Why Won't It Go Away? Understanding the Persistence of Mold Growth in One Spot

5/10/2023 (Permalink)

Take steps to prevent mold growth in your future.

Mold growth is a common problem that can occur in any home or building. One of the frustrating things about mold is that it often seems to keep coming back, even after it has been cleaned up. If you have noticed mold growing in the same spot repeatedly, you may be wondering why this keeps happening. In this blog, we'll explore some of the reasons why mold may keep growing in one spot and what steps you can take to prevent it from returning.

Wheres the source?

One of the primary reasons why mold may keep growing in the same spot is that there is a source of moisture present. Mold needs moisture to grow, and if the moisture source is not addressed, the mold will continue to thrive. This could be due to a leaky pipe or roof, condensation, or high humidity levels. If the moisture source is not identified and addressed, the mold will continue to grow no matter how many times it is cleaned up.

Mold can be difficult

Another reason why mold may keep growing in the same spot is that it was not completely removed the first time. Mold can be difficult to completely eradicate, especially if it has penetrated deep into porous materials such as drywall or carpeting. If even a small amount of mold is left behind, it can quickly regrow and spread.

Conditions in the affected area

The conditions in the affected area may be conducive to mold growth. This could be due to poor ventilation, lack of sunlight, or high levels of organic matter such as dirt or dust. If the conditions are right for mold growth, it will continue to thrive no matter how many times it is cleaned up.

Professional assistance

So what can you do if you are dealing with mold that keeps coming back? The first step is to identify and address the source of moisture. This may require the help of a professional if the source of the moisture is not immediately apparent. Once the source of moisture is addressed, the affected area should be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This may require the use of specialized equipment such as dehumidifiers or fans to ensure that the area is completely dry.

It's also important to take steps to prevent mold growth in the future. This may include keeping the affected area well-ventilated, reducing humidity levels, and regularly cleaning the area to remove any organic matter that could support mold growth.

In conclusion, mold that keeps growing in the same spot is often due to a source of moisture that has not been addressed, incomplete removal of the mold, or conditions that are conducive to mold growth. To prevent mold from coming back, it's important to identify and address the source of moisture, thoroughly clean and dry the affected area, and take steps to prevent mold growth in the future. By following these steps, you can effectively deal with mold and prevent it from returning.

Essential Steps to Keep Your Pets Safe in the Event of a Fire

4/10/2023 (Permalink)

Keep your pets safe incase of a fire emergency

Pets are not just animals; they are a part of our family. As pet owners, it is our responsibility to keep them safe from harm. One of the greatest risks to pets is a house fire. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), approximately 500,000 pets are affected by house fires every year. In order to keep our pets safe, we must be prepared for the possibility of a fire. Here are some steps to help you keep your pets safe in the event of a fire.

It is important to have a plan in place in case of a fire. Make sure everyone in your household knows what to do in case of an emergency. Create a fire escape plan that includes your pets. Make sure everyone knows where your pets are likely to be in the house, and assign someone to be responsible for grabbing them in case of a fire.

Keep collars and leashes near the door

In the event of a fire, you want to be able to quickly and easily grab your pets and get them out of the house. Keep their collars and leashes near the door so you can quickly attach them and lead them out of the house.

Secure pets in a safe location

If you are unable to evacuate your pets, you should secure them in a safe location. This could be a room that is furthest away from the fire, or even a crate. Make sure to leave plenty of food and water, and keep a sign on the door indicating that there are pets inside.

Install smoke detectors

Smoke detectors are crucial in alerting you to the presence of a fire. Make sure to install them in every room of your house, especially near where your pets sleep.

Use flameless candles and fire-resistant materials

Open flames and pets do not mix. Avoid using candles or other open flames, and instead use flameless candles or other battery-operated alternatives. Use fire-resistant materials in your home, including furniture and bedding.

Keep fireplaces and stoves clean

Fireplaces and stoves can be a fire hazard if they are not properly maintained. Make sure to keep them clean and free from any debris or flammable materials.

Train your pets

It is important to train your pets to respond to commands, especially in the event of an emergency. Practice evacuation drills with your pets so they know what to do in case of a fire.

Keep emergency numbers handy

Keep a list of emergency phone numbers, including those of your veterinarian and local animal shelters, in case you need to contact them in the event of a fire.

