4 Appliances That Leak Often | SERVPRO of Greater Sussex County

9/1/2024 (Permalink)

Leaking appliances can cause damage in your home. If you find water damage from an appliance, call SERVPRO of Greater Sussex County!

How many appliances do you have in your home right now? We all rely so heavily on our appliances to help us get through our days that it can create a serious disruption if even one of them starts to malfunction or become unreliable. 

Even the most reliable companies and machines can leak at a moment’s notice, which can cause a serious headache and significant water damage. We list the top four appliances that are prone to leaks below so you can take action quicker if you notice a new water spot or puddle on your floor. 

Dishwashers

Who has time to sit and wash dish after dish by hand? Not us! Dishwashers are an essential part to any kitchen these days, but they are prone to leaks because they are used so frequently in our daily lives. 

But dishwashers are directly connected to water lines, hoses and valves that could break down or become loose at any time. Even an old seal or broken gasket could malfunction and lead to water pooling all over your floor. 

Washing Machines

We are guilty of setting a load to wash and then heading out the door frequently, but that can quickly lead to a serious situation if you don’t catch a leak as it starts to pool all over your floor. 

Washing machines are also connected to water hoses that can come off the machine unexpectedly, and even something as simple as setting up your machine on a slightly unlevel surface is enough to cause a watery mess. 

Fridges
Our fridges are a true powerhouse in our kitchen! We rely on them to keep our food and drinks cold and safe in a controlled environment, which means they are working 24/7 to perform their job. 

This means that a fridge leak could truly happen at any time. A leaking fridge usually means that there is a problem with your defrost drain, your water supply is clogged or a seal is no longer doing its job. 

Hot Water Heater

Our water heaters are probably one of the most overlooked appliances in our homes, but they have such an important role! If you notice a puddle or a slow drip coming from your water heater, take action immediately. 

Water heaters hold multiple gallons of water at a time, which means a small leak can quickly turn into a catastrophe. 

What to Do

So you noticed a puddle in your utility room or came home to an obvious problem as your dishwasher just finished pumping the rest of its water onto your kitchen floor. Quick action is necessary to keep your situation under control! 

Try to stay out of the water and shut off the appropriate water valve to stop the flow of water. You should also shut off electricity to the area, just in case. 

After that, get us on the phone! We have the proper drying equipment and high-quality tools to ensure every drop of water has been dried up, and we will rebuild and restore warped floors, ceilings and walls with confidence. 

Dealing with water damage? Call SERVPRO of Greater Sussex County today.

Navigating Water Disasters With Confidence | SERVPRO of Greater Sussex County

3/15/2024 (Permalink)

Once the water has receded from your property, call SERVPRO of Greater Sussex County to restore your space!

If you have lived in your home for a while, you probably believe that you know the ins and outs of most things that go on under your roof. You are the master scheduler, you know just how to load your dishwasher for optimal cleanliness and you are a pro at repairing the washing machine when it stops mid-cycle. 

While you may be able to predict and assess situations quickly, it is unfortunately impossible to understand and prevent every single disaster. Water leaks are really unpredictable and can take you by surprise at any moment! Knowing what to do when you discover a water disaster can help you stay in control.  

What to Do First
Water disasters can be manmade or they can be caused by Mother Nature herself. A broken window during a heavy rainstorm can cause just as much water damage as a burst pipe in your laundry room. 

No matter how the situation happens, getting it under control should be your main goal. If the water disaster was caused by something like a burst pipe or leaky appliance, turn off the appropriate water valve to stop the flow. 

If your disaster was caused by Mother Nature, try to secure the room in question as best you can. Set out buckets to catch any dripping water or secure a board or tarp over any damaged walls or windows to prevent the water from continuing to pour into your house. 

After the situation is mildly under control, we want you to get us on the phone right away! The faster we can get to you, the better chance you have of avoiding long-term issues. 

The SERVPRO® Response

One of the best things about calling SERVPRO is that we are locally owned and operated, which means we can be at your doorstep faster! Time is of the essence when it comes to water damage restoration, so we waste none of it as we make our way to you. We will prioritize extracting the water by using our wet/dry vacuums, mops or towels. After that, we will open up windows and turn on fans to get your air circulating.

While that process is happening, we will work on saving your possessions and getting them to a more secure location. We will remove personal belongings and small furniture to a dry location where our restoration team will carefully inspect each item for damage. If there is any furniture in the area that cannot be moved, we will prop it up off the floor so our air movers and blowers can access every space with ease. 

Moisture Detection

Once the visible water is gone, it may look like our job is done, but that’s not true! Hidden moisture can linger behind walls or under floors, which can be really hard to spot with the naked eye. Thankfully, our infrared camera technology and moisture detectors can help us pinpoint every drop of lingering moisture that is out of sight. 

