lead is your Responsibility.  

Prior any demo in the residence environmental testing shall be performed using a certified hygienist.

Should you need a help to find an environmental company give us a call 310-456-2135

Mold remediation

1/4/2023 (Permalink)

Neglecting of water leakage can lead to mold growth in some spaces in a home.

Dealing with microbial growth such as mold in your Malibu, Pacific Palisades and Topanga home is a job for professionals. Taking the appropriate steps to test for the quantity and type of mold, and then to prevent it from spreading while removing existing colonies requires proper training, professional quality products, and specialized equipment. We have the resources required to remediate mold outbreaks and provide a cleared and sanitized environment for renovations, repairs, or redecoration.

SERVPRO crews wear personal protective equipment in the work zones for safety and containment reasons.

Our mission is to leave your premises clean and sanitized, ready for repainting, repairing, and any restoration you may plan on your own or with another contractor. The techniques and products we use are effective, and you can rely on our meticulous and professional approach to remediation.

What should you do when you find mold at your house

1/3/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage resulted in mold growth.

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.

Mold can be found almost everywhere; they can grow on virtually any substance, providing moisture is present. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, clothing, foods, and even in places you can't see, such as the backside of drywall, areas inside walls around leaking or condensing pipes, and above ceiling tiles.
You cannot completely eliminate mold spores in your home, but you can help prevent mold growth by controlling moisture or controlling humidity, keeping areas free of excess moisture, etc.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Malibu/ Topanga Canyon/ Pacific Palisades 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 Malibu/ Topanga Canyon/Pacific Palisades 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 – 310-456-2135

Do you have mold at your house?

1/3/2023 (Permalink)

When you notice signs of mold growth in your home, call on our experienced professionals to take care of it.

Mold growth can be a big concern for homeowners. Although you may notice it right away, it occasionally requires a little more investigating. When checking for mold, there are plenty of common places it could be hidden, but sometimes mold may not be as easy to spot. 

Mold can grow almost anywhere if it has enough moisture and food. Moisture is key to fungal growth, so anywhere that is humid is a prime location for the spores to settle and grow. Mold also needs a food source – most organic materials work. 

A small leak under your sink can drip for days, causing moisture to build up and leading to mold growth that only continues to worsen each day. Or mold could be lingering in the dark corners of your basement without your knowledge. 

Mold has the ability to hide deep inside the surfaces of your home, only to appear after growth has gotten much worse. While each case of mold development is unique and dependent on the environment, there are some warning signs you can watch out for when checking your home for growth. 

Knowing the signs of growth makes it easier to detect mold that you might not be able to immediately identify, preventing this silent nuisance from growing any worse: 

A Musty Odor 

Excess Condensation 

Changes in Your Walls, Floors and Ceilings 

SERVPRO’s IICRC-certified technicians are on hand for mold remediation in your home. We use a combination of scrubbing, wiping, and HEPA vacuuming to remove visible fungus. We also have negative air machines and dehumidifiers on hand to remove contaminated air and lower humidity. 

For mold remediation in Malibu, Topanga Canyon, Pacific Palisades or surrounding areas, call us  at 310-456-2135 for assistance. 

Wallpaper and Mold

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

Mold can grow behind the wallpaper.

Mold behind wallpaper is a big health concern. To get rid of the mold you must remove the wallpaper. First and foremost remove the wallpaper safely by wetting it with a wetting agent and water. But first wear a good cartridge-type respirator.

When removing mold behind wallpaper safely wet it first. Even if the wallpaper removes dry still wet it

A simple dust or particulate mask won't offer adequate protection. Also wear gloves and goggles, remember safety first. In a garden type sprayer add the wetting agent and water for easy application.

Using the sprayer to wet the wallpaper down will reduce the mold spores from becoming airborne. Even if the wallpaper removes dry still wet it first. Move slowly and deliberately so you don't stir up spores as you work.

Once the wallpaper is removed from the walls the next step is to wash the walls down with a water and bleach solution. This should remove the mold from the walls if it is just surface mold. If the walls are soft and spongy the mold may have penetrated deeper into the wall.

One way to tell if the walls are totally saturated with mold you can take a utility knife and cut a small square out of the wall and look at the back side of the square. If there is mold behind the wall then you should replace the walls. If you plan on wallpapering again use a Nonwoven wallpaper so you will never get mold behind wallpaper again. Nonwoven wallpapers can breath unlike vinyl wallpapers.

What is a mold ?

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

Unsuspected mold was found behind the kitchen cabinets. Source? Ice maker.

What are molds?

Molds are fungi that can be found both indoors and outdoors. No one knows how many species of fungi exist but estimates range from tens of thousands to perhaps three hundred thousand or more. Molds grow best in warm, damp, and humid conditions, and spread and reproduce by making spores. Mold spores can survive harsh environmental conditions, such as dry conditions, that do not support normal mold growth.

What are some of the common indoor molds?

• Cladosporium
• Penicillium
• Alternaria
• Aspergillus

Where are molds found?

Molds are found in virtually every environment and can be detected, both indoors and outdoors, year round. Mold growth is encouraged by warm and humid conditions. Outdoors they can be found in shady, damp areas or places where leaves or other vegetation is decomposing. Indoors they can be found where humidity levels are high, such as basements or showers.

To prevent Mold in your home have all water damages professionally cleaned up. If you have a water damage or suspect Mold is growing in your home call SERVPRO Malibu/Topanga Canyon/ Pacific Palisades 310-456-2135

How do I test the mold?

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

Homeowner was concerned about the musty smell in the kitchen. Upon removal of the kitchen cabinets we new why.

Generally, it is not necessary to identify the species of mold growing in a residence, and CDC does not recommend routine sampling for molds. Current evidence indicates that allergies are the type of diseases most often associated with molds. Since the susceptibility of individuals can vary greatly either because of the amount or type of mold, sampling and culturing are not reliable in determining your health risk. If you are susceptible to mold and mold is seen or smelled, there is a potential health risk; therefore, no matter what type of mold is present, you should arrange for its removal. 

A qualified environmental lab took samples of the mold in my home and gave me the results. Can CDC interpret these results?

Standards for judging what is an acceptable, tolerable, or normal quantity of mold have not been established. If you do decide to pay for environmental sampling for molds, before the work starts, you should ask the consultants who will do the work to establish criteria for interpreting the test results. They should tell you in advance what they will do or what recommendations they will make based on the sampling results. The results of samples taken in your unique situation cannot be interpreted without physical inspection of the contaminated area or without considering the building’s characteristics and the factors that led to the present condition.

