How to Detect and Repair Hidden Roof Damage

9/13/2023 (Permalink)

A strong and durable roof is crucial for protecting your home against Kansas' varying weather conditions.

Life in the Kansas City area comes with a responsibility to maintain your property's integrity, especially when it comes to your roof. A strong and durable roof is crucial for protecting your home against the region's varying weather conditions. However, not all roofing issues are immediately visible to the naked eye. Undetected roof damage can lead to costly repairs and compromise the structural integrity of your home over time. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the subtle signs of hidden roof damage and provide expert insights on how to identify and address these issues effectively. By gaining a deeper understanding of the unseen threats to your roof, you'll be better equipped to ensure the long-lasting health and safety of your cherished home.

Inspecting From the Inside Out

To begin your assessment, it's important to inspect your home's interior for any potential signs of hidden roof damage. Ceiling stains, which appear as discolored patches, often indicate a roof leak that may not be immediately obvious from the outside. Investigating the source of these stains promptly can prevent further water infiltration and potential structural damage. Additionally, a trip to your attic can provide valuable insights. Check for any signs of dampness, mold growth, or musty odors, which could signal improper ventilation or underlying roof issues. During daylight hours, take the opportunity to assess your attic for any visible rays of sunlight penetrating through gaps or holes in the roof, which could indicate areas of concern.

The Telltale Signs on Shingles

A thorough examination of your roof's shingles can reveal subtle yet significant signs of damage that may not be immediately noticeable from the ground. Curling shingles, those that appear to be lifting or curling at the edges, can be indicative of damage caused by weather elements or poor ventilation. These compromised shingles are particularly susceptible to leaks and should be addressed promptly. Keep an eye out for missing granules on the shingle surface, which can result from wear and tear. Granule loss exposes your roof to potential damage from UV rays, rain, and wind. Additionally, observe the overall condition of your shingles, looking for any buckling or warping. Shingles that appear warped or buckled may be concealing underlying moisture issues or problems stemming from improper installation.

Flashing and Sealant Assessment

The condition of flashing and sealants around roof penetrations, such as chimneys, vents, and skylights, is crucial for preventing water infiltration and maintaining your roof's integrity. Carefully inspect the flashing for signs of wear, damage, or deterioration. Loose or missing flashing can provide an entry point for water into vulnerable areas of your roof. It's essential to promptly repair or replace any compromised flashing to prevent potential leaks. Additionally, assess the condition of sealants and caulking. Cracks or gaps in the sealant can compromise its effectiveness in keeping water out. By re-sealing or re-caulking as needed, you can help ensure that your roof remains properly sealed against the elements.

Gutters and Downspouts

Maintaining properly functioning gutters and downspouts is vital for effectively directing water away from your home and preventing potential roof damage. Regular maintenance is key to avoiding issues such as clogs and debris buildup. Clean your gutters and downspouts regularly to prevent water backup, which can lead to roof leaks and even foundation problems. Pay attention to the alignment of your gutters as well. Ensure that they are properly positioned to prevent water from overflowing and potentially seeping into your home's structure. Effective gutter and downspout management play a significant role in safeguarding your roof and the overall well-being of your property.

Seek Professional Roof Inspections

While vigilant self-inspections are valuable, there is no substitute for the expertise of a professional roofing inspector. Engaging the services of a knowledgeable roofing professional is an essential step in detecting hidden damage and potential vulnerabilities that may be missed during a visual inspection. Roofing experts possess the skills and experience to thoroughly assess the overall condition of your roof. They can identify signs of hidden damage, offer precise evaluations of potential issues, and provide recommendations for appropriate repairs or maintenance. Enlisting the assistance of a professional ensures that you receive accurate insights into your roof's health, allowing you to take proactive steps to address any concerns before they escalate.

In Kansas City, your roof stands as a steadfast guardian of your home. Detecting and addressing hidden roof damage is an essential responsibility for any homeowner. By inspecting your home's interior, scrutinizing shingles for telltale signs, assessing flashing and sealants, maintaining gutters and downspouts, and seeking professional roof inspections, you empower yourself to preserve the integrity of your property. The unseen threats to your roof may be subtle, but your proactive approach can make a significant difference in ensuring the durability and protection of your cherished home. With these insights at your disposal, you're equipped to navigate the unseen challenges that your roof may face with confidence and diligence.

