Identifying Common Types of Household Mold: A Comprehensive Guide

10/23/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® is your trusted mold remediation company in the Lynn/Lynnfield area for any type growth that can be found.

Mold is a common issue in households, and it comes in various types and colors. Being able to identify the different types of household mold is crucial for effective remediation and understanding potential health risks. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore common types of household mold, their characteristics, where they are likely to appear, and the implications for your health.

1. Cladosporium:

• Appearance: Cladosporium is often olive-green, brown, or black and has a suede-like texture.
• Common Locations: This mold can be found on plants, in soil, and frequently in basements.
• Health Implications: It's known to trigger allergies and respiratory issues in some people.

2. Aspergillus:

• Appearance: Aspergillus is powdery and varies in color, including green, yellow, and white.
• Common Locations: It's found on decaying leaves, dust, and in air conditioning systems.
• Health Implications: Aspergillus can cause allergies and, in severe cases, lung infections.

3. Penicillium:

• Appearance: Penicillium is often blue or green and has a fuzzy texture.
• Common Locations: It's found on food, especially bread, and can grow on water-damaged materials in homes.
• Health Implications: Penicillium can trigger allergies and asthma in sensitive individuals.

4. Stachybotrys Chartarum (Black Mold):

• Appearance: Black mold is slimy and dark black or greenish-black in color.
• Common Locations: It thrives on water-damaged building materials, like drywall and wood.
• Health Implications: Black mold is associated with more severe health issues, including respiratory problems, skin irritation, and headaches.

5. Alternaria:

• Appearance: Alternaria is velvety-textured and is typically dark brown or black.
• Common Locations: It's found in damp areas like showers and around windows.
• Health Implications: Alternaria can cause allergic reactions and asthma in some people.

6. Fusarium:

• Appearance: Fusarium can be pink, white, or red and has a cottony texture.
• Common Locations: It's often found on water-damaged plants and in soil.
• Health Implications: Fusarium may cause skin and nail infections in some cases.

7. Aureobasidium:

• Appearance: Aureobasidium is dark brown to black and can have a suede-like texture.
• Common Locations: It's found on wooden surfaces, wallpaper, and painted surfaces.
• Health Implications: It may trigger allergies, particularly skin or eye irritation.

Conclusion:

Identifying common types of household mold is the first step in effectively managing mold issues in your home. While not all molds are equally harmful, it's essential to take mold seriously and address it promptly to prevent potential health risks. If you suspect mold in your home and are unsure of the type, consider consulting a professional for proper identification and remediation to maintain a healthy living environment.

Handling Commercial Sewage Loss

8/23/2023 (Permalink)

Handling a sewage loss in Downtown Lynn.

SERVPRO® offers specialized expertise in dealing with various types of property damage, including commercial sewage loss. When a commercial property experiences sewage backups, leaks, or other sewage-related issues, it can lead to significant health hazards and property damage. SERVPRO® has teams trained to handle these situations efficiently and safely. Here's how they typically approach commercial sewage loss scenarios:

1. Assessment: A team of SERVPRO® experts will assess the extent of the sewage damage. This involves evaluating the affected areas, identifying the source of the sewage problem, and assessing the potential risks to health and property.

2. Safety Measures: Dealing with sewage requires careful safety precautions. SERVPRO® teams will implement appropriate safety measures, such as wearing protective gear and isolating the affected areas to prevent the spread of contaminants.

3. Containment and Extraction: The next step involves containing the sewage-contaminated areas to prevent further spread. SERVPRO® will then use specialized equipment to extract standing sewage water and clean up the affected surfaces.

4. Cleaning and Sanitization: After the sewage water is removed, the affected areas need thorough cleaning and disinfection to eliminate bacteria, viruses, and potential pathogens. SERVPRO® uses professional-grade cleaning agents to ensure the area is properly sanitized.

5. Drying and Restoration: Once the cleaning process is complete, SERVPRO® will use industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers to thoroughly dry the area. Depending on the extent of damage, they may also conduct restoration work to repair or replace damaged materials.

6. Odor Removal: Sewage damage often comes with unpleasant odors. SERVPRO® has tools and techniques to address odor issues and ensure the affected area smells clean and fresh again.

7. Documentation: SERVPRO® provides detailed documentation of the entire process, including before-and-after photos, which is important for insurance claims and future reference.

8. Coordination: SERVPRO® works closely with property owners, insurance companies, and other relevant parties to ensure a smooth restoration process.