Once we are sure that we got every bit of water, our team will work on restoring and repairing your damaged walls, ceilings, floors and possessions. We will work hard until you are 100% satisfied and your home has been returned to its preloss state. 

Water damage got you down? Contact SERVPRO of Greater Sussex County today.

Let Pros in Vernon Handle Your Water Damage Needs

9/6/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage in your Vernon home? Contact our certified team here at SERVPRO right away. We are available 24/7.

Vernon Residents Can Trust SERVPRO for Water Damage Restoration

Water damage issues of any kind can be detrimental to your Vernon property, especially when it involves dousing your belongings and furniture. SERVPRO has you covered for all your water cleanup and restoration needs, including prompt response to begin mitigation efforts as quickly as possible. Once you give our customer care center a call, we will initiate service and mobilize our Green Fleet to arrive at your door in as little as a few hours – We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

Whether you have small puddles in your basement from your washing machine flooding or there is significant standing water from burst pipes, we have the proper protocols to handle any water damage in Vernon. It is all about working quickly to save our customers time, money, and belongings with any water-related emergency. The sooner we arrive on-site and get to work, the easier it is to reduce damage. At the same time, prompt arrival allows us to rescue personal belongings, salvage building materials, and thwart the onset of black mold growth.

Did you know that we are available 24-7 at SERVPRO? This means you have a crew at the ready days, nights, weekends, or over the holidays to handle your water restoration needs.

Professional Restoration Services and Rapid Extractions

Something that sets us apart at SERVPRO is our team of highly-trained, IICRC-certified water restoration technicians (WRT). With our knowledge, proven methods, and an incredible selection of industrial-grade equipment and tools, we have the capabilities to scale our services to any water-related project. The goal is always to restore versus replace, which includes bringing your belongings back to a pre-water emergency state.

Storm Flooding or Basement Floods are No Match for SERVPRO

Flooding that enters your home from the outside will contain a broad range of contaminants. Our team knows how to handle any water infiltration categorized as gray or black water so that we can safely proceed with extraction, drying, and restoration. This may include containment protocols or pre-treatment of standing water to limit the spread of potentially harmful bacteria. 

Of course, there are also clean water events that may include a tub overflow or a significant leak from interior plumbing. Until we arrive at your property, you can initiate the following steps in a clean water situation:

• Removing excess water with a wet/dry vacuum, mop, or towels.
• Open windows or turn on fans to get the air circulating.
• Removing colored throw rugs and other items that may bleed dye onto carpeting or flooring.
• Move personal belongings and small furnishings to a dry, safe space.
• Try propping up furniture off of the floor using shims or wood blocks.
• Carefully wipe excess moisture from tables, lamps, wood furniture, and small décor pieces.

Moisture Detection is Vital With Any Water Removal Project

There can always be areas of your home that may trap moisture, including spots under flooring, behind walls or baseboards, and other hard-to-reach places. SERVPRO technicians have access to many moisture detection tools that help us locate all moisture pockets for drying. Some of the technology readily available to our crew include:

• Moisture detectors like sensors and hygrometers to measure water saturation
• Infrared camera technology that helps us find moisture hiding in ceilings and behind walls

We also have warehouses filled with industrial fans, air movers, air scrubbers, and dehumidifiers to handle drying and restoring your interior to the correct humidity levels. 

Do you need help with water damage to get your property back to normal fast? We are here to help at SERVPRO of Greater Sussex County! Reach us by calling (973) 383-2024 or requesting help online.

Handling Water Restoration in Your Vernon Kitchen

7/5/2022 (Permalink)

All you need is SERVPRO for all your water damage needs.

SERVPRO’s Water Restoration Team Knows What Vernon Residents Need

With all the plumbing and water-using appliances in the kitchen, it is no wonder this is a room in the home vulnerable to water damage. You could have hidden water damage from a pipe leaking under the kitchen sink or the water supply line connecting to your refrigerator. Other emergencies like a failed dishwasher can send a lot of soapy water into your kitchen, under the cabinetry, and beneath the flooring material. SERVPRO acts fast to help you lessen the damage and costs for restoration because We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

If you have a kitchen incident that calls for water restoration in Vernon, our customer care team is available 24/7 to field the call and mobilize a crew to your door. The quicker we arrive to begin mitigation efforts, the more of a chance we have of salvaging building materials and keeping microbial growth at bay. 

What About Water that Seeped Under My Kitchen Cabinets or Flooring?

SERVPRO sees projects such as this where water migrates into dry spaces that call for specialty drying techniques and water removal services. Porous particle boards, thin wood, and laminates are often subject to swelling, warping, and degradation in these water events. 

