Archived Why SERVPRO Blog Posts
You Need SERVPRO to Mitigate Mold Damage in Bellevue
9/8/2022 (Permalink)
Water leaks fixed, control demolition, and mold remediation completed by SERVPRO for our Bellevue customers; We Are Here To Help.
Why is SERVPRO So Effective in Remediation of Mold Damage in Bellevue?
One of the biggest objectives of remediation of mold damage to your Bellevue property is to prevent mold spores, fragments, and dust from spreading to unaffected areas. SERVPRO technicians take extra care to avoid this 'cross-contamination of airborne contaminants by following the S520 guidelines suggested by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC).
SERVPRO restorers erect critical barriers with polyethylene sheeting as a first line of defense to prevent the spread of mold damage in your Bellevue home. Isolating contaminated areas and establishing robust containment zones ensure that the situation does not worsen. SERVPRO mold specialists then use state-of-the-art equipment to clean and remove the contamination.
Types of Containment During Mold Remediation
The IICRC recommends three types of containments during mold remediation projects-
- Source Containment: SERVPRO technicians use source containment to address relatively small areas of mold growth. Some examples of source containment include:
- Using self-adhering plastic or taping polyethylene sheeting on a moldy surface before removing it
- Wrapping, bagging and securing moldy contents in a 6-mil polyethylene sheeting
- Local ‘mini’ containment: SERVPRO technicians use local containment when dealing with moderate contamination levels. Technicians build an enclosure to separate the affected area from the unaffected area within a structure during such containments. Technicians use PVC pipes, wood framing, and spring-loaded poles to construct the enclosure and cover it with 6-mil poly film.
Technicians also install HEPA filtered negative air machines to create negative pressure differentials within containment areas.
- Full-scale containment: If the mold growth is extensive and can't be controlled with source or local containment, the IICRC recommends a full-scale containment. An entire room or a section of the structure is usually a containment area. All the exposed surfaces such as walls, ceilings, and floors are sealed off with poly barriers.
The Role of Air Flow in Mold Mitigation
SERVPRO mold specialists control the airflow and use air exchanges between the clean and contaminated areas to dilute airborne spore concentrations. The direction of the airflow is always maintained from clean to contaminated areas.
As the containment areas are under negative air pressure, it is essential to exchange the air with fresh air from outside. The IICRC recommends a minimum of four air exchanges per hour for containment, ventilation, and dilution.
All the air leaving or entering the containment zone is passed through a HEPA filter. SERVPRO technicians use only well-constructed professional HEPA filters to retain the fungal spores and fragments.
The Need for Dehumidification
SERVPRO technicians address the underlying moisture problem using strategically placed dehumidifiers. The pieces of equipment serve two purposes- drying the structure and maintaining a condition that does not support microbial growth. Not all mold problems result from moisture issues, and hence, dehumidification is not required in all cases.
Dealing with mold damage without professional help can be stressful and overwhelming. Our technicians are available 24X7, and We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.
Call SERVPRO of Bellevue West at (425) 454-3900 to talk to one of our technicians and discuss your restoration needs.
Professional Mold Removal and Inspections for Bellevue Homes
8/8/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO mold remediation technicians have the tools and training for every phase needed for your home.
Mold Removal Starts with Tracking Colonies
The possibility of mold growth and development is more common in area homes and businesses than you think. Some do not easily notice signs of microbial infestation, allowing the situation to worsen. Some signals of possible mold damage in your home include:
- Spotting hosting materials
- Strong, musty smells in the affected areas
- Continuous moisture concerns
- Deteriorating building materials
Professional Mold Inspection Services
You might not be capable of telling on your own when you need services like mold removal in your Bellevue home. Mold damage can be elusive if it occurs in low-traffic areas like the attic or basement. If you suspect mold growth could be a concern, professional inspections and testing can confirm or negate this development.
What if Mold Is Found?
The mold is not likely to go away on its own, even if much of the moisture in the affected area is somehow resolved. The only suitable solution is to have our SERVPRO professionals begin remediation steps to eradicate active organisms and protect underlying substrates formerly hosting the colony.
Mold Removal Options for Your Home
When you know mold exists in your home or business, we must work quickly to resolve the situation. Microbial colonies continue to spread through the house and deteriorate hosting materials, so remediation must begin as soon as possible. Surface cleaning is the preferred option, but if the problem impacts more than just the outermost layer of an affected building element, more aggressive measures like dry ice blasting or controlled demolition might be necessary.