If you ever notice that any mold or musty smell at  your home please call SERVPRO Malibu/Topanga Canyon/ Pacific Palisades at 310-456-2135 

Mold

1/4/2022 (Permalink)

Mold growth on a drywall

Mold, mildew, fungus is a universal problem that affects our environment. There are many species of mold, however, some are more  concerning then others. Mold feeds on the host surface while releasing spores. These spores can attach on wet surfaces, carpets, clothing or any surface exposed to moisture. Mold, mildew and fungus can easily grow into colonies which pose a health concern to occupants in the house or the business.

Another sign of mold, mildew or fungus is black patches. These are often seen in bathrooms and basements. Mold in home and mold in business can also be seen on the window sills, shady areas and humid places. It is wise to take action before the mold escalates. Mold, mildew and fungus replicate easily and the situation can get out of hand. Timely mitigation is the best strategy to address the mold situation.

Mold in home or business should not be ignored. If you are dealing with black mold and other forms of mold damage, it is wise to bring in commercial mold damage companies.  It is therefore evident that mold removal and remediation needs to be done immediately. Mold mitigation services need to be sought once the mold is spotted. While a smelly odor can help detect the presence of mold, most of these spores are not visible.

The major benefit of seeking mold removal services early is that you save costly repairs in future. If the mold damage is extensive, expensive repairs are needed to deal with the damaged items. Extensive deodorization is also needed to deal with the smelly odor. To restore the indoor air quality, mold removal is paired with deodorization.

Visit www.SERVPROMalibu.com for more information all call 3104562135

Do you have Mold Issues?

3/3/2021 (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 

Risk of Mold Growth

3/1/2021 (Permalink)

What can Increase the Risk of Mold Growth?

Interestingly enough, the more people in your home, the higher your risks of mold growing there. The reason for this is because we release a lot of moisture into the air when we breathe.

Also, things such as long hot showers, cooking with uncovered pots, drying clothes on an indoor clothesline, and use of humidifiers, contribute to placing moisture into the air.

Storing wet firewood, watering many plants, and keeping many vegetables like potatoes and squash can create a mold problem too.

What Does Mold Need to Grow?

Not only does Mold need that moisture, but also food sources too. By food sources I mean materials they live on.

Food sources such as drywall, wood, insulation, cardboard and paper, as well as, invisible bio-film on hard surfaces, carpet backing, wallpaper adhesive, many fabrics, leather, and especially house dust are mold havens for spores.

Can We Live in a Mold Free World?

Mold is ever present; we cannot expect to live in a mold free world. However, mold is not a problem most of the time, until you can see or smell it, or if you are having health effects that are not normally present in your home.

This is when a call to action is needed. Delay in these matters will worsen the problem at hand.

Always remember, when Mold is an issue, Deal with it promptly, do not wait. If you have any questions regarding mold, contact SERVPRO MALIBU 310-456-2135.

Do you have Mold in your Pacific Palisades home.

3/1/2021 (Permalink)

Have you noticed any mold in your Pacific Palisades house. 

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.

 Call SERVPRO Malibu for your Mold inspection today,

310-456-2135

The friendly shower mold

1/7/2021 (Permalink)

These homeowners in Brentwood CA, took our advice and set us an updated photo. We always here to help!

Mold thrives in damp, dark locations, making your shower the perfect place for it to take up residence. There's no need to panic if you do happen to discover a patch of shower mold; This is an extremely common occurrence that the majority of homeowners do have to tackle at some point. Luckily, there's an easy solution to help expunge your home's mold problem.

Create a non-toxic mold cleaning solution using equal parts white vinegar and water. Pour this solution into a spray bottle.
Spray the moldy area with the cleaning solution, making sure to fully saturate the area. Let the cleaning solution sit for approximately 30 minutes.

Use a clean, dry rag or towel to wipe the cleaning solution off of the shower tiles. Most of the mold should come off with the cleaning solution. If your hand towel becomes oversaturated, grab a fresh one.

Use a scrub brush or kitchen sponge to attack any remaining patches of black mold. If the mold is in the shower grout or caulking, you can use a disposable toothbrush to get into the crevices.
Rinse the affected area with warm water and use a separate towel to completely dry the shower.

Keeping your bathroom as clean and dry as possible is the key to preventing another mold problem. You can do this by properly ventilating the room every time you shower, hanging up all wet towels and bathmats to dry when you're done using them and thoroughly drying any stray puddles that have been left on the bathroom floor.

Shower mold might be a common problem, but it's also extremely easy to solve. Make sure to contact SERVPRO MALIBU mold remediation experts for further assistance if the above method does not yield results for you.

SERVPRO MALIBU we’re here to help!

Safety during Mold Remediation

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

Mold Remediation in Pacific Palisades CA,

After discovering mold growth, you have taken the proper steps to manage the situation. You've stopped water flow to the area, you've blocked it off, and you called SERVPRO MALIBU to come and handle the cleanup. Mold can be scary for people who don't know much about it. Black mold in particular looks intimidating, and only an expert knows for sure whether or not mold is actually toxic. Your employees want to know what is being done to keep them safe during work. Here are a few things that the cleanup team will do to keep you and your workers safe during the process.

Barriers: Containment barriers make sure that the mold is contained only to the work area. Heavy plastic sheeting and other materials are hung around the work area and sealed top to bottom so that the mold particles don't migrate to other areas of the office building.

HEPA Filters: HEPA filters create negative air pressure which prevents mold from dispersing to other areas. This also helps to maintain the air quality during mold removal as the air is vented outside of the containment area.

PPE: The cleanup team will wear personal protective equipment including full body suits, boots, shoe covers, gloves, eye protection, face masks with ventilators, and hoods. In addition to keeping the workers safe, it helps to contain the mold to the appropriate area as that equipment will be removed in a safe area to prevent additional mold spread.

Consider offering your team the option of working from home, if possible, if they are very concerned about the mold cleanup process. It is better for everyone to feel safe so that they can focus on their work.

When done by professionals, mold removal prevents further mold growth and is a pretty safe process. Communicate with your team to let them know that the mold cleanup is being handled with their wellness in mind.

What is an Air Scrubber

3/6/2020 (Permalink)

Dehumidification and Air Scrubbing Needed for Successful Mold Remediation

What in the world is "Air Scrubbing"? We can hear you ask that question as you read the title of our blog. Simply put, air scrubbing is one of the most effective methods for getting rid of mold. An air scrubber is a portable filtration system that seizes airborne particles and improves air quality. An air scrubber pulls in air, and the air travels through a series of filters.

