Persistent Mold Growth: Why Does It Keep Coming Back in One Spot?

5/25/2023 (Permalink)

Mold can keep coming back if not treated properly.

Mold is a common household problem that can be unsightly, odorous, and potentially harmful. If you've noticed mold growing in one spot in your home, and despite your efforts to clean it, it keeps coming back, you may be wondering why. In this blog, we will explore the reasons why mold may persistently grow in one spot and how to address the issue effectively.

Moisture Source

Mold thrives in damp and humid environments. If you've identified mold growth in one area of your home, it's likely that there is a moisture source nearby that is feeding the mold. This could be due to a leaky pipe, a roof leak, a condensation issue, or even high humidity in the room. Unless the underlying moisture issue is addressed, the mold will keep coming back, no matter how many times you clean it. It's crucial to identify and fix the source of the moisture to prevent mold from recurring.

Incomplete Remediation

Mold can be tricky to completely eliminate, especially if it has penetrated porous materials such as drywall or wood. If you've attempted to clean the mold yourself without following proper mold remediation protocols, you may have only removed the visible mold on the surface, leaving behind mold spores and hyphae that can regenerate and result in mold growth reappearing. Professional mold remediation may be necessary to ensure that all traces of mold are effectively removed, preventing it from coming back.

Poor Ventilation

Inadequate ventilation in certain areas of your home can contribute to mold growth. Bathrooms, kitchens, and basements are common areas where poor ventilation can trap excess moisture, creating an environment conducive to mold growth. If the affected area lacks proper airflow or ventilation, the moisture can linger, leading to persistent mold growth. Installing exhaust fans, opening windows, or using dehumidifiers can help improve ventilation and reduce the chances of mold regrowth.

Spreading Spores

Mold spores are microscopic and can easily spread to other areas of your home through air circulation or by attaching to clothing, shoes, or pets. If you've cleaned mold in one spot without taking proper precautions, you may unintentionally spread the spores to other areas, resulting in new mold growth. It's important to use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, goggles, and masks when cleaning mold and properly contain and dispose of mold-contaminated materials to prevent spores from spreading.

Humid Climate

If you live in an area with a humid climate, mold growth may be a persistent problem. High humidity levels can create a favorable environment for mold to thrive, and simply cleaning the visible mold may not be enough to prevent it from returning. Using dehumidifiers, installing a whole-house ventilation system, and sealing air leaks in your home can help control humidity levels and reduce the likelihood of mold growth.

In conclusion, mold can keep coming back in one spot if the underlying moisture source is not addressed, if the mold remediation process is incomplete, if there is poor ventilation, if there are organic materials that serve as a food source for mold, if spores are spreading, or if you live in a humid climate. Proper identification and elimination of the root cause of the mold growth, along
with thorough mold remediation and implementing measures to control moisture and improve ventilation, are essential in preventing mold from persistently growing in one spot. It's important to understand that mold growth can be complex and may require professional assistance to effectively resolve the issue.

Grill Safely: Tips to Avoid Fires While Barbecuing

5/3/2023 (Permalink)

Grilling can be a fun and enjoyable activity, but it's important to take proper safety precautions to avoid fires and accidents.

As the weather warms up, many of us are eager to fire up the grill and enjoy some delicious barbecued food. However, grilling can be dangerous if proper safety measures aren't taken. According to the National Fire Protection Association, there are an average of 10,200 home fires each year caused by grills, and these fires result in an average $123 million in property damage. In this blog, we'll explore some tips to help you grill safely and avoid fires while barbecuing.

Location, Location, Location

The first step to grilling safely is to choose the right location for your grill. The grill should be placed in a well-ventilated area and at least 10 feet away from your home, garage, and any flammable materials. Make sure the grill is on a stable surface and away from any overhanging branches or plants.

