3 Ways Rain Affects Mold

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

The presence of moisture supports mold growth.

You may notice an increased reaction to the presence of mold after rain in Tulsa, OK. The effects of this natural phenomenon may be exacerbated if black mold or another potentially toxigenic species is present in a residence. Here are three effects of rain on fungi.

1. Rain Supplies Moisture
Rain is an important part of the natural water cycle. Precipitation replenishes moisture levels and provides one of two components necessary for mold spores to settle down and start to grow on surfaces that provide a food source. It is important to address any indoor moisture problem, as it can make mold growth more likely.

2. Moisture Stimulates Growth
A combination of water and nutriment from plant cellulose in building materials and other sources can support indoor mold growth. Spores present everywhere in the air will determine whether the fungus that grows is a toxigenic black mold, also known as Stachybotrys Chartarum, or another species. There are anywhere from tens to hundreds of thousands of species of mold, and professional sampling and lab analysis are necessary to identify any fungus.

3. Rain Worsens Mold
Once mold has started growing, rain can replenish moisture levels through a leak or cause indoor humidity levels to rise. It will be necessary to fix leaks prior to scheduling mold cleanup. Homeowners may also need to take preventative measures to control indoor moisture levels, such as running a dehumidifier in mold-prone areas after remediation is complete.

The presence of moisture supports mold growth. You may notice an increased reaction to the spores and microbial volatile organic compounds fungi produces during the growth cycle, particularly if black mold or another toxigenic species is growing at a residence in Tulsa, OK. Homeowners should rely on professionals to provide mold cleanup services and identify ways in which the conditions in a structure can be adjusted to prevent fungal growth.

Remediation May Save Your Artwork

9/26/2019 (Permalink)

When it comes to delicate artwork, mold remediation in this sense often requires gentle diligent work

If your home in Burning Tree, OK shows signs of mold growth, your may think you will have to toss all your precious memorabilia, artwork and other personal treasures. While in some cases, such as flooding, that may be the best option, if caught quickly, mold cleaning may allow you to salvage your belongings.

Where Did the Mold Come From?

While it’s easy to figure out how the problem occurred if you have experienced some type of flooding and belongings are near the floodwaters, if your mold damage occurs on a painting hanging on the wall, you may be taken aback at how that is even possible. Mold requires moisture to grow, but sometimes that moisture isn’t always noticeable. Signs of potential hidden mold may include:

• Lingering musky odors in areas with no visible water damage.
  
• Wall paint is cracked, peeling, discolored or bulging.
  
• Homes with previous water damage may still be harboring mold.
  
  

Can Paintings Be Cleaned?

A mold cleaning professional is the best place to start to access mold damage. If mold is caught quickly, you can eliminate its ability to spread. When it comes to delicate artwork, mold remediation in this sense often requires gentle diligent work.

It is important to remember that different types of paintings will require different approaches. Durable oil paintings may not react well with certain chemicals. Acrylics and watercolors are easier to damage. Whether it is on canvas, paper or hardboard also need to be considered. Tips to remember before the cleaning process include:

• Plastic or cloth coverings should be immediately removed to allow the painting to dry and reduce mold growth.
  
• If framed, remove the artwork and clean the frame and glass. For canvas prints, inspect and clean the stretcher while avoiding touching the actual painting.
  
• Based on the type of painting, cleaning methods will differ. Dry mold can be carefully brushed off, but may leave spores. Some kind of cleaning agent will need to be used. Once you’ve determined the best solution, test an area to ensure no further damage occurs.
  
  

While mold cleaning on priceless treasures can be tedious, salvaging them is worth the effort. If you aren’t uncomfortable or unsure how to approach the task, there are experts that are Here to Help.

Finally, An Explanation for Why Mold Smells Musty

7/24/2019 (Permalink)

Musty odor in your business?

One of the first indicators of mold growth that any building owner or occupant gets is the smell. If you've been around mold before — which, chances are, you have — then you know that mold has a musty odor. But why is this? The simple answer: Mycotoxin components.
When mold eats, grows and reproduces, it releases Microbial Volatile Organic Components. The mold releases a mixture of these chemicals as it grows, much like animals release gasses as they eat and develop. In fact, at the risk of sounding immature, many industry professionals refer to these gasses as "mold farts."

