Recent Mold Remediation Posts

Preventing Reocurring Mold

9/13/2022 (Permalink)

"Leak?" graphic with franchise info and picture of kitchen sink leak We're here to help!

If you have a patch of mold that keeps growing back after you scrub it off, you may be wondering what you’re doing wrong. It can be even more frustrating if you’ve hired someone to handle the mold cleanup for you and it still grows back. The fact is, if you have a reoccurring mold problem, you have a problem with too much moisture in the affected area. An experienced mold remediation expert in Vancouver, WA, should be able to help you pinpoint the source of your moisture problem so that you can put an end to it.

Why and Where Mold Thrives

Mold releases spores, which are like tiny seeds that get carried from place to place by the wind. Mold spores can be found everywhere, outside and inside, so it’s impossible to completely remove all mold from your home. However, if spores don’t find the right growing conditions, they never grow into a visible mold colony. The key to keeping your home free from black mold is to make sure you don’t create the ideal conditions for it to grow.

Because spores are everywhere, mold only needs moisture and nutrition to grow. Most mold species can get nutrition from almost anything, including the paper in your drywall and the dust in the corners of your home. That means any area that is consistently damp is likely to grow mold. The most common sources of chronic moisture problems are the following.
• Poor ventilation
• Condensation
• Leaking roofs and windows
• Broken supply lines
• Leaking water pipes


Get Rid of Mold Forever

When you hire one of our SERVPRO mold mitigation experts, they will do more than remove mold from your home. They’ll also help you make sure it doesn’t return. With the use of hydrometers and infrared light, they can locate the hidden sources of moisture responsible for your mold problem. They also know how to open up walls to get at leaking pipes without doing unnecessary damage. Once you repair, replace or remove the source of dampness in your home, the mold won’t return.

Learn more at our East Vancouver site

Is Mold Covered in Your Insurance Policy?

2/18/2022 (Permalink)

moldy wood We will be able to communicate with your insurance, send in photos and what caused the growth.

Ocassions When You Can Expect Your Insurance to Pay for Mold Damage 

If you have discovered a fungus growth in your vancouver, WA home or commercial business, you might be wondering whether your homeowner’s insurance will cover this type of damage. The answer is sometimes. While mold is generally not covered under this kind of policy, there are exceptions. Here are a few occasions when you can expect your insurance to pay for mold damages.

1. When It Is Caused By a Covered Peril
Mold coverage often depends on the source of the growth. Damage caused by something that your insurance already covers will likely be included. Incidents such as broken pipes caused by freezing, overflow related to appliances or plumbing and water damage caused by snow, sleet or ice will usually be covered. If the water damage is caused by a flood, however, this will generally not be covered unless you have a flood policy.

2. When It is Sudden and Accidental
While your insurance policy may cover mold in some cases, this only applies if the damage was not caused by negligence on your part. If a pipe breaks because it was not properly maintained or if you fail to notice the damage until quite a bit of time has passed, then the insurance company may determine that the fungus growth is a result of improper home maintenance and they will refuse to cover it.

3. When You Have a Separate Mold Policy
In some cases, you may be able to have separate mold insurance added to your policy for an additional cost. Some companies might limit the amount of mold damage you can claim or the services that are included, but this is better than no coverage at all.

If you are concerned about a fungus growth in your home, it is a good idea to hire a professional mold remediation service. In some cases, the cost will be covered by your insurance. Always be sure to regularly maintain your home and check for damages to prevent the coverage from being denied by your insurer.

What to do When you Experience Mold in Clark County

9/30/2021 (Permalink)

Molded kitchen cabinet Are you experiencing water or mold damage? Contact SERVPRO of E. Vancouver & Clark Co. today! (360) 254-0049

When you experience a mold problem, prompt mitigation is vital to avoid mold growth which can be visible in as little as 24 to 48 hours under certain conditions. We have put together a list of procedures that will help prevent and defend against mold growth.