Commercial sewage loss can have serious implications for both health and business operations. By entrusting the restoration process to professionals like SERVPRO®, you can minimize the risks and get your commercial property back to a safe and functional state as quickly as possible.

Keep in mind that specific procedures may vary based on the nature of the sewage damage, the property type, and the local regulations. It's essential to reach out to professionals promptly to assess the situation and determine the appropriate course of action.

Restoration needs for the month of June

6/22/2023 (Permalink)

Our team is ready for anything!

In the month of June, some common restoration needs for residences can include:

1. Water Damage Restoration: June often marks the beginning of the rainy season in many regions. Heavy rainfall, storms, or plumbing issues can lead to water damage in homes, such as flooded basements, roof leaks, or burst pipes. Water damage restoration involves extracting water, drying the affected areas, and restoring any damaged structures or belongings.

2. Mold Remediation: Warm and humid weather in June can create an environment conducive to mold growth. If there has been excess moisture or water damage in a home, it can lead to mold infestation. Mold remediation involves identifying and addressing the source of moisture, removing mold colonies, and restoring the affected areas to a healthy condition.

3. Fire Damage Restoration: While fire incidents can happen at any time, certain activities like barbecues, bonfires, or firework displays during the summer months can increase the risk of fire-related accidents. Fire damage restoration includes cleaning up soot and smoke residue, repairing or rebuilding damaged structures, and restoring belongings affected by fire and water used to extinguish the fire.

4. Storm Damage Restoration: June may also bring severe weather conditions, including thunderstorms, hurricanes, or tornadoes, depending on the region. These events can cause significant damage to residential properties, including roof damage, structural issues, fallen trees, and flooding. Storm damage restoration involves assessing and repairing the damages caused by severe weather events.

5. HVAC System Maintenance: As temperatures rise in June, homeowners often rely on air conditioning systems to maintain a comfortable indoor environment. It's crucial to ensure that HVAC systems are functioning properly and well-maintained. Restoration services may include cleaning or repairing HVAC systems, ductwork, and vents, to ensure optimal performance and indoor air quality.

It's important to note that restoration needs can vary based on geographical location, climate, and individual circumstances. If you have a specific restoration requirement or concern, it's best to consult with professionals in your area who can assess the situation and provide appropriate recommendations and services.

How does SERVPRO save money for commercial clients?

4/24/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is a trusted resource and can save your business thousands in the event of an emergency.

SERVPRO is a professional cleaning and restoration company that can save money for commercial property owners in several ways:

1. Rapid Response: SERVPRO has a 24/7 emergency response team that can quickly assess the damage and begin the restoration process. The faster they can respond to a disaster, the less damage that will be done, and the lower the overall cost of restoration.

2. Mitigation: SERVPRO uses mitigation techniques to stop further damage from occurring. By addressing the damage quickly, they can prevent further damage and avoid more costly repairs.

3. Professional Equipment: SERVPRO has access to professional equipment that can help clean up the affected area quickly and efficiently. They use state-of-the-art equipment such as air movers, dehumidifiers, and specialized cleaning agents to restore the property to pre-disaster conditions.

4. Insurance Coordination: SERVPRO works with insurance companies to help property owners save money on restoration costs. They can help navigate the insurance claim process and provide documentation to support the claim.

5. Preventative Maintenance: SERVPRO also offers preventative maintenance services to commercial property owners. This can help prevent future disasters from occurring and save property owners money in the long run.

In summary, SERVPRO can save commercial property owners money by responding quickly to emergencies, using mitigation techniques, utilizing professional equipment, coordinating with insurance companies, and offering preventative maintenance services.

HVAC Decontamination

4/11/2023 (Permalink)

Call on SERVPRO to clean your duct systems!

HVAC systems (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) can become contaminated with various types of pollutants, including dust, mold, and bacteria. SERVPRO of Lynn/Lynnfield provides HVAC cleanup and decontamination services to improve indoor air quality and prevent health hazards.

Their HVAC cleanup and decontamination process typically includes:

1. Inspection: Their technicians will inspect the HVAC system to assess the extent of the contamination and determine the best approach for cleaning and decontamination.

2. Containment: They will isolate the HVAC system to prevent contamination from spreading to other areas of the property during the cleaning process.

3. Cleaning: They will use specialized equipment and cleaning products to remove contaminants from the HVAC system, including ducts, vents, and air handlers.

4. Sanitizing: They will sanitize the cleaned surfaces to kill any remaining bacteria or mold spores and prevent future growth.

5. Deodorizing: They will use odor removal techniques to eliminate any unpleasant smells that may have resulted from the contamination.

