Mold Prevention After a Water Loss: Essential Tips from SERVPRO® of Kansas City, Midtown

5/1/2024 (Permalink)

Containment in action: Our meticulous approach to post-water loss restoration includes effective containment measures to prevent mold growth, ensuring

Experiencing a water loss event in your home can be overwhelming, but the aftermath doesn't end once the water is removed. One of the most pressing concerns following water damage is the risk of mold growth. Mold can start to develop within 24-48 hours of water exposure, posing health risks and causing further damage to your property. At SERVPRO® of Kansas City, Midtown, we understand the importance of taking proactive steps to prevent mold growth after a water loss. In this blog post, we'll share essential tips to help you safeguard your home and belongings.

1. Swift Water Extraction: The first step in mold prevention after a water loss is to remove standing water promptly. Our team at SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown utilizes advanced equipment and techniques to extract water efficiently, minimizing the risk of mold growth.

2. Thorough Drying: Once the water is removed, thorough drying is crucial to prevent mold from taking hold. We employ industrial-grade air movers and dehumidifiers to dry affected areas completely, including hard-to-reach spaces like wall cavities and subflooring.

3. Remove Damaged Materials: Porous materials such as drywall, carpeting, and insulation that have been saturated with water may need to be removed to prevent mold growth. Our technicians assess the extent of the damage and safely dispose of any unsalvageable materials.

4. Clean and Disinfect: After water damage occurs, it's essential to clean and disinfect surfaces to inhibit mold growth. Our team utilizes professional-grade cleaning products and techniques to sanitize affected areas thoroughly, reducing the likelihood of mold colonization.

5. Monitor Moisture Levels: Even after water damage restoration is complete, it's crucial to monitor moisture levels in your home. Using moisture meters, our technicians assess moisture levels in walls, floors, and other surfaces to ensure they are within acceptable ranges.

6. Maintain Proper Ventilation: Proper ventilation is key to preventing moisture buildup, which can contribute to mold growth. Ensure that bathrooms, kitchens, and other high-humidity areas are well-ventilated with exhaust fans or open windows.

7. Address Plumbing Issues: Water damage often stems from plumbing failures or leaks. Addressing any plumbing issues promptly can help prevent future water losses and reduce the risk of mold growth.

Water damage events can leave your home vulnerable to mold growth, but with prompt action and thorough restoration, you can minimize the risk. At SERVPRO of Kansas City Midtown, our experienced team is here to assist you every step of the way, from water extraction to mold prevention. Don't hesitate to contact us for professional water damage restoration services and peace of mind knowing your home is protected against mold.

Exploring Mold's Favorite Hideouts: Top 9 Hidden Places to Inspect

3/14/2024 (Permalink)

Stay vigilant, and keep your home mold-free with these tips!

Mold, the unwelcome guest that lurks in the shadows, can find its way into various nooks and crannies of your home. To help you stay ahead in the battle against mold, we've compiled a list of the top 9 hidden places where mold loves to hide. Let's dive into these potential hotspots:

1. Behind Drywall

Behind drywall, especially in areas with a history of water damage, mold can quietly flourish. Regularly inspecting for discoloration or warping can help catch hidden issues early on.

2. Beneath Flooring

Moisture-prone areas like bathrooms or basements can lead to mold growth beneath flooring materials. Lift and inspect flooring periodically, especially if you've had previous water-related incidents.

3. Inside HVAC Systems

Mold spores love a ride on your HVAC system. Check and clean your air ducts regularly, as mold can accumulate and spread through the air, affecting indoor air quality.

4. Within Appliances

Dark, damp areas within appliances like dishwashers and washing machines can be breeding grounds for mold. Regularly clean and inspect these spaces to prevent mold from taking root.

5. Attic Spaces

Attics are often overlooked, but they can be vulnerable to mold growth due to poor ventilation or roof leaks. Regularly check for signs of water damage or mold to keep your attic mold-free.

6. Chimneys and Fireplaces

Chimneys and fireplaces, with their dark and often damp environments, can become hiding spots for mold. Regular inspection and cleaning can prevent mold from establishing a presence in these areas.

7. Window Sills and Tracks

Condensation and dust can create a welcoming environment for mold in window sills and tracks. Regularly clean and inspect these areas, especially in rooms with higher humidity levels.