• Moisture detection tools like sensors and meters help us locate all areas where moisture might be lurking.
• Forced air directed into cavities helps us to speed up the drying process.
• Controlled demolition might be used to pull up damaged materials so that we can get to all areas that require attention. Unsalvageable materials get replaced and finished off to look like new again. 

SERVPRO always works to ensure your reconstruction goes as smoothly as possible. This is why we work with local licensed contractors and trusted vendors to make your kitchen “Like it never even happened.”

Call SERVPRO of Great Sussex County if you require a kitchen water restoration service you can trust. We are available 24/7 at (973) 383-2024, or you can request help online at your earliest convenience.

SERVPRO Performs a Wide Range of Water Damage Services in Vernon

6/1/2022 (Permalink)

We're Faster To Any Size Disaster--we restore rather than replace water damaged Vernon building elements

In Vernon, We Do Complete Water Damage Remediation

Not all remediation companies in Vernon offer complete cleanup and restoration services for water-related issues. However, SERVPRO does and is among the most skillful remediators in this area. Our service offerings include numerous types of essential water damage cleanup, repair, and reinstallation work.

SERVPRO regularly completes water damage restoration in Vernon. Among other things, our emergency water damage services crews have quickly and expertly dealt with the effects of ceiling leaks, burst pipes, and basement flooding. Specifically, while attempting to fix these troublesome problems, SERVPRO technicians have:

• Thoroughly inspected floorings, walls, ceilings, other structural elements, hidden and difficult-to-reach interior areas, electrical system components (like switches, outlets, and light fixtures), furnishings, and additional household contents
• Cleaned or repaired and reinstalled impacted flooring (like carpets and carpet pads, resilient and non-resilient floors, and hardwood surfaces), repaired or replaced subflooring, installed tack strips, and expertly seamed carpeting
• Restored or replaced structural materials like vapor barriers, framing, insulation, walls, baseboards and plates, ceilings, and related things
• Fixed and cleaned household contents in all interior areas, including living spaces, crawl spaces, attics, basements, and other storage areas
• Restored HVAC systems by cleaning, repairing, or replacing affected ductwork
• Effectively deodorized or replaced moldy and otherwise water-impacted window coverings, furnishings, and other household possessions

Once all these corrective actions have been taken, properties affected by such unforeseen water events as ruptured pipes, leaky ceilings, and appliance malfunctions have generally been returned to their preloss state.

Always remember that your dedicated neighbors at SERVPRO of Greater Sussex County are always here and ready to help you remedy your home’s water damage. So, if you are ever unfortunate enough to suffer a water event, rest assured that our highly skilled technicians can assist you at (973) 383-2024 twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.

Water Cleanup Requires the Right Tools in Vernon

5/4/2022 (Permalink)

Water cleanup for your home is a job for SERVPRO. We are here to help 24/7 365 days a year.

Vernon Residents Deserve Professional Water Cleanup By SERVPRO

Professional water restoration is best if you had a plumbing accident where you found a significant leak or encountered burst pipes. Rather than leaving your Vernon property to chance with a shop vac or a mop and bucket, SERVPRO is there with all the right tools for the job, no matter how big or small. There is a reason why area residents and business owners trust us to handle their restorations – and We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster! This means you can have a crew at your door with the Green Fleet stocked with advanced equipment within hours of your call.

When called to handle water cleanup in Vernon, two areas that count are water migration and prolonged dampness. SERVPRO’s trained water restoration technicians (WRT) know how to follow the migration path as water moves to dry spaces. We bring various tools that also help us to determine areas with hidden moisture, such as:

• Moisture meters, detectors, and sensors
• Thermal imaging technology

The more prolonged moisture is allowed to sit before addressing it, the higher the chance of structural degradation and the breakdown of building materials. You also run the risk of developing mildew or black mold when given the right environment that includes humidity and organic materials to feed on, like carpeting, paper, drywall, etc. Due to the possible health effects on your family, it is better to trust SERVPRO to get the job done with our proven methods and industrial-grade tools.

Throughout the project, as we perform water removal services, you will see us utilizing equipment such as:

• Truck-mounted extractors
• Submersible or gas-powered pumps
• Carpet/light wands
• Drying mats
• Rovers/weighted extractors

Depending on the project, we may use all or a combination of a few of the above tools in tandem with air movers, air scrubbers, and dehumidifiers to restore relative humidity and complete the drying process.

Water cleanup does not have to be a hassle! Call us at SERVPRO of Greater Sussex County at (973) 383-2024 when you require assistance.

DIY Cleanup Fails in Highland Lakes – Call for Water Damage Restoration

3/12/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO water damage restoration specialists are here to help 24/7 365 days a year. DIY is not the way to go. Call now!