Keep the Grill Clean

A clean grill is a safe grill. Before you start grilling, make sure to clean the grill grates and the drip pan to remove any grease or food debris. This will help prevent flare-ups and reduce the risk of fires. After grilling, allow the grill to cool completely before cleaning it again.

Use the Right Tools

When grilling, it's important to use the right tools to avoid burns and accidents. Long-handled tools such as tongs and spatulas are ideal for flipping and moving food on the grill. Use heat-resistant gloves when handling hot grilling equipment, and keep a spray bottle filled with water nearby to quickly extinguish any flare-ups.

Watch the Grill

Never leave the grill unattended while it's in use. Keep a close eye on the food and the grill to ensure that everything is cooking safely. If you need to step away from the grill for any reason, turn off the burners and close the lid.

Propane and Gas Grills

If you're using a propane or gas grill, there are some additional safety tips to keep in mind. Before you start grilling, inspect the propane tank and hose for any leaks or damage. If you smell gas while cooking, turn off the burners and the propane tank and move away from the grill. Call the fire department immediately if you suspect a gas leak.

Charcoal Grills

Charcoal grills require extra care and attention, as they can produce more sparks and hot embers than gas grills. When using a charcoal grill, make sure to use the right amount of charcoal and avoid adding lighter fluid once the coals are lit. Never use gasoline or other flammable liquids to start a charcoal grill.

In conclusion, grilling can be a fun and enjoyable activity, but it's important to take proper safety precautions to avoid fires and accidents. Choose a safe location for your grill, keep it clean, use the right tools, and never leave the grill unattended while it's in use. If you're using a propane or gas grill, inspect it for leaks before use, and if you're using a charcoal grill, be careful with lighter fluid and avoid adding it once the coals are lit. With these tips in mind, you can grill safely and enjoy delicious barbecued food all summer long.

6 Clear Signs Your Refrigerator is Leaking - Don't Ignore Them!

3/11/2023 (Permalink)

If you notice a noise with your refrigerator, don't ignore the signs.

A leaking refrigerator can be a major headache, leading to a variety of problems such as water damage to your home, the growth of mold and mildew, and the loss of perishable food items. Here are some signs that your refrigerator may be leaking:

Puddles of Water on the Floor

If you notice puddles of water on the floor near your refrigerator, it's a sure sign that your refrigerator is leaking. This water can be caused by a variety of issues, such as a clogged defrost drain, a faulty water supply line, or a malfunctioning ice maker.

Wet or Damp Refrigerator Shelves

Another sign of a leaking refrigerator is wet or damp refrigerator shelves. This can be caused by water dripping from the ceiling of the refrigerator compartment, which can be due to a clogged defrost drain or a malfunctioning defrost timer.

Frost Buildup in the Freezer

If you notice frost buildup in your freezer, it's a sign that your refrigerator is not properly sealing, which can cause warm air to enter the freezer and create frost buildup. This can be caused by a variety of issues, such as a faulty door gasket, a malfunctioning defrost timer, or a blocked air vent.

Unusual Noises Coming from the Refrigerator

If your refrigerator is making unusual noises, it could be a sign of a leaking refrigerator. This can be caused by a malfunctioning compressor, a faulty fan, or a clogged defrost drain.

Higher Than Normal Energy Bills

If you notice that your energy bills are higher than normal, it could be a sign of a leaking refrigerator. This can be caused by a variety of issues, such as a faulty compressor, a malfunctioning thermostat, or a clogged condenser coil.

Foul Odor Coming from the Refrigerator

If you notice a foul odor coming from your refrigerator, it could be a sign of a leaking refrigerator. This can be caused by a variety of issues, such as the growth of mold and mildew due to excess moisture, or the buildup of food debris in the refrigerator or freezer compartments.

If you notice any of these signs, it's important to take action to address the issue as soon as possible. Contact a professional appliance repair technician to diagnose and repair the issue before it becomes a more serious problem. By addressing a leaking refrigerator early on, you can prevent water damage to your home, protect your perishable food items, and avoid costly repairs in the future.