From Soot Webs to Sparkling Clean: Professional Soot Damage Cleanup

8/15/2023 (Permalink)

Before delving into the cleanup process, it's essential to understand what soot is and why it requires professional attention.

A fire incident in your home can leave behind more than just visible damage. Soot, a fine black residue, can settle on surfaces and create unsightly webs, posing health risks and further damage to your property. As a homeowner, tackling soot damage can be a daunting task, but fear not! In this blog, we'll explore the importance of professional soot damage cleanup and how it can transform your home from a soot-covered space to a sparkling clean haven.

1. Understanding Soot and Its Hazards

Before delving into the cleanup process, it's essential to understand what soot is and why it requires professional attention. Soot is the result of incomplete combustion during a fire, and it consists of tiny carbon particles that can easily become airborne. Inhaling soot particles can be harmful. Thus, seeking professional soot cleanup services is vital to ensure a safe and thorough removal process.

2. Assessing the Extent of Soot Damage

Upon arrival, professional soot damage cleanup experts will conduct a comprehensive assessment of your property to determine the extent of the damage. They will identify affected areas, including hidden spaces that may have been overlooked. This meticulous evaluation ensures that no soot residue is left behind, preventing any potential risks to your health and property.

3. Utilizing Specialized Cleaning Techniques

Professional soot damage cleanup teams employ specialized cleaning techniques to remove soot from various surfaces effectively. Whether it's walls, ceilings, furniture, or delicate items, they have the expertise and tools to clean each surface appropriately. Using the right cleaning agents, they can break down and remove soot without causing additional damage to your belongings.

4. Ensuring Indoor Air Quality

One of the significant concerns with soot is its impact on indoor air quality. Soot particles can become airborne and circulate throughout your home, affecting your family's health and comfort. Professional cleanup includes advanced ventilation and air purification methods to eliminate soot particles from the air, ensuring your home's air quality is restored to a safe level.

5. Preventing Long-Term Damage

Soot damage can have long-term consequences if not addressed promptly and professionally. Left untreated, soot can corrode surfaces, discolor fabrics, and even cause odors to linger. By engaging professional cleanup services, you can prevent long-term damage to your property and belongings, saving you from costly repairs and replacements down the line.

6. Eliminating Lingering Odors

Soot damage often comes with persistent and unpleasant odors. Professional cleanup teams employ deodorization techniques to neutralize these odors effectively. This leaves your home not only visually clean but also smelling fresh and inviting.

7. Restoring Your Home to Pre-Fire Condition

Perhaps the most significant advantage of professional soot damage cleanup is the ability to restore your home to its pre-fire condition. With their expertise and attention to detail, these specialists can revitalize your space, erasing all traces of soot and returning it to a safe and comfortable living environment.

When it comes to soot damage cleanup, leaving it to the professionals is the smartest decision a homeowner can make. From safeguarding your health to ensuring a thorough cleanup, professional services are equipped with the knowledge, experience, and tools to tackle even the most challenging soot-related issues. By entrusting your home to the care of these experts, such as our SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown team, you can rest assured that from soot-covered webs to a sparkling clean abode, your property will be restored to its former glory, giving you the peace of mind you deserve.

Can Water-Damaged Books Be Saved?

7/20/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage can be devastating, particularly when cherished books are involved. Whether it's a burst pipe, a flood, or accidental spillage, the thought of losing precious books can be distressing. However, it's important to know that water-damaged books can often be saved through proper restoration techniques. In this blog, we will explore the potential for salvaging water-damaged books, the restoration process, and the key steps you can take to increase the chances of successful book recovery.

Understanding the Severity of Water Damage

Before diving into the restoration process, it's crucial to assess the severity of water damage to your books. Several factors contribute to the extent of damage, including the type of water (clean, contaminated, or blackwater), the length of exposure, and the level of saturation. Timely action is essential to prevent mold growth and deterioration, so it's important to address water-damaged books as soon as possible.

Restoration Techniques for Water-Damaged Books

Isolate and Remove the Affected Books

As soon as water damage occurs, it's vital to separate the affected books from other items and move them to a dry, well-ventilated area. This prevents further spreading of moisture and minimizes the risk of mold growth.

