Mold from Water Damage: What South Miami Homeowners Need to Know

12/2/2024 (Permalink)

Water damage is a homeowner's worst nightmare, and if not addressed promptly, it can lead to an even bigger issue—mold growth. SERVPRO of South Miami is Here to Help® you understand the connection between water damage and mold, and what you can do to protect your home.

How Water Damage Leads to Mold Growth

Mold thrives in damp environments. When water damage occurs—whether from flooding, plumbing leaks, or storm damage—moisture can seep into walls, flooring, and other materials, creating the perfect conditions for mold to grow. In as little as 24 to 48 hours, mold spores can begin to colonize, spreading quickly and potentially causing health effects and structural damage.

What You Need to Know About Mold After Water Damage

• Time Is of the Essence: Mold growth begins fast, so addressing water damage quickly is critical. If you suspect water damage, contact a professional immediately to assess and mitigate the issue.
• DIY Isn’t Enough: Mold spores are microscopic and easily spread, making it difficult to remove them completely without professional help. Attempting DIY mold cleanup may make the problem worse.
• It’s Not Just About Surface Cleanup: Mold often grows where you can't see it—behind walls, under flooring, or in HVAC systems. Professional mold remediation ensures all hidden mold is removed.
• Health and Safety First: Mold can cause health effects. Hiring a certified remediation team ensures proper containment and cleanup, keeping your family safe.

How SERVPRO of South Miami Can Help

At SERVPRO of South Miami, we specialize in both water damage restoration and mold remediation. When you call us, you can trust that our trained professionals will:

• Remove standing water and dry affected areas to prevent mold growth.
• Use advanced techniques and equipment to detect hidden moisture and mold.
• Contain and remove mold colonies safely and effectively.
• Restore your property to its pre-damage condition, "Like it never even happened."

Call SERVPRO of South Miami for Expert Mold Remediation

Contact us today! Our team is available 24/7 to respond to water damage and mold emergencies. Don’t wait—address water damage and mold issues now to protect your home and your family’s health.

About SERVPRO of South Miami

SERVPRO of South Miami specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial properties after fire, water, or mold damage. Our certified technicians are highly trained and equipped with advanced tools to handle even the toughest remediation jobs.

Certifications:

• Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
• Water Damage Restoration Technician 
• IICRC Certified Firm

Don’t let mold take over your home. Call SERVPRO of South Miami for professional mold remediation today!

Are At Home Mold Tests Reliable?

12/2/2024 (Permalink)

When homeowners suspect mold in their home, they often consider using at-home mold testing kits as a quick and inexpensive solution. While these kits might seem convenient, they fall short in providing the thorough and accurate results you need. Here’s why SERVPRO of South Miami recommends a professional mold inspection over an at-home kit every time.

What Are At-Home Mold Testing Kits?

At-home mold kits typically involve collecting a sample—either from the air or a surface—and sending it to a lab for analysis. The goal is to determine whether mold is present and, in some cases, identify the type of mold. While they may sound helpful, these kits have significant limitations.

Why At-Home Mold Kits Aren’t Reliable

1. Limited Accuracy:
   At-home kits often fail to provide a clear picture of the mold situation in your home. Mold spores are everywhere, and a positive result doesn't always mean there’s a problem. Without professional interpretation, these results can be misleading.

2. No Scope of the Problem:
   At-home kits can detect mold but don’t measure the extent of the infestation. Is it just on the surface, or has it spread behind walls, under flooring, or into your HVAC system? A professional inspection reveals the full scope.

3. No Guidance or Solutions:
   While a kit might confirm the presence of mold, it won’t tell you what to do next. You’ll still need a professional to identify the source of the moisture causing the mold and to remediate the issue properly.

4. Risk of False Negatives:
   Mold colonies can exist in hidden areas that at-home kits cannot detect. A false negative result could give you a false sense of security while the mold continues to grow unnoticed.

Why Professional Mold Inspections Are Better

When you hire a professional, you’re not just getting a test—you’re getting a comprehensive assessment and solution.

• Advanced Tools and Techniques: Professionals use specialized equipment like infrared cameras, moisture meters, and air quality testing devices to detect mold in hidden places.
• Expertise You Can Trust: Certified mold inspectors, like those at SERVPRO of South Miami, are trained to identify mold problems, determine the source, and provide actionable solutions.
• Tailored Remediation Plans: A professional inspection doesn’t just confirm mold—it provides a detailed plan for removing it safely and effectively.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing that the issue has been thoroughly investigated and properly handled eliminates uncertainty and ensures your home is truly safe.

SERVPRO of South Miami: Your Trusted Mold Experts

At SERVPRO of South Miami, we go beyond basic mold detection. Our team provides:

• Comprehensive mold inspections with advanced technology.
• Safe and effective mold remediation services.
• Solutions to address the source of mold, such as water damage or excess humidity.

Don’t Settle for Uncertainty—Call SERVPRO of South Miami

If you suspect mold in your home, don’t rely on an at-home kit that leaves you with more questions than answers. Call SERVPRO of South Miami for a professional mold inspection you can trust. We’re available 24/7 to help you keep your home safe and mold-free.

Mold Remediation in South Miami: A Comprehensive Guide

12/26/2023 (Permalink)

A South Miami home infested with mold after a recent flood.

Mold Remediation in South Miami: A Comprehensive Guide

Mold is a common issue faced by homeowners and businesses in South Miami due to the region's high humidity and tropical climate. It not only damages property but can also pose health risks. To shed light on this critical concern, this comprehensive guide will delve into mold remediation in South Miami, providing statistics, insights, and citations to help you understand the scope of the problem and the solutions available.

