Commercial Mold Meltdown

7/25/2024 (Permalink)

Understanding the Causes and Risks of Mold Infestations in Commercial Spaces

Mold infestations in commercial properties are a significant concern for business owners and property managers. These infestations can arise from various sources, with the most common culprits being roof leaks and loose plumbing fittings. Understanding the underlying causes and potential health risks associated with mold is essential for maintaining a safe and healthy work environment.

Common Causes of Mold Infestations in Commercial Spaces

1. Roof Leaks: Roof leaks are one of the primary sources of mold growth in commercial buildings. When water penetrates the roof, it creates a damp environment conducive to mold proliferation. Regular roof inspections and prompt repairs are crucial in preventing water intrusion and subsequent mold problems.
2. Plumbing Issues: Loose or faulty plumbing fittings can lead to water leaks, which may go unnoticed for extended periods. These hidden leaks provide a constant moisture source that encourages mold growth. Regular maintenance and inspections of plumbing systems can help identify and rectify these issues before they escalate.
3. HVAC Systems: Commercial HVAC systems can also be a source of mold if not properly maintained. Condensation within the system can create moist environments where mold can thrive, spreading spores throughout the building via the ventilation system. Regular cleaning and maintenance of HVAC systems are essential to prevent mold growth.
4. High Humidity: Commercial spaces with high humidity levels are more susceptible to mold infestations. Areas such as basements, storage rooms, and kitchens can retain moisture, providing ideal conditions for mold to develop. Monitoring and controlling humidity levels within the building can help prevent mold growth.

Health Risks Associated with Mold in Commercial Spaces

Mold not only affects the structural integrity of a building but also poses serious health risks to employees, customers, and visitors. Exposure to mold spores can lead to various health issues, including:

1. Respiratory Problems: Inhalation of mold spores can cause respiratory issues such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Individuals with preexisting respiratory conditions, such as asthma, may experience exacerbated symptoms.
2. Allergic Reactions: Mold exposure can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Symptoms may include sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and skin rashes.
3. Immune System Suppression: Prolonged exposure to mold can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections and illnesses.
4. Toxic Mold Syndrome: Certain types of mold produce mycotoxins, which can lead to toxic mold syndrome. Symptoms may include chronic fatigue, headaches, memory loss, and difficulty concentrating.

Addressing Mold Infestations Promptly

If you suspect or notice a mold problem in your place of business, taking immediate action is crucial. Ignoring mold issues can lead to further damage and increased health risks. One effective way to address mold problems is to seek professional assistance.

Professional Mold Remediation Services

For comprehensive and efficient mold remediation services, consider reaching out to SERVPRO ® Here’s how SERVPRO can help:

1. 24/7 Emergency Response: Mold can spread quickly, and a swift response is critical to mitigating damage. SERVPRO of Frankfort offers 24-hour emergency services to address mold infestations promptly. Their rapid response helps minimize business interruption and reduce potential health risks.
2. Thorough Inspections and Assessments: SERVPRO's team conducts thorough inspections to identify the source and extent of the mold problem. This detailed assessment ensures that all affected areas are identified and treated, preventing future mold growth.
3. Containment and Prevention: To prevent the spread of mold, SERVPRO uses advanced containment procedures. This includes physical barriers and negative air pressure to isolate the contaminated area. By containing the mold, they prevent it from spreading to other parts of the building.
4. Advanced Remediation Techniques: SERVPRO utilizes advanced mold remediation techniques to effectively remove mold and restore the affected area. This includes the use of specialized equipment such as air scrubbers, HEPA vacuums, and antifungal treatments.
5. Expertise and Training: SERVPRO’s technicians are highly trained and certified in mold remediation. They possess the expertise to handle commercial mold remediation's unique challenges, ensuring the job is done right the first time.
6. Restoration to Preloss Condition: After mold removal, SERVPRO restores the affected area to its preloss condition. This includes repairing any structural damage, replacing damaged materials, and ensuring the space is safe and clean for occupancy.
7. Documentation and Communication: Throughout the remediation process, SERVPRO maintains clear communication with business owners and property managers. They provide detailed documentation of their findings, remediation steps, and any necessary repairs.

For more information on our services or to schedule an appointment, contact SERVPRO of Morris/Ottawa at (815)416-0075 or https://www.SERVPRO.com/locations/il/SERVPRO-of-morris-ottawa

Simplifying the Mold Removal Process

7/22/2024 (Permalink)

Understanding the Mold Removal Process

Mold can be a persistent and harmful problem in homes and businesses. If not addressed properly, it can cause significant damage to property and pose health risks. Understanding the mold removal process and how professionals like SERVPRO® handle it is crucial for ensuring a safe and effective remediation.