How To Identify Mold

So, you detect a musty smell, but how can you tell if it's mold? Generally, the smell of mold is unpleasant, with many likening it to the following:

• A wet towel
  
• Wet socks
  
• Rotten wood
  
• Deteriorating paper
  
  

Of course, the particular smell of the growth in your building will vary depending on the type of fungus present. Every mold releases a unique mycotoxin mixture. Some mixtures has a more acetone-based odor, while others exude a camphor-like smell. Other terms commonly used to describe certain molds include nutty, herbaceous or even fatty. One type of MVOC releases an odor that smells very similar to fermenting alcohol.

What To Do When You Smell Mold

If you do detect a musty odor in your building, the best thing you can do is contact a Jenks, OK, mold remediation specialist. In the meantime, run a HEPA air filtration device to rid the environment of excess moisture and to remove any mycotoxin components. Doing this can help restore your air quality and ensure you and other building occupants don't have to live with the musty smell. When your mold remediation team arrives, it will assess the damage, eliminate the growth and begin to restore both your building and damaged belongings. As an added bonus, the dirty sock smell will be gone for good.

Mold Damage Emergency Tips You Need

3/8/2019 (Permalink)

Black mold can disrupt the structural integrity of your house, making it difficult to keep it in good order, unless you can mitigate the destruction.

Mold Damage Emergency Tips You Need

Household mold can be a real concern, especially if you should ever suffer from an emergency at your Woodland Hills, OK home that leads to water damage and mold growth. Black mold can disrupt the structural integrity of your house, making it difficult to keep it in good order - unless you can mitigate the destruction quickly. Here are three tips to follow in case of a mold emergency at home.

1. Turn Off Your Water Supply

The longer you leave water run after you have noticed mold - especially at or near the affected area - the greater the chance that your moisture problem will become difficult to manage. Turn off your home’s water supply as soon as you discover mold growth.

2. Stop All HVAC Systems

Did you know that airflow can spread destructive black mold spores throughout your home? Because of this, it is important to turn off air conditioners, heating systems and even fans when mold is present to prevent further damage.

3. Seek Professional Cleanup Help

As soon as you have taken preliminary steps to stop mold migration, contact a trusted local residential mold remediation company. Professional mold cleanup crews know how serious mold damage can be, and will work quickly to find a solution that will help save and restore your home and personal property - many can even come to your home on an emergency basis.

Water damage is stressful for any homeowner - a black mold discovery can make it even more so. If you ever find yourself facing a disaster such as this, it is best to let the professionals on the scene handle cleanup and let them know about your questions and concerns along the way. Most Woodland Hills, OK cleanup technicians are highly trained and experienced, and know what to do to alleviate your concerns so you do not have to make stressful decisions during an emotional time.

What to do with mold before help arrives?

2/20/2019 (Permalink)

South Tulsa County mold damage kitchen

Mold Problems in Your Home or Business

In as little as 48 hours, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business when there’s a water intrusion, like a roof leak or leaking water line. Mold can cause health effects and can also cause significant damage to your property. SERVPRO of South Tulsa County has the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem.

If you have a mold problem in your home or business, consider the following facts:

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

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of South Tulsa County for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

If you have any questions about Mold, do not hesitate to contact us directly. 

Moisture is A Common Source of Mold

2/20/2019 (Permalink)

Mold can grow quickly after water damage

Mold Damage Tulsa

A source of mold growth can be found in wood and cotton as well as drywall, which is extremely susceptible to long-term moisture retention if not allowed to dry out.

Moisture

Moisture is the key element for mold growth. Roughly 50-55% humidity triggers mold propagation like a jump start on a car battery. Indoor humidity and moisture increases in rain season. 

Pipe leaks, drywall fissures and wall cracks and gaps all act as channels by which mold spreads.

Mold damage is the specific term for mold proliferation when it has spread to the stage its toxicity is affecting living persons and pets. Mold damage requires immediate attention and can involve structural repairs and replacement of critical areas that cannot be cleaned. Treatment involves drywall and wood replacement, moisture reduction and elimination, bleach and fungicide applications and painting.

Unchecked mold damage is responsible for toxic components called mycotoxins. 

If moisture and mold problems present themselves in your home, they need to be addressed as soon as possible. A Tulsa-based professional mold remediation outfit is fully equipped for business and residential mold abatement. 

Are Home Mold Testing Kits Accurate?