The Main Causes of Mold in South Miami

Humidity Levels: According to the South Florida Water Management District, South Florida's humidity levels often exceed 70%, creating an ideal environment for mold growth.

Rainfall: South Miami and the surrounding region receives an annual average of 60-70 inches of rainfall, leading to frequent water intrusion and mold issues. 

Mold has several severe health implications. Mold spores can trigger or exacerbate respiratory problems like asthma and allergies, affecting around 1 in 13 people in South Florida. Certain types of mold, such as Stachybotrys chartarum, can produce mycotoxins, leading to more severe health issues. 

The SERVPRO Mold Remediation Process starts with a solid understanding of mold and mold growth and the training and expertise to remediate mold in your home or business.

• Inspection and Assessment: A thorough inspection and assessment of the affected property is performed to identify the extent of the mold problem. 
• Containment: To prevent further contamination, containment barriers are established using plastic sheeting and negative air pressure machines. 
• Mold Removal: Mold is physically removed and treated using specialized techniques and EPA-approved biocides. 
• Drying and Dehumidification: Proper drying and dehumidification are crucial to preventing mold return. 
• Testing and Clearance: Post-remediation testing is performed to ensure that mold levels are back to acceptable levels.

There are preventative measures you can take to prevent mold from forming. Ensuring proper ventilation will held reduce indoor humidity levels making them it less susceptible to mold growth. Routine inspections and maintenance can catch moisture issues early, preventing mold infestations.

The Importance of Professional Mold Remediation

Mold remediation companies in South Florida must adhere to state regulations, ensuring safe and effective mold removal. All SERVPRO of South Miami technicians are certified AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technicians. These certifications are crucial when working with professionals because they can help ensure that mold damage is properly documented for insurance claims. 

Mold remediation is a critical issue in South Florida, given its climate and environmental factors. Mold growth can have serious health implications and can damage properties. Understanding the process of mold remediation and the importance of professional assistance is essential for South Miami residents and businesses to ensure safe and effective mold removal.

Mold Can Be An Unwanted Guest At Your Next Pool Party In Coral Gables

2/6/2019 (Permalink)

Holding a pool party for your friends might sound like an excellent way to socialize but could lead to mold damage.

Pool Parties Can Leave Your Home Hosting Mold Damage In Coral Gables

Holding a pool party for your friends might sound like an excellent way to socialize in Coral Gables, but tidying up takes time afterward. Not only must your home get a good cleaning, but any areas left damp from showering and changing out of wet swimwear needs a thorough drying session. Running the exhaust fan in each bathroom can help.

When airing out locations left damp, or even drenched, mold damage in your Coral Gables home can take hold. SERVPRO can help prevent the further spreading of microbes and get your home's interior environment back under your control. Mold and mildew do not require extreme elevations of humidity to become active, so we find it crucial that we restore normal levels of moisture in your home first.

We dry out your home's damper areas with desiccant machines and search for trapped moisture that can seep out and feed microbes. When materials become inundated with microbes, they often become too damaged for us to restore. We enclose such areas with heavy-gauge plastic sheets. With an air scrubber and flexible tubing, we eliminate microbes and spores from the space as we cut mold-damaged materials away from your home's framework.

Because plastic also holds in moisture, bags that might harbor mold in the case of forgotten wet laundry from the pool also work to keep moisture and microbes from escaping as we pull ruined drywall from your home. Before anything leaves a negative pressure chamber, we double bag it and knot it to keep everything securely inside. We can then remove these safely to the outside of your home.

Treating once-moldy areas with antimicrobial liquids that dry fast keep mold from coming back again. This and keeping a dehumidifier on hand for future parties can keep your home free of mold infestations. We can help you choose one that you can easily control and use.

SERVPRO of South Miami wants to assure our customers in Key Biscayne and Coconut Grove that we're here to help resolve any problems they experience involving mold damage in their residence. Calling us at (305) 269-8900 gets the remediation process started, where we make everything “Like it never even happened.”

Click here for more about Coral Gables.

How Professionals Remove Mold From Your Kendale Lakes Home

12/27/2018 (Permalink)

Failure to remove the moisture source can cause a mold colony to become a recurring problem.

Reasons That Lead to Recurring Cases of Mold Damage in Kendale Lakes

A recurring mold problem can be a huge pain to address. Mold readily proliferates, but you
can eliminate it easily too if you take the right steps. When the problem recurs, it means
some things are not done correctly during the remediation process. We have IICRC certified Applied Microbial Remediation Technicians who take all necessary measures to offer a lasting solution to your mold problem.

If your efforts to fix mold damage in Kendale Lakes do not touch on all affected areas, the problem might recur in the areas you fix. Even if it does not recur, you keep dealing with issues like musty smells - which are common with mold infestations. Our SERVPRO technicians evaluate your property thoroughly to identify all areas that the problem might reach. Using FLIR thermal cameras, we can check even concealed areas without tearing them down first. 

Cleaning is part of mold remediation procedures. In a bid to remove debris and staining on surfaces, you might use the wrong approaches that fuel future growth. One such method is cleaning affected areas with bleach when trying to eliminate spores. However, the moisture left fuels future growth since the spores occur naturally in the environment. Failure to isolate affected areas during the cleanup process can also spread the problem to unaffected areas. Our SERVPRO technicians use professional cleaning agents when damp wiping is necessary. We rely on dry cleaning approaches such as HEPA vacuuming. We also use air scrubbers to kill spores and improve air quality. 

