Spotting Mold: A Guide to Identifying and Preventing Mold Growth in Your Home or Business

5/16/2023 (Permalink)

Mold is a common problem that can cause significant damage to your property if left untreated.

Mold is a type of fungus that grows in moist environments and can cause damage to your property if left untreated. It thrives in warm, damp areas and can often go unnoticed until it has spread significantly. In this blog, we will discuss what mold is and how to spot it in your home or business.

What is Mold?

Mold is a type of fungus that reproduces by releasing spores into the air. These spores can attach to surfaces and grow into colonies, causing damage to building materials and potentially posing health risks to humans and pets. Mold requires moisture and a food source to grow, which means it can often be found in areas with water damage or high humidity levels.

How to Spot Mold?

Mold can be difficult to spot, as it often grows in hidden or hard-to-reach places. However, there are some common signs of mold growth that you can look out for:

Discoloration: Mold often appears as a discoloration on surfaces. It can range in color from white to black, and may also appear as green, yellow, or brown.

Musty Odor: Mold has a distinctive musty odor that can be quite strong. If you notice a persistent, unpleasant odor in your home or business, it could be a sign of mold growth.

Visible Growth: In some cases, mold may be visible as a fuzzy or powdery growth on surfaces. This is often the case when the mold has had time to spread significantly.

Water Damage: Mold thrives in moist environments, so if you have experienced any water damage in your home or business, it is important to be on the lookout for mold growth. Water damage can create the ideal conditions for mold to grow and spread.

Preventing Mold Growth

Prevention is always better than cure, so here are some tips to help prevent mold growth in your home or business:

1. Fix Leaks: Any leaks in your plumbing or roof should be fixed immediately to prevent water damage and mold growth.
2. Reduce Humidity: Use a dehumidifier to reduce humidity levels in your home or business, especially in areas prone to moisture buildup.
3. Proper Ventilation: Make sure your home or business is properly ventilated, especially in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms.
4. Clean Regularly: Regular cleaning can help prevent mold growth by removing dust and dirt that can provide a food source for mold.
5. Professional Inspection: Have your home or business inspected by a professional restoration company, such as SERVPRO of Olathe/Lenexa, to check for any hidden mold growth and to identify any areas that may be prone to mold growth.

Protect Your Property from Mold Damage

In conclusion, mold is a common problem that can cause significant damage to your property if left untreated. By understanding what mold is and how to spot it, you can take steps to prevent mold growth and protect your home or business. If you suspect you have mold growth, contact a professional restoration company to help safely remove the mold and restore your property.

Grill Safety 101: How to Avoid Fires While Cooking Outdoors

4/13/2023 (Permalink)

By following these simple tips, you can minimize the risk of a grill fire and enjoy safe and delicious outdoor cooking.

As the weather gets warmer, many people start to dust off their grills and prepare for some outdoor cooking. While grilling can be a fun and delicious way to cook food, it is important to remember that it can also be dangerous. Every year, thousands of grill-related fires occur, causing injuries, property damage, and even deaths. Fortunately, by following some basic safety tips, you can minimize the risk of a grill fire and enjoy your outdoor cooking experience.

Choose a safe location

The first step to safe grilling is choosing a safe location for your grill. Your grill should be placed on a level surface away from any flammable materials, such as overhanging branches, dry leaves, or wooden decks. Keep at least a three-foot clearance around the grill, and make sure it is not located near any doorways or windows that could allow smoke or heat to enter your Olathe, KS, home.

Check your equipment

Before you start grilling, it's important to check your equipment for any signs of wear or damage. Look for cracks, rust, or other signs of wear and tear, and replace any damaged parts before using your grill. Make sure your propane tank is properly connected and is not leaking gas. You can check for leaks by applying a soap and water solution to the connections and looking for bubbles.

Keep children and pets away

Children and pets are naturally curious, and they may be drawn to the grill out of curiosity. To prevent accidents, keep children and pets away from the grill while it is in use. Make sure they understand that the grill is hot and should not be touched, and never leave the grill unattended while it is in use.

Use proper lighting techniques

When lighting your grill, always follow the manufacturer's instructions. If using a gas grill, open the lid and turn on the gas, then light the grill with a lighter or match. If using a charcoal grill, use lighter fluid or a chimney starter to get the coals burning. Never use gasoline or other flammable liquids to start a grill, and never add lighter fluid once the coals are already burning.