How to deal with winter storm damage

2/17/2023 (Permalink)

When winter storm damage strikes, give SERVPRO a call at the first sign of damage.

Winter storms can cause significant damage to your home and property. It's important to take steps right away to deal with the damage, document it, and begin repairs.

Assess the damage.

After a winter storm, it's important to assess the damage. First, determine the extent of your property's damage by looking for broken branches and other visible signs of storm damage. If you have trees on your property that may be at risk for falling down or damaging other structures or vehicles in their path, contact an arborist who can assess whether they need to be removed immediately.

Next, take photos of all damaged items so you have an accurate record for insurance purposes. Make sure to document each item with an estimate of its replacement value, this will help ensure that all costs related to repairing or replacing items are covered by insurance claims after filing them.

Check for structural damage.

Check for water damage. If your basement has flooded, it's best to call a professional to clean up the mess. The same goes for any rooms that have been inundated with snow or rainwater, such as a garage or porch. Check for structural damage in the roof or walls of your home especially if the storm was accompanied by high winds and hail.

Look out for mold or mildew growth on surfaces like ceilings, walls and floors (especially if there was recent flooding). This can cause damages in the future.

Clear snow and ice.

Clear snow, ice and debris from around your home to prevent damage to your home and make it easier for emergency workers to reach you after the storm has passed.

Use a shovel or snow blower to clear the area around your home. If using a shovel, wear protective clothing such as gloves and boots, if using a snow blower, wear protective clothing as well as goggles to protect against flying debris. Make sure that all snow has been removed from the roof of your house before going inside this will help prevent weight overload on roofs that have already been weakened by heavy loads of wet snow.

Documentation.

Before you start cleaning up, take photos of everything. This is important for insurance purposes and also because it's likely that once you get started on a project, your memory will be fuzzy about where things were when the storm hit. You don't want to accidentally throw away something valuable by mistake!

Make sure to document all damaged items in writing, the cost of replacing them and their condition before they were damaged.

Winter storms can be devastating, but with proper preparation and planning you can minimize the impact on your home. It's important to know what types of damage may occur in your area and how best to deal with them. If you're unsure about what steps should be taken next after a storm, contact SERVPRO of South Philadelphia / SE Delaware County today! We'll help guide you through each step of the way until everything is back in working order again.

How To Prepare For Days Without Power

12/7/2022 (Permalink)

An emergency kit is a must if you live in a place prone to natural disasters.

How To Prepare For Days Without Power

If you live in an area that experiences frequent power outages, storms, or other emergencies, you may know the feeling of waking up in the middle of the night and wondering if the power will come back on. Your mind races through all sorts of questions: Is my neighborhood affected? Will I need to evacuate? How long will it take for my home to be repaired? If you're someone who experiences these moments of panic caused by a lack of electricity, there are several things you can do now to prepare yourself so that when an outage occurs, your family won't find themselves without access to food and water. 

Put together an emergency kit.

An emergency kit is a must if you live in a place prone to natural disasters. It can also be useful if you live in an area that experiences regular power outages due to weather, or if you're someone who tends to lose electricity more often than most people. To avoid accidents and keep yourself safe, it's important that your emergency kit be easy to carry with you wherever your travels may take you. This means picking one that's lightweight and portable enough so as not to hinder your mobility should the need arise. 

Create a storm preparedness plan for your family.

You should plan to be without power for at least 72 hours. During this time, you’ll need to rely on your emergency kit and supplies as well as any items you have in your home. 

Keep in mind that while this list of items is meant to provide basic comfort, it is not intended as an exhaustive list of everything needed for disaster survival. As such, consider adding additional supplies based on the needs of members of your household who may have special requirements such as infants or elderly adults.

Charge cell phones BEFORE a power outage or storm.

It's important to charge your phone before the storm hits. While traditional outlets won't work during a power outage or natural disaster, there are other options available so that your device is ready when the lights come back.