8. Crawl Spaces

Crawl spaces are notorious for going unnoticed, making them a perfect hiding spot for mold. Regularly inspect these areas for any signs of moisture or mold growth.

9. Underneath Sink Cabinets

Sink cabinets can harbor mold due to leaks or plumbing issues. Regularly check for any signs of moisture or water damage beneath your sink cabinets.

Regular inspections and proactive maintenance in these often-overlooked areas can help you uncover and address potential mold issues before they become major problems. Stay vigilant, and keep your home mold-free with these tips!

10 Mold Prevention Tips for Homeowners in Kansas City

11/20/2023 (Permalink)

If you encounter a mold problem that's beyond your control, don't hesitate to contact SERVPRO® of Kansas City Midtown!

Mold can be a persistent issue, especially in Kansas’ humid climate. Protecting your home against mold can seem difficult, but it doesn’t have to be. In this blog, we'll share ten valuable tips to help you protect your home and loved ones from the potential hazards of mold growth.

1. Maintain Proper Ventilation

Proper ventilation is crucial in preventing mold growth. Ensure that your home is well-ventilated, especially in areas prone to moisture build-up, like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. Use exhaust fans and open windows when possible to allow fresh air to circulate.

2. Monitor Humidity Levels

Kansas City's humidity can contribute to mold problems. Invest in a dehumidifier to maintain indoor humidity levels below 50%. Regularly check and empty the dehumidifier to prevent water buildup.

3. Fix Leaks Immediately 

Any water leaks, no matter how minor, should be addressed immediately. Inspect your plumbing, roof, and windows regularly for leaks, and repair them promptly to prevent moisture from seeping into your home.

4. Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Clogged gutters and downspouts can lead to water pooling around your home's foundation, creating an ideal environment for mold growth. Keep them clean and well-maintained to ensure proper drainage.

5. Seal Windows and Doors

Inspect the seals around your windows and doors regularly. If you find any gaps or cracks, seal them to prevent moisture from entering your home.

6. Use Mold-Resistant Products

Consider using mold-resistant drywall, paint, and insulation in areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms and basements. These products are designed to inhibit mold growth.

7. Regularly Clean and Maintain HVAC Systems

Your HVAC system can distribute mold spores throughout your home if not properly maintained. Change filters regularly and have your system inspected and cleaned by a professional to prevent mold buildup.

8. Keep Indoor Plants in Check

Houseplants are wonderful, but overwatering can create excess moisture. Be mindful of your indoor plant care routine to prevent mold growth in the soil and on plant surfaces.

9. Declutter and Organize

Reduce clutter in your home, as it can trap moisture and create hiding spots for mold. Keep your home well-organized and ensure good airflow throughout.

10. Perform Regular Inspections

Finally, make mold prevention a part of your routine home maintenance. Regularly inspect your home for any signs of mold, such as musty odors, discolored walls, or peeling paint. Catching mold early can save you time and money in the long run.

By following these 10 mold prevention tips, homeowners in the Kansas City area can significantly reduce the risk of mold growth in their homes. However, if you do encounter a mold problem that's beyond your control, don't hesitate to contact SERVPRO® of Kansas City Midtown for professional mold remediation and cleanup services. Your safety and peace of mind are our top priorities!

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

5/16/2023 (Permalink)

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.

Finding and Preventing Mold Growth

9/22/2019 (Permalink)

Mold damage in a Prairie Village, KS bathroom

Mold damage in your Prairie Village, KS, home can be a serious problem. However, knowing a little about mold growth patterns can help you catch the problem early and maybe prevent it altogether.

Common Places for Mold Infestation

Certain areas of your home are more susceptible to mold growth than others. It is important to keep these areas as dry as possible, inspect them frequently for any hidden mold and check for water stains or a musty odor:

• Ceiling tiles and drywall
  
• Paper goods
  
• Wood products
  
• Humid areas such as bathrooms
  
• HVAC vents
  
  

Tips for Preventing Mold and Mildew Growth

Mold needs certain conditions to grow, such as mold spores, warmth and moisture. Unfortunately, most homes naturally have all of these conditions. Keeping mold spores and moisture to a minimum will go a long way toward preventing mold damage in your home. The following interventions may prevent mold infestations:

• Use a dehumidifier
  
• Use an air purifier to trap mold spores
  
• Repair leaks and dry up any standing water
  
• Open windows and use fans to circulate air
  
• Invest in mold-resistant paint, décor and
• furniture
  
• Inspect HVAC ductwork for mold
  
  