Moisture is the main ingredient fueling most incidents of mold infestation. However, this is not to say that mold only requires moisture to thrive. An organic food source, oxygen, and warmth are the other factors that help mold to grow. Most environments only lack moisture, so any presence of moisture leads to mold growth. Insufficient drying efforts or failure to identify the moisture source leads to a recurring mold problem. Our SERVPRO technicians use fast air movers and industrial grade dehumidifiers to remove excessive moisture. We also have moisture detection tools like thermo-hygrometers, moisture sensors, moisture meters, and thermal cameras to detect any hidden moisture. 

A recurring mold cycle might be hard to break. Call SERVPRO of South Miami at (305) 269-8900 to help you. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.  

Click here for information about West Kendale Lakes Park.

The Benefits Of Hiring The Best Mold Damage Remediation Team In Kendall

10/9/2018 (Permalink)

Mold spores exist naturally in all of the environments that we live in from our vehicles to our living rooms on a microscopic level.

Mold Prevention And Inspection In Your Kendall Residence

Working to preserve and protect your Kendall residence is a responsibility that many homeowners in the area take to heart. Learning how to avoid and prevent certain damaging circumstances can help a family to limit extraneous costs from restoration or remediation work that lasts much longer than it should have. In an instance of mold growth in your home, being able to work actively to prevent the occurrence or to spot the warning signs of colonization can save you time and money in the long run.

While you might find yourself surprised by the idea of mold damage in your Kendall home, this occurrence happens more often than you may believe. The conditions required for mold growth are not challenging to produce with the right set of circumstances, so educating yourself first on how the organism grows and thrives is critical to preventing it. This awareness can make the jobs of our SERVPRO remediation technicians easier to manage and accomplish when we get to work on removing a present colony.

One of the first things that you need to understand is how mold develops. Mold spores exist naturally in all of the environments that we live in from our vehicles to our living rooms on a microscopic level. When these spores come into contact with persistent moisture and warmth (temperatures at/or exceeding 65 degrees), they begin to colonize. The entire process takes upwards of three days, so addressing the moisture you discover can prevent the mold colony from ever seating onto a surface.

The trouble is, sometimes mold growth occurs in areas where you do not frequently go such as a crawlspace beneath your first floor. Regular inspections can help you identify mold colonization before the growth has gotten out of control. In its earliest stages, colonies show up as spots along organic materials and surfaces. Our SERVPRO technicians can also perform this thorough inspection of your home to identify active colonies or potentially problematic conditions that could allow it.

The discovery of mold growth in your home can feel overwhelming to contend with, but our SERVPRO of South Miami remediation specialists can help. Our emergency response team can help you to remove a colony and restore the damage that it might have caused. Give SERVPRO a call anytime that you need us at (305) 269-8900.

Click here for more about Kendall.

Procedures to Deal with Mold Damage in Your Miami Home

9/4/2018 (Permalink)

Miami Condo Mold Remediation Done Right by SERVPRO

SERVPRO Offers Various Techniques and Methods for Mold Remediation

Mold damage can be quite significant to both your property and health when action is not taken immediately. Mold leads to the decomposition of organic materials in your home, and the damage is severe when left for a long time. Miami is one of the areas that faces such incidents, and you should know how to deal with these issues.

The first step in dealing with mold damage in Miami is to establish containment. You should contain the mold contamination to ensure it does not spread, but how? Our SERVPRO technicians always ensure that the unaffected areas of your home are protected from the spread of the molds by installing plastic sheeting, establishing negative air pressure in contaminated areas, and sealing HVAC vents. It is vital not to introduce airflow to an uncontained area to avoid spreading the contamination to other areas.
 
The mold needs to be removed from the contaminated areas and the method used does depend on the type of surface the mold is consuming. The SERVPRO experts clean nonporous materials that are damaged by molds in your home and help to restore them by HEPA vacuuming if the surface is dry or by wiping with a detergent solution if the mold is in a layer of soil. Porous materials such as carpeting and fabrics that have visible mold growth typically need to be removed and discarded. But there are instances of salvaging soft materials and fabrics. In long-duration exposures, we may have to remove wood materials that have been weakened by rot.
 
We need to dry all the materials in your home that had been affected by the mold using air movers, and this step requires much expertise. Your home needs to be dried to its normal moisture content levels to ensure no more mold growth in the future in the treated areas. Our SERVPRO IICRC certified technicians have years of experience dealing with mold and the necessary tools required.
 
SERVPRO of South Miami is a locally owned franchise ready and able to assist you with all your mold damage needs. We have skilled technicians with a range of equipment. Call us at (786) 504-1595 and learn your options.

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Mold Damage Experts in Kendall Talk About Severe Cases

6/30/2018 (Permalink)

When you find mold in the corner, or elsewhere in your home, contact SERVPRO to investigate the cause and remediate the damage.

Team SERVPRO Understands How Mold Forms and Spreads Throughout Your Home

If a building such as your Kendall rental home has a problem like a pipe break, the issue can go unnoticed if it is unoccupied. Most houses contain a vast amount of organic materials including the wooden structural components, drywall, some types of contents and sub-flooring. These organic materials work as good food sources for microbial growth when the temperatures are ideal, and there are elevated moisture levels. As time goes on the contamination can spread and get more and more severe.
 
Once a fungus forms, it grows structures called hyphae that spread across the materials and release spores. During any mold damage project in Kendall, it is important to keep these microbes from spreading and causing secondary problems. Since fungi can cause health effects with some people, containing the area is essential to prevent spores from spreading to unaffected areas.
 