In conclusion, keeping your pets safe in the event of a fire requires planning and preparation. By taking these steps, you can help ensure that your pets are protected in case of an emergency. Remember, your pets are a part of your family, and it is your responsibility to keep them safe from harm.

Can drain cleaner damage pipes?

3/9/2023 (Permalink)

Cleaning drains with the right chemicals are important to reduce damages.

Drain cleaners are powerful chemicals that can be harmful to your pipes, fixtures and plumbing system. This article will explain what you need to know about drain cleaner safety.

The chemicals found in drain cleaners can damage pipes and fixtures. When you use a drain cleaner on a clogged drain, it's possible that the chemical will seep into your home's water system and cause damage to other parts of your plumbing system. If you think you might have a clog in your toilet, try using some baking soda first before resorting to chemicals.

Old Pipes

If you have old, corroded pipes, then your chances of being hurt by drain cleaner are much higher. The chemicals found in drain cleaners can damage pipes and fixtures, corrode metal and dissolve the plastic or rubber linings of pipes.

In addition to damaging your plumbing system and exposing yourself to potential health risks from exposure to these chemicals (including skin irritation), it's very possible that if enough damage is done over time by repeated use of these products then one day those parts will fail completely causing even more damage!

Drain Cleaners

Do not use drain cleaners on toilets. Toilets have moving parts that can be damaged by the cleaners. If you do use a drain cleaner, follow all directions carefully and avoid splashing or spilling it.

When using a cleaner to clear a clogged toilet, read all directions carefully before opening the bottle, including any cautions and disclaimers on the label.

Check the label for proper disposal instructions. Read the label before using a drain cleaner. Use gloves and eye protection when using a drain cleaner and also wear rubber gloves, goggles and protective clothing when using a drain cleaner.

Drain cleaners are powerful chemicals that should be used with caution. If you have old, corroded pipes then your chances of being hurt by drain cleaner are much higher. Do not use drain cleaners on toilets because these devices contain moving parts that can be damaged by the acidity of these cleaners. When using a cleaner to clear a clogged toilet, read all directions carefully before opening the bottle.

Categories of Water Damage

1/19/2023 (Permalink)

When water damage strikes, give SERVPRO of Jacksonville Westside/Orange Park a call today!

Water damage can easily become a major problem if you're not careful. In fact, it could cost thousands of dollars to repair and can even lead to secondary damages, if left unattended for too long. It's important to know what each category of water damage means for your home so that you can make an informed decision about how best to handle it.

Category 1 Water Damage

Category 1 water damage is the least serious type of water damage and can be caused by a small amount of water that has leaked into your home. The most common cause of category 1 water damage is a faucet or toilet leak, but it can also result from any other small source of moisture that you don't realize until it's too late.

Category 1 Water Damage Prevention Tips:

• Repair all leaks in sinks, toilets, and faucets immediately. If a leak seems minor at first glance (such as a dripping faucet), try tightening the valve beneath before calling for professional help.
• Clean up spills immediately to prevent them from spreading further than they already have.

Category 2 Water Damage

Category 2 water damage is the second most common type of water damage. If your home has experienced category 2 water damage, then you've probably noticed that there are no visible signs of secondary damage in your home. This type of water damage can be caused by a leaky pipe, a burst pipe, or even just condensation on an air conditioning unit. The good news is that although it's not as serious as category 1 or 3 water damage, it still requires attention and repair work so that you don't have to deal with any more problems later on down the road.

Category 3 Water Damage

Category 3 water damage is the most serious type of water damage and occurs when your property has been inundated with flood waters or other sources of water that are contaminated with sewage, chemicals, or other harmful substances.

Category 3 water damage should be handled by professionals who have the training and expertise to safely remove contaminants from your home. It's important for you to know that if you try to clean up Category 3 water damage yourself, it could expose you to dangerous contaminants in the air or on surfaces that can cause respiratory problems or skin irritation.

Water Damage can Cause Major Problem

Water damage is not always obvious. It can be a serious issue, and it is important to know what each category means for your home. Category 1. This type of water damage damages only the surface of the material. It may appear as discoloration, but not deeper than that.