Clean your grill

A dirty grill can be a fire hazard, so it's important to keep it clean. After each use, use a wire brush to clean the grates and remove any leftover food or debris. Empty the drip tray regularly, and use a grill cover to protect your grill from the elements when it is not in use.

Be prepared for emergencies

Even if you take all the necessary precautions, accidents can still happen. It's important to be prepared for emergencies by keeping a fire extinguisher nearby. Make sure you know how to use it and that it is properly charged and in good working condition.

By following these simple tips, you can minimize the risk of a grill fire and enjoy safe and delicious outdoor cooking. Remember to always use caution and common sense when grilling, and never hesitate to call for help if you need it. With a little care and attention, you can enjoy all the benefits of grilling without the risk of fire or injury.

Troubleshooting Common Causes of Refrigerator Leaks: What You Need to Know

3/13/2023 (Permalink)

A leaking refrigerator can be a major inconvenience, but identifying the cause and taking appropriate action can prevent further damage.

Refrigerators are one of the most essential household appliances, and when they start to malfunction, they can cause major disruptions in your daily routine. One of the most common issues that homeowners face with refrigerators is leaking. There are many reasons why your refrigerator might be leaking, and it's important to identify the cause and take appropriate action to prevent further damage. In this blog, we will discuss some of the common reasons why refrigerators leak and what steps to take if you notice that your refrigerator is leaking. Here are common reasons why refrigerators leak:

Clogged Drain Tube

The drain tube is responsible for carrying away water that has been collected during the defrost cycle. If the drain tube becomes clogged with debris, water will accumulate in the refrigerator and eventually leak out. You can clean the drain tube by using a small brush or flushing it with warm water.

Faulty Defrost System

The defrost system in your refrigerator is responsible for melting any ice that has formed on the evaporator coils. If the defrost system is not working correctly, ice will continue to accumulate and eventually cause the refrigerator to leak. This problem requires professional attention from a qualified repair technician.

Damaged Water Filter

If your refrigerator has a built-in water dispenser, it may be equipped with a water filter. If the water filter becomes damaged or clogged, water may begin to leak from the refrigerator. Check the water filter and replace it if necessary.

Broken Water Line

If your refrigerator is connected to a water line, a break in the line can cause water to leak from the refrigerator. Inspect the water line for any visible signs of damage, such as cracks or breaks. If you find damage, replace the water line.

Steps to Take If Your Refrigerator is Leaking:

1. Turn Off the Water Supply

If your refrigerator is connected to a water line and you suspect that a break in the line is causing the leak, turn off the water supply immediately. This will prevent any further damage to your home and appliances.

2. Empty the Refrigerator

Remove all items from the refrigerator and freezer compartments. If water has been collected in the refrigerator, use a towel or sponge to soak up the excess water.

3. Clean the Drain Pan

The drain pan is located beneath the refrigerator and collects water that has evaporated from the refrigerator. If the drain pan is full, it can cause water to leak out of the refrigerator. Remove the drain pan and clean it thoroughly.

4. Check the Drain Tube

Inspect the drain tube for any visible signs of damage or debris. If the drain tube is clogged, use a small brush or warm water to remove the debris.

5. Call a Professional

If you have checked all of the possible causes of the leak and still cannot identify the problem, it's time to call a professional repair technician. They will be able to identify the cause of the leak and provide the necessary repairs.

In conclusion, a leaking refrigerator can be a major inconvenience, but identifying the cause and taking appropriate action can prevent further damage and help you get back to your daily routine. By following these steps, you can identify the cause of the leak and take the necessary steps to fix the problem. If you're unsure of how to proceed, always consult with a professional to ensure that your refrigerator is repaired correctly and safely.

How to Test Your Smoke Detector in 4 Steps

2/12/2023 (Permalink)

Check your smoke detectors regularly!

Having a smoke detector in your home is an important step in protecting yourself, your family, and your home. However, you also need to make sure that it's working properly. The last thing you want is for there to be an emergency and then not be able to get help because your smoke alarm isn't working. So what do you do? How do you test your smoke alarm? In this article, we'll go over the best way to test your smoke detector so that when an emergency happens, you'll know.

Things you should know about testing your smoke detector

Smoke detectors are designed to alert you to the presence of smoke, helping you and your family escape to safety, and should be tested regularly to ensure they're working properly. If your smoke detector doesn't work or sounds false alarms, it needs to be replaced as soon as possible.

Testing your smoke detector is easy. There are two main components that need to be tested, the battery and the sensor.