The first step our SERVPRO technicians take when starting the mitigation process is to build a containment chamber around the affected areas. The chamber gets built with thick plastic sheets and metal poles and is made to seal in any dust or contaminated particles that get put into the air during the work process. An air scrubber then gets attached to a side of the chamber and works to clean the air from harmful microbes as the remediation process takes place.
 
If the contamination is extremely severe, the entire home can be contained so that harmful microbes do not get into the outdoor environment. In every severe mold mitigation case, our SERVPRO technicians wear IICRC certified personal protective equipment to protect themselves from the harmful substances and to keep them from spreading contamination elsewhere. Once the containment chamber gets set up with the air scrubber attached to create negative air pressure inside the chamber, we begin removing contaminated contents and materials.
 
If contents inside the building are contaminated, then they get removed before treating structural materials. If the items can be cleaned and saved, then they get moved off-site to a clean and disinfected location. If the objects got badly damaged, then they get disposed of in sealed plastic trash bags. If you ever need help with remediating a house with severe contamination, call SERVPRO of South Miami at (305) 269-8900 24/7.

Click here for more information on the city of Kendall.

Mold and Mold Damage in Your Kendall Residence

4/8/2018 (Permalink)

Mold can appear differently on different types of materials. Contact SERVPRO right away should you see or smell mold in your home.

SERVPRO Effectively Tackles BOTH Visible and Hidden Mold Damage

We rely on our homes in Kendall to keep us warm and dry. Most of the time, they handle this very well. However, sometimes our homes let us down in this regard. Dampness or water can make it into our homes and increase the risk for mold growth. Because some molds can cause health effects for you and your family, it is essential to get the problem handled as soon as you realize there is mold growing in your home.
 
Mold and mold damage in your Kendall home can pop up just about anywhere where the conditions are right. Sometimes they begin in a hidden area, so you might not know they are there right away. SERVPRO techs can assist you in finding the colonies of growth. We have the experience and tools to do this and to clean it all up before it spreads any further.
 
Average mold, such as black mold, or Stachybotrys chartarum, thrives in damp, dark, and unventilated conditions. The less it is disturbed, the more they can spread. You may not even realize that mold has been growing for months, or even years, out of sight in your home. Some go against traditional conditions and can grow in colder temperatures. Fusarium and Cladosporium are both tolerant to cold temperatures. They can develop on fabric, carpets, and wooden surfaces quite easily.
 
Some molds emit an unpleasant odor that is musty. You may notice them faster in these cases. Chaetomium is one of the smelliest kinds you can find. SERVPRO techs look for this type of mold on drywall and other nearby surfaces.
 
When moisture is the culprit of mold growth, there are a variety of areas in your home in which it can grow. It includes underneath appliances like the washer, water heater, dishwasher, and fridge. It can also include pipes and connections to these appliances. Pipes can leak and may have condensation which leads to mildew and mold.
 
SERVPRO of South Miami has all the tools needed to find any hidden mold in your home in Coconut Grove, Kendall, or Miami Gardens and clean it up correctly. Dial (305) 269-8900 to get in touch with us immediately if you suspect you have mold growing in your residence.

Click here for more information on the city of Kendall.

Mold Damage Cleanup Services in Kendall

3/15/2018 (Permalink)

Seeing or smelling mold in your home can be frightening. Call SERVPRO right away and we will find the cause so as to prevent a recurrence.

Certified SERVPRO Technicians Seek Out the Root Cause of a Mold Infestation in Your Home

Mold damage is a hideous and often stubborn problem for your home and business. In some cases, it can do more harm than just being unsightly. These fungi thrive in damp areas and can cause various health effects. Mold and mildew exist in our environment as naturally occurring microorganisms, but when they exceed normal levels, they can affect your family, property, and even your house.
 
If you notice the presence of mold in your home, contact SERVPRO immediately for mold damage cleanup services in Kendall. Mold comes in various shades and spreads easily through the air in the form of spores. Our mold remediation experts use special, IICRC-certified techniques to eliminate these microorganisms and make your home more hospitable again.
 
Mold can grow virtually anywhere in your home. The most vulnerable places to mold damage include basements, bathrooms, caulking, window frames, plumbing, ventilation systems, drywall & sub-flooring, cabinets, furniture, and wet walls. Bathrooms and basements are considered the ideal locations for mold growth in the home, but one big place that should not be overlooked is the attic.
 
The primary cause of mold damage in the attic is poor ventilation. SERVPRO technicians can correct this by installing air movers and dehumidifiers in the room. It is also advisable to open the windows to facilitate proper air circulation. Homes in colder areas are particularly vulnerable because heat from the ventilation system meets the colder roof and forms condensation. This moisture drips onto ceilings, insulation, or any other surface in the attic, creating a suitable environment for mold growth.
 
It is important to understand the root cause of mold damage in your home; otherwise, you risk having the same problem again. During the mitigation process, SERVPRO mold remediation experts can check for poor ventilation, excess condensation, and leaks in the roof. We can also remove mold-damaged materials such as textiles, plywood, and drywall, and disinfect the area with effective antimicrobial products.
 
If mold damage has overrun your home, you can count on SERVPRO of South Miami for quick and efficient mold remediation services. We are a trusted leader in the restoration industry and can return your home to preloss condition as soon as possible, "Like it never even happened." Call us today at (305) 269-8900.

Click here for more information about the city of Kendall.