  • Keep the humidity between 30 to 60 percent.
  • Provide for proper drainage away from building foundations.
  • Regularly inspect plumbing and appliances for leaks.
  • Keep gutters and drains clear of debris.
  • Inspect the roof, windows and other areas where water might enter the building, and perform necessary maintenance.
  • Respond to all water intrusions immediately.
  • Contact SERVPRO of W. Vancouver & Clark Co. for professional assistance after water damage or if you discover mold.

Mold Remediation in Clark County

3/1/2021 (Permalink)

Mold damaged studs and wall “when you locate mold damage in your home, call Servpro” We’re here to help! Call after you experience a water damage or locate mold!

Since microscopic mold spores exist naturally almost everywhere, indoor and outdoor, removing all mold from a home or business is impossible. Many restoration businesses advertise "mold removal" and even guarantee to remove all the mold. This is a fallacy. SERVPRO of Vancouver/ Clark County has the training and expertise to remediate the mold in your home or business.

Understanding Mold

When water intrudes into your property, mold growth can start in as little as 48 hours.

The Mold Remediation Process

Every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same.

The Importance and Purpose of Mold Remediation

10/2/2020 (Permalink)

"there are 100,000 different types of mold out there" mold background SERVPRO When it comes to mold remediation, you should consider the service of SERVPRO of Vancouver/Clark County (360) 254-0049

Mold Remediation

Mold remediation is the removal as well as cleanup of mold present in indoor environments. It is very important to tackle your mold problem head-on before it starts to cause damage to your home and health.

Causes of Mold

Many building materials can sustain the growth of mold. It is mainly caused by the presence of moisture or water indoors and grows on organic materials. Organic materials consist of things that were once living. Most mold growth is found on wood floors or wooded studs. It can also be encouraged by a lack of drying of building materials like concrete. Leaky roofs, flooding, problems connected with plumbing, and building maintenance can result in the growth of mold indoors.

The first thing to do to solve mold problems indoors is to stop the source of the moisture within your home or office, followed by mold removal. Solutions for small instances of mold are the following:

  • Ventilation
  • Sunlight
  • Wall Insulation
  • Dehumidifiers
  • Non-porous building materials
  • Household Cleansers

If the mold growth is significantly high, it might be necessary to choose a professional mold remediation company to eliminate mold from every building material which has been compromised.

The aim of remediation is to clean or entirely remove all contaminated materials in such a way that is effectively checks the release of fungi-contaminated dust from spreading into unaffected areas.

DIFFERENT METHODS

Some ways to hinder mold growth are air conditioning, improved insulation, and also dry fog. Current technology allows mold remediation companies to pack a room with a kind of dry fog that exterminates mold and prevents its growth. This fog contains a chemical which is approved by the EPA and in no way damages or harms the health of animals or individuals. The idea is to attack the mold which is harmful to people and their pets, whatever it takes as long as it does not exacerbate the situation.

However, some companies use other methods of remediating by exposing it to high levels of heat, sunlight, UV light, Ozone, Dry air, and also by spraying fungicides. While such methods can make it non-viable, the mold, including any by-products might still produce harmful health effects and repercussions. The only correct tactic of remediation is to employ detergent solutions that eliminate the mold physically.

Other means of Mold Removal Are:

  • Dry ice blasting: gets rids of mold on wood and cement surfaces
  • Vacuum: removes accumulated water from carpets and floors.
  • Damp wipe: by scrubbing or wiping non-porous surfaces with water and detergent.
  • HVPA Vacuum: Vacuum cleaners equipped with HVPA or High-Efficiency Particulate Air Filters are meant for the final cleanup of affected areas.

After remediation is achieved, all mold-affected furnishings, as well as building materials should be put in closed containers or impervious bags and disposed of as conventional construction waste

A Word of Caution

While engaged in mold removal, do not, on any account, breathe in either the mold or its spores, since it can be highly damaging to your health.

Understanding the dangers of mold

3/5/2020 (Permalink)

Fungus growth in crawl space If you think you or your customer might have a mold problem, call SERVPRO of East Vancouver/ Clark County, who is trained in mold.   

From The Ordinary

Fungi and mold naturally occur in our environment, and they produce some very useful results. For example, yeast is a type of fungi used in preparing breads and other food products. Blue cheese’s unique flavor is attributed to mold, and life-saving penicillin is a product of mold.