1. Warn your family

It is important to warn your family that you are about to test the fire alarm. They should know what to do and how long it will take. This will prevent unnecessary fear and shock.

If your fire alarm is hardwired to your security system, it is also important to alert the security company of your upcoming test in order to prevent them from calling the fire department on your behalf.

2. Test the battery

The first step is to test the battery by pressing the test button. If the alarm sounds, then your battery is good. If the alarm doesn't sound, it most likely means the batteries are dead and need to be replaced immediately.

3. Check the sensor using aerosol

Many people forget that it is just as important to test the smoke sensor as it is to test the battery. To test the sensor, spray a fine mist of aerosol spray onto it. If the alarm sounds, you know that your sensor is working properly and that there is no need to replace the device. If it does not go off, there may be something wrong with your unit and should be replaced immediately.

Aerosol spray is inexpensive and can be purchased at your local department store, such as Walmart or Home Depot.

4. Check the sensor using matches

Another way to test the sensor is by using matches. Instead of using an aerosol spray, you can light a match or two and hold it near the sensor. If the alarm sounds, then your sensor is working properly. If your alarm does not sound, or if there was no response from your smoke detector at all when you held the match up to it, then it may be defective and need replacement.

Testing and maintaining your smoke alarm is crucial

There is no doubt that testing and maintaining your smoke alarm is crucial for the safety of yourself, your family, and your property. All fire alarms should be tested monthly and batteries should be replaced twice a year. When you're finished testing and replacing batteries, remember to store them out of reach from children so they won't be tempted to play with them.

In this article, we’ve covered the steps you should take to test your smoke detector. We hope that the information provided gives you confidence in knowing that your family is protected from fire and smoke. The most important thing of all? Test your smoke detectors regularly!

Avoiding Water Damage in Your Home

1/9/2023 (Permalink)

Keep your gutters cleaned at least twice a year.

Avoiding Water Damage in Your Home

Water damage is a serious issue that can cause a lot of harm to your Leawood, KS home. You may not realize it, but water damage can lead to mold and mildew growth, which can harm the health of those living in the home. Fortunately, there are many things you can do to avoid water damage in your home. Here are some tips on how you can prevent water from getting into your house:

1. Check Outside Pipes, Spigots, and Hoses

If you find a leaky pipe or hose that is not in use, turn off the water supply to it immediately and then repair the leak. Also, check your home's foundation for holes or cracks that could let water seep into your basement during heavy rains or snow melt-downs. Leaks in your roof can cause significant damage if they're not detected early on because they can lead to mold growth inside the house and even structural damage as well as costly repairs down the road when these leaks are left unfixed for too long!

2. Keep an Eye on Your Windows

In addition to checking your gutters and rain barrels, keep an eye on your windows. Checking for water damage can be as simple as looking at the exterior of your home. If you see any streaks, discoloration or peeling paint on any window frames, it may be time to call a professional.

• Check window seals. Check that all seals are intact and in good condition. If they're damaged or broken, they won't keep out moisture or cold air—and that's when water damage begins!
• Check window caulking. Make sure there is no mold growing behind your caulk lines where moisture can get trapped between walls and windowsills (or other surfaces). Caulk should be applied with a thick bead approximately 3/8 inch wide to ensure it seals properly against both sides of the window frame (or another surface). The bead needs to reach slightly past each end of the joint where two materials meet; otherwise, it will not form a proper seal between them.
• Check for signs of condensation collecting between panes of glass in double-hung windows.

3. Do Not Plant Trees Near the Foundation

If you have trees near your home, be sure to plant them at least 10 feet away from the foundation of your house. Trees can cause damage to the foundation and cause water damage if they are too close. 

4. Keep Your Gutters Clean

The gutter should be cleaned at least twice a year, and more often if it is clogged or damaged. It's also important to ensure that the gutters aren't too full of debris—ideally, you'll want there to be enough room for water flow so that it doesn't overflow into your home. If possible, remove debris like leaves and sticks before they can enter the gutter.

5. Check Your Roof for Leaks

Check your roof for leaks regularly. You can do this by climbing up on the roof, but it's easier to use a flashlight and check from ground level. Look in the attic, gutters, and around vents for any water stains or dampness that could indicate a leak. Check for loose tiles or other signs of damage on the shingles, as well as cracks in the foundation where water could enter through them.

Water is a powerful force that can cause serious damage if not handled properly. As long as you use common sense and take the time to check your Leawood, KS home regularly for leaks and other problems, you will be able to avoid water damage. If you do have a water damage problem, SERVPRO of Olathe/Lenexa is here to help you get back to normal as soon as possible! 