What Does Mold Removal Entail?

1. Emergency Contact: The mold remediation process begins as soon as you contact SERVPRO. Our specialists will ask questions to determine the necessary equipment and resources for your specific situation.
2. Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment: SERVPRO professionals will conduct a thorough inspection to identify visible mold and locate hidden water sources. This step is essential to ensure that the mold will not return after the cleanup process.
3. Mold Containment: To prevent the spread of mold, SERVPRO uses advanced containment procedures. This includes turning off fans and HVAC systems to avoid cross-contamination during the remediation process.
4. Air Filtration: Specialized filtration equipment, such as “air scrubbers” and HEPA vacuums, are used to capture mold spores out of the air. This step helps prevent the spread of mold while remediation is in progress.
5. Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials: SERVPRO applies antifungal and antimicrobial treatments to eliminate mold colonies. In cases of heavy mold growth, they remove and dispose of mold-infested materials like carpeting, drywall, and insulation.
6. Cleaning Contents and Belongings: SERVPRO professionals clean and sanitize items affected by mold, including furniture, decorative items, and curtains. They use a variety of cleaning techniques to disinfect your belongings.
7. Restoration: The final step involves restoring your home or business to its pre-mold condition. This could involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet, or major repairs, such as reconstructing entire rooms.

Why Choose SERVPRO for Mold Remediation?

• 24/7 Emergency Service: Time is of the essence when dealing with mold. SERVPRO offers round-the-clock emergency services to mitigate damage and reduce costs.
• Highly Trained Technicians: SERVPRO professionals are certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). They have the expertise to handle any mold situation effectively.
• Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry: SERVPRO has a reputation for being a trusted leader in the restoration industry, specializing in mold inspection, testing, removal, and remediation.
• Insurance Coordination: SERVPRO helps navigate the insurance claims process, coordinating necessary paperwork to ensure a smoother, quicker experience?.

Mold removal and remediation require specialized knowledge and equipment. Attempting to handle mold on your own can be risky and ineffective. Trusting professionals like SERVPRO ensures that the job is done safely and thoroughly, protecting your property and health.

For more information on our services or to schedule an appointment, contact SERVPRO of Morris/Ottawa at (815)416-0075 or https://www.SERVPRO.com/locations/il/SERVPRO-of-morris-ottawa

Don't Let Mold Take Hold

7/5/2024 (Permalink)

Do you smell a musty, earthy odor every time you walk into a certain space in your home? Do you seem to have more health problems while indoors?  If this sounds familiar to you, your home may be serving as a breeding ground for mold. Mold is a type of fungus that grows and reproduces in moist environments. Even healthy individuals can suffer from a wide range of varying health concerns if exposed to dangerous forms of mold. Elderly, children, and those with respiratory issues are at even greater risks when it comes to mold. Therefore, it's very important to learn how to find and eliminate mold. This basic knowledge could improve your health and even save your life.

What does mold look like?

• Sometimes appears as dark green, blue hues, white around the edges
• Can spread over a surface like black polka dots OR sit close together in a blob formation
• Can grow in a circular pattern, with colonies creating concentric circles
• May appear shiny or slimy in texture (if still sourced with moisture)
• May appear to be dry and chalky (if moisture source has been cut off)

Where to begin your search:

• Spots of discoloration on the ceiling, moldings, and walls
• Plumbing lines and ventilating ducts
• Behind wallpaper that is flaking or wet
• Textiles and carpets that have recently been exposed to water
• The wallboard surrounding windows, window frames, and leaky windows
• Bathroom fixtures include tubs, shower curtains, sinks, and tiles
• Kitchen sinks, cabinets, and equipment (such as dishwashers and refrigerators)
• The walls, floors, ceilings, laundry machines, cardboard boxes, and piles of paperwork in attics and basements
• Bedrooms: windows, wardrobes, heaters, vents, and mattresses

Once you’ve located the mold, it’s time to eliminate it once and for all.

While there are many DIY routes for the removal of mold, considering the many dangers, it is more effective and safer to call in a professional.

Have you located the mold or still having trouble identifying it? Either way, SERVPRO® is ready for action! Our team is ready to respond to your call today. With 24/7 service and the following resources count us in at any time.