Highland Lakes - Trust SERVPRO for Water Damage Cleanup and Restoration

You might be surprised that tens of thousands of water-related emergencies happen in homes throughout the country every single year. Many homeowners are embarrassed to call for skilled restoration, so they take the chances of going the DIY route. Unfortunately, this can mean hidden water damage from leftover moisture, the onset of potentially harmful black mold, and more. SERVPRO wants area residents to know that we are always available for water damage services so that you can live and breathe easier in your home once again!

More often than not, failed DIY water cleanup leads to the need for professional water damage restoration in Highland Lakes. You may think that replacing that burst pipe under your bathroom sink seemed easy enough, but you forgot to look for areas where water migrated. This leaves you open to saturated structural materials, insulation, and bacterial growth.

We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster!

SERVPRO knows that accidents happen, which is why our response times are short, and we bring all the equipment necessary to mitigate damage, facilitate drying, and scope out all areas where moisture might be hiding.

• Reaction time is critical, which is why we show up within hours of your call.
• Shutting off the water until we arrive helps reduce water damage.
• Prompt cleanup of standing water helps lessen the chance of mold and secondary damage.

Why is Moisture Detection Important?

Our IICRC-certified technicians use thermal imaging technology and moisture sensors to locate all hidden areas where water traveled. We may remove toe-kicks under cabinetry to set up drying equipment. Our crew also has access to EPA-registered antifungal cleaning products to help inhibit mold growth. Everything gets left “Like it never even happened,” once we get done, so you are back to life as usual.

We can send a team out for water damage restoration efforts with one call to SERVPRO of Greater Sussex County at (973) 383-2024. You can also request help online!

Water Damage Restoration Happens Fast in Vernon Homes with SERVPRO

1/21/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage restoration services by SERVPRO are second to none. We will be on scene within 4 hours of the initial call.

Vernon homeowners can save time and money on water damage restoration with SERVPRO.

Sustained and unmitigated water damage can directly impact the structural integrity of building materials like wood and metal. When professionals from SERVPRO head the water damage restoration of your Vernon home, the focus is limiting the extent and scope of such an impact. 

SERVPRO professionals use several pieces of equipment during the water damage restoration of your Vernon home to identify and eliminate any hidden moisture. The goal is to create conditions that favor the evaporation of water seeped into the structural components. SERVPRO techs manipulate various physical characteristics such as humidity ratio and temperature to speed up the drying process. 

How do SERVPRO techs dry the wall cavities from your Vernon home water cleanup? 

Some of the toughest spaces to dry in your Vernon home are structural cavities behind walls and under the cabinets. SERVPRO techs use various drying and ventilating systems to direct airflow in such cavities to replace the moist, cold air with drier and warmer air. 

The most commonly used systems consist of vents attached to air movers, while other systems utilize blowers attached to hoses. In some instances, the restorers also drill small holes in walls, ceilings, or under the cabinets to access the structural cavities.  

When is negative pressure applied while drying structural cavities? 

Negative pressure is achieved when air is pulled from a cavity. It is a method of choice to improve the drying rate if the materials need to be dried without removing contamination or when there is no visible or proven contamination, but the potential exists. 

Call SERVPRO of Greater Sussex County at (973) 383-2024 for any questions regarding water damage restoration of your property.

Vernon Homes Need Fast Water Extraction to Prevent Secondary Damage

12/8/2021 (Permalink)

Excess water on your property? Contact our certified team here at SERVPRO right away. We are available 24/7.

Vernon Residents Rely on SERVPRO for Fast and Efficient Water Extraction After a Water Incident

Water extraction from your Vernon home is the first activity that SERVPRO technicians engage in during restoration. If water is not removed promptly, it can severely damage the structure and the contents alike. 

SERVPRO technicians use various methods and equipment for water extraction from our Vernon home. The type of equipment SERVPRO techs employ depends on the amount of water to be extracted and the location of the water damage. The efficiency of the restoration process directly depends on how fast SERVPRO technicians can remove the water from your Vernon property. Accumulated water can even cause ceiling leaks in lower floors if left unmitigated and can require extensive water damage repairs. 

Tools That SERVPRO uses to Remove Water During Water Cleanup of Your Vernon Home 

SERVPRO technicians have a wide variety of tools and equipment at their disposal to extract accumulated water. Some of them include:

• Electric submersible pumps are ideal if water needs to be removed after a basement flooding as they provide an excellent suction lift. They can be operated almost continuously and are much quieter than other extraction pumps. 
• Trash pumps are ideal when a high suction lift is not required during water damage remediation. The most significant benefit of these pumps is that they can pass solids up to 3 inches in size, making them ideal for water extraction during flood restoration. 
• High-Pressure pumps offer even higher lifts than submersible pumps and are ideal for extracting water from underground structures, including basements. 

Call SERVPRO of Greater Sussex County 24/7 at (973) 383-2024 for any assistance regarding water damage. 