How To Prepare Your Home for High Winds

12/4/2022 (Permalink)

Dead trees are more likely to fall on homes when high winds hit.

How To Prepare Your Home for High Winds

Hurricanes, tornadoes, and other high-wind events can be devastating to your Shawnee, KS home. Even if you live in an area that’s not prone to extreme weather events, it’s important to prepare your home for high winds by securing your roof and windows and making sure you have the right coverage in case of any damage.

Remove Dead Trees.

Dead trees are more likely to fall on homes when high winds hit. If you have dead trees in your yard, hire a professional arborist to remove them as soon as possible.

Dead trees are also more prone to falling during high winds because they’re already weak and susceptible to breakage. If you notice that a tree is leaning or appears sickly, contact a tree company that specializes in removing dead trees before it’s too late! Dead trees can be not only an eyesore but also dangerous for your family—especially if you have small children running around outside on the ground level of your home!

Secure Your Roof.

The first thing you'll want to do is check your roof for any loose shingles or tiles. If they are still firmly attached, then you can leave them as-is. If they're not secure, however, you'll need to secure them somehow or else risk having them fly off in a high wind and hit someone (or something) below.

Next, walk around the perimeter of your house looking for any signs of water damage and leaks that may have occurred after a previous storm or heavy rains. Check all doors and windows to make sure they are properly sealed shut so that no water can enter through their openings. If there's any sign of water damage inside your home at all—even just small puddles on floorboards—you should contact an expert immediately so that repairs can be made before mold begins forming within those areas too!

Install Hurricane-Resistant Windows.

If you plan to stay at home during a hurricane, it is important that you install hurricane-resistant windows. The severity of the storm can be determined by the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale (based on wind speed), with categories of one through five. A category three or four storm will do serious damage to an ordinary house, so it is essential that your window frames be strong enough to withstand these high winds.

These windows should have impact-resistant glass and frames that are securely fastened together. You don’t want them to blow away in the middle of the night when everyone else has evacuated their homes! If you already have hurricane-resistant windows installed around your home, now would be a good time to check them out and make sure they haven’t been damaged by previous storms or other natural disasters such as earthquakes or floods.

Read And Follow Your Homeowner’s Policy.

Keep in mind that not all damage is covered under standard policies—some things may be excluded from reimbursement entirely while others may require payment first out of pocket before any funds are reimbursed by an insurer. For example, Some exclusions exist like flood damage which won't be covered unless you buy a specific rider for floods."

Ensure You Have The Right Coverage.

It's important to check your insurance policy before the storm hits. Your insurer may have limits on coverage that could leave you with a hefty bill if something is damaged or destroyed in the storm.

You'll also want to ask about exclusions, especially if any of your possessions are particularly valuable. For example, many policies exclude coverage for damage caused by flooding, which can be devastating during a hurricane.

The terms and conditions of your policy are also worth checking over. Is there an aggregate limit (the total amount covered)? Is there a deductible? Be aware of these things so they don't catch you off guard after the fact!

You should protect your home from high winds and be properly covered if wind damage occurs.

If you live in an area that is prone to hurricanes, we recommend that you take basic measures to prepare your home for high winds. For example, if a tree falls on your home, the damage may be covered by your homeowner’s insurance policy. But if there are no trees in the way and it still gets damaged by high winds, then coverage might not apply.

If you don’t have a homeowner's policy yet or haven't reviewed your current one recently, get started now! You can also learn more about hurricane season by visiting our page on what to expect during this time of year.

Preparation and planning can help you get through a hurricane or other extreme weather event. It’s important to prepare your home for high winds so that it can withstand the forces of nature without any major damage. We hope this article has provided some helpful tips on how to keep your home safe from hurricanes, but if you need more information on how we can help protect your family against all kinds of natural disasters, please contact us today!

Can Drain Cleaner Damage Pipes?

11/1/2022 (Permalink)

Use caution when using drain cleaners, which can be a convenient way to unclog your drains.

Can Drain Cleaner Damage Pipes?

Drain cleaners are a quick, easy way to unclog your drains. They're especially useful when you've got a major clog that can't be fixed with simple measures like plunging or plunging and flushing. Drain cleaners contain powerful chemicals that can eat away at the gunk in your pipes and help clear them out, but these chemicals aren't good for any material around them—including pipes themselves. If you use too much of this stuff regularly, there's a chance it could damage your pipes over time. Here's what you need to know about using drain cleaner safely.