Mold Damage can Develop Anywhere Inside Your Miami Home

2/4/2018 (Permalink)

When mold hides, we find it. Contact SERVPRO when you smell the mustiness that comes with a mold infestation.

SERVPRO Tackles Active Mold While Offering Prevention Tips

Many of the activities the typical family engages in every day while at home in Miami seem harmless, and unable to damage the residence. However, some house cleaning methods can make some problems worse.

Some housekeeping practices, such as feather-dusting or using a non-HEPA filter on the vacuum cleaner, can quickly spread microbes within a residence and cause substantial mold damage in Miami. Because the small size of the spores permits them to remain airborne for long periods of time, they can also spread farther than you might expect.

Also, because spores come in such a small size, they also easily find their way into spots that aid them in avoiding your detection. Once in an enclosed area, microbes can soon grow out of control. The areas that seem to develop substantial mold colonies include those behind large appliances and pieces of furniture, as well as on the floor below these items.

Part of the problem persists in many homes because of a lack of air circulation to these locations, which would otherwise dry out any moisture that accumulates in such locations. Moving larger household furnishings away from the wall can increase air circulation and solve the situation before it becomes too severe, however, doing so can create a safety hazard for small children.

The professional mold remediators at SERVPRO have extensive experience in combating mold and hold IICRC certificates in Applied Microbial Remediation (AMRT). Regardless of where you might find microbial colonization taking place inside your home, we can help you restore things “Like it never even happened.” Because many strains of mold can cause health effects, we take special care to contain any mold that we handle so it cannot spread to other areas. To prevent future problems, we can discuss preventative measures with you, helping ensure your home stays protected from microbial activity.

The experienced technicians at SERVPRO of South Miami are always ready to respond when you need them most. Call our local number, (305) 269-8900, to speak with an expert about the mold damage affecting your home. We can quickly remediate the area affected and help prevent any further ongoing problems.

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Steps Involved in Mold Damage Remediation Process on Your Miami Property

12/13/2017 (Permalink)

Mold Remediation in Miami Properties Get Relief with the Help of SERVPRO

Trust SERVPRO for Professional Mold Removal Services

Mold poses health effects and property damage in the humid climate of Miami. However, professionals can help to control the extent of damage and restore your property to preloss conditions.
 
Here at SERVPRO, we have a team of experts with years of experience in mold removal. Our technicians use a multi-step process to identify, remediate and restore your mold damaged Miami home in no time. Here are some of the things you should expect when you hire professional mold remediation.
 
Containment of the damage
The first step toward the mold remediation process is confining it to the affected area. When you hire professionals, one of the first things they do is take steps to prevent mold from spreading to the unaffected areas. Some of these measures include the following.

Installing plastic sheets that act as physical barriers to the spread of the mold
Using negative air pressure in the affected area to reduce spreading of the spores to unaffected regions
The SERVPRO professionals also establish ‘clean rooms’ and ‘decontamination rooms’ to store equipment  

Mold removal
After containing the damage, the next step is the actual mold removal process. Mold removal process varies depending on the contaminated surface. If the surface is non-porous, it is usually cleaned and wiped. However, porous surfaces with visible mold growth such as fabric, drywall, and insulation often need to be safely discarded.
 
Mold from the non-porous material is removed using HEPA vacuuming. The HEPA vacuum eliminates the mold and prevents the spores from spreading in the air. If the surface is damp, it is usually wiped with a detergent. Various techniques such as damp wiping, sanding and wire brushing are often used to remove mold from non-porous surfaces.  

Cleaning and follow-up
Once the mold has been removed, the HEPA vacuum is used to clean the dust and settled spores. The cleaning usually is done in multiple rounds with the time given for the spores to settle between the rounds. Making sure that the area is dry and clean is critical for preventing regrowth and secondary damage. Typically, the final move is an application of an antifungal agent to help prevent the regrowth of new spores.
 
Call SERVPRO of South Miami today at (305) 269 8900 to schedule an appointment with our mold experts. We are here to help you get the mold damage under control as soon as possible.

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Items That Can Be Saved After Mold Damage in Miami

11/10/2017 (Permalink)

Mold can lurk behind furniture and walls or appear in plain sight. Contact SERVPRO when you see or smell the presence of mold in your home.

Our Technicians Quickly Evaluate the Items Damaged By Mold Based on Their Porosity and Permeability

Toxic mold is a serious threat to Miami homeowners. It feeds on organic materials and can ruin your items beyond repair. Worse still, these fungi can cause mold-related health effects. Like with all living organisms, mold and mildew require certain elements to grow and thrive. These include moisture, mold spores, proper temperatures, and, of course, carbon items. When these elements are sufficient in a given area, they create the ideal environment for mold growth.
 
SERVPRO is a longstanding restoration company that has been fighting mold damage in Miami homes for many years. We are proud to offer our IICRC-certified technicians to respond to your emergency when it happens. Our resources include advanced cleanup and drying equipment designed to get rid of mold growth entirely, "Like it never even happened."
 
SERVPRO technicians can easily remove mold damage from materials that have a solid surface, for instance glass, metal, and plastic. We use antimicrobial products and water, among other tools, in the remediation process. Porous items cannot be "safely" cleaned, treated, or effectively kept in the sun due to their "porous" nature. Mold spores build up in small spaces, increasing their chances of survival. Once they find a pore that is small, safe, and comfortable enough, the mold spores lay dormant and wait for moisture to initiate growth. Their roots grow downward, making them extremely stable on porous items.
 