Be Ready This Winter - Winter Water Damages

10/4/2021 (Permalink)

Cold weather will soon be upon us in the northeast.  With that comes to snow, ice, and freezing temperatures which are all jeopardies to your home or business.

It is essential that you are aware of the hazards and can prepare, prevent or act quickly on each situation.

FROZEN PIPES

A frozen pipe can burst at the point where the ice blockage inside the pipe is located, but typically the rupture is caused by the backflow pressure between the water source and the blockage. A burst pipe can cause considerable damage to your
property if not addressed quickly.

ICE DAMS

Ice dams can be a major problem during the winter season.
They form when heated air melts roof snow downward into water dammed behind still-frozen ice. When the trapped water cannot safely flow or run into the gutter system, it can backflow under the roof’s shingles and into the structure’s interior areas.

PREPARE YOUR HOME

• If you own a home that is unoccupied during a cold period, ensure you have ample heating fuel and that the indoor thermostat, in all areas of the home, is minimally kept at 55 degrees and ensure that you have a trusted person check the home periodically during your absence.
• Keep cabinet doors open during cold spells. This allows warm air to circulate around pipes.
• Keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets, especially if the pipes for faucets run through unheated or uninsulated areas of your home.
• Consider shutting off outdoor faucets. Find the shut-off valve in the basement or crawl space and turn it to “off .”
• If you follow the previous step, then open the outdoor faucet to help ensure it drains completely and the inner valve is shut off.
• Ensure gutters are clean and secure. Leaves and debris accumulate, causing a damming effect on gutters, which could lead to roof problems and water damage.

PREPARE YOUR BUSINESS

• Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Weather, such as wind, heavy rain, ice, and snow, can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause
  personal injuries.
• Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potential.
• Inspect all handrails, stairwells, and entryways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.

Contact us at 973-383-2024 if you have a service need or click here to visit our website to learn more about SERVPRO of Greater Sussex County's System Services. 

What Happens After a Flood: Mold Remediation

9/2/2021 (Permalink)

Have you ever wondered what happens when a mold removal specialist gets called to a mold-damaged facility? The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) shares five steps a mold removal specialist takes when conducting mold remediation.

“Many people aren’t aware of the dangers, nor the difficulty level of removing mold from a facility,” said IICRC Chairman Tony Wheelwright. “Mold remediation is a potentially hazardous process that should only be undertaken by a certified professional.”

Five steps that each mold-removal specialist takes when conducting mold remediation includes:

1. Determine the degree of contamination.  The first step for a mold remediation specialist may be to bring in an Indoor Environmental Professional (IEP) or Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) to determine the extent of the mold damage and test for contamination within the facility. Because mold spores and other microscopic contaminants can travel easily throughout a building, the IEP/CIH may collect and analyze samples from affected as well as unaffected areas of the building. Once the IEP/CIH has finished the inspection they will develop a remediation plan for the mold removal specialist, such as SERVPRO of Northern Sussex County, with steps to return the home to its preloss condition (Condition 1).  Learn more about our Mold Remediation process by visiting our website here.
2. Set up and verify containment. To make sure mold contamination does not spread to other areas of a facility, the SERVPRO will set up containment by creating isolation barriers. Once the barriers are set up, SERVPRO will need to verify the containment with a lower partial pressure differential (negative pressure) to ensure there is no air leakage between containment zones. Exit chambers would then be used to serve as a transition between the containment and the unaffected area of the building. Once the containment is verified and the correct amount of pressure is achieved, the removal process can begin.
3. Remove unsalvageable materials. Porous materials and items that cannot be restored or cleaned effectively must be carefully discarded. Unsalvageable items include but are not limited to drywall, insulation, and other items with visible mold growth. It is important for the SERVPROspecialist to wear the appropriate personal protective equipment which may include a full-face respirator equipped with a P100/OV cartridge, disposable coveralls, and nitrile gloves.
4. Clean surfaces with a high attention to detail. SERVPRO will likely begin the cleaning process by thoroughly vacuuming the contaminated areas using a HEPA vacuum with a high-efficiency filter to catch mold spores. We will then begin a detailed cleaning process involving mold removal tools such as a HEPA filtered sander, followed by the damp wiping of surfaces with an effective cleaning solution.
5. Verify remediation. Once cleaning is complete, the IEP/CIH will return to verify the remediation was successful. The area must be returned to the dry standard and should be visually dust-free with no malodors. In addition, an IEP/CIH may perform surface or air sampling as part of the verification that the area is back to normal fungal ecology (Condition 1).

“Mold remediation requires mold removal specialists to perform techniques that promote source removal rather than relying on chemicals, paints, and coatings as a replacement,” said Rachel Adams, President of Indoor Environmental Management, Inc. “Understanding and managing airflow is also critical to the success of a mold remediation project. Working with qualified IEP can also help to reduce the liability for the technician as well as provide a final determination if the remediation was successful.”