1/21/2019 (Permalink)

Look for a professional tester in you Bixby, OK town.

Homeowners may consider using home mold testing kits due to the comparatively low cost of these tests relative to professional testing and analysis. There are several reasons why expert testing is more accurate and useful. Learn more about the shortcomings of DIY mold tests and why it is worth it to seek the services of a certified environmental hygienist or full-service mold restoration company in Bixby, OK .

False Positives

Home mold tests vary in sensitivity. Many tests are prone to return positive results for several reasons:

•  Mold spores are everywhere
  
•  Some kits are not properly calibrated
  
•  Results may be ambiguous

A home mold testing kit may react to the presence of spores without factoring in whether microbial volatile organic compounds are present. These off-gases are released during the active growth cycle of fungi and indicate that mold is actively growing.

Inaccurate Species Identification

Most home mold tests are not precise enough to identify the species of mold. It is not possible to make a positive identification based on color. Black mold or Stachybotrys is actually dark green early in the growth cycle. As there are more than 100,000 known species of mold, lab testing is necessary to obtain an accurate identification.

No Expert Opinions

Environmental hygienists and mold specialists can offer informed opinions throughout the professional testing and remediation process. Insight into the following factors may be helpful:

• The location of mold growth
  
• Potential causes
• Whether a species of mold is toxigenic

All of these factors will impact the type of cleaning methods and equipment necessary to remediate mold damage. Remediation may be more affordable and successful if expert knowledge is available.

A home mold kit may be affordable in Bixby, OK , but it is unlikely to be as accurate as professional testing. Homeowners should put the money they might spend on attempts at DIY mold tests toward expert mold testing and remediation that can fix the problem "Like It Never Even Happened."

Comparing and Contrasting Mold and Mildew

9/9/2018 (Permalink)

Generally speaking, materials that have sustained mold damage will not be salvageable because the infiltration is not superficial.

As any homeowner in Tulsa, OK, can attest, the unwelcome appearance of mold and mildew might be a matter of when, not if. Both can proliferate in many environments, needing only moisture and nutrition to colonize quickly. And while they share many similarities, there are some significant differences in how to remediate them once they’ve taken up residence. Mold damage is typically more serious than mildew.

Fungi Unknown Facts

There are roughly 100,000 known types of fungi throughout the world, and some are not only beneficial but also delicious, such as mushrooms. What makes them unique from other types of plants is that they digest their nutrition externally before absorbing it. Both mold and mildew are fungi and can thrive on porous materials found in homes such as:

• Paper
• Wood
• Walls
• Insulation
• Fabric

Mildew Versus Mold

Mildew is white, whereas mold can take on many colors, including red, green, blue, orange and black, depending on species. Because mildew stays on the surface of the material on which it grows, removing it can be simple if the surface can be scrubbed with a cleaning solution in a well-ventilated area. Mildew can be thought of as a nuisance and a benign indication that there is too much moisture collecting in a given area.

Mold damage, on the other hand, infiltrates porous surfaces that have been exposed to excessive humidity or water, and it is more challenging to remediate. It is best to allow professionals to step in and make an assessment. The first step is to identify the source of moisture and address it. Materials like wallpaper and drywall are likely to require replacement. Once the mold growth has been removed, there are products on the market that inhibit regrowth, such as specially treated drywall and paints.

Generally speaking, materials that have sustained mold damage will not be salvageable because the infiltration is not superficial. Keeping a home as dry as possible can inhibit mold and mildew growth. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROsouthtulsacounty.com/.

When Nature Becomes an Art Critic

5/21/2018 (Permalink)

Mold cleaning is difficult when it comes to a prized piece of artwork.

When mold begins to overtake your paintings, it can feel like nature is criticizing your taste in art. What’s actually happening, though, is that the paint – particularly in older paintings – and canvas are fertile breeding grounds and food for mold to devour, and the climate in Tulsa, OK, may even be contributing to that. So is it possible to save your paintings with mold remediation and mold cleaning, or are they lost forever to the ravages of time and mold damage?