Air Drying

Air drying is an effective restoration technique for mildly water-damaged books. Gently fan out the pages and place absorbent material, like blotting paper or paper towels, between each page to absorb excess moisture. Change the material regularly until the books are completely dry.

Freezing

For severely water-damaged books or those with potential mold growth, freezing can be a temporary preservation method. Freezing halts the growth of mold and buys you time until professional restoration services can be obtained. Wrap each book in plastic to prevent further damage and place them in a freezer until you can seek professional assistance.

Professional Restoration Services

For valuable or extensively damaged books, it's best to consult professional restoration specialists. These experts possess the knowledge, equipment, and techniques to salvage water-damaged books effectively. They can carefully dry, clean, deodorize, and restore the books to their pre-damage condition, maximizing the chances of successful recovery.

Preventing Water Damage to Books

Store Books Properly

Ensure your books are stored in a dry and controlled environment, away from potential water sources, such as pipes or windows prone to leaks. Use bookshelves with adequate spacing to promote air circulation and prevent moisture buildup.

Take Precautionary Measures

Install a reliable waterproofing system in your home or business to prevent water damage. Regularly inspect plumbing systems, roofs, and windows for any signs of leaks or vulnerabilities. Promptly address any issues to minimize the risk of water damage.

While water damage to books can be distressing, the good news is that many water-damaged books can be saved through timely and appropriate restoration efforts. By understanding the severity of the damage, taking immediate action, and seeking professional assistance when necessary, you can increase the chances of salvaging your cherished books. Remember to take preventive measures to protect your books from future water damage. If you find yourself facing water-damaged books, consult with experienced restoration professionals, such as our SERVPRO team, who can guide you through the restoration process and help preserve your literary treasures.

Storm Shutters: The Essential Protection for Your Home

6/12/2023 (Permalink)

Adding storm shutters to your home is a benefit to keep your property protected during severe weather.

Living in an area prone to storms and severe weather conditions can be both exciting and challenging. While the natural beauty and the thrill of witnessing thunderstorms or hurricanes may be appealing, it is important to consider the safety and protection of your home and loved ones. One effective measure to safeguard your property during such events is installing storm shutters. In this blog, we will explore the benefits of adding storm shutters to your home and help you make an informed decision.

Adding storm shutters to your home is a prudent decision, especially if you live in an area prone to severe weather conditions. Storm shutters provide valuable protection against high winds, flying debris, and heavy rainfall associated with storms and hurricanes. By installing these shutters, you can safeguard your windows, reduce the risk of damage to your property, enhance security against intrusions, improve energy efficiency, reduce noise levels, and potentially increase the value of your home. Overall, storm shutters offer peace of mind and ensure the safety of your home and loved ones during extreme weather events.

Protection from Severe Weather

Storm shutters are specifically designed to withstand high winds, flying debris, and heavy rainfall associated with storms and hurricanes. These shutters act as a protective barrier for your windows, preventing them from shattering under pressure. By adding storm shutters, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage to your home's exterior and interior, thereby saving you from expensive repairs or replacements.

Enhanced Security

Storm shutters not only protect your home during severe weather but also provide an added layer of security against burglaries and break-ins. These shutters are typically made from durable materials such as aluminum, steel, or impact-resistant polycarbonate, making it difficult for intruders to gain access to your home. By investing in storm shutters, you can have peace of mind knowing that your property is safeguarded from both natural and human threats.

Energy Efficiency

One often overlooked advantage of storm shutters is their ability to improve energy efficiency in your home. These shutters act as an additional insulation layer, reducing heat transfer through windows during hot summers and minimizing heat loss during colder months. By minimizing thermal exchange, storm shutters can help regulate indoor temperatures and reduce the strain on your heating and cooling systems, ultimately leading to energy savings and lower utility bills.

Noise Reduction

If you live in a noisy neighborhood or near busy roads, storm shutters can provide an effective solution to reduce external noise. The thick and durable construction of these shutters helps to block out sound, creating a quieter and more peaceful indoor environment. This can be particularly beneficial for light sleepers, individuals working from home, or families with young children.

Increased Property Value

Installing storm shutters is not only a practical decision but also an investment in your property. Potential buyers in storm-prone areas often look for homes equipped with storm protection features. By adding storm shutters, you can increase the market value of your home and attract potential buyers who prioritize safety and security.