6. Restoration: If necessary, they will repair or replace any damaged HVAC components to restore the system to proper functioning.

Overall, SERVPRO's HVAC cleanup and decontamination services are designed to improve indoor air quality, reduce the risk of health hazards, and help ensure a healthy living environment. If you suspect that your HVAC system is contaminated, it's important to address the issue promptly to prevent further contamination and health risks.

Emergency Plans for Commercial Clients

3/29/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO's ERP is an essential tool for commercial clients in the Lynn area!

SERVPRO is a company that provides disaster restoration and cleaning services for both residential and commercial properties. One of the ways SERVPRO helps businesses prepare for emergencies is through their Emergency Ready Plan (ERP).

The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Plan is a comprehensive document that helps businesses prepare for disasters before they occur. The ERP provides businesses with a step-by-step guide on how to respond in the event of an emergency. Here are some of the key elements of the SERVPRO ERP for commercial businesses:

1. Assessment: The first step in the ERP process is to conduct an assessment of the business. This includes identifying potential risks and hazards, as well as evaluating the company's current emergency preparedness plan.

2. Plan Development: Based on the assessment, SERVPRO works with the business to develop a customized emergency response plan. This plan includes important information such as emergency contacts, evacuation routes, and key personnel who will be responsible for implementing the plan.

3. Communication: Communication is a critical component of any emergency response plan. The ERP includes instructions on how to communicate with employees, customers, and vendors in the event of an emergency.

4. Training: SERVPRO provides training to the key personnel identified in the plan, as well as other employees, on how to respond in the event of an emergency.

5. Documentation: The ERP includes important documentation such as emergency contact information, insurance information, and building plans.

6. Ongoing Maintenance: The SERVPRO ERP is not a one-time event. The company provides ongoing maintenance and updates to ensure that the plan remains current and effective.

Overall, the SERVPRO Emergency Ready Plan is a comprehensive and customizable plan that helps businesses prepare for emergencies. By working with SERVPRO, businesses can be confident that they are ready to respond quickly and effectively in the event of a disaster.

Five Focuses on Lynn Fire Damage Restoration

8/5/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO's goal is to restore your fire damaged Lynn home to its pre-damaged condition, "Like it never even happened."

Fire Damage Recovery Happens in Set Stages

Despite variables like the type of material affected and the size of the damaged areas, fire recovery is similar from one instance to another. Understanding the objectives and focal point of the responding team keeps homeowners more at ease with each phase and its expected timelines. From the time we are first notified of a disaster, we can move quickly to help in these five main areas:

• Emergency Services
• Mitigation
• Soot Removal and Cleaning
• Deodorization
• Repairs and Reconstruction

It is crucial after Lynn fire damage to get professionals on-site as fast as possible. Any disaster continues to worsen after exposure. We have stocked trailers and production vehicles at our facility to help throughout the Greater Lynn area, so we can enter a building as soon as possible after first responders have deemed it safe to do so.

Early Emergency Services

Because it is important to act fast with mitigation solutions, we arrive quickly to implement specific actions that can help. Often, these processes precede focused inspections and any insurance repair work. This phase of our recovery combines the knowledge of our restoration experts and the experience of our contractors. The union becomes a series of actions to improve later recovery times through efforts like:

• Temporary Construction
• Debris Removal
• Water Removal

Mitigating Loss After Fire Damage

Mitigation is among the critical elements of restoration and recovery. These are the earlier actions that our professionals can take to begin fact-finding about the damage for insurance claims purposes and removing glaring issues that could make the restoration process unsafe for our team or slower to complete. Some of these focal points include:

• Content Relocation
• Air Quality Improvement
• Controlled Demolition

Removing Soot Damage

One of the more formidable obstacles to removing fire and smoke damage effects from the property is eliminating soot residues on the surfaces. Partial combustion thrusts soot particles through the air, many of which rest on horizontal surfaces. Depending on the damage condition, from wet and dry smoke to furnace puff backs, the strategy of surface cleaning changes. We rely on alkaline cleaners, solvents, detergents, and other products to clear the outermost layers of affected items from soot. More aggressive measures like media blasting are also needed when the damage extends beyond the surface.

Addressing Fire Damage Malodors

Another one of the primary objectives of complete fire restoration and recovery is the removal and neutralization of malodors in the house. Not only must our professionals manage overwhelming open-air smells, but they must also deal with trapped scents in porous materials and imaginary odors (phantosmia.) Each of these requires a unique strategy, but SERVPRO can remove the actual smells with a combination of fogging, UV cleaning, and ozone.