One option is to use a power bank (or portable charger). These devices allow you to charge your phone on-the-go without having access to an outlet or laptop. However, they don't hold an endless supply of juice—so it's best if you have at least one full battery life left in case of emergency needs.

Have flashlights and extra batteries ready in case the power goes out.

If you plan to be without power for an extended period of time, it's important that you have flashlights and extra batteries ready. Flashlights are useful because they allow you to navigate in the dark and also save your phone battery so that it doesn't die. It's a good idea to keep at least one flashlight on hand with a long battery life, such as LED ones, as well as extra batteries. 

Have at least a three-day supply of nonperishable food available.

The most important thing you can do to prepare for a power outage is to keep your food and water supply on hand. In the event that you are home when the power goes out, having nonperishable food and bottled water will help ensure that your family has enough to live on until their power comes back. Make sure all of your stored foods are kept in a cool, dry place—the refrigerator or pantry—to prevent spoilage.

Keep in mind that canned goods are an excellent option because they won't spoil as quickly as other foods like milk or produce. Remember that you should have 3 days worth of food ready at all times; this includes canned goods as well!

There are plenty of things that you can do to prepare for a power outage. We hope these tips will help make your next storm a little less stressful!

Choose A Certified Restoration Company

11/3/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South Philadelphia is a certified restoration company.

Choose A Certified Restoration Company

If you've ever experienced major water damage in your Philadelphia, PA home, you know how overwhelming the situation can be. There's no need to suffer through this alone: certified professionals can help you get your home back to normal, and prevent further damage from occurring. 

Water restoration companies are specially trained in drying out homes after a flood or other water-related incident. They know how to quickly remove excess water and clean up any messes that have been left behind. You should also consider hiring certified professionals if your insurance company requires it (and they usually do).

Water Mitigation is a Big Job

Water damage can be caused by a variety of reasons, and it can become a major problem if not addressed quickly. Water damage can cause mold and other problems that are expensive to fix. You don't want to end up paying for the cost of repairing or replacing your home or business after it has been damaged by water.

Avoiding Secondary Damage

Mold is a major problem for homeowners. If you don’t clean up water damage quickly enough then mold could grow. In fact, some species of mold can grow in 24 hours!

For example, mold likes to eat away at wood and metal surfaces like drywall and cabinets. If left untreated for long enough then this may lead to holes appearing in these materials which will need replacing before they fall apart completely (which would be bad news).

Certified Companies Can Remove Water Quickly 

Certified water damage restoration companies will know how to quickly remove excess water. This is important because it helps prevent mold from growing and also keeps your home from getting damaged by the water. Certified companies will also know how to keep your house comfortable while it is being restored.

One of the most important things to consider when it comes to water damage is that you need to dry out the home before repairs can be made. This is because if a basement or any other part of your house has experienced flooding, there's likely mold growing in those areas.

When it comes to drying out a basement, for example, you can use fans and dehumidifiers—which will keep moisture from entering back into the structure—to help prevent mold growth in your home. However, if you don't properly maintain these devices after they've been used (for instance: failing to monitor them regularly), then there's still a chance that new mildew could grow on your property over time.

A certified water restoration company will make sure all of these issues are taken care of so that no further damage happens within your home after their services are completed!

Keeping You Comfortable

You don't want to be miserable while your house is being restored. When you hire a certified water restoration company, they will set up an area in your home where they can do their work without disturbing you or the rest of your family members. You'll get a dedicated team that works together smoothly and efficiently, which means that they will be able to restore your home quickly.

So, if you've had a flood in your home or office, the first thing to do is call a professional water damage restoration service like SERVPRO of South Philadelphia. We will be able to assess the damage and get started on cleaning up any excess water that may have entered your property. It's important not only because it gets rid of potential mold growth but also because it prevents other types of damage like wood rot or drywall damage

How Do I Keep My Building Secure After a Fire?