On the other hand, "non-porous" materials are salvageable after mold damage. SERVPRO mold remediation experts can wash and dry them using special techniques because of the absence of pores. Without pores, it means that the spores cannot burrow into the item, instead remaining on the surface where they are easily expendable.
 
Removing mold damage from fabric clothing is easy but still requires professional assistance. Apart from safety purposes, washing alone cannot restore mold-damaged clothing to its original state. SERVPRO technicians can provide the best solution to ensure that you do not lose the item completely. It is important to clean the material sooner rather than later to reduce the risk of sustaining irreversible damage.
 
Research has shown that mold takes anywhere between 24 and 48 hours to make an impact. If you detect the presence of mold growth in your house, let SERVPRO of South Miami come in and assess the damage. You can reach us anytime at (305) 269-8900.
 
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Properly Address Mold Damage Found in Your Miami Area Home

9/6/2017 (Permalink)

Improperly sealed windows can cause mold to grow in your home.

Basements are an inviting space for mold damage

Mold can grow just about anywhere in your Miami residence; it just needs oxygen, moisture, and organic material to exist. Most species find damp, humid areas of your home especially inviting, which makes it no surprise that the basement is a premium area to find mold.

Basement mold damage found in your Miami area home often results from leaks in your foundation, condensation caused by improperly sealed windows, malfunctioning appliances, or improper ventilation. You can prevent basement mold by hiring a professional to ensure that the area remains moisture-free, improving the overall environment in your home.

If you already have a moisture problem in the basement of your home, contact SERVPRO for help. We can deliver quality solutions, using professional mold remediation services to take control of the problem. Regardless of what you might read elsewhere, or what someone might tell you, learning the species of mold growing in your home has zero effect on how we treat it. So, avoid getting drawn in by someone who might want to identify your mold.

Not sure if you have mold? One of the most common signs is the smell; stagnant air causes a very noticeable musty odor that you should never ignore. Finding mold in your basement is rather easy. Wherever there are signs of water damage or leaks; mold can grow. Any objects or materials made from organic substances like wood, drywall, carpeting, insulation, or even cardboard boxes used to store other items can serve as a food source, check these areas often.

SERVPRO technicians can help you determine why mold began growing in your basement and teach you simple techniques to prevent future growth. We have many services available that eliminate moisture, control humidity, and remove standing water. Our technicians provide you with unique solutions based on the severity of your situation; each job is entirely different.

SERVPRO of South Miami has IICRC-industry certified mold remediation specialists standing by to assist with any size problem you have in your home. We have highly-trained personnel, equipment, and resources to tackle even the toughest jobs, call today. (305) 269-8900

Visit http://www.miamigov.com/ for more information about Miami, FL.

How SERVPRO Handles Mold Damage On Your Coconut Grove Kitchen Wall

5/16/2017 (Permalink)

Mold can spread really quickly throughout your home. Call SERVPRO at the first sign for assessment and remediation.

From Assessment to Remediation, Our Trained Technicians Eliminate the Mold Infestation in Your Home

Mold damage is a genuine risk for householders living in Miami. Florida has high levels of humidity, and as the spores love moist environments, our state is an ideal home for them. Mold can eat into soft materials, cause structural damage, and even bring about health problems. That is why we recommend putting in a call to SERVPRO at the first sign of fungal growth. Some signs to look out for include the telltale black spores, discolored patches, or a musty smell.
 
It is important to remediate mold damage on your Coconut Grove kitchen wall as soon as possible. After all, your kitchen is where you prepare food for your family so of course, you do not want mold growing there. Our professional remediation process includes removing existing colonies, preventing them spreading further throughout your home, and drying out the damaged area.
 
Your SERVPRO visit begins with a thorough assessment of your kitchen. In some cases this includes removing baseboards or molding to examine the insides of the wall – mold, unfortunately, likes drywall, so a check of the internal wall cavity is often needed.
 
Our IICRC-certified technicians use moisture meters and thermal imaging to examine the wall and ensure we focus only on damp areas where mold might be growing. We also check for hidden leaks such as from damaged pipes or faulty appliances. Isolating and removing the source of dampness is key to thorough remediation and helps control growth in the future.
 
Unfortunately, in cases where mold has damaged drywall, it often needs to be replaced. Your technician can advise you on what restoration work is necessary, and safely remove any drywall that cannot be saved.
 
The next step is to use plastic sheeting to seal off the area and ensure spores cannot travel further into your home. Now we have a safe working area and can focus on removing mold and drying out your kitchen walls.
 
Our teams come equipped with brushes, powerful HEPA vacuums, and cleaning solutions to scrub, clean and wipe away visible colonies. We also bring in air scrubbers: These use HEPA filtration to remove particles and spores as tiny as 0.3 microns from the air and reduce contamination.
 
The final step is to dry your kitchen wall and cavity thoroughly. We bring in commercial-grade air movers and dehumidifiers and set them up in a carefully calculated configuration for effective drying of the area.
 
Do not let mold take hold in your kitchen. Call SERVPRO of South Miami at (305) 269-8900 today for assistance.

For more information regarding South Miami, click here http://www.miamigov.com/home/

Reduce The Risk Of Mold Damage In Your Miami Laundry Room

5/9/2017 (Permalink)

Damp Laundry Can Develop Mold Growth in Your Miami Home

Mold Growth in Miami? Call SERVPRO for Remediation

Your laundry room is an ideal breeding ground for mold. The combination of a damp environment with high humidity and the heat from a washer or dryer makes an environment that spores just love. Mold can damage soft materials beyond repair and can also cause structural damage or even health effects. That is why it is important to do all you can to deter mold growth in your home.
 