Fire Damage Repairs Needed

Very few fire incidents do not require some type of repair, so this is the fifth and often final focus of the restoration process. Our team can resolve structural concerns and provide temporary construction, controlled demolition, and other build-back services with a general contractor license. If requested, we can even utilize the bare conditions after demolition to provide remodeling and renovation services as the assemblies get reconstructed.

When contending with Lynn fire damage threats, it is imperative to have a team of professionals capable of helping you from start to finish. Our SERVPRO of Lynn / Lynnfield team combines experienced FSRT-Certified technicians and experienced general contractors to provide a full-service solution for post-fire recovery. Call us after a fire at (781) 593-6663.

Providing Efficient Restoration for Lynn Water Damage

8/5/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO techs have the equipment for rapid water damage mitigation in Lynn.

Several Steps for Water Damage Recovery in Lynn

Cleaning up after water disasters is often more complex than homeowners realize. Despite the desire to perform DIY restoration, property owners do not have the sophisticated tools and the restoration experience to manage the full scope of the work necessary.

Rapid responses are critical because Lynn water damage scenarios can quickly spread and impact new portions of households and businesses. As the largest unit of our restoration team, we have WRT-Certified technicians ready to mobilize with our Green Fleet of vehicles shortly after the first notice of loss (FNOL). Mitigative priorities include:

• Water Removal Services – Standing surface water must be removed promptly to prevent further saturation and absorption into sensitive building materials. 
• Controlled Demolition – Sagging drywall and bulk materials must be removed.
• Content Management – SERVPRO professionals can relocate contents to a safe place on-site or our warehouse for drying and cleaning.

Extraction for Water Damage

Because water removal services are vital to the mitigation process, customers need to recognize the tools involved. Our team utilizes a combination of pumps and vacuums to extract and discharge standing water from the residence.

The Tools of Effective Drying

Drying is the essential element of every water restoration project. Water damage must be resolved on surfaces and trapped in building materials, and our drying equipment provides the most efficient path to achieve this. Some of our most heavily used machines and instruments include:

• Air Movers – High-velocity blowers that push warm, dry air against damp surfaces. 
• Drying Mats – Using drying mats pulls moisture to the outermost surface layer of wood plank flooring using capillary suction.
• Heaters – Increasing the temperature allows drying and cleaning strategies to happen faster. 
• Dehumidifiers –  to pull moisture out of the environment after evaporation. 

Surface Cleaning Strategies

After drying up most of the damage, residues and soils are still a threat to the exposed materials. This residual damage is especially true after conditions like flooding. Some of the most heavily soiled and damaged elements in the house are carpeted floors. We use bonnet cleaning and potent cleaning products along with it to restore the colorfastness of these fibrous floors and prevent permanent staining or discoloration.

Mold Prevention Approaches

Where there is water, there is a possibility for mold growth. Damp surfaces and conditions in areas of the house that persist for more than a couple of days have likely been exposed to residential mold spores. With naturally occurring microorganisms in every environment, mold colonization is only waiting for the appropriate conditions to facilitate a colony. We treat surfaces in the area with inhibiting products and work to keep the work areas below the humidity thresholds (about 55-60%) to support mold organisms.

Are Water Damage Repairs Needed?

While many do not always consider the structural damage that water disasters can cause, this is one of the focal points of the full-service solutions our SERVPRO team provides. We understand that there are likely vulnerabilities that exist after prolonged moisture damage, including the needed repairs to elements like the plumbing system, if still a problem. We carefully determine the extent of build-back services necessary after restoration and begin implementing these actions as soon as possible to save customers time and money.

Lynn water damage incidents make up the bulk of our service calls, so it is a situation that we must always be prepared to face. We prioritize keeping drying equipment and extractors stocked on our Green Fleet vehicles for a fast mobilization when disasters strike. Give our SERVPRO of Lynn / Lynnfield team a call when you need us at (781) 593-6663.

Remediating and Restoring Lynn Mold Damage

8/5/2022 (Permalink)

When mold remediation and build back are needed for your Lynn area home, call SERVPRO.

Is Mold Damage Common for Lynn Homes

Damaging weather systems of snow and rain combined with frequent humid conditions make the Greater Lynn area susceptible to threats. Many homeowners have likely experienced mold in their property’s lifetime, especially in lower levels like cellars and basements. While mold can form in just about any area, it is mostly seen in:

• Attics
• Basements
• Kitchens
• Crawlspaces
• Bathrooms

Experienced remediators get dispatched to help with Lynn mold damage when these problems arise. Through combined efforts of mold removal and the cutting-edge equipment and products used to combat these disasters, our SERVPRO team can rapidly manage the cleanup, restoration, and remediation of active colonization.