10/5/2022 (Permalink)

Board up all entrances and exits to the building, including windows and doors.

How Do I Keep My Building Safe Following a Fire?

When a building in Sharon Hill, PA is damaged by fire, there are many things that have to be done. First, the building needs to be assessed for safety, and then it should be repaired. It is also important to keep your building secure after a fire because you don’t want people entering it without permission. Here are some ways that you can keep your building secure after a fire:

Board Up All Openings in the Building

• Board up all entrances and exits to the building, including windows and doors.
• Board up all windows with boards that are at least 3/4 inch thick and use nails or screws at least 1 inch long to secure them tightly against the frame of each window. This is especially important if the glass has been broken during a fire.
• Board up all doors to your facility with plywood or other solid material, making sure that you cover any holes in your walls as well as doorways so there's no way an intruder can slip through unnoticed. If possible, replace damaged or missing door locks before boarding up these entrances.

Hire Security For the Building

Hiring security to guard your building can help deter criminals from breaking into it. Having a security guard on duty during the day and at night can also deter criminals. It’s also helpful to hire security for weekends, holidays, and any other time when employees are not there to watch over the premises.

Some types of buildings will be more secure than others, depending on their location and layout. For example:

• A store with an open floor plan may be easier for burglars to access than a store with offices in the back of the main room (where only employees have access).
• If your business is located in an area that doesn't see many police officers patrolling by regularly, hiring private security might be necessary because they'll be able to respond faster than the police would if something happened while they were away from their station house.

Install Video Cameras Inside and Outside the Building

Once you've got the fire under control and you're sure there are no other fires, it's time to secure your building. One of the most important steps in that process is installing video cameras inside and outside your building. Video cameras can help prevent theft, identify looters, identify people who are breaking into the building, and even identify people who are trying to help out but aren't authorized to be there. There are many different types of security cameras available on the market today, so it’s best to consult an expert if you have any questions about which one would be best suited for your needs.

It Is Important to Keep Your Building Secure After a Fire, Even if it has Been Damaged by the Fire

It is important to keep your building secure after a fire, even if it has been damaged by the fire. Fire damage can attract looters looking to steal from or destroy your building. 

Looters can endanger people inside the building, and they may be dangerous themselves. There are many ways you can protect yourself and make sure that you stay safe while protecting your property in this situation.

You should look into hiring an alarm company or security service to monitor the building for signs of break-ins, as well as any other threats such as vandalism or theft by employees. They will notify local authorities if anyone tries to enter without permission, so someone can intervene immediately before something bad happens to anyone inside during those few minutes before police arrive on the scene.

Mold Prevention Strategies

8/26/2022 (Permalink)

Mold can grow almost anywhere

Black mold, or mold of any variety, growing in your Philadelphia, PA, commercial building can cause major problems. Fortunately, a little preventive maintenance can help your business stay mold-free.

Mold Growth Conditions

Although mold spores are nearly everywhere, there are specific conditions that must be met before mold can grow. Here are three things that mold needs in order to thrive:

1. Warmth
2. Food
3. Moisture

Most indoor locations are sufficiently warm for mold to grow. Mold feeds on organic materials, such as dust, paper products, and food. Mold also needs moisture. This can come from spills, leaks, or even high humidity.

Mold Growth Prevention

Because most commercial buildings will have adequate warmth and sufficient food available for black mold and other fungal growth, the key to preventing an infestation is minimizing the water available. Try to keep the indoor humidity below 50% if possible. You may need to run a dehumidifier in particularly humid areas, such as kitchens.

If you detect a moisture problem, address it immediately. Clean up spills and repair leaks as soon as possible. In addition to keeping the building dry, you can also minimize the likelihood of a mold infestation by decreasing the number of mold spores present.

An air purifier with a HEPA filter can trap mold spores before they have a chance to begin growing. Keeping the building, especially the carpets, clean can also keep the number of mold spores down. Unfortunately, it may be impossible to prevent all mold growth. However, it can be caught early.