In conclusion, adding storm shutters to your home is a wise decision that offers numerous benefits. From protecting your property during severe weather events to improving security, energy efficiency, and noise reduction, storm shutters are a valuable addition to any home. Moreover, they can increase your property's value and provide peace of mind for you and your loved ones. If you reside in an area prone to storms or hurricanes, it's worth considering the installation of storm shutters to ensure the safety and well-being of your home.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mold: Understanding the Causes and Remediation Process

5/16/2023 (Permalink)

Mold is a type of fungus that grows in damp, humid environments.

Mold is a common problem in homes and businesses that can cause significant damage if left untreated. While most people have heard of mold, there are many questions about mold and its impact on property. In this blog, we will answer some frequently asked questions about mold to help you better understand this common issue.

What is mold?

Mold is a type of fungus that grows in damp, humid environments. Mold spores are found in the air and can settle on surfaces, where they can grow and spread quickly.

What causes mold growth?

Mold growth is often caused by water damage or high humidity levels. This can include leaks, flooding, or poor ventilation in areas like bathrooms, basements, and crawl spaces.

How can I tell if I have mold growth?

There are several signs that you may have mold growth in your home or business. This can include a musty odor or visible mold growth on surfaces.

Can I clean up mold myself?

While small areas of mold growth can be cleaned up with soap and water, larger areas or areas that have been affected by water damage should be handled by a professional restoration company, such as our SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown team. This will help ensure that the mold is effectively removed and that any underlying water damage is addressed.

Is all mold dangerous?

While some types of mold can be harmful, not all molds are dangerous. However, all types of mold can cause damage to property and should be addressed promptly to prevent further growth.

How can I prevent mold growth?

The best way to prevent mold growth is to address any water damage or high humidity issues promptly. This can include fixing leaks, improving ventilation, and using dehumidifiers in damp areas. Regular cleaning and maintenance can also help prevent mold growth.

How can I remove the musty odor caused by mold?

The musty odor caused by mold can be difficult to remove. A professional restoration company can use specialized equipment and cleaning products to effectively eliminate the odor.

How long does the mold removal process take?

The length of the mold removal process depends on the extent of the mold damage and the size of the affected area. A professional restoration company can provide an estimate of the time required for the mold removal process.

In conclusion, mold is a common problem that can cause significant damage if left untreated. Understanding the causes and signs of mold growth, as well as the importance of prompt remediation, can help protect your property from further damage. If you suspect you have mold growth in your home or business, contact our SERVPRO team for assistance today.

8 Gas Stove Fire Safety Tips: How to Cook Safely and Prevent Accidental Fires

4/13/2023 (Permalink)

A clean stove is a safe stove.

Cooking on a gas stove is a common and convenient way to prepare meals. However, it can also pose a potential fire hazard to your Kansas City, MO, home if proper safety precautions are not taken. Here are some gas stove fire safety tips to keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable cooking experience.

Keep the Stove Clean

A clean stove is a safe stove. Regularly cleaning your gas stove will prevent grease and food particles from building up and potentially catching fire. Be sure to clean the burners, grates, and surrounding areas thoroughly after each use.

Check for Gas Leaks

Gas leaks are a serious safety hazard that can lead to explosions or fires. To check for gas leaks, turn off all gas appliances, and check the gas connection lines for cracks, loose fittings, or other signs of damage. If you smell gas, turn off the gas supply immediately, open windows and doors, and call your gas company or fire department.

Keep Flammable Objects Away

Keep flammable objects such as paper towels, dish towels, and curtains away from the stove to prevent accidental fires. It's also important to make sure that loose clothing, hair, and jewelry are kept away from the burners.

Never Leave the Stove Unattended

It's crucial to never leave the stove unattended while cooking. A moment of distraction can lead to a fire. If you must leave the kitchen, turn off the stove or ask someone to watch it for you.

Use Proper Cookware

Use cookware that is appropriate for the type of stove you have. For example, if you have a gas stove, use cookware with a flat bottom and avoid using lightweight, thin, or flimsy pans that can easily tip over. Be sure to use oven mitts or pot holders when handling hot cookware.