Air scrubbers are also ideal for getting rid of the mold that settles in your walls, carpet, and drapes.

Failure to properly clean the air can ultimately lead to worker health issues, lower job quality, and higher remediation costs, which is why having an air scrubber is extremely important

There are different sizes of air scrubbers that differ in intensity. When vacuuming and using air scrubbers for mold remediation, the filters used should be HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air). Only hepa filters are designed to capture particles as small as mold spores. Regular filters will not work. SERVPRO Malibu/Topanga Canyon/ Pacific Palisades provides the right size of both Air Scrubbers and Dehumidifiers to ensure your home or commercial facility will be free of mold, dried too. industry standards and improve the indoor air quality.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, indoor air pollution is one of the top five environmental risks to your health. But don’t stress! There are plenty of ways for you to remedy the poor air quality in your home or commercial facility. Call SERVPRO Malibu/Topanga Canyon/ Pacific Palisades 310-456-2135

Mold Remediation

3/1/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage can be a result of mold growth in your residence. This mold was behind a laundry room lower cabinet,

The restoration companies claim that they will remove all the mold from your home; however, removing all mold is impossible because microscopic mold spores exist naturally almost everywhere. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals understand mold and mold growth. We know how to properly deal with the problem. SERVPRO Malibu/Topanga Canyon/ Pacific Palisades is IICRC mold certified company.

The first step to addressing any mold problems is to first address any moisture problems. Higher than normal humidity in your home can be the cause of mold growth. Indoor humidity should be kept below 45 percent. In the incident of water entering your property, mold growth can occur as soon as 48 hours after. If the mold is taken care of without caring for the water problem first, the mold is likely to return. 

For more information or advice on how to address mold at your residence please give SERVPRO Malibu/Topanga Canyon/ Pacific Palisades call 3104562135.

Tips for Mold Remediation

3/1/2020 (Permalink)

Mold was found in the bathroom behind the baseboard, toilet and vanity was a result of water damage

Mold can grow within 48 hours and quickly can quickly become a problem in your home or business when there’s a water intrusion, like a roof leak or leaking water line. Mold can cause health effects and can also cause significant damage to your property. SERVPRO of  Malibu/ Topanga Canyon/ Pacific Palisades.

 Professionals have the training and follow IICRC guidelines, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem.

If you have a mold problem in your home or business, your primary focus should be safety:

• Significant mold growth can occur in 48-72 hours.
• Mold may present a greater risk to children, the elderly, and anyone with respiratory problems.
• A strong, musty odor may indicate hidden mold behind drywall or under carpeting.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact a SERVPRO Malibu/Topanga Canyon/Pacific Palisades 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.

Have a Mold Problem?

Call Today 310-456-2135

Mold damages- What do you need to know?

1/9/2020 (Permalink)

It is very common that mold starts to grow behind the baseboards when water damage occurs as the moisture is trapped between two materials

Mold shows up after there has been water damage. It could be as a result of a flood, a pipe break, or some other causes of water inside of a home or business. Exploring MOLD REMEDIATION will make it easier to overcome the problem.

Why is mold bad?
Mold is a type of fungus. It is more severe than mildew. Black mold is considered one of the worst types of fungus because of the way it spreads very quickly and is notorious for structural damage.

Mold damage needs to be addressed quickly because it can lead to dry rot and all sorts of other problems. Additionally, if there is mold growth behind a wall, there's often no way to know about it. The mold growth behind a wall could be black mold and could also be causing dry rot. Until it starts to decompose wood or cause a smelly odor, it's hard to know that it's there. It's why it's important to call a  mold certified  restoration company the moment that it's suspected that there is any kind of mold growth.
All sources of water intrusion into the structure have to be repaired. If all water intrusion issues are not addressed, further microbial contamination may occur and remediation  may not be successful


What can be done about mold?
Residential and commercial mold damage isn't the end of the world. The good news is that through mold mitigation and mold remediation, the problem can be taken care of. All mold can be eliminated from a building.

Will mold spread?
Mold will often spread during the mold removal process. It's important to remember that it's a fungus, and fungus grows as a result of spores. It's not uncommon for spores to spread, and this is done because the spores become airborne. If there is mold growth behind a wall and someone rips into the wall, the residential or commercial mold damage could become a lot worse.

DIY mold removal is never recommended because most people don't know about mitigation or remediation. It's important to contain the black mold or any other mold growth to one area. otherwise, the mold in a home or the commercial mold damage is going to be that much worse. The smelly odor will spread and it will require a lot more deodorization.

It is the mold growth that will lead to dry rot, a smelly odor, and the need for professional mold removal. It's also important to know if there is black mold in the home or business because the removal process is different.

How To Prevent Mold

1/7/2020 (Permalink)

Slow long term leak in the kitchen caused damage to the ceiling and walls in the garage located below the kitchen.

How To Prevent Mold

Many business owners are aware that water damage can cause mold growth. Sometimes, mold is visible. Other times, it lurks where it cannot be seen. Certain types of mold spores can travel easily through the air, making them difficult to eradicate. If you have experienced unwanted dampness and odor in Malibu,  there are several things you can do to deter mold from growing.

Where To Focus Your Efforts

Mold can grow anywhere where  is moisture or  water gathers. To reduce the chance of mold growing in your residence or office building, focus on the areas that are most likely to get wet:

• Basements
• Bathrooms
• Windowsills
• Laundry room
• Kitchens

Which Prevention Methods Help
There are several methods that can help with mold prevention in high-risk places. If possible, use mold-resistant building materials, which are less hospitable to mold. Maintain proper ventilation and appropriate humidity levels throughout your building to help create an environment less hospitable to mold.

How To Dry Wet Areas
If prevention measures fail and areas get wet, there are actions you can take to prevent mold growth. Wet items that can be removed, such as rugs, should be removed and dried as quickly as possible. Flooring, walls and other items that cannot be easily removed can be dried with increased air circulation. Circulation can be increased by opening windows and doors.More intense water saturation may need to be dried with professional equipment like commercial drying fans and dehumidifiers.

The best way to prevent mold is to keep your building dry. However, if areas become wet or moist, small jobs can be taken care of with do-it-yourself methods. When water damage is more severe, it may require the help of professional mold remediation specialists

Do You Need An Mold Inspection or Actual Testing

3/6/2019 (Permalink)

Hidden Mold

Once you see visible mold, as in you can see it on the walls, ceiling or floor, testing is a waste of money.

