porous | Search Results | Stern Mold

Keeping Mold Away After Water Damage Cleanup

Posted on August 10, 2015 by back_up

Water is the lifeblood of mold, providing the elements that sustain its life and growth. It’s no surprise, then, that if your home has been flooded, it becomes a hotspot for a potential mold infestation.

If your home suffers water damage, cleanup should be done with an eye toward possible mold danger signs. Experts recommend these tips for successful preventive mold treatment.

Flood waters can contain any number of chemicals, pollutants and other bacteria-ridden substances. Be firm about discarding anything that has been touched by the water, no matter how minimal the contact.
Discard objects with a porous surface like wood that can retain moisture even when it appears dry. This includes wood paneling, carpeting and pads, and upholstered furniture.
Clean all remaining items with an anti-microbial solution that will inhibit mold growth. Bleach throws up a roadblock and slows the process, but it’s not strong enough to kill mold.
During clean-up, mold spores can be transmitted through the air. In addition, an infestation may already be developing in a hidden area. Be sure to wear a protective mask to avoid inhaling the spores.
Take measures to create air movement and remove moisture from the area, such as installing a dehumidifier. Even after the flood damage has been cleared, dampness creates an atmosphere conducive to mold development.

Has your home recently sustained flood damage? Don’t take a chance with you and your family’s well-being. Allow our professional technicians to give you peace of mind with our safe and effective mold treatment. Contact us today to schedule a free mold inspection.

Posted in Mold Identification, Mold Treatment, News

Black Mold Do It Yourself? Are You Really Ready to Undertake It?

Posted on January 26, 2015 by back_up

You’ve just discovered a patch of fungi that looks suspiciously like black mold in your home or business. Its ability to multiply rapidly means you have to take immediate action to avoid health dangers such as upper respiratory illnesses.

If the infestation is on a non-porous surface, you might attempt a course of do-it-yourself mold treatment. Here are some tips to make removal more effective.

Safety First

Mask off the affected area with plastic sheeting to prevent spores from dispersing further into the home or building. Protect yourself by wearing a dust mask, gloves and goggles.

Bleach Method

Fill one spray bottle with a mixture of eight ounces of bleach to one gallon of water and another with clear, warm water. Saturate the mold patch with the bleach solution, using paper towels or rags to scrub the area. Change scrubbing cloths frequently and dispose of them immediately in a plastic garbage bag. Rinse the area well with the clear water.

Natural Mold Removal Solutions

Tea tree oil or grapefruit seed extract can be mixed with water and applied to the mold without rinsing.

Spray undiluted vinegar onto the infestation, allowing it to set without rinsing.

Scrub the area with a mixture of baking soda and water. This method is a good follow-up to the vinegar treatment.

Post-Treatment Cleanup

Vacuum the affected area and dispose of the filters in a garbage bag with any soiled cloths. Wash your clothes immediately.

In most cases, it’s best not to take any chances with mold. Let our trained technicians provide effective mold treatment and cleanup with a minimum of inconvenience to you and your family or employees.