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!

Water Damage Types

11/1/2022 (Permalink)

For any kind of water damage, give SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown a call. we are here to Help!

Water Damage Types

Water damage is a serious problem. It can lead to mold and mildew growth, stubborn odors, and structural damage that's expensive to repair. When the source of water is unknown or untreated, it's even more dangerous. That's why the Environmental Protection Agency created a classification system that helps property owners understand how severe their particular case of water damage is. Now let's take a closer look at each category of water damage:

Category One

Category One water is typically clean and poses no threat. It's often from a leaky faucet or tub that's been draining for some time, and it can be cleaned up easily with soap and water. You could also use this type of water to water plants if need be. This water doesn’t necessarily need any sort of special personal protective equipment to clean it up.

Category Two

Water that is category two has a significant amount of chemical, biological, or physical contaminants. It's often called "grey water". It can come from a dishwasher or toilet overflow with urine but no feces, a washing machine overflow, or a broken aquarium.

Category Three

Category three water damage is serious and it needs to be taken care of quickly. Here's what you need to know about the signs of category three water damage, how to clean up after a category three flood, and how to prevent this type of event from happening in your home or business:

• Category three water is grossly contaminated and may contain pathogenic, toxigenic, or other harmful agents and can cause significant adverse reactions if an individual is exposed. Sewage, seawater, rising water from rivers and streams, ground surface water, and standing water are all sources of category three water.
• Category three damage means that the level of contamination in your home has reached a point where it would be dangerous for an individual to enter the space without protective gear. This category of damage should be treated by professionals because they have access to the equipment required to clean up this type of contamination safely and effectively.
• Category three water damage is extremely dangerous and should be cleaned up by professionals who have been trained for the task. If you encounter category three damage at your home or business property in Kansas City, MO then you should immediately call SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown.

What does this mean? It means that you shouldn't wait until you can start the cleanup process yourself. You must call a professional to address your category 3 water damage situation immediately.

While it might seem like common sense to avoid contact with any form of contaminated liquids whatsoever (especially when they smell bad), there are still some steps that need to be taken when dealing with these types of spills so that they don't cause further damage while they're being cleaned up.

For any kind of water damage, give SERVPRO a call and we will help get your Kansas City home or business back to normal!

Why you shouldn’t clean puffback soot yourself?

10/7/2022 (Permalink)

Soot can be shot back into your home and onto the walls and ceiling. If you don't get it cleaned up quickly, it can leave permanent stains.

Why shouldn't you clean your own puff back soot?

A puff back is something that you don’t want to have to happen in your Fairway, KS home. A puff back is a malfunction in an oil-burning furnace, and it can cause soot to spew out into your home. These malfunctions can also lead to carbon monoxide leaks if not addressed quickly.

If you have experienced a puff back or know someone who has, contact professional restoration experts right away! You will need help cleaning up the mess and removing the smell from your home if this happens again in the future. Let’s look at why you shouldn't clean up these soot yourself:

A puff back is a malfunction in an oil-burning furnace.

When this happens, soot can be shot back into your home and onto the walls and ceiling. If you don't get it cleaned up quickly, it can leave permanent stains. A puff back can be caused by a number of different things, including dirt build-up or incorrect operation of the furnace. Puff backs are more common in older furnaces than in newer ones because some older models have fewer safety features to prevent them from happening.

These malfunctions can cause the furnace to shoot soot out into your home.

• Puffback soot can cause damage to your home.
• Puffback soot is dangerous.
• Puffback soot can be hard to clean up.
• Puffback soot causes respiratory issues, allergies, and asthma.

Contacting a professional restoration company.

Calling in professional restoration experts is the best strategy for both cleaning up the soot and removing the smell from your home.

The experts at Puffback Soot Removal, who have been cleaning up puff back soot since 2004, will be able to help you with this problem and make sure that it doesn't happen again. They will remove all of the debris quickly and efficiently so that you don't have to worry about it anymore!

