Understanding Plant Mildew

11/22/2019 (Permalink)

It’s natural to be alarmed when you see ugly plant mildew attacking your favorite foliage.

Despite your best efforts, your house plant is covered in white spots. What gives? Powdery plant mildew is a common bane of plant enthusiasts. And while it won’t kill your plants immediately, it can gradually diminish their health. On the bright side, the tools you need to get rid of it are likely in your kitchen. Keep reading to learn more about this fungus and how you can clear it from your Knoxville, TN, home.

What is Powdery Mildew Anyway?
Mildew is commonly mentioned alongside mold, and with good reason: They’re both fungi. Whereas mold tends to be darker and either furry or slimy, mildew often shows up as white or gray, with a powdery, almost chalk-like texture. Mildew attacking plants:

Spreads easily
Favors dry foliage
Thrives in warmth

What Are the Signs of Plant Mildew?
Spots are the telltale signs of a powdery mildew infestation. These white or gray patches may show up on the tops of leaves. The patches will they’ll spread to the underside of leaves and eventually down stems. Foliage will begin to brown and wilt as the fungus leaches nutrients from your plant.

Treating Mildew on Plants
Luckily, it’s relatively easy to get rid of mildew with basic pantry items. Mix up the baking soda and liquid soap to make a spray that can easily neutralize existing mildew and prevent new spores from growing. Plain mouthwash can also be used. Another old trick is mixing three parts of water with one part of milk and spraying leaves. Each substance has an antiseptic effect on mildew.

It’s natural to be alarmed when you see ugly plant mildew attacking your favorite foliage. But you don’t have to be intimidated. Use the above tips to erase plant fungus and consult a local garden or mold removal expert to learn what you can do to prevent mildew growth in the first place.

Is Mold Damage Covered by Homeowner’s Insurance?

11/20/2019 (Permalink)

When fungus growth does threaten your home in Knoxville, TN, take a good look at your insurance or call SERVPRO for advice.

Once a small amount of water gets where it doesn’t belong, mold can start to develop. While the health hazards are still being discussed, one certain problem with fungus growth is that it damages (and can eventually destroy) the materials that houses are made from. Some homeowner’s policies may include mold insurance, but it depends on the wording and circumstances.

Your Insurance May Cover Mold Damage
Usually, the most important consideration is if the mold was the natural consequence of a “covered peril.” That typically includes such things as the following:

Fire damage
Storm and lightning damage
Accidental discharge from plumbing and appliances

So, if a lightning bolt strikes and damages your roof, allowing water to enter it, that would be covered. If lightning hits a tree, causing it to fall on the roof and encourage fungus growth, the same applies.

There Are Limits, Conditions and Exceptions
When experts tell you to read your insurance policy carefully, it’s because there can be massive differences in the fine print. For instance, even if the mold damage was caused by a covered peril, you won’t be covered if the damage was reasonably preventable – such as knowing about a leak but letting it go for longer than necessary.

Also, homeowner’s insurance will never cover damages from flooding; the National Flood Insurance Program provides that. Keeping a higher indoor humidity than normal also could trigger an exception.

Some policies may have a rider or endorsement that specifically does offer mold coverage. However, there are usually limits to the payout, capping damage awards. Finally, any insurance claim can potentially raise the cost of your premiums, so in some circumstances, you may be better off paying a professional mold cleanup company yourself to fix the problem.

When fungus growth does threaten your home in Knoxville, TN, take a good look at your insurance or call SERVPRO for advice. They can answer your questions and take pride in leaving your home “Like it Never Even Happened.”

The Financial Toll of Mold Cleaning

11/7/2019 (Permalink)

Cleanup costs for a crawlspace or small area may be as little as $500 and as much as $4,000.

As a homeowner, you will spend a significant amount of money to keep your Knoxville, TN, house looking nice and feeling comfortable. If you detect mold in any part of your home, it is important to act quickly and hire a professional to handle mold removal. It is helpful to know what you should expect to pay to rid this fungus from your property.

How Mold Develops
Mold spores are present outside, floating in the air. They can get into your home on people and pets that enter. The microscopic spores can also come through windows, doors, cracks, and vents. In a perfect environment, the fungus can grow and spread. This happens in the following ways:

When there is poor ventilation in humid areas of the home
When there are slow leaks in the plumbing or HVAC system
When water is not removed and the affected areas are not dried

The Inspection
If you discover mold at home, you should call a professional mold remediation company. An initial inspection of the area and identification of mold will cost between $200 and $600.

Testing for Mold
The remediation team will use a test called air sampling to assess the need of black mold removal. The samples go to a lab where a technician does an analysis. This can cost as much as $150.

The Cleanup
The most expensive and time-consuming part is the actual mold removal. The remediation team will tear out porous material, clean and disinfect walls and floors, and use a special vacuum with air filtration. The cost of this process will vary depending on the extent of the damage and the size of the room.

Cleanup costs for a crawlspace or small area may be as little as $500 and as much as $4,000. If there is mold damage throughout the house, and if there is structural damage, you may be looking at a total cost of more than $25,000.

Mold removal may challenge your budget. However, this is an important process that you don't want to neglect.