To The Unhealthy

Even though some forms of mold can add value to our lives, other forms can be harmful. Excessive amounts of mold, different types of mold and extended exposure to molds may present healthy concerns for one people. 

Any water intrusion into your office or your home can result in mold growth. This intrusion of water can result from storm damage, plumbing or equipment filters, long-standing leaks, and poor humidity control. When these issues are not addressed, the resulting damage can present increased risk of harmful mold growth.

Some amount of mold spores are normally present in most environments, but if the humidity and moisture levels in water-damaged environment are not promptly returned to normal, mold spores may grow and multiple to a harmful level.

Organic materials found inside a building, such as wood, paper, drywall and insulation, provide food sources for mold to flourish. Excessive mold growth can lead to indoor environmental conditions that may pose a health threat.

Take Precautions

If there is an ongoing moisture problem in the building alert for:

  • The presence of visible mold.
  • Strong, musty indoors that may indicate mold is present.
  • Any evidence of past moisture problems that might have caused undetected mold growth.
  • Excessive humidity.

Call the Clark County Mold Experts

10/10/2019 (Permalink)

fungus on particle board in crawl space A water damage in this Camas home crawl space went unnoticed for several weeks causing different species of fungi to grow.

Fungi and mold naturally occur in our environment, and they produce some very useful results. For example, blue cheeses unique flavor is attributed to mold, and life-saving penicillin is a product of mold
Even though some forms of mold can add value to our lives, other forms can be harmful. Excessive amounts of mold, different types of mold and extended exposure to mold may present health concerns for some people
Any water intrusion into your office or your home can result in mold growth. This intrusion of water can result from storm damage, plumbing or equipment failures, long-standing leaks, and poor humidity control. When these issues are not addressed, the resulting damage can present increased risk of harmful mold growth.
Some amount of mold spores are normally present in most environments, but if the humidity and moisture levels in a water damaged environment or not promptly return to normal, mold spores may grow and multiply to a harmful level.
Organic materials found inside a building, such as wood, paper, drywall and insulation, provide food sources for mold to flourish. Excessive mold growth can lead to indoor environmental conditions that may pose a health threat.
If there is an ongoing moisture problem in the building, be alert for:
-The presence of visible mold.
-Strong, musty odor‘s that may indicate mold is present.
-Any evidence of past moisture problems that might have caused undetected mold growth.
-Excessive humidity.
if you think you might have a mold problem, call your local SERVPRO of East Vancouver/ Clark county who is trained in mold remediation.

Preventing and Eliminating Shower Mold

3/6/2019 (Permalink)

Keep indoor humidity below 45% in your home to avoid the possibility of mold growth

Are You Worried About Shower Mold in Your House?

Bathroom mildew is a common issue among residential properties in Lacamas, WA, but it can be avoided and taken care of with a little bit of help. Here are a few tips that can help you with your own home.

Understand the Problem

With frequent condensation, high humidity, and leftover puddles, bathrooms are often the perfect location for mold growth. Homeowners can prevent bathroom mold from forming by taking some of the following precautions:

  • Wipe down walls
  • Use the fan during showers
  • Clean up spilled water

These safety measures can keep the bathrooms in your home spotless and clean. However, mold can still sneak up on you.

Disinfect the Area

Whether or not you think shower mold is a problem, it’s a good idea to disinfect your bathroom often. Vinegar, borax, or other mold cleaning solutions can be used to scrub down tiles and bathtubs. Moldy shower curtains are never fun, but you can avoid this by cleaning curtains and shower mats frequently.

Get an Inspection

If you notice spots or discolored patches around the shower area, you are likely dealing with fungi. A mold expert can determine what type of mold is growing and how to deal with it properly. This is an important step to take, especially if black mold is involved. This type of fungi normally looks green or black and is toxic. After the inspection, professionals can get started on the remediation process.

Start the Remediation Process

The remediation process consists of removing, cleaning, and restoring. While mold should be taken care of as soon as it’s spotted, sometimes it grows underneath floors and walls. Fortunately, professionals can take care of problems both small and large.