Drain cleaners often referred to as lye or caustic soda, can unclog drains by eating through the gunk blocking the pipe.

The main ingredient in drain cleaner is sodium hydroxide (NaOH), which reacts with fats and oils to form soap bubbles that float up the pipe. This process works well on most materials but not all: some of these clogs are made of concrete porcelain or other hard materials that don't dissolve easily when exposed to harsh chemicals like sodium hydroxide.

The reaction between sodium hydroxide and fats occurs very quickly—in fact, under ideal conditions (like warm water), it only takes about 30 seconds for a drain cleaner solution to start working!

The chemicals in drain cleaners don't just eat away at organic material in drains, they can also eat away at the pipes themselves.

Drain cleaners are not just for organic materials. They can, in fact, damage pipes made of soft metal such as copper or aluminum.

If you have a drain cleaner that contains a chemical called sodium hydroxide (also known as caustic soda), it's best to be careful when using it on your drains and water heater. When combined with water, sodium hydroxide produces heat and some level of corrosion. If the solution is left in contact with the piping long enough, it could cause permanent damage to those pipes made from soft metals like copper or aluminum by eating away at them over time.

If your pipes are made from a soft metal like copper or aluminum, you might notice almost immediately that your pipes are being damaged by drain cleaner. These types of metals can be dissolved by sulfuric acid (the main ingredient in drain cleaner) and will wear away quickly if it's left in contact with them for too long. You may even see corrosion on the outside of the pipe after using this cleaning method, as well as inside where no one will see it—making it difficult to tell if there is any damage at all until a later time.

If you have clogs in your drain and want to tackle them without risking damage to your pipes, there are a few things you can do.

If you have clogs in your Olathe, KS drain and want to tackle them without risking damage to your pipes, there are a few things you can do.

The first thing to try is using a plunger to try clearing the clog. If this doesn't work, you can use a plumber's snake or even a wire coat hanger as an alternative method for removing the blockage. If either of these options fail, call a plumber immediately—the problem may not be fixable by yourself and could cause major damage if left untreated. Lastly, if the clog is still there after trying all these methods, then it's time for drastic measures: drain cleaner!

Using drain cleaner too much can damage pipes.

There are a few things to keep in mind if you've used drain cleaner too much.

• The chemicals that are used in drain cleaners are strong and can eat away at pipes.
• Using them too much can cause your pipes to become brittle and break more easily.
• Damage caused by using this product is not always visible immediately, so it's important to be aware of the signs that something might be wrong with your pipes.

Drain cleaners can be a convenient way to unclog your drains, but they should be used with caution. If you have clogs in your drain and want to tackle them without risking damage to your pipes, there are a few things you can do. First, try using some baking soda and vinegar or boiling water to loosen up the gunk before calling in a professional like SERVPRO of Olathe/ Lenexa. If those techniques don’t work, call an expert who knows what they’re doing so that they can fix the problem without causing further damage!

How Can Business Interruption Insurance Help Mitigate Revenue Loss After a Disaster?

10/8/2022 (Permalink)

Business interruption insurance is a critical component of any business owner’s coverage.

How Can Business Interruption Insurance Help Reduce Revenue Losses Following a Disaster?

When it comes to business insurance, there are two basic types: property insurance and business interruption insurance. If you're thinking about purchasing a new policy or upgrading your current one, it's important to understand how these two policies work together.

One of the most critical coverages any business owner needs is business income coverage. 

Business income coverage is a critical coverage type for any business owner in Gardner, KS to have. It protects you from loss of income during a period where you're unable to operate your business because of a covered loss. – for instance, if your building were damaged by fire, resulting in a shutdown that lasted longer than 30 days, and/or caused more than $1 million in damage to the property. This would likely be a covered loss under your policy—and could trigger an immediate payment from the insurer on this claim.

If no business interruption coverage is in place at the time of a disaster, your revenues could take a significant hit from necessary repairs and restoration work. In many cases where businesses do not have sufficient funds set aside for such emergencies, operations themselves can become difficult. It’s important to maintain sufficient coverage to protect against being caught in either of these situations.

For example, if there's a fire at your office and you need to shut down for months to deal with fire restoration, business income coverage would provide an income stream to help pay bills. This way, you don't have to worry about paying rent or the other operating costs associated with running your business while you're out of commission. You can also get additional benefits through business interruption insurance that may cover some of the lost revenue from having employees miss work because they were evacuated during a fire. 