How To Get Rid of Mold Odor

9/26/2019 (Permalink)

A strong, musty odor may indicate hidden mold behind drywall

How To Get Rid of Mold Odor

Mold is part of the fungus family and mold spores are in the air everywhere to some degree. Ideally, there should not be so many spores floating around your home in Farragut, TN, that you can detect them through the familiar musty odor many people have come in contact with at some point in their life. Mold gives off a metabolite called mycotoxin which is where this smell comes from, and it is not desirable! If you smell a musty odor in your home, which is often found in damp, warm areas, it is suggested that you do not stay in this area too long to avoid inhaling the mold spores as much as possible.

Common Mold Odor Areas

If you have a mold smell in your house, it’s important that you figure out where it’s coming from to eliminate the problem once and for all. It is possible to find that mycotoxin smell in a number of areas around the home such as:

• A poorly sealed basement
  
• Leaky attic
  
• Damp garage
  
• Bathrooms
  
• Damp clothes
  
  

Really, anywhere there is plumbing throughout your home is also susceptible to mold growth if a pipe breaks. You can also check around the outside of the home for areas where water doesn’t drain very well, especially if you notice water leaking after it rains.

Clean Up the Odor and Mold

Once you determine what the mycotoxin source is, it’s time to clean up the moldy mess so it doesn’t cause future damage. First to improve air quality, you can use HEPA air filtration devices. These are certified to remove the majority of mold spores out of the air so you can safely breathe in the infested area.
Then it’s time to remove the odor once and for all. When cleaning up small amounts of mold, strong disinfectants like bleach are effective. When you’re dealing with widespread damage, however, a mold remediation company is often suggested to ensure the mess is fully removed and your home is safe and clean for many years to come.

How To Recognize and Prevent Mold Problems

9/11/2019 (Permalink)

No one likes to see black mold on the walls of their commercial building, especially the people who work in the space.

When you own commercial property in Knoxville, TN, you are responsible for the upkeep of the building. Part of that responsibility is making sure you keep the building free of black mold growth. It's easier to take the necessary steps to prevent a problem if you understand it. Here are a few facts about mold and how to keep it from becoming an issue.

How Does a Mold Problem Happen?
There's no way to completely get rid of mold in your building. Mold spores are inevitably in the air. They travel in from the outside on the briefcases, coats, hair, and shoes of everyone who walks in the door. They don't become a problem, however, until the right conditions exist for them to settle and grow:

Moisture
Organic matter
Stagnant air

If your building is particularly humid or you have unresolved water damage, black mold spores are likely to settle and thrive. Mold growth not only gives off an unpleasant odor, but it also can destroy any item it infests.

How Do You Prevent Mold Growth?
To prevent mold growth, you must get rid of the things it needs to survive. Address any moisture problem in a timely manner. Maintain a 45-50% humidity level in your building. Keep the HVAC system running even when people aren't in the building to keep up the airflow. Clean up spills as soon as they occur, especially those that happen on the carpet. If you experience a water loss, have the problem fixed and any damage it causes mitigated as soon as possible. Finally, if a mold problem does arise, prevent a recurring issue by calling mold cleanup professionals quickly to make sure it is properly resolved.

No one likes to see black mold on the walls of their commercial building, especially the people who work in the space. By understanding the nature of mold and what it needs to grow, you are more likely to prevent it from happening.

Some Facts About Mold

6/20/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Knoxville/Farragut for your mold removal and mold remediation needs.

If you own property in Knoxville, TN, one of the many things you need to look out for is mold. Unchecked mold growth can lead to thousands of dollars' worth of damage to your building and unhealthy conditions for workers or tenants. Below, we'll look at what mold is, how to prevent it, and if detected, how to get rid of it.

What Mold Is, and Where It Comes From

Mold is a fungus that is found everywhere, propagating through spores that are blown around through the air. Mold growth only becomes a problem in buildings with areas of high humidity, or where there's been water damage. Mold enters a structure in a number of ways, including:

• Doorways
• Vents
• HVAC Systems
• Windows
• Attached to:
o Pets
o Clothes
o Shoes and Boots
o Bags

There are thousands of types of mold. Common ones include Aspergillus, found in food and AC systems, Alternaria, commonly found in sinks and showers, and Stachybotrys chartarum, otherwise known as black mold.

How to Prevent It

To prevent mold from becoming a problem in your building, eliminate any sources of excess moisture. Try to bring down humidity with a dehumidifier or air conditioner. A building with good ventilation also is much less likely to have a mold problem. Vents should always lead to the outside. Also, make sure that your roofing and plumbing are inspected regularly. Hidden leaks in walls or ceilings can cause big problems with mold.

Professional Help
If you detect mold in your building, a mold remediation company should be consulted. They can identify the types of mold present and take the appropriate steps to eradicate the problem safely and completely. They can remove the sources of moisture, then dehumidify, clean and disinfect using specialized techniques and equipment.

Hopefully, your building hasn't been affected by mold growth, and by using the information outlined above, you can keep it mold-free. But if you do detect mold, a quick call to a professional can get the problem under control and have your property back to normal in no time.

Call SERVPRO of West Knoxville/Farragut for your mold removal and mold remediation needs in Knoxville, TN today!