Mold Remediation

Even the most meticulously maintained homes can experience a mold problem. In this case, you should address the concern as quickly as possible to keep the mold from spreading. For small areas, a diluted bleach mixture and a little elbow grease will likely be enough to take care of the issue. You can also use a commercial cleaning agent designed for mold. Whenever you are working with mold or chemicals, make sure to open a window or door for fresh air and wear gloves. Depending on the extent and type of mold present, you may need a respirator mask and other protective gear.
In many cases, you can prevent mold growth and address small infestations yourself. However, you may require the help of a certified restoration company for severe mold damage.

Removing an Unwanted Breakroom Guest

7/23/2019 (Permalink)

The employee breakroom should be a place where employees feel comfortable enough to relax and catch a quick breather before heading back to their desk or workspace. Nothing is very relaxing about stashing away your lunch and finding an abundance of fridge mold growing. With the open access to kitchen or refrigerator in the breakroom, it can be difficult to establish who is responsible for cleaning things out. Left unchecked, mold spores can create a more serious, company-wide problem. Here are some tips to for keeping the breakroom clean and reducing mold growth.

Implement a Manageable System

If your maintenance or cleaning crew isn’t responsible for cleaning out the kitchen, you need to get creative in your approach. Educating your employees is one way to everyone on board with your system.

1. All food containers in the fridge must labeled with names and dates.
2. All food and containers not retrieved by end of business day on Friday will be thrown away.
3. Establish a kitchen rotation list, and use emails reminders and notifications to ensure it is cleaned.
4. Keep a stash of disinfecting fridge wipes in the breakroom for easy access and cleaning.

Problems With Mold

Food that has been left in the fridge and long-since passed it usage date will greet your employees with a distinctive mold smell. Even in containers or wrapped in plastic and tinfoil, there is no mistaking the odor of mildew. Beyond its growth on old food, the mold spores travel to other surface areas and create fridge mold that is visible on the sides, floor, or in the drawers. These spores can also travel beyond your breakroom and set up residence throughout your business.

If your company in Mission Hills, KS is experiencing a mold problem, there are remediation specialists that can help. Taking small steps, such as removing fridge mold, is one way to keep your company free of mold spores and help it avoid a more costly problem.

Why Is Your Bread Moldy Again?

5/26/2019 (Permalink)

Bread mold is a frustrating experience that often leads to hangry feelings. While it is not the type of issue that will garner celebrity PSAs, it is an aggravating part of everyday, mundane life with little recourse. Because of the nature of mold and bread, the two are forever compatible despite being better apart. However, to truly understand why moldy bread occurs, you must understand the persistent and ever-present nature of mold.

1. Mold Spores

Mold spores are microscopic and everywhere. Some companies claim they can remove every speck of mold from your home, and while that may be true of real fungus growth, the spores will survive. These microscopic little buggers will come into your home through open doors, on the back of your cat Moses and even on your clothes or body. There is no eliminating mold spores, not 100 percent, not ever.

2. Environment

Bread mold loves dark and warm spaces. Therefore, if your bread drawer is located near the dishwasher or your oven, spores may find your bread more enticing, leading to the rapid spoilage of your loaves. However, if your bread is in a well-sealed container in a cooler location, then it may last a little longer.

3. Colonization

While mold spores are everywhere, they do not colonize in all types of spaces. For instance, while there is such a thing as fridge mold, it is not as common due to frigid temperatures and poor air circulation. However, in a dark, damp and humid basement, mold colonies thrive, so it’s probably best not to store your bread downstairs, despite the popularity of basement sandwiches.

Although moldy bread is a common occurrence for most households, there is a point where it may lead to larger concerns. For instance, if your bread is always expiring before the labeled expiration date due to rapid mold development, then you might want to contact a mold or plumbing specialist in the Kansas City, KS area to assess your property for moisture problems.

Bread mold is common, and there is likely little to be done about it. However, by understanding mold, you may prolong bread life a little longer.

3 Common Misconceptions About Black Mold

3/7/2019 (Permalink)

Mold can grow anywhere there's excess water.