Why is it unnecessary if you already see mold? Because it will save most people a lot of money and time! Just because you see mold does not mean you need to test to find out what type it is. You may think we need to know what kind of mold it is especially if it is “toxic” but surprisingly, we do not.  Once you see visible mold, knowing what type it is, is usually irrelevant because at this point, you simply need to get rid of the mold following proper mold remediation as outlined in the IICRC guidelines.

When should a mold inspection and mold testing be considered?

• When visible mold is not present, but the smell of mold is. Here a mold inspection and mold test can reveal whether there is indeed elevated mold, and where it is located.
• There have been plumbing leaks or water issues and there is a suspicion that elevated mold may exist in the air and/or behind walls.
• Post Mold Removal Clearance Testing to ensure that the previous mold issues has been resolved and mold counts have returned to levels found in normal environments of the same type.
• Health Concerns: In some cases a doctor or the patient has a health issue that they cannot pinpoint the cause but seems to be related to mold symptoms (coughing, sneezing, headaches, etc). Here, a mold inspection and test may help to confirm whether the doctor’s or patient’s suspicions that a mold problem exists.
• For real estate transactions for the protection of Buyers and Sellers.
• Landlord/Tenant disputes as to whether there is a mold problem.
• Someone thinks they see or smell mold but are not sure.
• Someone is interested in a general Indoor Air Quality test of their environment.

Water Damage Not Treated Properly, Leads To Mold.

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

Mold Caused by Incomplete Water Restoration

It is so common that when water damage occurs and it is not treated properly, leads to mold. 

Our crew inspected a 4000 square foot home that had an upstairs toilet overflow that they started cleaning up themselves but ended up hiring a handyman to finish the work. Because of the handyman, although great at his job, but not certified in water damage clean up, ended up causing more damage. The dry out was not done properly and ended up costing the homeowners thousands of dollars more because mold had grown throughout the upstairs leading down to the downstairs. This is a perfect example of water damage that had become a mold situation in a large home.

Work Performed: We provided complete service, contents moved out of rooms, protective barriers in place, protective covers over unaffected areas, careful removal of walls and ceilings in most of the entire downstairs. We set up filtration equipment for 6 days during the remediation process. We work closely with several licensed contractors who are able to provide all repairs needed and wood floor repair service as well to complete the job and make it look "Like it never even happened."

Result: On this water loss SERVPRO provided complete restoration services from beginning to end. Our client was pleased. 

A Moldy Smell

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

Finding the Smell

For mold to grow in your house it needs a moisture source. It could be coming from the outdoors, indoors or both.

Outdoor sources include:

• Water leaking caused by clogged gutters and drains. It might not be visible to your eye, but leaks can wet walls and attic spaces so that mold grows unseen.
• Leaks from improperly flashed windows, doors, decks, and roofs. These areas can also allow water to seep into wall cavities.
• If the ground around the house isn't sloped enough to drain surface water away, leakage can make the adjacent rooms damp and increase humidity levels in the house.

Indoor moisture sources include:

• Plumbing leaks behind walls or under sinks.
• Condensation. Over winter, moist indoor air can cause condensation and ice to form on cold window panes and can do the same, unseen, inside cold wall cavities. Moist air makes its way from the indoors into the wall cavity through a variety of routes, including electrical outlets and light fixtures.

Look for evidence of moisture or possible moisture sources in the areas where you smell mold.

• Lift carpet and move furniture and drapes to look for signs of moisture or mold staining.
• Check the attic and or basement for signs of leaks or mold.
• Outdoors, look for warped, bulging siding, premature peeling of paint or stained and cracked stucco or brick. Pay particular attention to areas around windows, doors, and decks and under roof valleys

If you find evidence of water damage or leaks, determine the cause and rectify it so your remediation company can come and properly clean it.

What is Mold? What is Mildew?

1/9/2019 (Permalink)

Is it Mold?

What exactly is mold?

Mold is a fungus that grows from microscopic spores floating in the air. All kinds of mold are found everywhere in nature and are quite important to the ecosystem — they help with the decomposition of organic materials like dead trees and fallen leaves. This process allows the nutrients that those natural materials contain to be released back into the soil, becoming available for living organisms to use.

Mold is a type of fungus that grows in the form of black or green patches and easily penetrates the surface of whatever it is growing on. Mold can even appear as fuzzy or slimy in texture and is most likely the result of larger infestation.

What exactly is mildew?

Put simply, mildew is a kind of mold that tends to grow on flat, moist surfaces. Mildew typically grows flat and doesn’t penetrate the surface, making it easier to clean and get rid of. It is typically a patch of gray or white fungus.

Both mildew and mold are types of fungi, typically, mold is black or green, and mildew is gray or white.  They both thrive when there is moisture in the environment and can be difficult to get rid of. Both mold and mildew can be sneaky and spread quickly without homeowners ever knowing they exist. If you have any questions you can always call us for a free inspection.

Protecting The Elderly From Mold In Their Homes

8/13/2018 (Permalink)

Mold in an elderly ladies condo

Senior citizens often fall victim to major mold problems that almost completely take over before they realize there is an issue, which can be incredibly dangerous.
There are normally a lot of signs of a mold problem in a house that can tell you there is something wrong.
For example:
 -You notice mold collecting along the baseboards                                                       -You notice an odd odor                                     -You recognize signs of breathing problems
However, seniors may not know that any of the above signs are those of mold issues, which means most will disregard signs that you would be aware of right away. 

Most elderly homeowners don't often do the deep cleaning that the younger generations do.

If you think about your homes major cleaning tasks you perform on a regular basis, it's easy to see why it would be hard for mold to be present without you catching on. Most people do things like clean behind your appliances, wash the trim and molding around the walls, and clean the vents of your HVAC system on a semi-regular basis. Older homeowners tend to forget a lot of these tasks simply because they don't have the energy or mobility to do so, which goes back to my original point that mold growing in some areas may never get noticed.                          Because of this, it is important that you keep an eye out in the homes of your senior loved ones.

Mold and Smells in Front-Load Washers

5/14/2018 (Permalink)

Front Load Washing Machine

We get a few calls a month with questions regarding mold in front loading washing machines. It is very easy to treat and you can save yourself money from hiring a company.

Step 1: Clean the seal

The seal catches, pet hair, lint, coins, paperclips and all kinds of pocket stuffers. If you don't clean the seal, those trappings can mold or make its way down to the trap. Swipe your hand around the seal and remove any debris. Then, wipe it down with a damp cloth.