There are steps you can take to reduce the risk of mold damage in your Miami laundry room. SERVPRO experts recommend the following actions.
 
Do Your Laundry Promptly
Damp and dirty laundry is an inviting prospect for mold spores to grow into patches. Do not give them a place to grow. Make sure that laundry is done regularly and not allowed to pile up. Thorough drying is also important. Wet laundry is still a potential home for fungus even if it is clean. Hang clothes outside to dry or use a dryer.
 
Clean Regularly
Keep surfaces clean and dry as much as possible, so that mold has less chance to breed. Be diligent for signs of mold. A disinfectant solution is an effective cleaning option that also helps reduce the chances of mold proliferation.
 
Check Your Appliances
Laundry room leaks or drips provide even more of an opportunity for fungal growth. A leak that seeps into carpets, walls or floors encourages mildew to grow in those places and cause structural damage. Check your appliances regularly and fix any leaks and replace broken drainage hoses or fixtures at once.
 
Call In The Experts
Once mold is present expert help is the best way to deal with it. As soon as you see signs of mold growth we recommend you put in a call to SERVPRO. Upon arrival, our IICRC-certified experts establish a containment zone. Plastic sheeting keeps mold from spreading throughout your house. Our teams come equipped with negative air machines which pull contaminated air through ducts and exhaust it outside your home.
 
After establishing containment, our experts set to work thoroughly cleaning your laundry room. Powerful HEPA vacuums remove loose spores. Vacuuming is followed by cleaning using abrasion, scrubbing, detergents and damp wiping, depending upon the surface to be cleaned. We also try to clean and restore, and not replace mold damaged elements as a cornerstone of our remediation service.
 
Do not give mold a chance to grow in your laundry room. Call SERVPRO of South Miami at (305) 269-8900 today for assistance.

Mold Damage Remediation

9/25/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can remediate all types of mold damage. Call today for an assessment!

There are Many Different Types and Colors of Mold

Did you realize that there are several different kinds of mold which can be found in your home and cause various health problems, depending on the type of mold you are exposed to? There are actually over one hundred different types of mold which can sometimes be found in homes, and below are some of the most common ones.

Mold damage in Coral Gables is something that should be taken care of immediately by professionals such as our technicians at SERVPRO, as it can cause severe health problems for you and your family. Understanding what some common types are is important in recognizing that there is a mold problem in your home:

Alternaria – Many times this is found outdoors, but it can grow in damp places indoors as well, such as under sinks with leaky pipes or in showers. It can spread easily from one area to another.
Aspergillus – A kind of mold found indoors frequently. It can cause several adverse health effects.
Aureobasidium – Found a lot outdoors, this mold can also be found in homes on wallpaper, wooden surfaces and painted surfaces. It can also be found on caulking and damp window frames. It is black and pink in color.
Botrytis – This mold grows in areas with high humidity, such as bathrooms with little ventilation.
Chaetomium – This mold many times grows on drywall that has water damage. It gives off a characteristic musty odor.
Cladosporium – This kind of mold is found inside homes quite often. Most kinds of this mold like warm climates, and it can grow in cool areas as well. Many times it grows on fabrics such as carpeting, and on wooden surfaces like floorboards and cabinets.
Fusarium – This mold can also grow and spread in lower temperatures. It can many times be found on water damaged fabrics and carpets.
Penicillium – Many times found growing on materials that have been water damaged, including wallpaper, carpeting, insulation, and mattresses. It is a kind of mold that spreads easily and quickly from one area of your home to another. It usually looks to be blue and/or green.
Stachybotrys chartarum – Many times this mold is referred to as black mold since it has a slimy, black appearance. Sometimes it is referred to as toxic mold, but the mold is not actually toxic. It does, however, make toxic compounds called mycotoxins, and can cause health effects if you come into contact with them. It has a characteristic musty odor and grows many times in places which are damp all the time, such as air conditioning ducts or around leaky pipes.

A professional mold tester from SERVPRO can test your home for mold and inform you what type of mold is growing. We can also let you know how severe your mold problem is and find mold you might not have seen yet. You can schedule one of our technicians to come out to your home by calling us at SERVPRO of South Miami at (305) 269-8900.

Miami Mold Damage - The Right Way to Deal with Mold Damage in Miami

5/2/2016 (Permalink)

Trust the professionals at SERVPRO of South Miami to take care of your Miami mold damage emergency!

The Correct Way to Handle Miami Mold Damage

In Miami, mold damage is a common problem. It affects all kinds of homes and businesses. It is not something to be scared of because it happens to almost everybody, at some time in their lives. However, it does need to be treated with caution. Mold damage, though common, can be both expensive and can cause health effects. 

This is why the only effective solution for dealing with chronic mold damage in Miami is to call in the experts. Qualified mold damage restoration teams have the necessary skills and expertise to make sure that all of the damaged areas of a property are safely removed. If you do not seek professional advice, you risk the problem becoming a recurring one. 

This guide to the importance of professional mold damage restoration will help you get to grips with the best possible solution. 

Fix the Source of the Issue 

While homeowners can go some way to removing the superficial signs of mold damage in Miami (the visible marks and blemishes), it is much more difficult to pinpoint the cause. And this is vital if the problem is to be eradicated for good. Mold damage restoration experts are trained to look for patterns and uncover the source of the destruction. More often than not, the mold is being caused by an unidentified leak within the building. 