You Can Save It – But Stay Away from Chemicals and Water

Your first instinct may be to attack your paintings with bleach and soapy water. This can ruin your paintings even worse than the mold. Acrylics are water-soluble and will begin to dissolve; oils can react poorly with bleach and other chemicals. You might save the canvas, but you’ll lose the art. Cleaning a painting suffering from mold damage is a delicate process involving:

• Dry brushing. A soft bristle brush can be used to dry brush and remove multiple types of mold, although one should be gentle.
• A mild mix of alcohol and water applied only to the back of the painting; applying to the front can dissolve the paint.
• Careful wiping with a barely-dampened cloth with water and no chemicals. Don’t use a cloth wet enough to cause damage to the paint.
• Sunning to destroy the mold. Be delicate with this, as sun exposure can also ruin paintings. Use sunlight as a deterrent in short periods before returning to cleaning with dry brush methods again.

Prevention Is the Best Measure

Mold cleaning is difficult when it comes to a prized piece of artwork. While some can be restored, it’s better to avoid altogether by preventing mold exposure with your precious art. Keep your art stored in a cool, dry place above any normal flood levels for your area. If necessary, contact art preservation specialists about mold cleaning and prevention. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROsouthtulsacounty.com/.

How To Spot Mold Growth In Your Office

4/26/2018 (Permalink)

Mold growth in commercial buildings is a serious issue.

Mold growth in commercial buildings is a serious issue. While the cleanup and repair costs can be tremendous, the cost and inconvenience of potentially having to move out of the building for a period of time can be far greater. Even in instances of mold smell, most encounters with mold are after it’s had the opportunity to grow and become visible. However, there are ways you can spot mold growth before it gets out of hand.

A Strange Smell

Although mold can grow in your walls for a while before you see it, there are instances when the mold smell is obvious before the stains show up. For example, if you notice a persistent, rotting or fungus smell in a particular section of your office, then the culprit is likely mold.

Moisture Exposure

If your building was affected by any of the flooding in Tulsa, OK, then it’s likely to experience mold growth. In this case, even before you smell anything, mold may start to gain traction in the affected areas. Similarly, if there’s a leak in an area of your building, then mold can certainly begin to take form.

Light Discoloration

Before your walls turn totally green or black, you may notice some slight darkening initially. This is also a possible sign of mold growth that should be investigated further.

In either of these cases, you should not attempt to determine the severity or clean up the mold yourself as it may not be limited to what you see. You should contact a mold cleanup specialist who can properly identify the entirety of the growth. Even if the mold can’t be seen or the mildew smell isn’t present, the specialist can use an infrared thermal camera to detect the presence and level of moisture in your walls. With this information, the specialist can make a proper recommendation for safe cleanup.

Mold smell in commercial buildings should not be taken lightly. Overlooking it or using traditional cleanup measures may lead to bigger problems down the line. It’s best to contact a specialist early on who can complete a thorough assessment and recommend a safe solution. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROsouthtulsacounty.com/water-damage-restoration. 

Who Thinks Mold Is Interesting?

3/27/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial water removal and mold clean up job in the Stillwater area.

To most people who are not scientists, mold is a dark and nasty, black substance that seems to come out of thin air and makes keeping your bathroom clean nearly impossible. Generally, mold does not seem interesting or even a welcome subject to study but merely something to destroy when armed with gloves and bleach. However, the art of mold cleaning may require a little testing to see just what you are up against. A certified industrial hygienist actually takes an interest in mold and has the job of determining just what kind it is. If you have any concerns or questions about your mold invasion, you can contact a mold remediation specialist in Tulsa, OK.

Who Are These Masked Scientists?

Well, of course they are wearing a mask. They are dealing with mold. Only these specialists are trained to determine if the air you breathe and the environment around you is safe. They are concerned with the public and any technicians or workers who may be dealing with the mold cleaning project. Their job is to fight mold using the following methods:

• Taking samples of the surfaces and air where mold is evident
• Examining the samples under a microscope
• Performing readings to determine the type of mold and its effect on people who have come in contact with it

Where Do You Find These Mold Adversaries?

Although it may not always be necessary to have a certified industrial hygienist run tests when there is mold damage, there are specific times when their expertise is of great benefit. Many mold remediation companies rely on certified industrial hygienists when performing assessments following water damage or when a microbial presence is discovered. Their training and professional assessment are beneficial in determining the safety of the environment.

While you may not want to give mold cleaning a second thought, when this substance seeps into your life, it’s good to know there are skilled people who understand its effect on your surroundings. Certified industrial hygienists know just what they are looking for and how to protect your quality of life. Visit http://www.SERVPROsouthtulsacounty.com for more information on mold. 