Step 2: Clean the trap/filter

When items don't get caught in the washer door seal they end up inside the washer trap or filter.  These items will deteriorate and form mildew until you remove them or the washer stops draining.                                      Here is how you can clean your own trap:

1. Unplug your washer.
2. On the front or back of the washer, there should be a little door.
3. Place a small bowl by the little door to catch drips.
4. Pry open the door using a flathead screwdriver or a coin.
5. There will be a black tube inside the door. Gently pull the top end of the hose out and pull off the plastic cap.
6. Drain the hose in the bowl.
7. Place a towel in front of the door.
8. Next to the black hose will be the trap cap or filter cap. Twist it to the left and pull it forward.
9. Clean out the trap and replace the trap and hose.
10. Close the little door and you're done.

Step 3: Run the self-clean cycle with bleach                                                                                                                                 Add one cup of bleach to the detergent cup before you start the cycle. This is our number one tip for getting rid of the nasty smells.

Step 4: Air It Out: 

If possible, leave the door of your washing machine cracked open to allow it to dry thoroughly between cycles. Please note:  you shouldn’t do this if you have children or pets who could be tempted to climb (and possibly become trapped) inside the machine.

Management Companies and Mold

3/7/2018 (Permalink)

Tha's not wallpaper!

What would you do if you came home to your vacation rental and saw this on the walls? Would you think someone came and put up wallpaper? Would you think someone broke in and colored on your walls? 

When our client walked into their house and saw  mold all over the walls, floors, and furniture , they were frozen with shock. 

A pipe had burst in their home sometime in the last 2 months and because they did not have a management company looking after it, there was no way to determine when it had happened. 

The damage was so extensive that most of their home needed to be gutted, dried and remediated. Most of the affected furniture was a total loss.  

They had learned the hard way why management companies were so important. 

Oh Moldy, Moldy, Moldy

3/5/2018 (Permalink)

And so it grows...

When people hear they have mold in their home or work space, it usually is followed by fear. Not all mold is harmful and believe it or not we live with mold every day. Some are even beneficial.
Here are some things you might not already know about mold:
Mold can be found almost everywhere; they can grow on virtually any substance, providing moisture is present. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, clothing, foods, and even in places you can't see, such as the backside of drywall, areas inside walls around leaking or condensing pipes, and above ceiling tiles.
You cannot completely eliminate mold spores in your home, but you can help prevent mold growth by controlling moisture or controlling humidity, keeping areas free of excess moisture, etc.
The mold that we typically see is not the kind you want hanging out at your home or business. If you suspect mold you can always call us 310-456-2135

What is that Smell?

2/21/2018 (Permalink)

Mold Smells

Why does it smell like mothballs in here? Mold can go unnoticed for a long time, much longer than it should and you cannot get rid of it easily on your own. All mold needs to grow is food, water and a dark, stagnant environment with steady temperatures. SERVPRO of Malibu / Topanga Canyon / Pacific Palisades uses high-tech equipment and modern methods to conduct our remediation services to ensure you and your families health. When it comes to mold, you want to make sure that it is cleaned up properly and has no lingering microbial growth. If you have questions you can always call us and we will gladly answer any questions or concerns you may have. If you think mold is growing in your home trust your nose and your gut and give us a call.

Mold after Water Damage

1/16/2018 (Permalink)

Affected hallway on the 7th floor

SERVPRO of Malibu/Topanga Canyon/Pacific Palisades was contacted regarding a previous water loss. Mold was discovered and was not addressed during the initial dry down by the former restoration company. Upon inspection, discovered walls cut open and mildew present in some of the areas. The damage was on the 7th, 8th, 9th, and 10th floors walls, ceilings, and floors. Once approval was granted, we provided a crew of 8 technicians and set up protective barriers around entire hallway floors, with filtration devices. All affected ceilings and walls were removed to remediate cavities where the damage occurred as well as some carpet that was not removed previously. We provided HEPA vacuuming and cleaning of all surfaces with Sporocide antimicrobial treatment or Benefect botanical product. We used HEPA filtration devices, 2 per floor during the remediation process. Protective entrances are provided for the convenience of the tenants to enter into and out of the hallways.

In 4 days our Crew provided mold remediation services, one floor at a time, completed the unfinished portion of water damage to the building, passed the post-remediation clearance testing, all by the end of that week. The management was pleased with our prompt and efficient process for such a large project.

Mold Remediation Company

8/16/2017 (Permalink)

Mold in a home

Having mold in your workplace is a serious problem. If you leave it and don’t take the proper steps to properly remediate it, it will damage the property and can cause health issues. For these reasons, mold remediation should be treated as an emergency. As soon as you discover or anticipate that you have a mold problem you should contact a company for mold remediation in your local area or a company that you know and trust. There will be many benefits to having the mold remediation done as soon as possible.
SERVPRO of Malibu/Pacific Palisades/Topanga and Brentwood have highly trained mold remediation technicians, who go through rigorous training and certification courses, will help you remove these toxins from your home or business. Free consultations are a bonus. Please call us today at (310) 456-2135.

Mold Growth From Water Damage

5/18/2017 (Permalink)

Active Mold

Mold growth requires water so no water, no mold!

Mold is the result of a water problem so, fix the water problem, clean up the mold and you have fixed the mold issue.

In order to avoid mold problems, you need to avoid water problems. That is easier said than done especially if you have no idea you have a water problem. 

Mold also requires food to grow. The food it likes best is cellulose – (A carbohydrate that is a polymer composed of glucose units and that is the main component of the cell walls of most plants. It is insoluble in water and is used to make paper, cellophane, textiles, and other products the more processed the better.)

Mold really likes wet paper. It kind of likes wet wood, but not as much as it likes wet paper. It likes processed wood better than it likes real wood.  

Because it usually takes time for mold to grow, you need to be prompt in drying the structure after a water damage event. Acting fast will help prevent a mold problem from developing. Of course, make certain that the underlying problem that caused the water problem is also corrected.

If you suspect mold in your home or business, give us a call. 

