Mold 101

10/21/2016 (Permalink)

A minor mold problem can quickly become a major infestation if left untreated.

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.

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

Keep in mind that 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. 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.

We live and work in this community too; we might even be neighbors. As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Palos Verdes is close by and ready to help with your mold-damaged property.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today -424-570-9900