1 Question You Should Ask About Mold

2/21/2018 (Permalink)

Whether constant high humidity or surprise water damage leads to mold growth in your Tulsa, OK, business, you likely are left with a few questions about mold and the cleanup process. Check out these frequently asked questions to learn more about mold and the remediation procedure to make sure you are comfortable when the commercial mold remediation experts come to your aid.

How Can Mold Show Up in a Building?

Spores can be found floating in the air everywhere. Whether indoors or outdoors, it is completely natural for there to be mold spores. When spores find the right environment, they land and start growing into fungus. Mold may be more prone to show up in your building if you have an environment that is primarily:

• Dark
• Humid
• Warm

Spores often enter a building through windows, doors and vents.

For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROsouthtulsacounty.com.

What Is the Difference Between Remediation and Removal?

2/15/2018 (Permalink)

Remediation is a cleanup process that gets mold back to natural levels.

Removal, on the other hand, often claims to get rid of all mold. Because there is a naturally occurring amount of mold in the air, complete removal is actually impossible.

Does All Water Damage Lead to Mold Growth?

Water problems do not have to lead to mold. However, because the fungus prefers a moist environment, burst pipes, flooding and other water issues often are precursors to mold problems. Being quick to mitigate water buildup may reduce your chances of having to deal with mold.

How Can You Tell If You're Dealing With Black Mold?

Black mold can easily be confused with other fungus variations. In order to know what you are really dealing with, you may have to have a trained mold specialist come into your facility to assess the growth. Once you know what is there, your remediation team will be able to make a plan specific to the mold you have growing in your building.

Mold growth can start for a lot of reasons. If you have high humidity, water damage problems or a warm area, you may be more prone to dealing with the arrival of fungus.

For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROsouthtulsacounty.com.

Mitigating the Spread of Mold 

2/15/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding Causes Mold Damage

Because it might be a while before help arrives to assist you with taking care of flood damage and the mold that can result, business owners should know what steps to take to mitigate damage and risk. One of the first is to shut off the electricity to prevent accidental shocks and injuries. All valuable items and equipment should be moved to a safe, dry space, and standing water should be cleared out as much as possible to further prevent the growth and spread of mold. Finally, it’s a good idea to take pictures of the resulting damage. Insurance companies will need such evidence when it’s time to file a claim.

Keeping mold growth and the spread of bacteria at bay is much easier when you have the right information. Be sure to put the above tips to good use if your commercial building has standing water due to recent flooding. 

Visit http://www.SERVPROsouthtulsacounty.com for more information on storm damage.

Preventing Mold Damage After Flooding

11/29/2017 (Permalink)

If your business was in the path of a recent powerful storm that resulted in flooding, it’s essential you address mold growth well before it happens. It’s a fact that mold can start to grow between 24 and 48 hours after flooding, which means you have to act quickly. Learn how business owners in Tulsa, OK can work with professionals to take care of standing water, bacteria and everything else that can result from the various issues related to flooding. 

Handling Mold the Right Way

Before responding to mold problems, it’s a good idea to first understand just how mold works. Useful facts related to mold include

Windows, doors and vents are prime entryways for mold spores, which are microscopic.
Humidity levels of more than 45 percent act as a trigger for the growth of mold.
Mold is easily identifiable by its pungent, musty odor.

It’s best to take care of all water damage and flooding before enacting a mold remediation plan, otherwise, mold growth is likely to continue unchecked.

Visit http://www.SERVPROsouthtulsacounty.com for more information on storm damage.

Tulsa Mold Damage

11/21/2017 (Permalink)

Mold forms in nearly any condition where moisture is consistently present. Superficial problems left unaddressed can become virtual petri dishes for mold proliferation. For example, attics are dark environments. Sunlight kills bacteria, and the complete absence of light provides an optimal environment for mold to expand. 

Common conditions that contribute to mold growth in a home, bathroom or office, such as:

• Oxygen (air)
• Darkness
• Mold spores
• Moisture
• Warmth

Attics are warm or even hot during summers in arid climates. These two conditions allow mold to spread rapidly. 24-48 hours is usually sufficient. An air conditioning evaporative coil leak in the attic that is not remedied will lead directly to mold growth.

A Tulsa-based professional mold remediation outfit is fully equipped for business and residential mold abatement.