Mold problems can be dealt with carefully and efficiently. With the help of experts, contaminated items can be removed, and your house can be fully restored.

Top 3 Common Places in Your Home Mold Might Be Hiding

1/25/2019 (Permalink)

Mold damage on wall in a Cascade Place, WA residence

3 Common Hidden Places Where Mold Is Often Found

If you notice a musty smell in your home or leaking water, it is possible that mold might be hiding in spots that you don’t check often. When it comes to combatting mold growth, immediate action is the key to preventing extensive damage to the structure of your home. If you suspect that mold might be lurking in your home in Cascade Place, WA, but aren’t sure where to look, inspect these three common hidden places where mold is often found.

1. Behind Your Walls

Mold often grows inside your walls when your home has recently experienced water damage due to flooding, a leaking roof, or a broken pipe. If you notice peeling wallpaper or mold on the surface of your wall, there’s a good chance that mold has already made its way inside. Once this has occurred, the removal process can be quite lengthy and require replacing sections of moldy drywall. It is essential you contact a mold remediation specialist who can determine the extent of the damage and take the appropriate action.

2. Beneath Laminate Flooring

Flooding and large, uncleaned spills on laminate floors can result in water damage if left unaddressed. Although this type of flooring is designed to be water resistant, large puddles of water can soak its ways into laminate and settle underneath. You can tell this might be a problem if you notice warping, cracking, crowning, or other damage to the surface of the floor.

3. Underneath the Sink

If you don’t often examine the area beneath your sink for mold growth, now might be a good time to start! Leaks, spills, and increased humidity can lead to this issue. If you notice mold on wood underneath your sink, the correct cleaning method will depend on whether the wood type is porous or non-porous.

When left untreated, mold growth in your home will only get worse. If you suspect there might be mold in your home but can’t easily locate it, try inspecting these three common, hidden places!

The EPA Has Guidelines for Do-It-Yourself Mold Removal

9/12/2018 (Permalink)

Mold damage in a Vancouver, WA residential

The government knows that house mold is a problem. They know that removal should be left to professionals. However, they also know that regardless of what they say, you will try to remove it yourself. With that in mind, the EPA has published guidelines for do-it-yourself mold removal. After seeing what is involved, you may decide to contact local mold removal specialists after all. You will find them in Vancouver, WA, and the surrounding area. There are several conditions under which you should not attempt the removal.

  • Do not attempt removal if the mold growth extends beyond a single area of 10 square feet.
  • If you have health issues, consult your health professional before attempting cleanup.
  • If your plan is to solve your mold problem with paint and caulk, stop here. The mold needs to be removed and not just covered up.
    Do Not Attempt Mold Removal Without Basic

Safety Equipment

House mold removal is serious business and safe removal calls for the use of safety equipment.

  • Wear an N-95 mask. These are available at your local hardware store.
  • Wear long gloves that extend to the middle of the forearm.
  • Wear protective goggles that do not have air vents. Your goal with goggles is to keep the mold spores away from your eyes.
    It’s Time to Start the Actual Removal Process
    If your mold situation meets the guidelines and if you have the proper equipment, then you are ready to get started. There are some things to keep in mind.
  • Your job here is to clean the mold, not make it airborne and spread it through the house.
  • Don’t expect things to return to the condition they were in before the mold.
  • Anyone who is not properly protected should not be near or part of the mold removal.
    As you can see, the safe removal of house mold is a detailed and complicated process. For this reason, many people eventually decide to call upon mold removal professionals to handle the job.

Quick Responses + Proper Drying = NO MOLD!

5/31/2018 (Permalink)

Green Mold on Drywall

The last thing you hope to ever worry about is "Mold."

The primary physical damage from water or moisture usually includes wet flooring's, walls, ceilings, and furnishings.  

Secondary damage to other furnishings and structural components can result from indoor humidity or molds that may developed as a result of improper drying.  If water and moisture problems are not addressed promptly, molds and other microbes can begin to grow.  These microorganisms can feed on a variety of materials including wood, paper, paint, adhesives, and backing materials.  Proper, prompt water mitigation is essential in preventing mold and additional damage from a water loss.  