Recognize the Type of Mold 

It is a common misunderstanding to assume that all mold is the same. In fact, there are more than 10,000 different varieties. As they all require a slightly different approach, identification is key to tackling mold damage in Miami. Nobody expects you to be able to distinguish between the characteristics of a thousand mold samples, so take the job to somebody is specially trained for it. 

Use the Right Equipment 

Another important benefit of using a professional mold damage restoration service is access to specialist equipment. You might have a basic dehumidifier in your home or workplace, but this won’t be strong enough to tackle a serious problem. You need heavy duty dryers, blowers, and EPA approved chemicals. If there is evidence of black mold in the building – which causes negative health effects – protective clothing is needed to ensure safety. 

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

 To find out more about the most effective ways to tackle mold damage, call the experts at SERVPRO of South Miami on (305) 269-8900 today. 

South Miami Mold Remediation: A Brief Overview

10/2/2015 (Permalink)

Mold can begin to grow and thrive on a residential or commercial property for several reasons.

Mold Remediation in South Miami: A Brief Overview

When you find yourself experiencing a mold infestation, the most effective and appropriate solution is to attain professional South Miami mold remediation services. As many remediation experts know, leaving your mold issue unaddressed may cause health effects while also compromising the structural integrity of your property. To learn more about mold and why attaining South Miami mold remediation services is so important, consider the following overview:

What Causes Mold?
Mold can begin to grow and thrive on a residential or commercial property for several reasons. For example, natural disasters like fires and flood almost always result in substantive water damage. Because mold grows in moist, water-rich environments, properties impacted by natural disasters are almost always an excellent breeding ground for the unwanted fungus. Pipe leaks also result in the type of water damage that can become the perfect environment for unwanted mold. When mold infestations become so profound that normal removal procedures are ineffective, a specialized modality referred to as mold remediation is required.

What Is Mold Remediation?
Although defined broadly, mold remediation is the process of eliminating mold that measures over 10 square feet. Unlike traditional mold removal methods, South Miami mold remediation must be implemented by a professional team of experts who possess the specialized tools and techniques to expedite and optimize the elimination process.

The Mold Remediation Process
When you call a professional mold remediation company, they will use precautionary containment procedures in conjunction with industrial chemicals to prevent contamination and further spread of mold spores. The only individuals who should ever complete the mold remediation process are industry professionals who utilize the right equipment, including the ideal breathing apparatus.

Prior to cleaning up the mold spores, your property will be contained through the use of plastic sheeting. The sheeting possesses the level of thickness necessary to preclude any microscopic spores from escaping and invading other areas. The remediation specialists will then use specialized equipment to complete the cleanup and repair processes. Some of the specialized equipment utilized will include an HEPA filtered vacuum, industrial strength cleanser, and a wet vacuum. In the event that you are experiencing plumbing issues or roof leaks that generate mold, you may need to call another specialist. After completing the mold remediation process, your professional remediation specialist will work with you to determine whether any of your furniture and books are salvageable or will require replacement.

Conclusion
If you find your residential or commercial property subjected to mold infestation, it's time to call a team of excellent, efficient remediation specialists. To attain the optimized, expedited remediation care that you deserve, trust the professionals of SERVPRO. For many years, we've helped people eliminate unwanted mold and restore their property to its original, pristine state. Call us immediately so that we can do the same for you!
   

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

We are proud to be an active member of this community. SERVPRO of South Miami is locally owned and operated, so we’re already nearby and ready to help Coconut Grove, Palmetto Bay, and Coral Gables residents and business owners with any size cleaning or restoration emergencies. We are here in South Miami and are ready to help you. Just call us. (305) 269-8900

Mold 101: The Basics For Coral Gables

6/10/2015 (Permalink)

Any home that has had a water problem can end up with a mold problem, as well.

Mold 101: The Basics 

Any home that has had a water problem can end up with a mold problem, as well. Coral Gables mold growth is not only unsightly; it can cause deterioration of building materials and serious health problems. If mold is suspected, it should be eliminated from your home as soon as possible. However, mold growth is not always out in the open. Mold can grow unnoticed inside of construction materials and in other hidden areas. A mold inspector can access the mold damage in your home, even in areas that are not hidden from the naked eye.

How Mold Grows
Like any living organism, mold needs certain conditions in order to grow. A moist environment is essential for mold growth. Mold spreads by releasing spores into the air, which settle on moist surfaces that provide organic material that can be used as food. Cool, dark, damp areas are the most common areas where mold growth can be found. If you have experienced flooding, a broken pipe, heavy rains or other moisture damage, you are a prime candidate for Coral Gables mold growth.

Health Problems Associated With Mold Growth
Mold is associated with a number of human health problems, including asthma, lung infections, eye and throat irritation, allergic reactions, wheezing and nasal stuffiness. Removing the mold growth will help to resolve these health problems.

Identifying Mold Problems
A variety of different types of mold can be found growing in homes. Some of these are toxic, while others are not. If you find discoloration on cloth, paper or drywall, you probably have a mold problem. If you notice a lasting, musty odor in your home, it is probably caused by mold. SERVPRO can help you find the location of the mold growth and then eliminate it.

Eliminating Mold From Your Home
A mold remediation specialist, like SERVPRO, can help to test the air quality in your home and find the hidden Coral Gables mold growth that is affecting your family’s health. SERVPRO can then use special techniques and equipment used to remove mold safely from your home.

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 Miami 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.

Mold Remediation Services

If you suspect that your home or business has a mold problem, SERVPRO of South Miami has the training, equipment, and expertise to handle the situation.