Perform routine inspections of humid areas, places where mold has grown before and anywhere else susceptible to an infestation. With proper mold cleanup, you can likely solve the problem before major damage occurs.

Even the most conscientious business owner can discover black mold. If you need help getting your property back to normal, a certified restoration service can help you do so quickly and safely.

Methods for Removing Smoke Odor After a Fire

8/21/2022 (Permalink)

The ozone flows throughout your home, oxidizing smoke residue and neutralizing its odor.

How To Get Rid Of Smoke Odor After A Fire

When you have a house fire in Southwest Philadelphia, PA it may seem like the smell of the smoke will never go away. Smoke particles can infiltrate every nook and cranny in your home. They can even imbed themselves into furniture, flooring and walls. Professional restoration experts, however, have methods for extracting smoke odor from your home as part of the restoration process. Here are some smoke cleaning processes that may prove effective in removing the stench from your home.

Air Filtration Devices

One of the first methods the experts are likely to try is an air filtration device. This air scrubber sucks in the air in your home and returns it clean and refreshed. The filters in this system are specially constructed to reduce smoke odor. Some common features of filtration devices that remove smoke odor include

• HEPA filters
• Activated carbon filters
• Treated filters that specifically target smoke

Ozone Machines

Another method of smoke cleaning involves the use of ozone machines. Rather than taking air in, these machines create and expel ozone, the same compound chemical created by a rainstorm that gives the outdoor air its fresh scent. The ozone flows throughout your home, oxidizing smoke residue and neutralizing its odor.

Thermal Foggers

Thermal foggers create deodorizing droplets that permeate the air as well as porous materials in your home to get rid of smoke odor. Using heat and pressurization, the fogger creates tiny particles that can go wherever the smoke damage has gone. Your home is deodorized and cleansed of the stench of the fire.

One of the many advantages of hiring smoke cleaning professionals to remove odors from your home after a fire is that they are equipped with industrial machines that can be used to eliminate the smells. A process that would take weeks or even months with any device you could buy retail can be completed in a matter of hours or days with the advanced methods used by professionals.

The Wide-Ranging Consequences of a Business Fire

8/15/2022 (Permalink)

Severe commercial fire damage in Southwest Philadelphia, PA.

The Wide-Ranging Consequences of a Business Fire

A business fire has the potential to cause significant harm to many areas of a company. These impacts often come in phases or waves. First, it is the property damage of a fire. Each year, U.S. businesses face more than $2 billion in damages due to fires. Then comes the hit to revenue if a company in Southwest Philadelphia, PA, is shut down for a period of time. A strong interruption insurance policy is designed to reduce this impact. This policy, usually added to the main policy as a rider or add-on, pays some or all of the company expenses while repairs to the building are being made.

The Necessity of a Rapid Fire Restoration
It always benefits a company's bottom line to hire a franchise experienced in emergency restoration services. A highly-trained crew that is certified by industry leaders can minimize the duration of a business interruption. They will work rapidly by following a proven process:

• Building inspection and assessment
• Action plan
• Water removal and drying
• Soot and smoke damage cleanup
• Cleaning and sanitizing
• Structural repairs
  
  

While this is going on, interruption insurance will help pay the bills. Quick action and strong insurance can make the difference between a company surviving a fire or going out of business.

The Need for a Fire Prevention Plan
A fire is a potent adversary for any business. It can wreak havoc in many ways. A thorough fire prevention plan consists of many parts. The main goal is to prevent a fire from happening in the first place. If a fire does occur, it is important to minimize its impacts as much as possible. This is where fire alarms, smoke detectors, fire extinguishers and sprinkler systems come into play. All of these precautions can reduce the severity of a fire.
Interruption insurance becomes a necessity in a large business fire. It allows a company to pay the bills until it gets back on its feet again.