Keep a Fire Extinguisher Handy

In case of a fire, having a fire extinguisher nearby can help minimize damage and prevent injury. Make sure to have a fire extinguisher that is rated for Class B fires (fires involving flammable liquids and gases) in an accessible location in the kitchen.

Be Careful with the Flames

Be cautious when using open flames such as candles, matches, or lighters near the stove. Keep them away from the burners and never use them to check for gas leaks.

Know What to Do in Case of a Fire

Despite taking all necessary precautions, fires can still happen. Make sure to have a plan in case of a fire. Teach your family members how to safely extinguish small fires, when to evacuate the home, and how to call for help in case of a large fire.

In conclusion, gas stoves are a convenient way to cook, but they can also pose a potential fire hazard. By following these gas stove fire safety tips, you can minimize the risk of fires and ensure a safe and enjoyable cooking experience. Remember to always be cautious and vigilant when using gas stoves, and never hesitate to call for help if needed.

My Floors Are Warping - Why Floors Warp And What To Do About It

3/13/2023 (Permalink)

Warping is when a floorboard bends or curves.

The floor can be a great place to rest, but it's also a place where the stresses of your life can come to a head. One of the most common signs of stress on floors is warping. When you've got warped floors, it's important to know how and why they're warping so that you can get them fixed as quickly as possible.

What is warping?

Warping is when a floorboard bends or curves. It's caused by changes in the moisture content of the wood, which can be caused by leaks, humidity, or temperature changes. It can also happen if you have improper installation procedures done on your flooring.

How do you know if your floor is warped?

If you suspect that your floor is warped, there are a few ways to find out for sure.

Look for a bow on the floor. If you have a large enough space and can see it from above, look for an obvious bow on the surface of your flooring material. It will look like a wave has formed across one end of your room. Also, look for cracks or gaps between the floorboards.

What causes warping?

Warping is caused by the wood expanding and contracting due to changes in moisture, temperature, and humidity. If you live in a humid climate or have an old house with poor ventilation, this can lead to warping. Water leaks are also a common cause of warped floors because wood soaks up moisture, causing the floorboards to shrink or swell.

How can I prevent warping of my floors?

The best way to prevent warping is to keep your floors dry. If you have a wood floor and it gets wet, it can warp. Try not to let water sit on the surface of your wood floors for too long or allow them to become saturated with moisture.

If you live in an area where there are high levels of humidity during certain times of the year, then take necessary precautions to regulate the humidity levels in your home. This will prevent moisture from being absorbed into your floorboards.

Another thing that is important to do is to regulate your home's temperature levels throughout different seasons. A rapid change in temperature can cause warping to your flooring.

If you have a warped floor, there are things you can do about it.

If you have a warped floor, there are things you can do about it. First and foremost, contact a flooring professional to come to look at your problem. They may be able to identify the cause of warping and recommend solutions for fixing it.

If there is any water damage present in your home, call the water damage cleanup and restoration company immediately! The longer this kind of damage goes unchecked, the worse it will become.

If you've noticed that your floors are warped and want to know what can be done about it, it's important to understand the cause of this problem. Warping occurs when moisture gets trapped under the finish layer of a floor and causes it to expand or contract unevenly. This expansion and contraction can cause cracks in your flooring or even make them buckle upwards in places. The good news is that there are several ways for homeowners like yourself to prevent warping from happening again in their homes!

What Are the Most Common Causes of House Fires?

2/12/2023 (Permalink)

Candles are a common culprit in house fires, but they don't have to be.

Fires are a serious threat to any home. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), nearly half of all home fires start in the kitchen, making it the most common place for a fire to start. To protect yourself and your family from this threat, you need to know how the most common types of fires start and how you can prevent them. Below are some of the most common causes of house fires:

Cooking

Cooking is the leading cause of house fires in the United States. Over half of all home cooking-related fire injuries occur when someone is cooking, like a turkey or a pot on the stove. Here are some things you can do to prevent these types of fires:

• Don't leave the room while the food is cooking. When you're making anything that involves fat, grease, or oil, be extra careful and never leave it unattended.
• Keep your kids safe from burns by teaching them how dangerous hot surfaces can be when they touch them. Also, make sure everyone knows how important clothing choices are when dealing with high temperatures while cooking.