So if the unthinkable happens, call SERVPRO so we can turn your traumatic before into a happily ever after... "Like it never even happened." Inspections are scheduled as an appointment. Be proactive instead of reactive. If mold is present, time can be your enemy.

SERVPRO of E. Vancouver/Clark Co. @ 360-254-0049

How to Prevent Mold Problems in Your Commercial Property

5/31/2018 (Permalink)

For questions or to schedule an inspection call SERVPRO of E. Vancouver Clark Co. @ (360) 254-0049

The main things mold needs to grow in a home are organic materials to feed on and moisture. In houses there are always plenty of organic materials for mold to live on such as wood, drywall and various other building materials.

Moisture, on the other hand, can be controlled practically and so keeping the moisture in your home low is the best way to prevent mold growth.

Prevent Mold by Preventing Moisture

Most molds need 24-48 hours of moisture to begin to grow. Therefore if a suitable material in your home is wet for more than 24 hours then you run the risk of mold starting to grow.

Prevent Mold by Preventing Water Leaks

There are a few main things which usually cause moisture problems in the home. One is water leaks. These include things such as leaking roofs or walls, leaking pipes and leaking taps or a leaking shower.

If you know of any leaks in your home you should fix them without delay. You might need to inspect your home to find any water leaks you didn't know about.

Prevent Mold by Preventing Condensation

Condensation is another frequent cause of moisture. Condensation forms on cold surfaces when water vapor in the air cools and becomes liquid. Often you'll see condensation on metal pipes, concrete walls, water tanks and windows.

One way to reduce condensation is to keep the temperature warmer in rooms. For example, by installing insulation. You can also insulate the surfaces themselves such as putting coverings over metal pipes. You'll also have less condensation occurring if you keep the humidity in your home low.

Prevent Mold by Reducing Humidity

Many species of mold can begin to grow from humidity alone if the humidity stays high for long enough. In fact the humidity only needs to be higher than 55% before some molds can begin to grow.

The best way to keep humidity low in your home is through ventilation. Open the windows during the day, especially when it's hot since this is when humidity is usually the lowest outside. Close your windows when it's raining outside though.

It's especially important to ventilate the rooms where steam and moisture builds up, like the kitchen and bathroom. Exhaust fans help to reduce the humidity when doing things like cooking or washing dishes.

Air conditioners can also reduce household humidity, as can using dehumidifiers in your home.

For questions or to schedule an inspection call SERVPRO of E. Vancouver Clark Co. @ (360) 254-0049

How To Find Out If You Have Mold Coverage

5/16/2018 (Permalink)

The best thing you can do is perform regular maintenance and keep your home well-ventilated to avoid fungus growth in the first place.

If you’re dealing with extensive fungus growth in your home, you may be wondering if you have mold coverage. The answer, unfortunately, is not so straightforward. As concerns about black mold have grown in recent years, many insurance providers have started including mold exclusions in their policies. These exclusions specifically state that mold remediation will not be covered. Other providers may include mold insurance, but place a cap on how much they are willing to pay for remediation services in Vancouver, WA, In most cases, however, it depends on the cause of the mold growth.

What Is Usually Covered

Many insurance policies will cover mold damage if it is a direct result of issues covered by the policy. For example, insurance usually covers burst water pipes, which may result in a mold problem. If you have coverage for your sump pump or a backed up sewer, then your policy may also cover fungus growth that results from these sudden, catastrophic events.

What Is Usually Not Covered

Unfortunately, mold is often a result of ongoing problems related to maintenance or landscaping and damage from these types of issues are usually not covered by insurance policies. If your mold problem is a result of the following, it is almost certainly not covered by your policy.
• High humidity
• Poor ventilation
• Drainage problems
• Leaky roofs and windows
• Groundwater seepage
• Leaking supply lines
• Flooding
If you have specifically purchased flood insurance, you will need to check it for mold exclusions and caps. Your flood insurance provider may offer you the option of paying extra for mold damage coverage.