For more information on mold remediation or the latest in mold remediation standards, visit the IICRC. 

Contact us at 973-383-2024 if you have a service need or click here to visit our website to learn more about SERVPRO of Greater Sussex County's System Services. 

Flood Cleanup: Avoiding Indoor Air Quality Problems

8/3/2021 (Permalink)

During a flood cleanup, the indoor air quality in your home or office may appear to be the least of your problems. However, failure to remove contaminated materials and to reduce moisture and humidity can present secondary mold growth problems. Standing water and wet materials are breeding grounds for microorganisms, such as viruses, bacteria, and mold. They can continue to damage materials long after the flood.

This fact sheet discusses problems caused by microbial growth, as well as other potential effects of flooding, on long-term indoor air quality and the steps you can take to lessen these effects. Although the information contained here emphasizes residential flood cleanup, it is also applicable to other types of buildings.

Prepare for Cleanup

Read Repairing Your Flooded Home prepared by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the American Red Cross. The booklet discusses flood safety issues. The booklet also contains detailed information on proper methods for cleaning up your home. You should also consult the wealth of information on the FEMA, CDC, and The American Lung Association sites on the subject.

Avoid Problems from Microbial Growth

Remove Standing Water

Standing water is a breeding ground for microorganisms, which can become airborne and be inhaled. Floodwater may also contain sewage or decaying animal carcasses. Even when flooding is due to rainwater, the growth of microorganisms can is always a risk. For these reasons, all standing water should be removed as quickly as possible.

Dry Out Your Home

Excess moisture in the home is an indoor air quality concern for three reasons:

• Microorganisms brought into the home during flooding may present a health hazard. These organisms can penetrate deep into soaked, porous materials and later be released into air or water. 
• High humidity and moist materials provide ideal environments for the excessive growth of microorganisms that are always present in the home. 
• Long-term increases in humidity in the home can also foster the growth of dust mites. 

Be patient. The drying out process could take several weeks, and the growth of microorganisms will continue as long as humidity is high. If the house is not dried out properly, a musty odor, signifying the growth of microorganisms can remain long after the flood.

Remove Wet Materials

It can be difficult to throw away items in a home, particularly those with sentimental value. However, keeping certain items that were soaked by water may be unhealthy. Some materials tend to absorb and keep water more than others. In general, materials that are wet and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried within 24-48 hours should be discarded, as they can remain a source of microbial growth.

You may be able to dry out and save certain building materials (for example, wallboard, fiberglass insulation, and wall-to-wall carpeting that were soaked only with clean rainwater). You may, however, want to consider removing and replacing them to avoid indoor air quality problems. Because they take a long time to dry, they may be a source of microbial growth.

In addition, fiberboard, fibrous insulation, and disposable filters should be replaced, if they are present in your heating and air conditioning system and have contacted water. (If a filter was designed to be cleaned with water and was in contact with clean rainwater only, ensure that it is thoroughly cleaned before reinstalling.)

Avoid Problems from the Use of Cleaners and Disinfectants

The cleanup process involves thorough washing and disinfecting of the walls, floors, closets, shelves, and contents of the house. 

Be careful about the use of household cleaners and disinfectants together. Check labels for cautions on this. Mixing certain types of products can produce toxic fumes and result in injury and even death.  

Avoid Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that can be lethal at high levels. Carbon monoxide levels can build up rapidly if certain types of combustion devices (for example, gasoline-powered generators, camp stoves, and lanterns, or charcoal-burning devices) are used indoors. Do not use combustion devices designed for outdoor use indoors.

Avoid Problems from Airborne Asbestos and Lead Dust

Elevated concentrations of airborne asbestos can occur if asbestos-containing materials present in the home are disturbed. If you know or suspect that your home contains asbestos, contact the EPA TSCA Assistance Information Service at (202) 554-1404 for information on steps you should take to avoid exposure.

Lead is a highly toxic metal. Disturbance or removal of materials containing lead-based paint may result in an elevated concentration of lead dust in the air. If you know or suspect that your home contains lead-based paint, contact the National Lead Information Center to receive a general information packet, to order other documents, or for detailed information or questions. 

Contact us at 973-383-2024 if you have a service need or click here to visit our website to learn more about SERVPRO of Greater Sussex County's System Services. 

Mold and Humidity Threats in Vacation Residences

5/12/2021 (Permalink)

A closed-up vacation house can be a breeding ground for mold in the summer months. Moisture from a nearby lake or river, or the humidity in the air, can lead to that musty odor vacationers have come to expect upon arriving at their weekend getaway.