Space Heaters and Furnaces

Heating equipment is the second-leading cause of house fires, with space heaters and furnaces among the biggest culprits. Space heaters must be used properly to avoid fires. They should be placed away from flammable materials and cleaned regularly. Furnaces should also be checked every year during regular maintenance visits to ensure that they do not have any problems that could cause a fire.

The installation of your heating system can also contribute to house fires if it is not done properly or if you have an older unit that needs replacement. It’s important to have a professional inspect your furnace before each winter season so that any necessary repairs can be made before you use it again in the colder weather months ahead.

Electrical Equipment

Electrical distribution and lighting equipment are other common cause of house fires. Electrical equipment can cause fires if they are not properly maintained and inspected. The most common causes of electrical fires in homes, businesses, and industrial facilities are:

• Faults in the wiring or connections
• Faulty or damaged equipment
• The wrong type of power supply or incorrect installation

Smoking

Smoking is a leading cause of fire-related deaths in the home. Smoking is also a major contributor to house fires, especially those that start while you're sleeping. Over 50% of all smoking-related fires occur in bed, and more than half of these are caused by cigarettes left smoldering after being snuffed out or falling into the bedding.

Smoking-related fires can be easily prevented by taking the following steps:

• Avoid smoking in bed or near anything flammable
• Always use a sturdy ashtray on a hard surface when smoking
• Properly dispose of cigarette butts and cigars after use

Candles

Candles are a common culprit in house fires, but they don't have to be. In fact, if you're careful with them, there's no reason why candles can't be a safe and enjoyable addition to your home. Just follow these simple steps and you'll keep your home fire-free:

• Keep candles out of reach of children and pets.
• Keep candles out of reach of flammable materials.
• Never leave burning candles unattended; extinguish them when leaving the room or going to sleep.

Fire Poses A Serious Threat

When you think about what causes fires, cooking often comes to mind. According to the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA), cooking is responsible for more than half of all home fires each year in America. Electrical equipment and smoking are also common causes of house fires, as are candles and heating appliances like space heaters or furnaces.

Now that you know what to watch out for, it's easier to avoid these situations and protect your family from fire hazards. If your home or business suffers from a fire, don't hesitate and give our SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown team a call today for all your fire damage cleanup and restoration needs!

Smoke Damage and Your Home

1/9/2023 (Permalink)

If you have Fire damage in your Fairway, KS home call SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown

Smoke Damage and Your Home

Smoke damage is a problem that can happen after a fire or any other kind of smoke-related incident in your Fairway, KS home. You may think that the smoke has cleared and everything is fine, but when you realize the smell of smoke lingers, you know it’s time to take action against this damage. Here are some things you need to know about smoke damage:

Smoke Damages Furniture 

If you find yourself in a situation where your home has been damaged by smoke, do not panic and try to clean things up yourself. It is important to know that if you have allowed water or other liquids from cleaning supplies to come into contact with the smoke-damaged furniture, it could cause additional damage. This can be fixed by using a professional restoration company like SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown, which has specialized equipment and processes for restoring valuable furniture after a fire or smoke damage has occurred in your home.

The goal for any restoration company is to minimize their customer's losses as much as possible by making sure that all items are restored properly so they don't need replacing later on down the road due.

Damage to Important Objects and Documents

A home fire can damage or destroy items that hold sentimental value, and the damage is irreplaceable. If you happen to have any important documents such as birth and marriage certificates, they may be damaged beyond repair. 

Additionally, other objects that hold sentimental value such as photos of loved ones or keepsakes can also be destroyed by smoke damage. These items cannot be replaced easily if at all so it’s best not to take any chances when trying to clean up after a fire in your home

You Need a Professional

If you clean up the smoke yourself, it’s very likely that the longer the process takes, the more damage will result. This is because smoke contains soot—an oily residue that sticks to surfaces and causes them to become discolored or brittle over time. Additionally, if left untreated for too long, this soot becomes airborne again when stirred up from cleaning supplies or even just from being in your home (it will settle back down on surfaces).

The longer it takes to clean up the smoke damage in your home, the more expensive it will be. The longer it takes to clean up the smoke damage in your home, the more toxic it will be. The longer it takes to clean up the smoke damage in your home, the more work you'll have ahead of you!