Category 2. In this case, you have some staining that goes beyond the surface level and might even affect framing or other structural components of your home depending on how long it has been since it happened.

Water damage can happen to anyone, but it is important that you know what each category means for your home. If you find yourself in a situation where water has caused damage to your property, it is essential to call a restoration company right away so they can assess the situation and determine which category of water damage has been caused by the flooding or leaky pipe in your home.

Reasons Why You Need Professional Mold Testing and Inspection

1/10/2023 (Permalink)

Mold inspection in a Lakeside, FL home

Mold is a type of fungus that grows on organic matter and thrives in damp, humid environments. It can be found throughout the world, and it spreads easily from one location to another. When it becomes visible, it can have many different colors and shapes. If left untreated, mold can cause serious damage to building materials such as drywall, woodwork, carpeting, and insulation – which could result in expensive repairs if not caught early enough.

Mold Inspection and Testing: What Is It?

Mold inspection and testing are two separate processes. You may have heard them used interchangeably, but they are two very different things. Mold inspection is the process of inspecting a building for mold, while mold testing is a specific type of sampling done by professionals within the scope of an inspection.

Mold inspections can be performed by anyone with access to the location where it's suspected there is mold present. The inspector will look at surfaces in the area and take samples from those surfaces to be tested later. Any type of sample taken during this process will provide information about whether there is any existing growth on that surface at that time, but it does not give any indication as to what types of molds might be present or how large their colonies could become if left unchecked.

Why You Should Schedule Frequent Mold Inspections for your Building

• Mold can spread quickly.
• One of the primary reasons why you need to schedule frequent mold inspections for your building is because mold can grow in a matter of days. If a large amount of moisture is present in an area for long periods of time, then mold may start to grow there no matter how clean or dry the environment is otherwise.
• It's difficult to remove. A second compelling reason why you should schedule regular building inspections for your home or business involves the difficulty involved with removing mold once it has taken hold on carpeting, furniture, or other locations inside buildings where people live or work every day. 

When Should Mold Inspection and Testing Be Considered?

If you suspect that there is mold in your property, it is important to have a professional inspect and test the affected areas. If you have a water leak or flood in your home or business, then it’s even more critical that an inspection be conducted immediately. In addition, if you are remodeling or renovating the premises, we recommend having a professional inspect these areas prior to any renovation work beginning so that any potential issues can be addressed before they become problematic.

For Mold Removal Services Contact SERVPRO

If you have mold in your Lakeside, FL home and are looking for professional remediation services, SERVPRO is the company to call. We have been providing mold removal services across the country since 1978, so we know what we’re doing when it comes to protecting people from the dangers of mold.

Our certified technicians are trained in all aspects of proper remediation, including air quality testing and inspection. They are also licensed by their state’s Department of Health to perform these services safely and effectively. In addition, we offer free estimates on our work so that you can be sure that we will provide an accurate quote before starting work on your home or business.

If you suspect that your home has mold, it’s important to have it tested and inspected. Contact SERVPRO of Jacksonville Westside/ Orange Park today to schedule a free inspection. We can help determine the severity of your problem and develop an effective plan for remediation.

How To Clean Smoke Damage

12/14/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damage to kitchen

If your home has been through a fire, you may be wondering how to clean up the smoke damage. While this isn't always easy to do on your own, there are a few important steps that can help speed up the restoration process and make sure your home is back in good shape as quickly as possible.

Assess the damage

If you've suffered a fire or any other kind of damage at your home, it's important to get an expert to assess the damage. A professional will be able to tell you what types of cleaning products are needed and give advice on whether repairs are necessary. The following are some things that should be looked for:

• Soot and smoke stains
• Fire damage
• Water damage from firefighting efforts or flooding (in case there were sprinklers)
• Mold growth, which could indicate that there was mold before the fire started and indicates moisture problems in your house's structure
• Electrical damage

Contact your insurance company

Once you've decided that the damage is too severe for you to clean yourself, it's time to contact your insurance company. The best way to do this is via phone or email; don't try calling them in person because you'll probably be put on hold for hours. Once you're connected with an employee of the insurance company, make sure that they understand that there has been a fire and that your home needs professional attention.

If everything goes well, they should send out a representative from their team who will assess the damage in person. 