• Inspection and mold damage assessment
• Mold containment
• Advanced air filtration technology
• Mold remediation
• Mold damage repair and construction services

Now you may be wondering “what is the mold remediation process?” At SERVPRO, our thorough seven-step process ensures your home is mold free and safe. Here’s how we do it:

1. Emergency Contact:
   • The mold cleanup and restoration process begin the moment you call us. Our specialist will ask a series of questions to help us determine the necessary equipment, resource, and personnel needed for you and your home.
2. Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment:
   • Our professionals will carefully inspect your property for visible signs of mold. Using a variety of technologies, we can detect mold and locate any hidden water sources so the mold will not return once the area is cleaned, and the mold removal process has been completed
3. Mold Containment:
   • We use various containment procedures to prevent the spread and cross-contamination of mold. All fans and heating and cooling systems will be turned off to prevent the spread as our professional’s work to mitigate your mold problem
4. Air Filtration:
   • Our specialized filtration equipment allows our professionals to capture microscopic mold spores out of the air. We utilize powerful "air scrubbers" and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in process
5. Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials:
   • We use antifungal and antimicrobial treatments to treat mold colonies. When necessary to remediate heavy mold growth, our mold removal process includes the removal and disposal of mold-infested porous materials such as carpeting, drywall, and insulation
6. Cleaning:
   • Our professionals clean the structural elements that were infected by mold such as flooring, framing, fixtures, HVAC, and mechanical systems. We will also work to improve the indoor air quality (IAQ) of the space. Other items may also require extra attention after a mold infestation, including curtains, décor and important documents
7. Restoration:
   • Depending on the level of mold damage, drywall, subfloors, and other building materials may be removed. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet. It may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in your home.

Ranked “The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration”, we are ready for your residential and commercial mold remediation. With our specialized mold remediation equipment and easier insurance claim process, we are faster to any size disaster.

Contact us today at our Morris/Ottawa location: 

(815)416-0075

https://www.SERVPRO.com/locations/il/SERVPRO-of-morris-ottawa

Why Is There More Mold Around Now?

2/22/2019 (Permalink)

Have you ever wondered why there is more talk about mold these days? Has more mold come around these days? The answer is yes, but why is that?

Around 1945, after the war, there was a need for faster and cheaper houses to be built. During this time the use of drywall began. Drywall is comprised of compressed gypsum between two layers of durable paper. 

Gypsum readily absorbs water and dries very slowly. Since mold can start to grow on wet materials within 24-48 hours, this is the perfect place for mold to begin to grow. 

The housing boom which still continues today, has created a nationwide opportunity for mold issues. Back before 1945 there was not as much of an issue with mold because homes were comprised of plaster, brick and stone. Mold cannot  daily grow on these materials. 

Although mold is generally not covered under your homeowners policy with insurance, SERVPRO of Morris/Ottawa has several payment options available should you find mold in your home. Give us a call today for your free estimate. (815)416-0075

Is Mold Helpful or Harmful

1/25/2019 (Permalink)

There are many types of mold. Mold is an important part of the ecosystem and not all molds are harmful.

Mushrooms are mold that is consumed by people. Mold is also found in other foods such as cheese and soy products. It is also used to make antibiotics to help heal people and animals. Soy is an important part of the ecosystem because it breaks down dead material so it can deposit back into the ground. 

Although many types of mold are considered safe,  some are harmful and should be taken very seriously. I

Upon calling us SERVPRO of Morris/Ottawa can

-inspect your home for mold

-Assess the size of the problem and the type of mold

-Identify the source of moisture causing the mold growth

-Plan and execute the remediation. 

If you suspect mold in your home or business give us a call today. (815)416-0075.

Mold Is Alive

1/23/2019 (Permalink)

Molds are microscopic organismsfound virtually everywhere indoors and outdoors. Mold is alive but it is neither a plant nor an organism. Mold is a type of fungus. 

Fungal growth requires oxygen, adequate temperature, nutrients and water to survive and grow. 

Mold can damage your home as well as compromise your health. 

Some places where mold can grow in your home are 

-Carpets

-upholstery

-Wood products

-Clothes

-walls

-basements

-ductwork

-ceiling tiles

-household dust

-Books

-Curtains

-Baseboards

Mold grows in cool, dry, dark areas. Mold will start to grow on these damp areas within 48 hours, so it is very important to immediately call SERVPRO of Frankfort if you suspect water damage in your home. 

SERVPRO of Morris/Ottawa is here for you 24 hours a day to help you prevent mold growth due to water emergencies. If you should have mold our trained professionals can remediate and mitigate that as well. 

Preventing Mold Growth in your Home

1/23/2019 (Permalink)

Mold growth in your home can cause damage to your home, cause costly repair as well as cause health risks. 

Here are some tips on helping to reduce the risk of mold growth in your home. 