How To Banish Mold

5/23/2019 (Permalink)

Mold is a persistent fungus that can form and spread with surprising speed. Mold growth can occur when a surface is exposed to moisture, such as with water damage. Mold will cause your Knoxville, TN, business to look unkempt and unwelcoming. Here are some helpful tips for dealing with mold, wherever you are in the remediation process.

1. Keep Things Dry and Well-Monitored - Mold forms in conditions when water or humidity is present.

2. Keeping a space well-ventilated with fans and open windows is key to preventing fungal growth. Mold is also attracted to dirt, so good housekeeping goes a long way.

3. Consistent monitoring is another important factor. Regularly inspect the property for any precursors to water damage and unwanted moisture, such as leaky pipes, plumbing issues, and improper drainage.

4. Work Quickly in the Mold Window. In the event of a flood or burst pipe, mold can start to grow within 24-48 hours. This window is a crucial time for mold prevention. Once it forms, it starts feeding off of organic matter and shooting off spores that cause rapid mold growth. You’ll want to remove the foothold that mold depends on, starting with extracting any water completely and quickly. A dehumidifier should be used, as open windows won’t cut it when there’s already excess moisture.

Immediately toss out any carpet or insulation that has been soaked. Even if the building appears to be dry, it helps to enlist professionals who can locate inconspicuous areas of standing water.

Enlist the Pros for Cleanup. If mold is already present on a surface, it needs to be removed in order to prevent it from spreading. This is a task best left to professionals, as mold is tricky to get rid of. A professional mold remediation service can locate every affected area, and the pros can quickly and safely eradicate mold from your property.

Mold is a stubborn substance that is living and very active. You don’t want it anywhere near your place of business, and neither do your customers. By taking the necessary precautions in the wake of water damage, you’ll keep your property in tip-top shape.

Bleaching Mold Is Not the Solution

5/16/2019 (Permalink)

You may have heard that a solution of bleach and water can be used to remove mold, but this is not actually the solution to the problem. There are quite a few complications with this common belief, so make sure you take a moment to learn a little about mold cleaning so that it will be done properly in your building in Knoxville, TN.

What’s Wrong With Bleaching Mold?

The appearance of a clean surface perpetuates a false belief that bleach can be used for fungus cleanup. This method actually does remove some stains or temporarily removes mold from a surface, but this is not permanent. Here are some of the problems with this method of cleaning:

• Porous materials provide hidden territory for mold to root deeply where a solution may not penetrate.
• Mold spores are everywhere, so the mold will return unless the source of moisture is stopped.
• Attempting the cleanup of mold with a solution of bleach and water can exacerbate existing moisture issues.
• Bleaching just masks the problem with the appearance of a clean surface, while mold hides deep within.

These efforts can lead to bigger problems. The appearance of fungus cleanup hides the fact that your mold colonies are still thriving and multiplying deep beneath the surface of your walls, floors, carpets or other building materials. Mold damage can only happen where there is a food source (including building materials, dirt, and dust) and a water source.

The Real Solution

The water source can be unnoticeable because it is usually not a puddle or other obvious problem. Excessive indoor moisture can be caused by something as simple as high humidity or condensation near pipes or in the air conditioner. When small water problems go unnoticed, they turn into big problems fast. Mold reproduces in as little as 48 hours. The key to ending your mold problem is finding the source of moisture and stopping it. A professional mold remediator is trained to do this before taking steps for proper fungus cleanup, which may include the drying or removing of damaged materials.

Call SERVPRO of West Knoxville/Farragut for your mold damage remediation and restoration needs.

Mold Prevention Tips for Your Home’s Bathrooms

3/8/2019 (Permalink)

There are various steps you can take to prevent mold from appearing in your home’s bathrooms.

Mold Prevention Tips For Your Home’s Bathrooms

Finding water damage in a bathroom in your home in Farragut, TN is often frustrating enough on its own. Unfortunately, mold damage often follows. However, there are various steps you can take to prevent mold from appearing in your home’s bathrooms.

1. Clean and Dry the Room

Mold prevention doesn’t have to be complicated. Making sure the bathrooms in your home are kept clean make it harder for mold to grow in those areas. Using disinfectant cleaning supplies can discourage mold growth. After cleaning your bathrooms, it’s also helpful to dry down the surfaces you’ve cleaned in order to reduce the moisture in your bathroom, which mold often needs to grow.

2. Watch for Signs of Leaks

Water damage makes mold substantially more likely to grow, and routinely checking in areas where mold commonly grows can be helpful when it comes to noticing a leak. However, minor leaks aren’t always immediately apparent, and the longer leaks go unnoticed, the more damage that will likely occur. If you notice your water bill is higher than normal for no discernable reason, this can indicate that there may be a leak in your bathroom. If your home has been badly damaged by water, it might be useful to contact water and mold damage restoration experts.

3. Decrease Humidity Levels When Possible

Bathrooms are often humid, particularly after the shower or bath has been used. Avoiding using the shower or bath isn’t an option, but there are ways you can keep humidity levels low in your home’s bathrooms. However, turning on a fan while showering or bathing can help to decrease the humidity in the room. If you notice that the bathroom is still excessively humid even when using a fan, then you might want to consider using a dehumidifier to further keep the humidity low.