Remove any non-salvageable items

The first step to cleaning up a smoke-damaged area is to remove all items that are damaged beyond repair. If you aren't sure if it can be salvaged, leave it alone and call a professional to come assess the damage.

Clean walls and ceilings first.

First, you will want to clean the walls and ceilings. Use a damp cloth for the walls and a sponge for the ceiling. 

Once you have finished cleaning your walls and ceilings, move on to cleaning any other surfaces in your home that were affected by smoke damage.

Clean floors at the end of the job

Cleaning floors at the end of the job is a good idea, as it ensures that any dirt or dust is picked up before you move on. However, cleaning floors can be dirty work, so wear gloves and a mask. You may also want to invest in some coveralls and rubber boots if you're going to need to get down on your hands and knees while cleaning.

Clean with a damp mop or vacuum cleaner, depending on how much debris there is on your floor. A vacuum cleaner will remove any loose particles; however, if there are stains left behind by smoke residue then these need to be removed by hand-scrubbing with soap and water before using either method described above.

Clean kitchen surfaces

• Clean up all food and food stains.
• Clean up any grease or oil spills.
• Clean up any spilled liquids.
• Clean up any food particles that may be present in your kitchen, as well as dirt, dust, and other foreign matter.

It's important to clean this area thoroughly because smoke damage can be caused by bacteria or mold on surfaces in your home if they weren't cleaned properly soon after the fire occurred

Clean upholstery and carpet

If you have a wet vacuum, use it to clean upholstery and carpets. If you do not have a wet vacuum, try using a damp paper towel instead. If that doesn't work, try using a spray bottle filled with water instead.

Clean wood furniture and panels.

• If the wood is painted, you can use a damp cloth to wipe off any excess soot.
• If the wood is unfinished, you can use a damp cloth to wipe off any excess soot.

Smoke damage is highly visible, but it can also be hazardous to touch or inhale; make sure any lingering smoke or soot is cleaned up by a professional restoration company like SERVPRO of Jacksonville Westside/Orange Park.

SERVPRO of Jacksonville Westside/Orange Park specializes in cleaning up all types of smoke damage and has been helping people recover from fire disasters for many years. To learn more about our services, call (904) 269-9282 today!

The key to removing smoke damage is a thorough cleaning of all affected spaces. This will ensure that the odor doesn’t linger. The best way to get started with this process is by contacting your insurance company immediately so they can send out an inspector. They will assess the damage and work with their network of professionals to restore your home back to normal, fast!

Cleaning Wet Items After Water Damage

11/1/2022 (Permalink)

Rug cleaning after water damage

Cleaning Water Damaged Items

Water damage can be a nuisance, but it doesn't have to be a disaster. You can salvage some of your belongings if you act fast and follow recommended cleaning methods. The first step is to separate wet items based on the type of water damage each item has sustained. Then, let clothing air dry prior to packing so that mold doesn't form inside closets or drawers during storage. Finally, disinfect hard surfaces (such as countertops) with a disinfectant cleaner before continuing with restoration efforts.

Dispose of any items that cannot be salvaged.

It's important to note that there are certain items that cannot be salvaged, even if they're cleaned thoroughly. If you're unsure whether an item can be saved, it's best to err on the side of caution and dispose of it. These sorts of items are usually those that are ruined beyond repair or aren't worth the effort needed to clean them well enough for re-use.

If you do decide to throw out a wet item after water damage has occurred (like clothing), make sure you don't save anything else from this damaged area! This will help prevent cross-contamination with other areas where no damage has occurred yet - as well as avoid any possibility for mold growth later down the line due to humidity problems within your house/apartment building structure itself.

Separate items based on the type of water damage they have sustained.

• Damp or wet items that are salvageable should be cleaned and dried immediately. Take these items to a professional cleaner for cleaning and drying, if possible.
• Moldy items (such as carpets, upholstery, textiles, and paper) can be cleaned in most cases by washing with hot water at a commercial laundry service or dry cleaner without using chemicals or bleach. Keep these items out of direct sunlight until they are completely dry.
• Dry-clean only clothing should be taken to an experienced dry cleaner as soon as possible after it has been removed from storage containers to prevent mold growth that could result in permanent staining or discoloring of fabrics or finishes

Allow wet clothing to air dry prior to packing.