-Reduce humidity in your home by opening windows for approximately 30 minutes per day. 

-Prevent leaks due to rain and when it isn’t avoidable, dry and treat all waer damage writhing 24 hours of he water exposure. 

-Regularly clean areas in your home that accumulate humidity such as showers, faucets, pipes and floors near fixtures. 

-After you clean items make sure they are throughly dries and if possible leave in the sunlight. 

If your walls, floors, furniture or any of your large items get wet call SERVPRO of Morris/Ottawa right away so we can dry those items and save you time, money, and damage to your home. 

Preventing Mold Growth in a Damp Basement

1/23/2019 (Permalink)

1. Monitor Humidity Levels

High humidity levels provide the perfect growing environment for mold. 

2. Use a Dehumidifier

 If your basement has high humidity levels open windows daily for an average of 30 minutes or use a dehumidifier. 

3. Reduce Clutter 

Keep your basement free of clutter. Too many objects and storage items block the free flow of air and reduce ventilation. Items such as clothes and books stored in the basement are food for mold and mildew. 

4. Ensure Water Is Directed Away from Your Home

The boundary around your home must be sloped in such a way that snow and rain are directed away from the house. Otherwise, water and moisture will pool around the structure, increasing moisture and leakage problems. In such a situation, mold is almost inevitable.

5. Take Care of Spills and Leaks Immediately

If there are any leaks in the basement, take care of them immediately. Wipe the water from the area and dry it thoroughly. Use of a dehumidifier and heater to accelerate the drying process.

6. Insulate Water Pipes in the Basement

Generally, cold water pipes in the basement show condensation on the exterior. Insulating such pipes reduces the humidity levels in the basement.

Understanding Black Mold

3/29/2018 (Permalink)

The term “black mold” is a generic term used to describes many different types of mold that appear black, or dark when they appear on the surface of walls, tiles and concrete.  Black mold has become somewhat infamous because it has been reported on in the media as a mold that can produce toxins and cause health problems. While this is true, it is also true of many other types of mold, and not necessarily worse in cases of black mold. 

If you identify any mold in your home it would be wise to remove it safely.  You can use bleach, borax or vinegar to do this. When removing mold wear a respirator or face mask and cover your arms, legs and hands to avoid contact with mold spores.  For bigger mold problems you may want to call a qualified professional to take on the job safely and thoroughly. Your homeowner’s insurance may cover mold damage if it was caused by a “covered peril”; check with your agent.

To prevent mold growth in your home avoid excessive moisture by making sure bathrooms and laundry rooms are well ventilated and using a dehumidifier in your basement.

SERVPRO of Morris/Ottawa is a trusted leader in the restoration industry. We provide 24-hour emergency service and are dedicated to responding faster to any size disaster. With the training and expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs, we’re locally owned and operated and can respond immediately to your emergency.

Safely Clean Up Mold Problems

3/8/2018 (Permalink)

Consistent exposure to mold has a very negative effect on your family and your home.  The negative consequences of mold exposure can easily go undetected and cause serious problems.

Even if only a small amount of mold can be seen, it is likely you have a bigger problem below the surface.  Take action to remove the problem permanently and safely.  Here is what you need to know...

Bleach can kill virtually every species of indoor mold that it comes into contact with.  However, using bleach only works if the mold is growing on non-porous materials like tile, tubs, and countertops. That’s because bleach can’t penetrate porous materials such as wood and drywall. Using bleach on such materials can be deceiving because it will kill the mold above the surface, but mold below the surface will remain.  

Bleach can be useful but it can also cause damage; its a harsh, corrosive chemical that gives off harsh fumes.  There are safer alternatives, like borax and vinegar that can be used.

Borax is a natural, white mineral powder that has a low toxicity and does not emit dangerous fumes.  It can be mixed with water to kill and remove mold because it is a natural mold inhibitor.  

Vinegar is a mild acid that can kill 82% of mold species. It’s also natural and safe. Vinegar is non-toxic and doesn't emit dangerous fumes.

Removing mold can be serious business.  When removing mold wear a respirator or face mask and cover your arms, legs and hands to avoid contact with mold spores. You should safely be able to take on bathroom mold or relatively small mold outbreaks in other areas if you take these precautions.  For larger problems, especially problems where hidden mold may be a problem, it’s probably wise to call a reputable professional.  