What To Do

The best thing you can do is perform regular maintenance and keep your home well-ventilated to avoid fungus growth in the first place. If you do develop a mold problem, you will need to read your policy carefully to see if you can get coverage for mold remediation services in Vancouver, WA. Discuss your options with an insurance claims adjuster or SERVPRO representative. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROevancouverclarkco.com/.

How Long Does Mold Removal Take?

4/30/2018 (Permalink)

Mold can quickly grow with the presence of water, and if not taken care of as soon as possible, it can spread. If mold growth occurs, it is recommended to call a specialist for mold removal in Vancouver, WA. Fortunately, this process may not be as time-consuming and complicated as you fear, although it is important to approach the problem properly.


Steps to Removing Mold


Mold spores are everywhere and can grow on your walls within 48 hours when combined with moisture. If left intreated for long enough, black mold may appear. A trained professional knows how to remove it safely and thoroughly and can take the correct steps to clean contaminated items, which include the following:

1. Examining the mold and water damage
2. Containing the mold to prevent spreading and filtering the air to remove spores
3. Thoroughly cleaning and sanitizing surfaces and items
4. Restoring damage done to walls, floors and other materials


Difference Between Mold and Mildew


It is easy for the untrained eye to mistake mildew for mold. Mildew usually looks like powder or fluff. It grows in patches of yellow, gray or white. Mold is slimy or fuzzy and appears as yellow, blue, green, brown, black, gray or white uneven spots or blotches on surfaces. If left untreated, the affected areas may begin to rot.


Length of Mold Removing Process


Mold removal can take up to a week depending on the severity of the infestation. If you let the mold continue to grow, damage can be extensive and costly to repair. Therefore, it is important to take care of the situation as soon as you notice mold.

While you may think getting rid of mold yourself is easy and safe to do, you should not treat it yourself. Spores and damage from the mold are often more than an untrained person can deal with. Call a professional for mold removal if you have mold in your building.

For more information, please visit us athttp://www.SERVPROevancouverclarkco.com/.

3 Top Purifier Choices for Mold Spore Removal

3/27/2018 (Permalink)

It’s easy to get wrapped up in your busy life and pay little attention to the small things around you, but when you stop and think about even the tiniest particles in the air, you would undoubtedly be interested in air filtration. You can install an air filter in your own home to help ward off small invaders such as dust mites and pollen. If you’ve decided you need an air purifier, you likely want the peace of mind you’ve chosen something you know can do the best job protecting you and your loved ones.

1. Oransi Max

This purifier is one of the most popular on the market in Vancouver, WA. It is a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) purifier. This unit can help eliminate pollen, mold, dust, bacteria and pet dander from the air in your home. There may be a lot to like about this product, but perhaps the best thing is that you may have an easy time using it. It comes with an intuitive interface and a year’s worth of filters.

2. Blueair 450E

Have you ever had a difficult time knowing when it’s time to replace the filter in your air filtration device? With this model, you probably don’t have to guess. The Blueair450E has an indicator on the unit to let you know when you need a new filter. It has a dust and gas sensor, but it is usually not ideal for removing odors.

3. OV200

It can be important to find a product in Vancouver, WA, that can get rid of mold spores, but the OV200 may do the trick. It also comes with a handy remote control when you need to adjust settings. Also, with its carbon filter, it can take care of odors and gasses.

When you look for a top air filtration device, you should have something you can count on. Make sure it can remove mold spores, dust, and pollen.

What Is Black Mold?

10/4/2017 (Permalink)

If you suspect you have a mold problem, contact SERVPRO of E. Vancouver / Clark Co. immediately.

You may have seen sensational news reports that warn about the dangers of “black mold” or “toxic mold”. These reports can be alarming and confusing so it’s beneficial to get the facts to better understand mold.

Stachybotrys chartarum is the type of mold often called black mold, and it does produce allergens and irritants. However, many types of mold can produce allergens and irritants. Treat any mold with caution – stay out of affected areas and don’t touch or disturb the mold.

Learn more about mold and what to do until help arrives by visiting Mold Damage Tips

How Do I Tell If It’s Black Mold?