3 Common Misconceptions About Black Mold

An unpleasant, musty odor is a sign that you may have a fungus growth somewhere in your home. Rather than assuming your home in Fairway, KS has a Stachybotrys infestation, hire a certified professional to perform a mold inspection. Many people believe certain things about black mold that simply aren't true. Here are three misconceptions to erase from your knowledge about this particular type of fungus.

1. It's Always Black

Contrary to its common name, Stachybotrys isn't always black. While it is a dark mold, it sometimes has a green tint to it. It is also often dense and slimy. Don't dismiss a mold growth as a milder form of mildew just because it doesn't fit a preconceived notion of how this particular mold should look.

2. It's Always Visible

If a mold has a dark color, you may believe that it is always easy to spot. That is not necessarily the case. Mold can grow anywhere there's excess water. You may see it growing up your wall, but a mold inspection could reveal that the bulk of your problem is actually within the wall or in the insulation behind it.

3. It's Easy To Remove

When you see house mold, you may think all it takes to get rid of it is to give it a good scrubbing. Mold remediation is typically a more involved process, though. Mold mitigation experts typically seal off the affected area to prevent the fungus from spreading to the rest of your home. Then they employ the techniques that the assessment indicates are necessary to thoroughly remove the growth. A final test can confirm that the issue is fully remediated.

If you suspect you have black mold, a professional mold inspection can let you know for sure. Don’t rely on your own assumptions of what a confirmation of this issues entails, though. Leave the remediation to the experts who understand how to get rid of the problem.

3 Important Facts About Black Mold

1/21/2019 (Permalink)

Mold at a Kansas City, KS bathroom.

Facts About Black Mold

While some types of mold that exist in your Kansas City, KS, home can be simple to clean up, others are more stubborn and can even be dangerous. Of all mold types, Stachybotrys, or black mold, can be the most difficult to eradicate. If you find this fungus growing in your home, it can be important to learn about the possible reasons for its presence and what you can do to remove it.

1. It Is Not a Surface Fungus

Unlike other types of fungi, such as mildew, black mold cannot be wiped away easily with a rag and a household cleanser. This is due to the way it grows, as it sinks roots deep into building surfaces like wood and drywall. This makes mold cleanup difficult, especially if the fungus has been present for some time.

2. It Can Appear Less Than 24 Hours After a Flood

Stachybotrys can grow rapidly after the introduction of moisture and humidity. For example, if a weather event caused your home to flood, the dirty water can encourage mold growth almost right away. As a result, walls, floors and carpeting may start to show signs of this type of mold as early as that same day. You can identify it by its slimy dark surface, which differs from the type of dry, fuzzy mold you might find on old food.

3. Professional Removal Might Be Required

If you are experiencing a widespread infestation of Stachybotrys mold, then it is a good idea to call a mold remediation and removal service for help. Not only can professional technicians properly identify the fungus, they can also give you options for removal and the restoration of building surfaces that have been affected. This may give you greater peace of mind that your home can be returned to normal.

When black mold invades, it can be stressful for you as a Kansas City, KS, homeowner. Knowing as much as possible about this fungus can help you better understand your options when it comes to the cleanup process.

Recurring Black Mold Means Concealed Problems

9/9/2018 (Permalink)

With your repeated efforts using any number of remedies, you may have once thought you were victorious over black mold. To your surprise, it has come back despite a thorough cleaning. This may be symptomatic of a more serious infestation at your home in Kansas City, KS. This mold will continue to grow if you do not treat the core problems.

What Allows Mold to Grow Again

Mold continues to grow as long as it has sources of food and a wet environment. Your home is unavoidably going to have materials where black mold can thrive, so you cannot treat that. A problem you often can remedy, however, is the mold’s access to water. Water can be where it shouldn’t be and feed mold for a number of reasons, including:

• Humid weather and bad insulation
• Condensation from poor airflow regulation
• HVAC problems
• Flooded or wet rooms
• Leaking or broken pipes

By treating water damage, the mold will no longer have ideal conditions to centralize and spread its spores. These locations are often dark and out of sight, so the source of all your recurring mold problems may not be easily locatable.

What Can I Do to Stop Mold

You can help protect your residence with regular inspection and repair of pipes, attics, crawl spaces, sinks and any HVAC system. By properly securing your home from water infiltration, you can stop the mold from having a place to ever begin.

Without commercial equipment and extensive knowledge for mold remediation, however, you may not be able to fix the problem by yourself. Fortunately, there are services offered by professional mold cleanup crews that can fully remove mold and any associated water problems. This includes mold hidden inside walls and other difficult places. These companies can remove every single spore from your residence to treat the problem instead of just control it.