The sooner you start cleaning up after a fire or other event that caused smoke damage, the better off you'll be.

If you have suffered smoke damage, it can be helpful to know that a professional company like SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown will be able to help with the clean-up process. Our team of technicians has years of experience dealing with smoke damage and will be able to advise you on the best course of action for your home.

We hope this article has given you a better understanding of the damage smoke can do to your Fairway, KS home, as well as some options for dealing with it. If you’re looking for help with cleaning up after a fire or other emergency situation, we would be happy to assist in any way that we can. 

A Leaky Faucet and Mold Growth

12/4/2022 (Permalink)

Mold growth due to leaking faucets can cause various problems. Call SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown

A Leaky Faucet and Mold Growth

The moment you notice a leaky faucet, it's always wise to turn off the water and call for help. But what about the other times when you don't see a leaky faucet? Is there still a chance that mold is growing under the sink or around your toilet? Yes! While leaks are the most common cause of mold growth in homes, they're not the only culprit. In this article we'll discuss how to identify possible sources of hidden moisture in your Fairway, KS home and prevent them from causing trouble down the road.

Identifying the Source

Look for leaks. The first thing to do is to check for leaks in the bathroom and kitchen. If there are noticeable drips coming from either of these areas, you may have a larger problem on your hands. The next step is to check for moldy or damp spots along the baseboards and walls. You should also look up at the ceiling or wall above your sink for any signs of water stains, which could indicate that there’s a leak in need of repair above it all.

Keep an eye on your water bill. Many homeowners don’t realize how much they actually use until they see how much their monthly bill has gone down after fixing a leaky faucet—and this can be an indicator that there are other problems going on behind-the-scenes (i.e., hidden leaks).

Mold Under Sink

Mold grows in dark, damp places. You can find mold almost anywhere you look, but it thrives best on surfaces that are warm and wet. You might think that a leaking faucet would be an ideal place for mold to grow—after all, it’s both mostly dark and consistently damp. But most of the time, even with a leaky faucet, your sink won’t develop any visible traces of mold because there isn’t enough moisture to support its growth.

Mold Around the Toilet

Mold can grow in the toilet bowl. If you spot mold growing on the inside of your toilet, it’s likely that you have a leak somewhere in your plumbing. The water from the toilet is not connected to the rest of the plumbing, so it’s a good place to check for leaks.

If you suspect there might be mold or mildew in your toilet bowl, here are some ways to check for leaks:

• Check for stains around where water drains into your pipes. If there are stains, they could indicate moisture problems; if there aren't any stains and everything looks dry but still smells musty or damp after flushing (or when no one has flushed at all), it's possible there's something amiss with your pipes that causes a build-up of excess moisture near where they meet up with other parts of your home (such as walls). This is especially common if someone uses their bathtub regularly since taking baths can cause extra humidity levels throughout their bathroom space—which may then cause molds/fungi growth on surfaces like painted walls near where water drains into pipe systems below them!
• Check behind toilets themselves by sticking an old toothbrush into drain holes located inside each corner (near bottom edges) so that bristles reach underneath the surface area.

How to Prevent Mold Growth

If you’re worried about mold growth due to a leaking faucet, you should keep in mind that there are steps you can take to prevent it:

• Install a water leak detector
• Use a dehumidifier
• Use a fan to dry up the area

Install a Water Leak Detector

If your water bill has been unusually high lately, or if you have a leak in your home, it is important to install a water leak detector. This device monitors the flow of water through all of your pipes and can detect when there is leakage. There are several types out on the market that vary in price and features, but they all work by being placed directly over the pipe where you suspect there might be an issue. If one detects any leaks or problems with your plumbing then it will alert you by sending text messages or emails as well as flashing an LED light on its faceplate which makes for easy detection if it's dark outside (or if someone else isn't paying attention!). You should also check this device regularly; checking it once every week or two should do the trick.

If your detector finds that there is indeed a problem somewhere within your home's internal plumbing system then don't worry--you'll know exactly where to go from there! Simply call up a plumber who specializes in fixing such issues, explain what happened, and ask them for help. 

If you are concerned that your faucet might be leaking, contact a professional plumber. It’s important to know that mold can also grow in other areas of your home. If you have any questions about dealing with a water-damaged home or business, please feel free to call SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown today!