Once you've mopped up remaining water and allowed your belongings to air dry, pack your items if possible. You may need to withhold certain items until they're completely dry, like your books or linens. If you can put anything in a suitcase or box, do so immediately.

If you don't have access to a washing machine because of the damage caused by flooding or other water-related issues, place all wet clothing into bags that seal tightly. Place these bags in a closed room with good ventilation and let them sit for 24 hours before opening again (for example: closet). This will help prevent mold from forming on any remaining moisture from inside the bag that wasn't removed during initial drying efforts.

If possible, use fans in conjunction with this method for faster drying times - preferably those that oscillate so as not to cause wrinkles and creases! Remember: Air-drying is best whenever possible as it helps reduce wear-and-tear on fabrics such as jeans/jeans material pants which tend not survive too well in standard washing machines anyway (due primarily due to increase friction caused by rubbing against itself).

Clean hard, non-porous surfaces with a disinfectant cleaner.

When it comes to cleaning hard, non-porous surfaces (like floors, walls, and countertops), you'll need to use a disinfectant cleaner that's approved for use on hard, non-porous surfaces.

You can find these cleaners at your local hardware store or supermarket. Make sure the product is labeled as being effective against germs and bacteria! Most reputable brands will have third party testing results that show their products kill 99.9% of norovirus--the most common cause of foodborne illness--in 30 seconds; if they don't provide this information, find another brand of disinfectant cleaner instead. 

You can salvage some items after water damage if you take prompt action and follow recommended cleaning methods.

• Throw it out. If you're not sure if your item can be salvaged, throw it out immediately. You should never risk the health and safety of your family by trying to save something which may have been contaminated with mold. 
• Call a professional if possible. If you can't toss something and want an expert opinion on whether it's safe, call an experienced fire restoration company for help! They'll know how to test for mold growth or other hazards associated with wet items and give professional recommendations about how to proceed from there without risking further damage (or worse!).

Water is a powerful force, but it's not unbeatable! This post has given you the tools to clean up your water-damaged home or office. If you find yourself in this situation, take the time to assess the damage and make sure that any salvageable items are properly cleaned before they're put back into service. And don't forget: no matter what happens, always call us first! We'll be there with our expert advice and professional services so that you can start making plans for tomorrow without worrying about today's problems

What Can Expect After a Partial Loss?

10/2/2022 (Permalink)

Roof tarping is a temporary measure to protect the building from further damage.

Most Common Services for Partial Losses

If your home or business has been damaged by smoke, fire, or water, then you need to contact a professional restoration company immediately. The experts at SERVPRO of Jacksonville Westside/Orange Park can get the job done quickly and effectively. Here are some of our most common services for partial losses:

Fire Damage Restoration

The fire damage restoration process is a multi-stage process that restores fire damaged property to its preloss condition. The first step of this process is to stop the spread of fire and contain it. Next, investigators will determine if there was any malicious intent involved in starting the fire. After this has been determined and if there was no malicious intent, your insurance company will work with you on the financial side of restoring your property.

As soon as a fire occurs, it is a good idea to contact a restoration professional. Our restoration professionals at SERVPRO are equipped with years of training and top-notch technology to restore your home quickly and thoroughly. We will clean any damaged items and store them until your home is ready for reentry. 

Smoke Damage Restoration

Smoke damage is often not as obvious as fire damage. Smoke can come from a variety of sources, including cooking, candles, and cigarettes. Fire damage is also caused by a range of things such as cooking or candles but tends to be more severe than smoke damage.

Board-up

A board-up is a temporary door that will protect against water damage, debris, etc., while you wait for your insurance company to pay out on your home and start the repairs process. Your board up company will secure all damaged areas of the exterior of your house with plywood, polycarbonate plastic and/or glass block windows. 

Roof Tarp

Roof tarping is a temporary measure to protect the building from further damage. It can be used to secure loose materials and prevent rainwater from entering the structure through holes or gaps in the roof. Roof tarps are also used as a protective layer over debris until it can be removed safely.

Electronic Cleaning and Restoration

Electronic cleaning and restoration is a very common type of partial losses. This type of loss includes damage from moisture, smoke and/or fire, liquid spills, power surges and electrical spikes. In many cases, electronic cleaning and restoration can restore data files or other important information that was not backed up prior to the damage event.