A mold discovery in your home can be alarming and stressful, especially when you do not know how to proceed to remove it. Our experienced SERVPRO of Bellevue West remediators can help with removal strategies and repairs that make mold damage "Like it never even happened." Call now at (425) 454-3900.
Why Do Clyde Hill Residents Trust SERVPRO with Mold Remediation?
7/4/2022 (Permalink)
Don't mess with mold--Call SERVPRO to remediate the infestation in your Clyde Hill property.
The Importance of Cleaning in Mold Remediation of Clyde Hill Homes
Cleaning the contamination is one of the critical steps in mold abatement of your Clyde Hill home. SERVPRO techs use a combination of cleaning methods to facilitate the remediation of the structure and contents of the affected property.
SERVPRO techs consider the extent and severity of the damage before selecting a cleaning method during mold remediation of Clyde Hill homes. We always prioritize completely removing the contamination over using antimicrobials alone to tackle mold damage. Techs also ensure that the cleaning method minimizes the mold spore's aerosolization as much as possible to prevent it from spreading to the unaffected areas.
Abrasive Methods to Clean Mold Infestations
Abrasive cleaning methods rely on using a medium or material to dislodge contamination in your Clyde Hill home. Some of the most common abrasive methods to clean visible mold include-
- Sanding
- Scraping and brushing
- Abrasive media blasting (e.g., dry ice, soda, and sand)
Manual scraping and brushing can be labor-intensive and take a lot of time, and techs use this method if the damage is confined to a smaller area. Abrasive media blasting is a much faster and less labor-intensive method of cleaning.
Blasting offers a significant advantage over traditional methods when cleaning hard-to-reach areas such as attics and crawlspaces. It can also save time during mold remediation.
On the other hand, media blasting tends to aerosolize the fungal particles; hence, SERVPRO techs exercise extreme caution while employing this technique. Once the surface mold is removed using media blasting, the SERVPRO techs eliminate the mold spores and particles using HEPA filtration.
Professional mold remediation is a safe and efficient way to tackle contamination in your home. Call SERVPRO of Bellevue West at (425) 454-3900 to talk to our expert techs today!
Why SERVPRO® is Your Trusted Partner for Fire Cleanup and Restoration
3/6/2022 (Permalink)
Soft furnishings like sofas, mattresses, and carpets can suffer significant damage during a fire.
Fires can leave your Bellevue home not only charred but also soaked, thanks to firefighting efforts. The use of water to quell the flames can lead to lasting damage to your soft furnishings, carpets, and flooring. Swift action is essential after a house fire to prevent further losses to your property and belongings. Moisture in your home can set soot and ash into materials, creating additional challenges. Furthermore, the large volumes of water used in firefighting can create conditions similar to a water intrusion event, increasing the risk of mold growth. That's where SERVPRO® comes in, offering comprehensive fire cleanup services to residents of Bellevue.
Our Fire Cleanup Services Include:
Fire Debris Removal: We efficiently clear away the remnants of the fire, including debris and damaged materials, to prepare your home for restoration.
Stain and Spot Cleaning: Our skilled technicians are equipped to tackle stubborn stains and spots caused by fire and water damage, ensuring a thorough and effective cleaning process.
Contents Care: We understand the value of your belongings, and our goal is to restore rather than replace whenever possible. This approach not only saves you money but also preserves your cherished possessions.
Protecting Soft Furnishings
Soft furnishings like sofas, mattresses, and carpets can suffer significant damage during a fire. Our SERVPRO team specializes in restoring these items, offering a cost-effective solution that safeguards your valuable belongings. We employ chemical cleaning methods using a range of proprietary cleaning products to achieve the best results:
- Brown Out (#257): This peroxide stain remover is designed to reverse the "browning effect" caused by moisture on soft furnishings.
- Textile Shampoo Formula: When combined with Brown Out, this formula creates an alkaline mixture that effectively removes stains and spot cleans.
Before applying any cleaning products, our technicians conduct pre-tests on discrete areas to prevent unexpected reactions that could damage the textile.
Choose SERVPRO for Expert Fire Cleanup
Reduce your losses and restore your peace of mind. Contact SERVPRO of Bellevue West for expert fire cleanup and restoration services at (425) 454-3900. We're here to help you reclaim your home and belongings "Like it never even happened.
Why SERVPRO® is the Top Choice for Mold Remediation in Bellevue
2/1/2022 (Permalink)
Mold remediation requires proper precautions to safeguard the health of the restoration team and to prevent the spread of mold spores.