Although you can’t always avoid water damage in your home, it is often possible to prevent mold from growing in your bathrooms. Keeping your bathroom clean, monitoring your water usage and limiting the levels of humidity in your home can prevent mold from growing in your bathroom.

Is an Air Purifier Right for Your Home?

1/21/2019 (Permalink)

HEPA filters are mechanical air filters

Look For An Air Filtration To Clean Your Home Air

Air pollution is a valid concern for almost anyone that lives in a city. The dust, contaminates, and odor can sometimes be heavy enough to be seen, and they have even been given the pollutants a name – smog. However, your home in Knoxville, TN, can also develop dust, contaminates, and odor problems. Moving air about with a fan is not the best solution; it only moves the problem from one room to another. Why not look into an air filtration device to help clean your home’s air?

Finding the Facts

Mold, dust and odors are almost always in the world around us. When those particles are inside your home, they are typically considered to be inside air pollutants, and generally, they fall into one of these categories:

• Gaseous
  
• Biological
  
• Chemical

This includes dust mites, cooking odors, mildew, viruses and animal dander.

Breathing Much Easier

Air filtration systems filter the pollutants out of the air from all three categories. Keeping the allergens and mold spores filtered out of the air can provide a cleaner atmosphere inside your home, and this can combat lingering odors, as well as deliver fresh, breathable air.

Removing the Particles

Different purifiers employ different methods to filter the air, but often they work in one of these three ways.

•  Electrostatic precipitation
  
•  Ionization
  
•  Filtration

Each method has its pros and cons, but most people find the HEPA filtration system the most cost effective. The air is forced through the filter where the particles are captured. As the clean air rushes out of the filter, it can then fill your home with fresh, renewed air.

When trying to decide which of these systems is right for your family, contact a team of air and mold professionals that can help you choose which of the air filtration machines will effectively remove the particles in the room. Allergens, dust, and mold can try to take over your home, but you can fight back with an air purifier system just right for your home.

How To Control Mold Growth in Your Home

9/12/2018 (Permalink)

Bathroom covered with mold in a Knoxville, TN home

Mold thrives in moist environments. While many homeowners in Knoxville, TN, may not worry about it, certain conditions inside your home may make it more susceptible to mold growth. To minimize the risk, you should address leaking pipes, water damage and existing moisture points quickly and efficiently.

After a Flood

If your home sustains water damage from a flood or burst pipe, you must quickly remove saturated items and dry the affected area to prevent mold growth. Use a shop vac to soak up water and open windows to increase air flow. You can also use fans and a dehumidifier to expediate the process. For additional protection, mix once cup of bleach with one gallon of water and spray the mixture on hard surfaces in the affected area.

Be sure to thoroughly assess your carpets and drywall. If your drywall is wet, water may seep through to the insulation. When wet, both materials can harbor mold, so you will need to replace them. As an additional safeguard, you may wish to install mold-resistant drywall. However, you must ensure that the area is free of moisture before completing this repair.

Additional Tips

Quickly repairing even small water leaks is an important mold-prevention strategy. To further reduce your home’s mold risk, follow these tips:

• Dry soaked materials within 24 - 48 hours
• Inspect caulking around sinks and tubs and replace if cracked or deteriorating
• Clean and repair gutters
• Direct water away from your home’s foundation
• Improve air circulation inside your home

High humidity can also expediate mold growth. One telltale sign of high humidity is condensation. If you notice condensation on widows or sills, you should apply weather stripping or a plastic film to reduce cold drafts. Increasing ventilation and using a dehumidifier can also help reduce the humidity level inside your home.

Mold Remediation

Mold prevention often requires a proactive approach. However, a flood or burst pipe can happen unexpectedly, creating significant water damage. To reduce your risk of mold under these circumstances, you may wish to consult a professional cleanup and restoration team equipped to handle a variety of situations, including mold remediation.

Do You Have Dirty Ducts?

8/5/2018 (Permalink)

Did you know your ventilation system is often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality? In most cases, the HVAC system has been operating for some time without much attention. Dirty ducts can circulate odors, contaminants such as mold, and irritating dust throughout your building or home.

A routine part of your local SERVPRO® of West Knoxville/Farragut Professional’s service is inspecting the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping the HVAC and ductwork clean can potentially extend the life-span of the equipment by allowing it to operate at peak condition, which may help save you money. Duct cleaning may not always be necessary.
In some circumstances, such as after a fire, smoke, or suspected mold growth, duct cleaning becomes an essential part of the cleanup process. In these cases, SERVPRO® of West Knoxville/Farragut  Professional can often restore the HVAC system and ductwork to pre-damage condition.

If you have a fuel-burning furnace, stove, or fireplace, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends they be inspected for proper functioning and be serviced before each heating season to protect against carbon monoxide poisoning.

The SERVPRO® Duct Cleaning System is proven and cost-efficient. Unlike the majority of duct cleaning services, your SERVPRO® of West Knoxville/Farragut Professional uses a portable ventilation and air duct cleaning system to examine ductwork and make a clean sweep, removing years of dust and grime.