Mold is a particularly hidden foe. It exists nearly everywhere in an inactive state, and all it needs to grow is a food source (drywall will do nicely) and a source of moisture, such as high humidity.

To get rid of the damp odor, most homeowners will turn on the air conditioner and maybe a dehumidifier and wait for the smell to go away. While much of the odor may dissipate in a few hours, the mold is still there. And, when they leave for a week, it's back again when they return.

That smell is more than just unpleasant; it's an indication that mold is actively growing, potentially affecting health. Left untreated, mold will continue to grow and spread and can damage walls, ceilings, carpeting, and more. Every time the house is closed up and the a/c is turned off, the moisture creeps back in, and the mold begins growing again.

MOISTURE SOLUTIONS

What can HVAC contractors do to help? First, it's important to stress that the key to preventing mold is eliminating moisture. The first step is to address any leaks in roofing, chimneys, and foundations. Perhaps you can recommend someone who can do a thorough check and perform the repairs necessary to stop the leaks. If mold remediation is needed, your customer should get bids from several companies specializing in this, as it can be costly.

Reducing humidity through air conditioning is a key to controlling mold, but, of course, leaving the a/c on all summer long will run up utility bills. Fresh outside air is also critical, but vacation homeowners won't want to leave windows open while not using the property.

Some relatively new offerings in air conditioning systems can help manage mold problems. One example is a small-duct, high-velocity air handler, which has a unique cooling coil that removes 30 percent more humidity from the air than a traditional system. Eliminating moisture is critical in avoiding mold growth, so this feature is essential.

Another helpful technology is a continuously operating outdoor inverter unit that works so efficiently that homeowners can leave it on while they're away without breaking the bank. It runs on various speeds — typically a very low speed — always striving for the most efficient operation by making small, incremental changes to keep a constant temperature. A traditional system must ramp-up to full operating power every time it cycles on, requiring a tremendous amount of energy. You won't have this issue with the inverter unit.

When cooling a summer home, the inverter technology is an excellent way for customers to keep the air conditioning going when they're gone, but at a lower cost.

Another great option is a ventilation system operated by a programmable control board. Based on the size of the home, the control board calculates how much fresh outside air to bring in at all times, opening and closing dampers as needed to maintain a healthy level of fresh air. Look for options that meet ASHRAE 62.2 standards for IAQ.

These newer technologies can go a long way toward reducing energy consumption while letting fresh air in and keeping mold problems at bay. More savings and fewer molds mean a healthier and happier vacation for everyone. 

Contact us at 973-383-2024 if you have a service need, or click here to visit our website to learn more about SERVPRO of Greater Sussex County's System Services.

Is It Mold or Is It Rust?

2/26/2021 (Permalink)

Can you easily tell the difference between mold and rust? Many people look at a reddish colored stain and assume its rust, although that’s not always the case. Before you break out your heavy-duty cleaning solutions, it pays to understand what you’re up against: mold, rust, or even another stain. 

What’s Normal for Your Home?

If you’re seeing new stains on walls, floors, or countertops, you’ll want to make sure they’re not the result of water infiltration or excess humidity in your home. Try to pinpoint a reason for the stain, based on what room it’s in and the common daily activity. Mold tends to be found in damp, humid areas, while rust forms when metallic surfaces start to corrode. Recognizing the differences between mold and rust helps you determine the best way to take care of an issue before it becomes more pervasive.

What’s that Stain? Mold vs Rust

Areas prone to dampness, such as bathrooms and basements, can easily foster the growth of mold or mildew. If you see a stain that looks like mold or rust in your shower, sink area, or basement, you’ll want to clean them as quickly as possible to avoid permanent damage. However, different cleaning solutions are used to treat different stains. Rust, hard water marks, grease, and mold may all look similar, but if you use the wrong cleaner, you may not be able to fully remove them.

Identifying Rust

Rust is the result of iron, or a metal alloy containing iron, such as steel, corroding. Rust is most often observed as a red, yellow or reddish-brown surface stain. Rust is caused by water or damp air touching the surface or a metal prone to rusting. Some common areas where rust is spotted in the home, according to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI), include the following:

• Water Pipes
• Metal Roofs and Chimneys
• Oil tanks for home with oil heat
• Electrical Panel Boxes
• Nails

Preventing Rust

Rust can be prevented by keeping metals out of damp and humid areas. Protective coatings, such as varnish may also be applied to surfaces prone to rusting. Ensuring that metal fixtures in your home are kept dry can also help to prevent rust. Wipe up spills immediately and check your basement after heavy storms to spot signs of flooding as soon as possible.

Removing Rust

Removing rust can be a tough job, but with the right cleaners, you should be successful. For lighter rust stains, some household products, such as baking soda or vinegar might work. Mild abrasives like steel wool pads may also remove surface rust, but they may also leave behind scratch marks. There are also many specialized rust removal products sold that you can try for smaller stains. One product you should never use on rust is bleach, which could react negatively with the rust and actually worsen it. 

