Mold - A Reasonable Approach

 

What Is Mold?

We have probably all encountered mold at one time or another. It might have been in the shower, or on a stale piece of bread or cheese. There are many different species of mold, but all molds share some common characteristics.

• Molds thrive in moist and humid environments.
• Molds require an organic food source. One common food source is cellulose, which is found in building materials such as wood and drywall.
• Molds are spread by microscopic airborne particles called "spores."

Molds and mold spores are naturally present in the outdoor environment all around us. However, indoor mold growth can become a tenacious problem. Mold spreads rapidly and produces an unpleasant musty odor. If allowed to grow unchecked, mold can cause discoloration and structural damage to building materials. A significant amount of mold can impact indoor air quality and can be difficult and costly to remove. Mold contamination is a growing concern for homeowners, property managers, insurance providers and restoration companies.

What Is the Best Defense?

Mold can start to grow in as little as 48 hours. To prevent the spread of mold, it is important to react quickly in the event of a water loss. By identifying and eliminating the source of the water and implementing rapid drying processes, mold growth can be curtailed. The most effective drying techniques involve the use of sensitive tools to measure and record the temperature, humidity and moisture content of both the structure and contents of the home or building.

 

Professional water damage restoration can mean the difference between a small water problem and a structure covered with mold. ServiceMaster Clean professionally trained technicians use the latest water restoration and drying techniques to deliver quality results.

Appropriate Action Is Key

If we observe mold, we will respond appropriately, immediately reporting our observations to the insurance company. When the extent of mold contamination is isolated and/or less than 10 square feet, expensive testing and protocols are generally not required. The ServiceMaster Clean Network can proceed with the claim and perform emergency water mitigation services, including remediation of the 10 square feet or less of mold. We will isolate the contaminated area and remove the mold, while protecting the surrounding areas from the possible spread of mold spores.

 

When we encounter an affected area of more than 10 square feet, we will contain the contaminated area, stop normal water mitigation procedures and immediately notify the insurance company. In these cases, we strongly recommend the use of an environmental testing service to establish baseline levels of mold, identify the types of mold present and develop a written remediation plan. Our goal is to work with the insurance company to establish the proper procedures to handle the mold situation.

For 24-hour emergency service, call (239) 277-0330.