The process begins by using patented equipment, including a roto-scraper, which automatically adapts to the duct’s shape and diameter while traveling through the duct, removing debris and filth before vacuuming begins.

Next, a powerful push-pull air delivery and collection system transfer the debris from the ducting to a 16-gallon container.

Air is filtered through a HEPA filtration system, removing 99.97 percent of the particles in the airstream. HEPA filters capture debris and keep the indoor environment clean.

As an optional process, a sealant or coating product may be sprayed to address odor or microbial concerns.

Filters will either be cleaned or replaced to remove odor and dirt.

For more information on duct cleaning, or to schedule an appointment, contact your local SERVPRO® of West Knoxville/Farragut  Professionals today.

Do you have Mold?

7/15/2018 (Permalink)

Mold In Oak Ridge

Even small water damages have the potential to cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time. The key to avoiding costly problems in the future is to handle every water damage as a threat to your property. 

SERVPRO of Oak Ridge has the equipment and training and experience to find and dry unseen water before secondary damages occur. The proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing the damage expense during a fire or water loss. When time matters, technology, and equipment must be counted on to perform. SERVPRO of Oak Ridge will answer your call with rapid action and a full arsenal of drying equipment.

Here are a few of the tools that we use:

1. Moisture Sensors are used to detect moisture in carpets, baseboards, and walls
2. Moisture meters are used to determine the actual moisture content of various materials. The moisture tester provides accurate tester provides accurate readings, allowing SERVPRO of West Knoxville/Farragut to monitor the drying process.
3. Thermo hygrometers measure temperature and relative humidity.

When armed with this information, SERVPRO of Oak Ridge can calculate and create an environment most conducive to drying. When facing a contaminated water loss, it is not only important to dry the structure, but the structure must also be disinfected and often deodorized. Ultra-Low-Volume Foggers will atomize liquid deodorizing agents, producing a fine mist that can easily penetrate the site where odor-causing residues may accumulate. 
This device can also be used to inject fungicides and disinfectants into wall cavities and other hard-to-reach areas. Thermal Foggers dispense solvent-based products by creating a dense fog. The fog consists of tiny particles of deodorant solution that attached to and neutralize odor-causing particles.

Destroy Odors with DEODORIZATION

7/9/2018 (Permalink)

Even a small fire can cause odors for years to come if the affected
areas are not properly cleaned and deodorized. Fire, smoke and soot
damage in your home or business can create unpleasant and potentially
permanent problems. As various materials burn, the smoke produced travels throughout the structure, leaving odorous residues and deposits on surfaces and in hard-to-reach places. Unless fast, professional action is taken, these residues and deposits can cause permanent damage to contents and may result in resurfacing odors.

With technicians certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration (IICRC), SERVPRO® Of West Knoxville/Farragut provide specialized services that can rid your home or business of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage. SERVPRO® OfWest Knoxville/Farragut do not cover up lingering odors with a fragrance; they seek out and remove the sources of the odor. If you or a customer suffer a fire damage or some other accident and require deodorization services, contact SERVPRO® OfWest Knoxville/Farragut. Whether it’s fire, water, or mold damage, or just a stubborn odor that refuses to go away, we’ll help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Do you have mold?

6/29/2018 (Permalink)

Mold Damage in Knoxville, TN

Even small water damages have the potential to cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time. The key to avoiding costly problems in the future is to handle every water damage as a threat to your property. 

SERVPRO of West Knoxville/Farragut has the equipment and training and experience to find and dry unseen water before secondary damages occur. The proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing the damage expense during a fire or water loss. When time matters, technology, and equipment must be counted on to perform. SERVPRO of West Knoxville/Farragut will answer your call with rapid action and a full arsenal of drying equipment.

Here are a few of the tools that we use:

1. Moisture Sensors are used to detect moisture in carpets, baseboards, and walls
2. Moisture meters are used to determine the actual moisture content of various materials. The moisture tester provides accurate tester provides accurate readings, allowing SERVPRO of West Knoxville/Farragut to monitor the drying process.
3. Thermo hygrometers measure temperature and relative humidity.

When armed with this information, SERVPRO of West Knoxville/Farragut can calculate and create an environment most conducive to drying. When facing a contaminated water loss, it is not only important to dry the structure, but the structure must also be disinfected and often deodorized. Ultra-Low-Volume Foggers will atomize liquid deodorizing agents, producing a fine mist that can easily penetrate the site where odor-causing residues may accumulate. 
This device can also be used to inject fungicides and disinfectants into wall cavities and other hard-to-reach areas. Thermal Foggers dispense solvent-based products by creating a dense fog. The fog consists of tiny particles of deodorant solution that attached to and neutralize odor-causing particles.

Contents, Belongings, and Restoration after Mold Damage

6/22/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Knoxville/Farragut will clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains, and other restorable items affected by mold. They use a variety of cleaning techniques to clean and sanitize your belongings. We are also trained to remove odors and deodorize using fogging equipment.

Restoration

Depending on the level of mold damage, drywall, subfloors, and other building materials may be removed. Restoration may involve minor
repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home.