Since many types of mold can cause reactions, you should contact us regardless of the color or type of mold. In many instances, multiple types of mold may exist in the same house or structure. If you suspect you have a mold problem, contact SERVPRO of E. Vancouver / Clark Co. immediately. 

Understanding Mold

When water intrudes into your property, mold growth can start in as little as 48 hours. Consider the following mold facts:

  • Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
  • Mold spores are microscopic, 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 that odor can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
  • Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

Mold Damage Can Signal Ongoing Water Leaks

6/26/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of E. Vancouver / Clark Co. is available 24/7. You can call us at (360) 254-0049, and we respond quickly.

Mold Remediation and Water Fixes are Interrelated

Mold takes a while to grow, but visible signs of mold can seem to happen overnight, too. When you have found multi-colored circles on the ceiling or black streaks and patches on your walls, there can be no doubt that there is mold damage in other areas of your home. SERVPRO of E. Vancouver / Clark Co. can help locate other areas affected by mold before damage increases in severity.

Water, needed by mold and other fungi to grow, does not need to have outside sources when there is water dripping from a water line somewhere in your home. Mold only needs a tiny amount of water moisture to begin spreading through your home. Dormant spores spring to life with moisture. Technicians at SERVPRO of E. Vancouver / Clark Co. use moisture meters, infrared sensors, and other devices to detect where water sources are located. Then we repair any dripping lines, preventing any more moisture to accumulate. Mold remediation can begin once the sources have been eliminated.

 
Lines can leak anywhere, but joints are a common spot for this to happen. If there is a tiny hole or small crack in a line, water could be spraying the inside of your wall, which can allow water to seep into areas that may seem uncontaminated by mold damage because the mold growth is not visible.
 
Water loss in a home from dripping lines may cause other problems with secondary water damage besides mold, so SERVPRO of E. Vancouver / Clark Co. checks for signs of these, also. Repairing lines that leak can also decrease your water bill, in addition to protecting your home from mold damage. Fungi must have a water source for growth to take place, and spots, streaks, and patches signal not only mold damage, but the presence of water where it should not be. We can make it "Like it never even happened” and decrease the risk of any future mold growth at the same time. 
 
We know that mold damage can be a scary situation in your home, so SERVPRO of E. Vancouver / Clark Co. is available 24/7. You can call us at (360) 254-0049, and we respond quickly.

Defending Against Mold Growth

5/30/2017 (Permalink)

Are you experiencing water or mold damage? Contact SERVPRO of E. Vancouver & Clark Co. today! (360) 354-0049

When you experience a mold problem, prompt mitigation is vital to avoid mold growth which can be visible in as little as 24 to 48 hours under certain conditions. We have put together a list of procedures that will help prevent and defend against mold growth.

  • Keep the humidity between 30 to 60 percent.
  • Provide for proper drainage away from building foundations.
  • Regularly inspect plumbing and appliances for leaks.
  • Keep gutters and drains clear of debris.
  • Inspect the roof, windows and other areas where water might enter the building, and perform necessary maintenance.
  • Respond to all water intrusions immediately.
  • Contact SERVPRO of E. Vancouver & Clark Co. for professional assistance after water damage or if you discover mold.

Are you experiencing water or mold damage? Contact SERVPRO of E. Vancouver & Clark Co. today! (360) 354-0049

“Mold Removal” vs. Mold Remediation

5/30/2017 (Permalink)

Signs of Mold? Call Today – (360) 254-0049

What’s the Difference?

Since microscopic mold spores exist naturally almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors, removing all mold from a home or business is impossible. Many restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold. This is a fallacy. We understand mold and mold growth. SERVPRO of E. Vancouver / Clark Co. has the training and expertise to remediate the mold in your home or business.

Understanding Mold

When water intrudes into your property, mold growth can start in as little as 48 hours. Consider the following mold facts:

  • Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
  • Mold spores are microscopic, 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 that odor can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
  • Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

The Mold Remediation Process

Every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same. Learn more about our mold remediation process.

  1. Emergency Contact - (360) 254-0049
  2. Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
  3. Mold Containment
  4. Air Filtration
  5. Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
  6. Cleaning Contents and Belongings