Mold Air Sample Testing in Malibu CA

3/8/2017 (Permalink)

Mold Testing

Mold testing is a topic of questions when people going through the remediation process. One form of mold testing involves taking samples of either the air. A mold inspector "tests" the air to find out what kind of mold exists and/or if the mold found is able to grow in the area tested. Air samples can be taken and analyzed in a few different ways. The most common method uses a spore trap which is called a spore trap sample. Spore traps work by having a known volume of air pass impact a sticky surface as it passes through the spore trap sampling device. Most of the particles in the air also impact this sticky surface and consequently adhere to, and are captured on, this sticky surface. Mold spores comprise a subset of these 'particles in the air' and also are captured on the sticky medium inside the spore trap. When the spore trap is sent to the mold testing laboratory for analysis, the mold laboratory opens the spore trap, applies some stains to the sticky surface that the mold spores can absorb, and then identifies and quantifies the types of mold spores captured during the sampling process. 

Mold Testing: Surface Samples

3/8/2017 (Permalink)

Surface Mold

Mold testing is a topic that many people have questions about while going through the remediation process. There are different types of testing and this blog is about surface testing. Surface samples can be taken in a variety of ways. The three most common methods are:
1. Bulk samples. A piece of the sampled area is physically removed and sent to the mold testing laboratory,
2. Swab samples. Something akin to a cotton swab is rubbed across the area being sampled, often a measured area, and subsequently sent to the mold testing laboratory, and
3. Tape samples. A piece of clear tape is pressed against and removed from the area being sampled, presumably picking up and removing part of any mold that was present on the surface, and then set to the mold testing laboratory for analysis.

Mold Comes in Different Colors Los Angeles CA

1/17/2017 (Permalink)

Mold in a Basement

There are many different kinds of mold out there and a rainbow of colors.

Here is a color guide to molds commonly found in the house.

Green - If you see green mold, it could be just about any type of unwelcome fungus. There are more than a hundred thousand types of mold — and thousands of species of green mold,  So what does the color green tell you? Not much. 

Olive green, brown, gray or black - These are common molds in the Cladosporium genus. Outdoors, they lurk on plant leaves. Indoors, they're often found on walls and insulation and can grow on damp carpet, too. 

Blue, green, or white - These molds, also common, belong to the Penicillium genus. You’re right if you think that a type of this mold was used to make penicillin many years ago. It’s usually found on food and walls. 

More Colors of Mold Found in Your Home... Part 2

1/17/2017 (Permalink)

Colors of Mold

Yellow, green or black - These may be Aspergillus molds. According to the CDC, people breathe in these molds every day, usually without getting sick.

Black or grey - These could be Alternaria, which is most common as an outdoor mold, growing around damp, dusty areas, soil and plants. But it has made its way indoors. In one study, Alternaria was found in more than 90 percent of house dust samples.

Pink - The pink “mold” often seen in the bathroom in the form of a slimy, pinkish discoloration on sinks and tubs is actually bacteria, not mold. Specifically, it's Serratia marcescens. It thrives on soap and shampoo residues.

Greenish-black - This mold, of the Stachbotrys genus, is the infamous “black mold” that some news reports have linked to severe health problems.  It's less common than the molds described above — and possibly less dangerous than news reports would have you believe. It prefers to live on high-cellulose, low-nitrogen surfaces, which include drywall, gypsum board, paper, dust and lint that is regularly exposed to moisture. The CDC notes, "Growth occurs when there is moisture from water damage, excessive humidity, water leaks, condensation, water infiltration, or flooding. Constant moisture is required for its growth."

Pacific Palisades Residents: Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

8/17/2016 (Permalink)

Be careful! Without proper training, you could be spreading mold throughout your home.

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  Malibu 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 Malibu 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 310-456-2135

Mold Restoration Brentwood LA

5/11/2016 (Permalink)

Mold Restoration Brentwood LA

Mold Restoration Brentwood LA

Are you having mold issues in your commercial or residential building? If your answer is yes, then you need quick results from a top notch company like SERVPRO. Our trained professionals get to the scene, cleaning and restoring your property within a short amount of time so that there is minimal risk of further damage. This way, you can resume your life and get back to what is most important.

We employ only the most high-tech, modern methods and use top of the line equipment to conduct our mold restoration services. The techniques that we use depend greatly on the level of damage that is already done, and the likelihood of containing and cleaning the mold. Our specialists are thorough when it comes to doing an assessment on the problems areas before cleanup. You don't have to worry that they will do the job halfway. Additionally, we will contact your insurance company and file a claim so that you do not have to be concerned with it when you are stressed.

SERVPRO has been around for many years, serving the Brentwood area and beyond. We are a locally owned and operated company, and our staff truly cares about you and your needs. When disaster strikes, contact us online or by phone immediately, and we will send someone to the scene within no more than a day. This is crucial to prevent irreparable damage from occurring, and also to make it possible for you to resume your life and business.

Mold Remediation Brentwood CA 90049

4/12/2016 (Permalink)

Mold Remediation CA 90049

Mold Remediation CA 90049

Do you have mold in your house or commercial property? If so, then you will want to have a professional come in and conduct a cleanup and prevent it from becoming any worse. SERVPRO is a company that covers the greater Brentwood 90049 area for emergencies such as mildew and mold control, bed bugs and mite control, storm/flood damage repairs and cleanup, fire and smoke damage and several other areas. When disaster strikes, you will want to reach out to SERVPRO for fast assistance with such matters.

SERVPRO is a locally owned and operated company that has been run by a family over the last three decades. They have many loyal customers which have given testimonials, which you can view on the website. You always know that this company has your best interests in mind, so you will not have to go elsewhere. The best part is that they are open all of the time, so you can call and have quick emergency restoration and repair of your prized possessions and property.

Mold is a tricky issue, because you cannot get rid of it quickly. The professional must go in and assess the entire space to see the signs of any moisture that can become a problem later on. Then, they can dehumidify and clear out the mold and mildew that already is growing. You don't want to leave something like this up to chance, as it can make you and your family or employees sick. SERVPRO technicians will handle every step to clean up the mold, so that you can get back to business and life in general.

Mold Remediation and Restoration Contractor

3/7/2016 (Permalink)

mold remediation and restoration

If you have a mold problem you want to make sure you get it cleaned up right. Choosing a mold remediation and restoration contractor is important. You want the job done right so you don’t have to worry about potential health effects of your loved ones. However, you can’t just flip open the phonebook and hire the first contractor you see. You need to find a reputable contractor that gets the job done right. 

Ask around to people you know. Ask neighbors, co-workers, friends and family members. Find out who they used to clean up the mold problem in their home. Were they happy with their contractor? Would they use them again? Do they recommend them? A referral from someone you know goes a long way when you are trying to find a mold remediation and restoration contractor. 