SERVPRO of West Knoxville/Farragut understands mold and mold growth and have the training and equipment to remediate mold in your home. We are certified in mold remediation and can have your home ready to be moved back into without the worry of visible mold or black mold spores.

What to do when mold strikes.

6/11/2018 (Permalink)

Mold Damage In Farragut Home

When there’s a water intrusion, like a roof leak or leaking water line, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business. Mold can cause health effects and can also cause significant damage to your property. Fortunately, SERVPRO of West Knoxville/Farragut has the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem. Although every mold damage scenario is different requiring a unique solution, the general mold remediation process stays the same. The following steps illustrate a “typical” mold removal process.

Call the Team in Green

The mold cleanup and restoration process begins when you call SERVPRO of West Knoxville/Farragut. A representative will ask a series of questions to help determine the necessary equipment, resources, and personnel needed.

Inspection and Damage Assessment
Your property will be carefully inspected for signs of mold using technology designed to detect mold and hidden water sources. Mold feeds on cellulose and water and can be hidden from plain view.

Mold Containment
Various containment procedures will be placed to prevent the spread of mold and isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to keep the mold spores from spreading during the cleanup process.

Air Filtration
Specialized filtration equipment captures microscopic mold spores out of the air. SERVPRO® technicians utilize powerful air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in progress.

Removing Mold
The mold remediation process depends on the amount of mold growth and the types of surfaces on which the mold appears. Antifungal and antimicrobial treatments will be used to eliminate mold colonies and help prevent new colonies from forming. Removing and disposing of mold-infested porous materials, like drywall and flooring, may be necessary to remediate heavy mold growth.

Benefits of Cleaning Your Air Ducts This Spring

2/27/2018 (Permalink)

With Spring comes fresh air and sunshine, and you will want to enjoy it as much as possible! Make sure your ventilation system is clean and free of dirt and dust so that your indoor air quality is springtime fresh!

Dirty ventilation systems are often the biggest culprit when it comes to poor indoor air quality. It might be a good idea to schedule an inspection of the ductwork in your home or business. If your HVAC has been operating for some time without any attention, some of the following materials could be circulating through your interior air space:  

• Dust,
• Pollen
• Dirt and debris
• Odors
• Other contaminants

The benefits of cleaning out air ducts this Spring include: helping your unit(s) to run at peak efficiency, helping to eliminate offensive odors, and reducing the potential for any mold growth.

Some mold growth can even cause allergies to flare up in some people. These situations could be related to mold growth or poor air quality, and clean air ducts will prevent these types of issues. It can also be a great way to extend the life of your heating and cooling equipment, by lowering the amount of stress on your system.

If you are thinking that getting your air ducts cleaned might be a good idea, contact a professional. The company that you use to service your HVAC system might be a good source of information. There are companies in the West Knoxville area that professionally clean air duct systems, and SERVPRO of West Knoxville/Farragut is proud to be one of those companies! If you need assistance in getting your air ducts cleaned, please contact us today!

SERVPRO of West Knoxville/Farragut is here to help with water damage, fire damage, and mold prevention and remediation. You can contact us here at (865) 690 9658 or visit our website:

SERVPRO of West Knoxville/Farragut

THE EARLY WARNING SIGNS OF MOLD IN YOUR WEST KNOXVILLE HOME

2/21/2018 (Permalink)

We’ve all seen the sensational news reports warning us about the dangers of toxic mold, or “black mold”. These reports can be extremely alarming, so let’s get down to the facts so that we can better understand the issue, its dangers, and how to prevent it.

The scientific name for the mold that is often called black mold is Stachybotrys chartarum. It can produce both allergens and irritants. However, many other types of mold can produce those same allergens and irritants, so it’s best to treat any mold with caution. Do not touch or disturb any mold found, and be sure to stay out of affected areas.

Mold can affect the body negatively if not treated, and a minor mold problem can quickly grow into an infestation if left untreated. Our family-owned and operated team at SERVPRO of West Knoxville/Farragut are trained to handle any type of mold remediation and are available 24/7 to meet your mold remediation needs.

Mold spores are microscopic and are everywhere. They float in the air, so they are able to enter your home through windows and doors, or HVAC systems. When water intrudes into your property, mold growth can start in as little as 48 hours! Mold spores thrive on moisture and can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to damp conditions. It often produces a strong musty odor, so that very odor can lead you to areas in your home that could be a problem. Keeping the humidity level in your home below 45 percent can be a big help in blocking the growth of toxic mold in your house.

Many types of mold can cause adverse reactions, so you should contact us here at SERVPRO of West Knoxville/Farragut regardless of the color or type of mold found in your home. Many types of mold can exist in the same house or structure. Call us immediately at (865) 690 9658 if you suspect a toxic mold issue in your home, or visit us online at http://www.SERVPROwestknoxvillefarragut.com/ to learn more.

Deep Cleaning Your Mattress for a Mold-Free Bedroom

1/23/2018 (Permalink)

During the winter months here in Knoxville, we spend a lot of time indoors. It can be a good time to take care of some of those chores we forget about during good weather to help keep your home clean and mold-free.