Business interruption insurance can save your business after a disaster.

If you own a business and have property insurance, chances are you're covered for fire damage. However, if your business needs to shut down while repairs are made, you still need to pay the bills. Business interruption insurance can help with that. It covers lost revenues during the time when your building is being repaired or rebuilt—and it's an essential part of any business insurance policy.

Business income coverage is different than property insurance in several ways: it protects against loss of revenue rather than loss of property; it has its own policy limit (often separate from other types of coverage), and it has its own deductible (another difference).

Business income coverage is a critical component to any comprehensive business insurance strategy as it can help mitigate revenue loss after a disaster. 

Conclusion

Business interruption insurance is a critical component of any business owner’s coverage. It protects you from loss of income when your operations are disrupted because of a covered loss. Business income coverage can provide an income stream to help pay bills during this time and allow you to get back on your feet after the disaster.

The Benefits of Using a Restoration Company After a Flood

8/25/2022 (Permalink)

When a pipe bursts you need help from a professional water cleanup company.

The Advantages of Hiring a Flood Restoration Company

A flood in your office building can cause you much distress, not to mention extensive damage. The water can ruin building materials as well as furniture, electronics, and personal belongings.

Whether you need to attend to pipe burst cleanup or other damage-causing issues, you need professionals to help. There are advantages to enlisting a professional water cleanup company to handle repairs and restoration. 

1. Quick Response

Something such as a broken pipe can result in widespread water damage. You'll want someone onsite as soon as possible to assess flooding and begin cleaning up. The good news is that a restoration company can respond within 24 hours of your call. You can expect fast service, even on the weekends or holidays. 

2. The Right Equipment and Methods

When it comes to pipe burst cleanup, there are steps you can take on your own to mitigate the damage. However, if the flooding was significant, you won't have the capacity to do the job on your own. Fortunately, the professionals have high-quality, high-grade tools and equipment at their disposal. These tools can address water removal, content cleaning, and rebuilding and restoring the building. 

3. A Sewer Cleanup Company Has Experience

Water removal companies have a proven track record of cleaning up after commercial flooding. The technicians you hire will have worked under similar circumstances before. No job will be too big. 

4. Companies Can Clean an Assortment of Items

After removing any water in your Shawnee, KS , building and thoroughly drying the area, technicians will address damaged items. Using specialized techniques, the company can dry and clean documents, furniture, and even electronics.

Technicians will also replace ruined carpet and hardwood as well as drywall and ceiling tiles. 
It is easy to see how to pipe burst cleanup can be an overwhelming job. But if you hire the right water cleanup company, you can salvage your building and belongings. 

What Would Mold Remediation In An Olathe Business Premises Require?

8/23/2022 (Permalink)

Mold infestations tend to spread quickly if the environment permits. Contact our certified team to evaluate the situation and help.

SERVPRO Helps with the Safe Removal of All Moldy Materials during Mold Remediation

If there is mold in your Olathe, KS business premises, you can expect unsightly patches on wall surfaces, musty smells, and other inconveniences that may interfere with your regular operations. Remediation can help address all the issues if done properly.  

Mold remediation in your Olathe business premises can take different processes depending on the areas affected or the duration of the infestation. SERVPRO helps in many ways, including setting up containment, damage assessment, air filtration, and cleaning of contents or belongings.  

The crucial steps for restoring mold include:

• Mold inspection
• Mold removal
• Black mold damage repairs

Although mold is readily visible when it develops on surfaces, inspection is essential to identify any hidden colonies. An inspection also helps reveal the level of deterioration of the affected materials. Root-like mold hyphae tend to penetrate materials searching for food, meaning that the problem is not limited to the masses on surfaces. Our SERVPRO technicians prepare to teardown all affected porous materials.

Preparing for teardown and cleanup can take various steps. Setting up containment barriers is crucial since it helps prevent moldy materials from spreading beyond initially affected areas. It also helps maintain indoor air quality. Our SERVPRO technicians use plastic sheets and metal poles to set up the necessary barriers. Setting up negative air pressure machines within the enclosed barrier helps prevent fine debris from escaping into the air. 

Other processes that help improve the remediation process include:

• Using antimicrobial products to kill spores
• Using air filtration devices to remove suspended residues
• HEPA vacuuming surfaces to remove settled spores

SERVPRO of Olathe / Lenexa and SERVPRO of Blue Valley perform thorough mold remediation restoring business premises to their preloss state. Call us at (913) 782-4693. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.