If you do attempt to clean rust, always follow the instructions on any commercial cleaning product. Be sure to don safety gear, including gloves, safety glasses and a face mask. Always work in a well-ventilated area. If you’re not comfortable with the task, find a handyman or painter that is.

Mold Stains

Mold can resemble other stains like rust or mildew in appearance, but there are actually over 300 types of mold. The colors of mold can range from black to brown, white or gray, or even pink, blue or green. Mold also presents in a range of textures from downy to fuzzy. Some mold is powdery and some has a more slimy texture. 

Mold can grow as the result of a single event, such as a broken pipe or indoor water infiltration due to floods or leaks. It’s important to catch the signs of indoor mold growth as early as possible and have them taken care of before they lead to greater damage. Mold can also cause health effects. Mold sometimes can leave a stain, but that’s not always the case. A damp, musty odor can also be a sign of mold growth. 

If you notice mold growth in damp areas of your home, you can clean affected surfaces with a specialized mold removal product. Common, everyday household cleaning solutions may not be effective against mold. Typically, mold cannot be totally eradicated from porous surfaces, like shower curtains, drywall, or insulation; these items should be disposed of and replaced.

When cleaning mold, you should always wear protective gear, such as a face mask, and ensure that you’re working in an adequately ventilated area. You can read more about the protective gear recommended for mold removal. SERVPRO of Greater Sussex County can help you determine the best way to remove the mold. Once the mold is removed, it’s a good idea to have the area tested by a professional. If mold has continued to grow in your home, you may have a more pervasive problem that requires additional professional remediation from SERVPRO of Greater Sussex County.

Evaluating Mold Issues

Because so many of the stains we see around the house look similar, it may be difficult to determine what is causing the discoloration and damage. If you notice stains on your walls, countertops, or floors that look like mold or rust, contact SERVPRO of Greater Sussex County and request a free home inspection to help diagnose your problem. 

Contact us at 973-383-2024 if you have a service need or click here to visit our website to learn more about SERVPRO of Greater Sussex County's System Services. 

Home Mold Testing - DIY Kit - Use With Caution

12/27/2020 (Permalink)

You can expect mold and mildew outside your home because of the damp natural conditions of the outdoors. Mold and mildew inside the house is a different problem because the inside of your home shouldn't remain damp.

The presence of moisture is the most significant contributor to mold growth. To fight the infestation, you should conduct a room-by-room assessment of the house to identify problem areas. The moisture can come from condensation due to poor ventilation (attic), from a water leak (around bathrooms), or outdoor intrusion (foundation walls).

Detection

Mold and mildew in a home are not always easy to detect if it exists within attics or is hidden within walls. If you suspect your indoor air quality is hindered by hidden mold, the best course of action is to contact an Industrial Hygienist (IH). 

The IH will take both surface and air samples to detect the presence of mold on the structure.  These two tests are essential to take in concert with each other as they will help detect the presence of mold in areas that cannot be seen or reached, such as in wall cavities.  They will also help determine the severity and types of mold in a specific area of the home.

If you choose to take your own surface sample as a first step, mold detection kits can be purchased in most home improvement stores and are easy to use.  Swab the surface in the area you're concerned about.  Test results show in as little as 5 minutes, and much like a pregnancy test, you'll either see one line (negative results) or two lines (positive).

Use caution as these tests are not necessarily conclusive, given the absence of air samples and misinterpretation by the user.  Only a trained professional should perform mold testing using the proper methods.

Even if your home test is positive, it does not necessarily mean you have a serious problem but that you should consider consulting a professional indoor air quality inspector or contact SERVPRO of Greater Sussex County. You can also have an optional laboratory analysis of your test results conducted for an additional fee.  

Click here to go to our website and learn a bit more about Mold Remediation. 

Fighting the Mold you Find

If you discover mold on the home's interior, the first step in solving the problem is to eliminate the source of moisture—whatever that may be. Otherwise, any mold or mildew you clean is likely to return.

For minor problems, you may be able to clean the surface of the materials with an antimicrobial cleaner. For major problems, remove materials that cannot be thoroughly cleaned of mold-like insulation, carpeting, or drywall. Use your antimicrobial cleaner to clean the surrounding area as well as the places where you actually see mold and mildew, so make sure you remove all traces of the substances.

Finally, replace the removed building materials with new, mold-free materials.

Mold can be a serious issue with challenging aspects in remediating it properly.  We highly recommend calling in a professional, like SERVPRO, to help you evaluate the proper steps before proceeding on your own.

Contact us at 973-383-2024 if you have a service need or click here to visit our website to learn more about SERVPRO of Greater Sussex County's System Services.