TIME ON YOUR HANDS

Baseboards, floors, and windows can use some attention, or maybe you’ll want to empty out some closets (dark corners of a closet can harbor some serious mold growth that is difficult to detect.) Doing a bit of deep cleaning might be a good way to spend a cold day in the Knoxville area indoors, and a deep-cleaning truly wouldn’t be complete without giving your mattress some serious attention. It’s also a great way to get a good night’s sleep!

There is no need for harsh chemicals when cleaning your mattress; believe it or not, all you need is a box of baking soda for this project! You can add essential oils to the compound and gently scent your bed to enhance your sleep with their quiet, peaceful aromas.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED:

• 16 ounce box of baking soda
• Essential oil in your favorite scent
• Vacuum cleaner

WHAT YOU’LL DO:

To begin, flip or rotate the bed, which is a good idea to do every six months anyway - it prevents sagging and extends the life of your mattress. While you are cleaning the mattress, make sure you wash all bedding and fluff your duvet or feather bed/comforter in the dryer.

Opening the box of baking soda, add 10 to 20 drops of your favorite essential oil (lavender, sandalwood, chamomile, or ylang ylang can be good choices). Close the box, shaking well to distribute the oil and break up any clumps. By the way, did you know that essential oils are natural antibacterials?

Sprinkle the mixture over the bed, and use the entire box. Rub the mixture into the mattress and leave it on for at least an hour. While the magic is happening, take this time to wipe down the walls, bed frame and floor, and check the floorboards and corners for possible moisture and mold growth. After at least an hour has passed, you can vacuum your mattress, working slowly to make sure all the powder is removed.

VOILA!

This mixture lifts dirt and residue, while wicking away moisture, which improves the air quality in your bedroom and helps keep it mold free, and giving your mattress a good vacuuming gets rid of dust mites, which is always an aid to better sleep! Make up your bed again with your clean sheets, blankets, and pillow covers and top off with your fluffed duvet or comforter! Add your toss pillows, and voila!

Hopefully these tips will lead to a cleaner, more inviting bedroom for you! And remember to call SERVPRO of West Knoxville/ Farragut at (865) 690-9658 or visit http://www.SERVPROwestknoxvillefarragut.com/ if you need any help with water damage, fire damage, or mold cleanup around your home or office.

KNOXVILLE'S FASTEST CLEANUP TEAM

9/12/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Of West Knoxville

KNOXVILLE'S FASTEST CLEANUP TEAM

There is no such thing as a small disaster-especially when the water you do not see contains bacteria or can cause mold, rot and other unforeseen damage. Water damage can affect the value of your property. Before you try to clean and dry it up yourself, consider how the damage can affect your property.

SERVPRO of West Knoxville/Concord knows how disruptive water damage can be for your home and business. We at SERVPRO of West Knoxville/Concord are trained and equipped to manage the drying process of any size water loss. By utilizing the proper equipment and moisture measuring devices, you home or business will be quickly and thoroughly dried helping to prevent secondary water damage. With rapid response time and a full line of water cleanup and restoration services, SERVPRO of West Knoxville/Concord can help you regain control quickly, ensuring your facility and its contents are properly dried, deodorized and protected.

Before you risk further damaging the value of your facility by attempting to clean up the mess yourself, call your local SERVPRO of West Knoxville/Concord the water damage cleanup and restoration professionals.

Moisture In Walls Can Lead To Mold Damage In Knoxville

6/27/2017 (Permalink)

Mold Damage Knoxville

Even small water damages have the potential to cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time. The key to avoiding costly problems in the future is to handle every water damage as a threat to your property. SERVPRO of West Knoxville has the equipment and training and experience to find and dry unseen water before secondary damages occur. The proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing the damage expense during a fire or water loss. When time matters, technology, and equipment must be counted on to perform. SERVPRO of West Knoxville will answer your call with rapid action and a full arsenal of drying equipment. Here are a few of the tools used by SERVPRO of West Knoxville
Moisture Sensors are used to detect moisture in carpets, baseboards, and walls
Moisture meters are used to determine the actual moisture content of various materials. The moisture tester provides accurate tester provides accurate readings, allowing SERVPRO of West Knoxville to monitor the drying process.
Thermohygrometers measure temperature and relative humidity. When armed with this information, SERVPRO of West Knoxville can calculate and create an environment most conducive to drying. When facing a contaminated water loss, it is not only important to dry the structure, but the structure must also be disinfected and often deodorized.
Ultra-Low-Volume Foggers will atomize liquid deodorizing agents, producing a fine mist that can easily penetrate the site where odor-causing residues may accumulate.
This device can also be used to inject fungicides and disinfectants into wall cavities and other hard-to-reach areas.
Thermal Foggers dispense solvent-based products by creating a dense fog. The go consists of tiny particles of deodorant solution that attached to and neutralize odor-causing particles.