Conclusion

Hopefully, we’ve made it clear that puff back soot is a big deal. It’s not something to take lightly, and it can cause serious damage to your home or office if left unchecked. If you’re experiencing this issue, call in professional restoration experts as soon as possible—the sooner they come out, the better your chances are at getting rid of all that soot before it becomes too much work for you or your family members!

Effective Ways to Eliminate the Smell of Cigarette Smoke in Your Home

8/25/2022 (Permalink)

If you are tired of the smell of cigarette smoke in your Prairie Village, KS, home, you need to stop smoking

How to Get Rid of the Smell of Cigarette Smoke in Your Home

Are you moving into a home or apartment where previous homeowners or tenants smoked? Or maybe you're a former smoker, and you're trying to erase all traces of this terrible smell. Getting rid of cigarette scent and its remnants are not easy, but it is possible. With some consistent effort and the right steps, you can do home deodorization and eliminate this annoyance and health hazard.

1. Stop the Source

The first step should be an obvious one. If you are tired of the smell of cigarette smoke in your Prairie Village, KS, home, you need to stop smoking. If you have smokers that live with you, encourage them to stop. If they are having difficulty in doing so, invite them to smoke outside. Do not allow visitors to smoke in your home either.

2. Clean All Surfaces

A professional smoke cleanup team has the tools and tactics to effectively get rid of cigarette odors. Technicians will use home deodorization methods on all surfaces such as walls, ceilings, floors, and furniture. You can count on the technicians to clean thoroughly and get rid of all odor-causing particles.

3. Ventilate the Home

Another option is to keep all the windows open and run some fans. This will promote good airflow and move out the unpleasant smells.

4. Paint the Walls and Replace the Carpet

This method is a little pricier, but it may be necessary, depending on the extent of the odors. Before you paint, make sure you clean the walls well. Removing the carpet could be a good alternative to cleaning the floors if the odors are too strong or have been in the home for several years.

Home deodorization is a good way to remove the smell of cigarettes from your house. This unpleasant odor can be detrimental to your health as well. Follow these steps to promote a more fresh-smelling home.

Why SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown is the Company to Call for Your Restoration Needs

8/23/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage restoration at a property after a Kansas City flood.

Fire, floods, and natural disasters can all really do a lot of damage to your home or business. There is a lot of work to be done if you have experienced some type of accident or natural disaster.

Safety for yourself and your family or employees is always number one. But, once it has passed, what do you do from there? The first thing you want to do is find a company to help you get back on your feet again. 

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown

SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown has all the tools, equipment, training, and experience to get you through your time of need. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

ICRC Training and Certification

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) certifies and sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industries. Our Professionals study IICRC standards and best practices in water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration courses.

Employee Certification Training

The Employee Certification Training is a voluntary, self-paced program designed for SERVPRO Franchise employees. Certification is awarded after successful completion of course materials and an examination. Some of the areas covered include:

• Crew Training
• Fire Restoration
• Water Restoration
• Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

Not only are there other areas covered, but education and training are also on a continuum. We are learning and upgrading their skills all the time to stay on top of all new policies, tools, equipment, methods, and even insurance concerns.

We also understand that all situations are not the same. That’s why we use the same methods tailored to suit your distinct situation. Whether you have had a fire, a flood, or other types of disaster, we can take care of the problem quickly and professionally.

When Disaster Strikes

When you need help getting back on your feet, you want a company that can handle everything from the clean-up to restoration, the inspection to the insurance.

We have the experience and training to make sure everything is taken care of. Whether it is a business or your home, you can count on us.

Restoration is the final step. That means getting your home or business to its pre-fire or pre-water damage condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet.

We can also simplify the restoration process from water and fire damage by handling both the initial water or fire damage mitigation and rebuilding of the affected areas.

Using the same company for all the needs after a disaster can save you time and money. Working with your insurance company and a professional team that can handle all the clean-up and restoration also means less worry for you.

Contact us to find out how we can help you find your way back from a disaster. It doesn’t have to define you and once you have everything restored back to new, or better, you will forget it ever happened.