Interview several contractors. Get estimates on how much it will cost to do your job. Ask if they have insurance. Ask to see proof of their work. They should have a portfolio of before and after pictures from previous jobs. These pictures will show you what they can do. They may even be able to show you video from a previous job. 

Research the companies you are considering. You don’t want to hire a company that has a bad reputation. Do a search of the company name online.  Are you finding any negative reviews from other people? You should also check their rating with groups like the Better Business Bureau. If they are reputable they will have a good rating.

Mold Damage Remediation in Brentwood

1/5/2016 (Permalink)

Mold Damage Remediation in Brentwood

If you are in need of mold remediation in Brentwood you need to learn more about mold to understand why professional cleanup is important. Mold can cause health effects and you don’t want to try and get rid of it on your own. Mold can grow throughout a property in as little as 48 to 72 hours, so it is important to get help fast before the situation gets worse.

Microscopic mold spores are nearly everywhere, indoors and outdoors. It is impossible to remove all of them. Mold spores can grow quickly into colonies when they are exposed to water.

 Before you can get rid of mold you have to get rid of the source of water that is feeding the colony. This may mean repairing a leak. You may need to figure out a way to reduce humidity in an area to prevent more mold growth. Indoor humidity should be kept lower than 45 percent.

To contain mold to one area for cleanup and removal the service professional will turn off any fans or HVAC systems so the spores do not spread. The professionals will use powerful air scrubbers with HEPA filters to prevent the spread of mold during the cleanup process.

It may be necessary to remove certain materials if they are contaminated with mold. This may mean you have to get rid of your carpet. It may also mean that you need a section of drywall replaced. It depends on how bad the mold colony is.

Mold Remediation in Pacific Palisades

7/31/2015 (Permalink)

Having mold in your home or workplace is a serious problem. If you leave it and don’t get rid of it can damage the property and cause health issues. For this reason mold remediation should be treated as an emergency. As soon as you discover that you have a mold problem you should contact a company for mold remediation in Pacific Palisades. There are many benefits to getting mold remediation done.

SERVPRO of Malibu, Pacific Palisades, Topanga and Brentwood with highly trained mold remediation technicians can help you for remove Mold from your home or your business. Please call us today at (310) 456-2135.

The Importance of Mold Remediatio

5/31/2015 (Permalink)

The Importance of Mold Remediatio

When your home or office has an outbreak of mold, many problems can arise, most importantly health concerns to your clients, employees, and yourself. Generally, there are five levels of mold growth, all of which require a range of preventative measures to eliminate the problem. In today’s article, we will discuss the health risks associated with mold growth and why hiring a professional remediation company is vital to ensure the safety of your loved ones or office members.

Health Risks Associated with Mold Growth

Exposure to mold can be quite harmful for your health. Sadly, many people get to know about the adverse effects of mold growth after already suffering the numerous health issues triggered it. These may include pneumonia, rashes, skin infections, sinus infection, excessive coughing, wheezing, dizziness, chronic fatigue syndrome, fever, migraines, memory impairment, and asthma.

The Importance of Hiring Mold Remediation Malibu

By acquiring the professional services of mold remediation companies, you can gain relief from all these health issues. This is mainly because mold remediation experts can easily eliminate mold growth from your home by cleaning your home or office of all mold traces.

They know exactly what procedures to use and have the right tools and equipment needed to make the tedious process of mold removal as effective and smooth as possible. Additionally, they also ensure house members and office staff is protected from the contamination that comes with removal.

Therefore, it is advised for every property owner to thoroughly inspect their living spaces for signs of mold growth and seek the services of remediation specialists immediately.

Los Angeles Air Conditioning Units May Require Mold Removal

3/20/2015 (Permalink)

With less than half the average annual rainfall of the United States as a whole and an expectation of nearly three hundred sunny days, you might expect there to be little need for Los Angeles, CA. However, in 2006, American Risk Management Resources looked at insurance claims relating to mold damage in all 50 states and ranked California in the top ten.  It seems that climate is not in itself a major determinant factor in mold growth, rather, tightly sealed buildings that do not provide sufficient ventilation trap condensation and deliver optimum conditions for mold.              

The major reason for sealing a building is to allow control of the indoor air quality through the use of air conditioning. Air conditioning units themselves can provide an environment for molds to thrive if they are not regularly serviced and kept clean.

To grow, a mold has three requirements; moisture, warmth and a source of food.

Air conditioning systems create temperature differences, which permit condensation to occur. That is why they have moisture pans, to collect the condensation. When your A/C is not running, temperatures rise, creating warmth. Dust and dander caught within the system provides the food that molds can eat. If a mold takes hold within your A/C, its spores and mycotoxins, which can be harmful to health, are spread further around you home when the A/C is running.

Regular maintenance of your A/C can help to eliminate one or more of the three conditions and so inhibit mold growth. A more efficient filtration system will reduce the amount of dust particles that become trapped and feed molds. Before new filters are fitted, have the ductwork cleaned to get rid of dust already there and then remember to clean the filters on a regular basis.  Changing or cleaning the filters of your A/C also helps to keep it running at maximum efficiency which saves a little on your electricity bill. In addition, insulating the external air ducts can reduce the condensation that is produced and so minimize the moisture available to any molds.

If you suspect that you have mold growth in any part of your air conditioning system, perhaps because you have detected a moldy odor but have been unable to locate its source, you should call for professional help. Safe and effective mold removal is a specialized business. It is important that adequate safety measures are in place to contain the mold before it is disturbed and to prevent further contamination. Professional technicians will have access to the proper protective clothing, and use the fungicides necessary to remove the mold along with air scrubbers to clean the spores from the air as far as possible.  They will also be in a position to advise you on how to prevent the mold returning and try to keep your Topanga Canyon home out of the statistics for mold damage claims. 

Why You Might Need Mold Removal in West Hollywood

3/20/2015 (Permalink)

West Hollywood, CA, enjoys a warm climate with only about half the national average rainfall, rain expected on less than one day a month, and with plenty of sunshine. Although sunlight kills off many molds, West Hollywood often has high humidity levels and is not immune to the floods, water leaks and poor ventilation, which create the conditions in which mold, can thrive in any home. If you detect a moldy odor or see a patch of mold, then you need to take steps to deal with it, which may involve calling in a professional mold removal service.

What is mold?

A mold is a living organism, which is a type of fungus. Molds derive energy from digesting the material they live on and in nature they work to break down all sorts of dead organic matter such as leaves, trees and dead animals. They can also feed on any suitable matter in your home such as wood, carpet, paper, leather, cotton, drywall, and food items, if the conditions are right.