Black mold doesn’t have to have a hold on your home. Without any spores left to spread, the seemingly never-ending mold growth will finally reach the end of its story. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROkansascitymidtownks.com/.

Timely Attention is a Key Element in Remediation

7/30/2018 (Permalink)

Mold remediation involves both mold cleanup and moisture control. 

When you call mold remediation specialists to handle your mold problem, their service includes not only cleaning up the growth but also fixing the moisture problem that led to it. High humidity can also lead to mold problems, so it's good to keep the humidity level of your building to 45% or lower.

Timely Attention is a Key Element in Remediation

Once you discover a mold problem on your property, call the experts at once. Mold does not just go away. It multiplies quickly, and it may keep growing until the problem is resolved.

Mold growth is not a problem to take lightly. If you call remediation experts quickly and manage to control the moisture problems that led to it in the first place, you can resolve issue.

Call us at 816.895.8890 if you have questions about the problem in your home.

Moisture and Mold Growth Mold

7/30/2018 (Permalink)

Mold spores are already present throughout your home. They can be microscopic in size and dormant. They can already be on any surface from fabrics to the wall studs.

Flooding of any kind can trigger rapid mold growth, especially mold growth behind your walls. It does not matter if the flooding source was a broken freshwater pipe or dirty water from a stream that rose above its banks. The moisture triggers the growth of the mold in your home. If you detect any smelly odor that smells like mildew, you have a mold problem that could benefit from professional mold remediation.

Mold removal typically begins with drying everything that got wet, including the use of commercial dehumidification units that can remove 15 gallons of moisture or more that is present in the ambient air.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call us at 816.895.8890 

Heat and Mold Damage

7/30/2018 (Permalink)

The warmer it is, the better the mold likes it. Combined with moisture, higher heat can exponentially increase mold growth. You have likely at one time seen the results of leftover food that got lost in the back of the fridge. It is an example of how quickly mold can grow in refrigerated environments.

The heat makes it grow faster. Fungus begins to grow as soon as spores, moisture, heat and a food source are present. The smelly odor of mildew is the first sign of its presence as mold growth behind your walls is not going to be seen until it reaches an advanced stage. Deodorization attempts without mold mitigation and remediation are of no benefit.

Call us at 816.895.8890 if you have questions about the mold problem in your home

Call us at 816.895.8890 if you have questions about the problem in your home.

How do I prevent mold in your home?

7/30/2018 (Permalink)

Once SERVPRO of Kansas City / Midtown goes to a home or business to see about the mold we often tell the property owner ways to prevent mold growth in the future.

The best way to fight mold is to prevent it.

Prevention includes keeping the humidity level in a home below 40%. It seems very low, but anything higher than this can welcome mold into the home with open arms.

Another way to prevent mold is to keep the moisture level low and prevent water from getting into the home. Keep leaks from forming, fix any water seepage right away, and always keep doors and windows secure so water is unable to get inside the home.

SERVPRO of Kansas City / Midtown is Here to Help.

Without professional help, it’s often difficult to find a way to get mold out of the home or business. Ignoring the problem or attempting any DIY mold removal projects only makes the situation grow and become more expensive to fix.

"Mold growth in your commercial building is not a problem you want to ignore. You may not know a lot about mold or the remediation process that comes

7/12/2018 (Permalink)

Mold growth in your commercial building is not a problem you want to ignore. You may not know a lot about mold or the remediation process that comes after you discover that your property in KC, MO, has an issue. Here are some mold basics that can help you make faster decisions and thus save yourself time and money.

1. There is no such thing as a mold-free environment.

Mold spores are present in the air, particularly outside. They can come into your office or warehouse on worker's clothes and shoes, or they can simply blow in with the wind. The mold in the air is not the problem. Only when it settles and grows on surfaces is there an issue.

2. Mold growth often gives off a musty smell.

Mold can hide in walls and under floorboards, making it difficult to detect. One way to pinpoint the location of a patch of mold is to follow your nose. Mold gives off a musty, unpleasant odor.

3. Water damage and the situations that cause it are breeding grounds for mold.

Mold loves moisture. It cannot grow without it. One side effect of water damage caused by flooding or leaks is the increased potential for a mold problem.