What Makes Mold Threatening?

Part of the reason mold is underestimated and overlooked as a threat to the property is that many do not fully appreciate potential damage to the residence. Mold development is a threat to the structural integrity of the hosting materials and could continue to worsen the longer conditions go unchallenged.

Containing the Work Area

Our professionals can take early actions to help after mold and microbial threats by erecting containment barriers. By combining polyethylene sheeting, tension poles, wooden framework, and other components, we can successfully eliminate pathways of spores to new areas. We also cover HVAC returns and vents, keeping the ductwork from becoming a new passage for spore activity.

Mold Remediation Approaches

There is no universal remediation approach, so the same methods do not work in every household experiencing mold development. The preferred and least invasive option is our surface cleaning solution using antimicrobial products in our inventory to neutralize or eliminate mold activity on the surface of hosting materials. This option only affects the outermost layer, however. More abrasive cleaning might be necessary in many cases, involving mechanical actions like sanding or soda blasting. It is only when there is no suitable solution that options like controlled demolition are considered.

Overcoming Moisture Threats

The same general contractor license that gets used to implement the needed controlled demolition benefits other areas of the remediation process. Because prolonged moisture exposure is the primary contributor to mold development, it is essential to take the necessary time to implement strategies to prevent recurrences. For warding off future mold damage, our SERVPRO team

• Resolves plumbing leaks
• Repairs to structural damage
• Seals openings
• Installs proper ventilation

Lingering Odors After Mold Damage

One of the more challenging aspects of remediation for our professionals is addressing odors that result from spreading colonies. Volatile organic compounds are produced by active organisms, creating musty odors that overwhelm the immediate area. In most cases, this same strong smell can help initially identify problems in your home, even if you cannot see them. Our SERVPRO IICRC-certified AMRT technicians have multiple deodorization practices to help neutralize odor compounds, like foggers and hydroxyl generators.

Are Mold Damage Repairs Necessary?

It is difficult to experience mold development in a home or business that does not require some repairs. Fungal activity may be enough to require controlled demolition, but there is the added focus on the vulnerabilities that allow moisture to persist. With this repair capability in our ranks, you do not have to wait to complete the full remediation processes and return to normal living conditions.

Lynn mold damage can impact many separate areas, making it important to have a thorough and complete evaluation when remediation first begins. Our SERVPRO of Lynn / Lynnfield team is ready to respond fast with skilled professionals, state-of-the-art equipment, and potent antimicrobial products to help. Call us now at (781) 593-6663.

Cleaning Up Fire Damage to Lynn Office Buildings

8/4/2022 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO to effectively tackle the fire damage in your property. Call now!

Reaching Pre-Fire Damage Condition

After a fire, damages can widely impact your office building. Mitigation must begin immediately to start returning the property to preloss condition. Early inspections can help steer needed recovery work. 

Job Scoping Helps Focus Restoration

SERVPRO must restore fire damage in Lynn offices quickly. Job scoping inspections use several inputs to create a complete restoration plan:

• Customer Input: The best way to return to original conditions is by understanding the state of the office before the incident. Property management can help.

• Visible and Trackable Damage: Tracking the migration of fire losses shows where restoration is needed now and where it will be required soon.

• Damaged Contents: Inspections determine how damaged contents, furniture, and other objects in the office have become.

What Are Pre-Damaged Conditions?

The term pre-damaged condition refers to the condition of the office before the fire. A common misconception is that restoration is intended to improve the overall shape of this impacted property beyond its original state, but this could be costlier and more challenging for the business beyond what is necessary.

Cleaning and Restoring Damaged Surfaces

Soot and smoke solids are a common byproduct of combustion, impacting many surfaces and contents throughout the office. From desks and shelves to heaps of debris on the carpeted flooring, restoring damaged surfaces is one of the direct measures to recover the property. We have several cleaning agents to help trap soils and allow for effective wet wipe cleaning.

Completing Structural Repair

The preloss condition can also mean repairing portions of the structure compromised by the fire. Combustion can completely engulf certain building materials, especially thin wall assemblies of the office. After cleaning up the debris and bulk materials, SERVPRO will replace these drywall panels and other construction elements. 

The objective of fire restoration and cleanup for your office building is to return the structure to preloss condition. Our SERVPRO of Lynn / Lynnfield professionals can start this work as soon as we arrive. Call now at (781) 593-6663.