Electronic cleaning may include:

• Removal of moisture and contaminants (e.g., smoke) from hard drives
• Repairing circuits that have been damaged by power surges or electrical spikes
• Replacing failed components (e.g., motherboards)

Partial loss means some things that are not destroyed will still need to be restored.

This could include smoke damage, fire damage, water damage, or any of the above. It is important to understand the difference between fire restoration and smoke restoration because the methods used in each process are different.

Partial losses that require fire restoration typically involve extensive smoke damage and can include water damage as well. The first step of a partial loss requiring fire restoration is an inspection of your property by an experienced technician who will determine if there is any structural damage. 

The goal here is always to prevent further damage from occurring which means keeping air quality high enough for people living inside while also making sure nothing catches on fire again! We provide 24-hour emergency service so don't hesitate to contact us anytime day or night for any emergency restoration need!

There are many things that can be restored after a partial loss. It is important to know what you need and make sure the restoration company knows what they are doing. If you have any questions about the restoration process, please feel free call us at (904) 269-9282. We will be happy to answer your questions and provide information on how we can help you with your fire damage restoration needs.

Preparing for a Business Fire: 3 Tips

8/29/2022 (Permalink)

Keep exits clear and marked

Keep The Following Tips In Mind

A fire can devastate your Fleming Land, FL business and cause a shutdown that might have a negative effect on your employees and profits. A business fire can start in almost any area of your commercial building, such as the basement or in an employee break room, where it is likely to spread quickly. You can protect your business by creating a fire preparedness plan, and keeping a few tips in mind as you do so may help you feel more confident in the face of fire risk.

1. Keep Exits Clear and Marked
One important aspect of fire preparation is to keep all your building’s exits clear of clutter and marked with lighted signs. Practice using these exits during fire safety exercises and remind your employees to use the exit that is closest to them during a fire emergency. If your business is on a higher floor of a building, ensure stairwell doors are clearly marked and encourage your workers to use them instead of the elevator in case of fire.

2. Maintain Electrical Panels
Your building’s electrical panel can be a major source for a business fire, especially if you forget to maintain them properly. Avoid storing products near these panels and keep all materials at least three feet away from panel doors. Ensure that access panels work properly and that no exposed wiring shows.

3. Check Sprinkler System Regularly
Sprinkler systems can minimize the risk of fire damage but only if they operate correctly. Connect with your local fire chief to learn about building fire code safety and work with fire restoration and mitigation service to enhance employee safety drills so each individual understands how the system works in case of fire.
Being prepared for a business fire can help your Fleming Land,FL business safe and reduce the risk of serious damage if one should occur. When you and your employees treat fire safety seriously, recovery may be simpler and less costly.

Items You Should Throw Away After a Fire

8/29/2022 (Permalink)

In most cases, it is recommended that you throw away all medicines after a fire

After a Fire, Items You Should Discard

After a fire in Jacksonville, Florida there are certain items that often cannot be saved because they have been exposed to high heat and suffered fire damage. You want to know what you should throw away to ensure that what you do keep is safe. This information makes the cleanup and restoration process a bit easier to handle.

Food Items

The high heat of a fire can cause food to spoil. Fire-extinguishing water and other products might also contaminate your food. It can be difficult to determine whether food is still safe, so it is often recommended that you throw it all away and start over. You should also throw out the pet food in your home since it too can face the same issues as human food.

Medicine

In most cases, it is recommended that you throw away all medicines after a fire. The high temperatures that occur with fire might affect the effectiveness of your medications. Because of this, it is best to toss them and talk to your doctor to get new prescriptions written. The water used to extinguish a fire might also contaminate medications.

Cosmetic and Hygiene Products

A fire might melt or significantly heat up your cosmetic and hygiene products. It might also affect the stability of the ingredients, changing their overall structure. The products might not apply as they used to, rendering them unusable. Look for signs of charring, composition alteration, and packaging warping to see how much damage happened to these products. They might also become contaminated by the products used to extinguish the fire.

With this information, you know what to throw away and what you might be able to save. Make note of this information, and create a list of the items that are best tossed. This ensures that what you do keep is safe to use after you complete the fire cleanup process.