Dealing with mold issues in your Bellevue property can be a daunting task, with potential risks to both your health and the structural integrity of your home or business. It's essential to choose a restoration partner that not only expedites the process but also prioritizes safety and protection. Here's why residents and business owners in Bellevue should turn to SERVPRO® for all their mold restoration and mitigation needs:
A Focus on Safety and Protection
At SERVPRO, we understand that mold infestations can cause structural deterioration and other concerns, prompting the need for swift remediation. However, we also recognize the importance of taking precautions to ensure the safety of occupants and the preservation of the property. Here's how we prioritize safety:
Avoiding Risky Drying Processes: Moldy surfaces can pose a risk when exposed to air movements during drying processes. These air currents can dislodge loose mold residues and spread them into the air and unaffected areas. Our experienced technicians use alternative drying methods or schedule drying after cleaning to prevent such issues. We utilize low airflow dehumidifiers for effective moisture management in these situations.
Engineering Controls for Mold Management: We understand that delaying procedures or using specialized equipment may not always be practical or necessary. Instead, we employ engineering controls, such as setting up plastic sheet containments, to ensure that any debris dislodged during remediation does not contaminate unwanted areas. Engineering controls are particularly valuable during abrasive cleaning, using air currents for evaporation, and demolition of deteriorated materials.
Protecting Our Technicians and Your Property
Mold remediation requires proper precautions to safeguard the health of the restoration team and to prevent the spread of mold spores. Our technicians are equipped with the right personal protective equipment (PPE), including respirators, bodysuits, and gloves, to ensure their safety during the remediation process.
SERVPRO's Commitment to Excellence
SERVPRO places safety and convenience at the forefront of mold remediation efforts. Our experienced team is dedicated to resolving mold contamination, regardless of its severity, with the goal of making it "Like it never even happened." You can rely on us for efficient and safe mold remediation. Contact SERVPRO at (425) 454-3900 to address your mold concerns. Choose SERVPRO for a restoration partner that prioritizes your safety and delivers outstanding results.
Why SERVPRO® is the Best Choice for Mold Remediation in Bellevue
1/3/2022 (Permalink)
The constant rainfall that produces Bellevue's lush greenery can also be responsible for causing mold growth inside the home.
Mold is a persistent threat that can silently invade your Bellevue home or business, causing structural damage and health concerns. Whether it lurks behind your walls or surfaces in plain sight, immediate attention is crucial. SERVPRO®, a trusted name in the industry, understands the unique challenges of mold removal in Bellevue, making us the ideal choice for residents and business owners in the area.
Identifying Hidden Mold
Mold often goes unnoticed as it thrives behind walls and ceilings, concealing its presence until it's too late. Recognizing the signs of hidden mold can be challenging, but our experienced SERVPRO technicians are equipped to confirm its presence. Look out for these indicators:
- Musty Odor: A persistent musty smell in your home or business can be a clear signal of mold lurking within the structure.
- Visible Damage: Cracking, bubbling, or peeling wallpaper and paint, as well as discoloration or stains on walls, are telltale signs of mold growth beneath the surface.
Efficient and Cost-Effective Remediation
We understand that the prospect of mold remediation can be daunting due to concerns about cost and disruption. At SERVPRO, we prioritize your convenience and budget. Our approach involves minimal invasiveness, reducing the need for extensive demolition and keeping costs in check. Here's how we do it:
Precision Inspection: Our highly skilled technicians employ advanced techniques, such as drilling small holes in suspected areas and using borescopes, to assess the condition of hidden cavities. This targeted approach ensures that we only remove walls where mold growth is detected, saving you money and minimizing disruptions.
Effective Containment: Worried about the inconvenience of mold remediation or exposure to contaminants? Our SERVPRO experts establish airtight containment barriers, isolating affected areas from the rest of your property. We can even create a secure room within a room, ensuring your safety and peace of mind.
Timely and Professional Service
At SERVPRO of Bellevue West, we take pride in our commitment to completing mold damage removal promptly and efficiently. Our goal is to save you both time and money, ensuring your property is restored to its pre-mold condition. Don't hesitate to contact us at (425) 454-3900. Remember, we're always "Faster To Any Size Disaster."
Choose SERVPRO for mold remediation in Bellevue, and experience the difference in quality, efficiency, and peace of mind. Your property and your well-being deserve nothing less than the best.
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