Molds generally like warmth and they need moisture. This is why they frequently appear after a flood and they are commonly seen in bathrooms with insufficient ventilation. Molds reproduce by releasing tiny spores, which are too small to be seen with the naked eye. If the spores land somewhere suitable, that is warm and wet for at least 24 hours, they can start to grow and a colony will soon appear.

Toxic molds

There are thousands of different species of molds, which are relatively harmless, but there are over a dozen types that are referred to as toxic molds. They release mycotoxins, which are injurious to human and animal health. Many types of mold can adversely affect people who suffer from respiratory problems, but toxic molds can affect anybody, although young children and the elderly are the most vulnerable.

Dealing with mold

If you find a small patch of mold in your home and none of your family appears to be suffering from any unusual symptoms, you can use several substances to remove the mold yourself. Bleach kills nearly all forms of mold you are likely to find indoors but it cannot penetrate into porous materials and so is most effective against molds growing on non-porous surfaces such as tiles or countertops. Borax, vinegar and baking soda are all useful in dealing with mold. Using vinegar and baking soda together provides an effective combination as they each kill different types of mold. A regular spray of a diluted vinegar solution will also prevent mold regrowth.

If you discover extensive mold growth or are concerned that you may have been affected by a toxic mold, you need to obtain specialist help. It is important that any toxic mold removal is undertaken with a view to the safety of the operatives as well as the usual occupants of the building concerned, and that steps are taken to fully eradicate the mold and inhibit future growth. Once your mold has gone, you can relax and get back to enjoying the delightful climate of West Hollywood. 

Mold Removal Pacific Palisades

3/19/2015 (Permalink)

Crawlspaces are commonly constructed to provide relatively easy access to pipework, vents, ducts, electrical systems and substructures. They can also be used for storage of infrequently used items. Unfortunately crawlspaces can also provide the ideal conditions for the growth of mold if they become moist. One a mold has developed, cool air drawn up into your Pacific Palisades home from the crawlspace carries with it the mold spores which have the potential to spread the mold growth to your living area and cause serious health problems. The job of mold removal from a crawlspace presents its own particular challenges, but there are  effective procedures to deal with molds and inhibit their future growth.

If you discover extensive colonies of mold in your crawlspace, contact a professional cleanup and remediation service to identify the type or types of fungal growth that you have and to develop a plan to deal with it. As mold spores can pose a health risk you should not attempt to enter the crawlspace but leave that to the specialists who have the necessary equipment and protective clothing to undertake the work safely.

When tackling mold anywhere, it is important to prevent any further contamination through the spread of spores. The affected area should be contained as far as possible. Heavy duty plastic sheeting makes an effective barrier if everyone entering and leaving the area takes care to minimize air flow. In a crawlspace all vents and ducts will need to be taped up.

Mold spores abound in the air around us so it is impossible to get rid of them all, but air that contains a high level of spores can cause respiratory problems and so needs to be cleaned in buildings with heavy mold growth. The contaminated air can be pulled out of the crawlspace by an air mover positioned externally, releasing the spores to a safer environment. Decontamination of the living area is best achieved using an air scrubber with  a HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filter. Specialist blasting may be required to dislodge extensive mold colonies and then careful vacuuming with a HEPA machine removes the loose dust.

The source of the moisture that enabled the mold outbreak also needs to be located and addressed otherwise you will soon have a regrowth. Any leaks from the plumbing must be fixed. If the crawlspace has a dirt floor that has supported mold, a ground cover of heavy duty polyethylene plastic acts as a barrier to moisture and is not itself susceptible to molds. Increasing ventilation is usually recommended when looking to prevent molds but when dealing with a crawlspace, it depends on the particular location, dimensions, climate and other factors as to whether additional vents will be effective. There have been cases where increasing ventilation points has only served to increase moisture levels.

A vapor barrier which greatly reduces the moisture that can penetrate beyond it, is another possible solution. But such barriers have been known to prevent walls from drying out and concentrating moisture where it is not wanted and so not working to inhibit molds.  This is where professional advice from mold remediation specialists can help to determine the right solution for keeping your Pacific Palisades crawlspace  mold free.

Mold Remediation Fun in Pacific Palisades, CA

5/8/2014 (Permalink)

Pacific Palisades, Mold Remediation, Mold Removal

It is so common that when water damage occurs and it is not treated properly, leads to mold. 

Our Company inspected a 4000 square foot home that had an upstairs toilet overflow that they started cleaning up themselves but ended up hiring a handyman to finish the work. Because the handyman, although great at his job but not certified in water damage clean up ended up causing more damage to occur. The dry out was not done properly and ended up costing the homeowners thousands of dollars more because mold had grown throughout the entire home. Upstairs to downstairs. This is a perfect example of water damage that had become a mold situation in a large home.

Work Performed: We provided complete service, contents moved out of rooms, protective barriers in place, protective covers over wood floors, and careful removal of walls and ceilings in the entire downstairs. We set up filtration equipment for 6 days during the remediation process. We work closely with several licensed contractors who are able to provide all repairs needed and wood floor repair service as well to complete the job and make it look "Like it never even happened"!

Result: On this water loss SERVPRO provided complete restoration services from beginning to end. Our client was pleased. 

Mold Removal in West Hollywood, CA

5/8/2014 (Permalink)

Mold Removal in West Hollywood, CA

Cause: SERVPRO of  Malibu was contacted regarding a previous water loss. Mold was discovered and was not addressed during initial dry down procedures by the former restoration company. SERVPRO of Malibu, upon inspection, discovered walls cut open and mildew present in the area. The damage was on the 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8 floors walls and ceilings.

Work Performed: Our company arrived on site, after getting approval to begin services Monday morning. We provided a 5 man crew and set up protective barriers around entire hallway floors, with filtration devices. All ceilings and walls were removed to remediate cavities where the damage occured. We provided hepa vacuuming, and cleaning of all surfaces with Sporocide anti microbile treatment or Benefect botanical product. We used hepa filtration devices, 2 per floor during remediation process. Protective entrances are provided for the convenience on tenants to enter into and out of hallways.

Result: Our company came to an incomplete water damage project which created mold contamination.
In 4 days our Crew provided mold remediation services, one floor at a time, completed the un-finished portion of water damage to the Hi-rise, and passed the post remediation clearance testing, all by the end of that week. The management was pleased with our prompt and efficient process for such a large project.