Every mold infestation is different, from the amount of mold to the types of materials affected. Each scenario requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate the process for a “typical” mold remediation infestation by a professional:

• Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
• Mold Containment
• Air Filtration
• Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
• Cleaning Contents and Belongings
• Restoration

SERVPRO of Morris/Ottawa is a trusted leader in the restoration industry. We provide 24-hour emergency service and are dedicated to responding faster to any size disaster. With the training and expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs, we’re locally owned and operated and can respond immediately to your emergency.

Top tips for preventing mold problems in your Morris/Ottawa home

6/15/2017 (Permalink)

Mold in your Morris/Ottawa home or office can be a serious health hazard, especially if you have allergies or asthma. Even if you are not allergic, mold can irritate your skin, eyes, nose, throat and lungs.

Mold can grow in your walls, carpet, couch and other furniture. The most important thing mold needs to grow is moisture, so damp places like basements, laundry rooms, bathrooms and crawl spaces are the most vulnerable areas to mold growth. With that in mind, follow these tips to keep yourself safe from mold in your home or business.

Use a dehumidifier to reduce moisture in the air. Also, keeping the windows closed and the air-conditioning on when its’ humid and muggy outside will keep the moisture out.

Conversely keep it warm when it’s cold outside. Cold surfaces collect moisture through condensation, which encourages mold growth.

Keep bedroom and office doors open to improve circulation.

Add insulation to cold surfaces like around windows and doors, in floors and walls.

Fix leaks under faucets and sinks, as well as leaky cracks in your foundation.

Cover dirt and gravel crawl spaces with a plastic tarp.

If you are finishing your basement use a vapor barrier under carpet and/or wood floors to prevent a moisture problem.

Make sure clothes dryers are very well vented, that the vents stay clean of lint, and be sure the vent exhaust runs to the outdoors.

Have ducts cleaned once a year.

Don’t leave damp clothes in the laundry basket or dryer. Wash and dry your laundry promptly.

Every mold damage scenario is different, and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our “typical” process:

1.Emergency Contact - (815) 416-0075

2.Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment

3.Mold Containment

4.Air Filtration

5.Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials

6.Cleaning Contents and Belongings

7.Restoration

Mold Removal from Morris/Ottawa, IL Home.

3/21/2017 (Permalink)

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.


• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.


• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.


• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.


• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.


• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 815-416-0075

Got Mold in Morris/Ottawa? Better Call SERVPRO

3/9/2017 (Permalink)

Mold remediation is one of our primary areas of expertise here at SERVPRO^® of Morris/Ottawa. We have the training and experience to contain the infestation, scrub health-threatening spores out of the air, remove the contaminated materials, and help prevent future microbial growth.

A Moldy Situation

Imagine you were cleaning out a storage closet at work, and you found mold growing on the back wall. Most likely this year, an ice dam supplied the water that created an ideal situation for microbes to grow in this closet. Once you identified and resolved the source of the leak, you would still want to contact a professional to mitigate the mold and ensure healthy air for your employees and customers to breathe.

Containing the Infestation

When SERVPRO^® franchise professionals begin a mold job, our first concern is to contain the mold infestation. The mold you can see is only a small part of the danger posed to building occupants. Mold reproduces by releasing invisible spores into the air. These spores pose the real hazard for those who breathe the air in the infested building. Therefore, we begin by preventing air from the contaminated area traveling to other parts of the building.

Scrubbing Mold Out of the Air

Each job is unique in its challenges and solutions. However, in most cases, a SERVPRO^® mold mitigation team will set up a containment barrier and create a “negative air” situation inside the infested area. A “negative air” situation is essentially a vacuum that ensures air only flows into and not out of the contained area while the air scrubbers filter the spores and other contaminants from the air.

Removing Contaminated Materials

Organic materials like drywall, carpeting, and ceiling tiles must be removed and discarded once they become contaminated with mold. This is why we encourage people to contact us immediately after a water loss to dry all the materials before microbial growth begins. Blowing a fan across moldy materials hoping to dry them and save them spreads mold spores in the air and increases the health risk to building occupants.  

Inhibiting Future Growth

SERVPRO^® franchise professionals can never promise to prevent all future mold growth. Mold spores are everywhere in the atmosphere, and they take root and thrive whenever they find the perfect mix of moisture, food (organic materials) and temperature. However, our team does have several products that discourage microbial growth. Once your moldy materials have been removed and the air has been scrubbed to reduce the concentration of spores, we can apply one of these anti-microbial agents to help protect your building’s structural elements.

Call SERVPRO^® for Mold ASAP

When you see mold, remember you cannot see the biggest threat that mold presents. Contact our Morris / Ottawa, IL mold remediation team at 815-416-0075 for a free estimate and good advice about protecting yourself and other building occupants until the mold is removed and the air is clean again.