BE FLOOD SMART

6/27/2017 (Permalink)

Mold Damage

BE FLOOD SMART

Floods are one the most common and widespread natural disasters in the United States. Whether your home or business is near a coastline, along city streets, in the mountains, near a river or even in the desert- there is always potential for flood damage. Floodsmart.gov reports, in the last 5 years, all 50 states have experienced floods or flash floods. Just because you haven’t experienced a flood in the past, does not mean you won’t in the future. In fact, nearly 20% of all flood insurance claims come from moderate-to-low-risk areas. On average, floods cost 3.5 billion in annual losses in the United States

According to the American Red Cross, floods cause more damage in the U.S. every year than any other weather-related disaster. The ARC offers the following flood safety tips

Stay away from floodwaters. If you come upon a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around and go another way. Six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off your feet.

If you approach a flooded road while driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.

Keep children out of the water. They are curious and often lack judgment about running water or contaminated water.

If a flood does strike your home or business contact your local SERVPRO Franchise Professionals. Even minor floods have the potential to cause major damage to a structure when not treated quickly and properly, and the cleanup is often an overwhelming task. The SERVPRO System is prepared to handle any sized disaster. When fire and water take control of your life, your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional will help you take it back.

Mold Damage Removal Knoxville, TN

6/13/2017 (Permalink)

Mold damage Knoxville, TN

When there's a water intrusion, like a roof leak or leaking water line, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business. Mold can affect your health and can also cause significant damage to your property. Fortunately, your SERVPRO of West Knoxville professionals has the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem. Although every mold damage scenario is different, requiring a unique solution, the general mold remediation process stays the same. The following steps illustrate a 'typical mold removal process.

Call SERVPRO of West Knoxville  

The mold cleanup and restoration process begin when you call SERVPRO of West Knoxville. A representative will ask a series of questions to help determine the necessary equipment, resources, and personnel needed.

Inspection & Damage Assessment

Your property will be carefully inspected for signs of the mold using technology designed to detect mold and hidden water sources. Mold feeds on cellulose and water which can be hidden from plain view. 

Mold Containment

Various containment procedures will be placed to prevent the spread of mold and isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to keep the mold spores from spreading during the cleanup process. 

Removing Mold & Mold-Infested Materials

The mold remediation process depends on the amount of mold growth and the type of surfaces on which mold appears. Anti fungal and antimicrobial treatments will be used to eliminate mold colonies and help prevent new colonies from forming. Removing and disposing of mold infested porous materials, like drywall and flooring, may be necessary to remediate heavy mold growth. 

Cleaning Contents & Belongings

SERVPRO of West Knoxville clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains, and other restorable items affected by mold. They use a variety of cleaning techniques to clean and sanitize your belongings. They are also trained to remove odors and deodorize using fogging equipment. 

Restoration

Depending on the level of mold damage, drywall, subfloors, and other building materials may be removed. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet, or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas. 

SERVPRO of West Knoxville understands mold and mold growth and have the training and equipment to remediate mold in your home or business. 

Biohazard, Crime Scene and Vandalism Clean Up

5/9/2017 (Permalink)

Bio Hazard

Recognized as a leading fire and water cleanup and restoration provider by hundreds of insurances companies, SERVPRO of West Knoxville also offer fast, reliable biohazard and crime scene cleanup and restoration services to residential and commercial property owners 

Exposer to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences for building occupants, employees, customers, and owners. A failure to properly handle and safely remove such hazardous substance can contribute to unhealthy and even dangerous environments. 

SERVPRO of West Knoxville Professionals are trained to safely and effectively remove biohazards substances and prepare waste for proper disposal according to OSHA, EPA, and state local health regulations. 

Equipped with the necessary safety equipment and cleaning products, SERVPRO of West Knoxville Professionals help turn unsafe environments into clean, safe homes and offices.

SERVPRO of West Knoxville can help with the following issues:

• Blood borne Pathogens
• Methamphetamine Labs
• Crime Scene Residues
• Arson 
• Vandalism
• Sewage Backups
• Black Water Intrusions
• Mold Mitigation and Remediation 

State and local regulations vary. Contact SERVPRO of West Knoxville today for 24-hour  Emergency Service. 

Managing Mold

5/3/2017 (Permalink)

In as little as 48 hours, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business when there’s a water intrusion, like a roof leak or leaking water lines. Mold can cause health effects and can also cause significant damage to your property.

Although every mold damage scenario is different requiring a unique solution, the general mold remediation process stays the same. The following steps illustrate a “typical” mold removal process.

Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment

Your property will be carefully inspected for signs of mold using various technologies to detect mold and hidden water sources. Mold feeds on cellulose an water and can be hidden from plain view.

Mold Containment

Various containment procedures will be placed to prevent the spread of mold, like negative air chambers to isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to keep the mold spores from spreading during the cleanup process.

Air Filtration

Specialized filtration equipment captures microscopic mold spores out of the air. SERVPRO technicians utilize powerful “air scrubbers” and HEPA vacuums to prevent  the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in progress.

Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials

The mold remediation process depends on the amount of mold growth and the types of surfaces on which the mold appears. Antifungal and antimicrobial treatments will be used to eliminate  mold colonies and help prevent new colonies from forming. Removing and deposing of mold-infested porous materials, like drywall and flooring, may be necessary to remediate heavy mold growth.

Cleaning Contents and Belongs

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains, and other restorable items affected by mold. They use a variety of cleaning techniques to clean and sanitize your belongings. They are also trained to remove odors and deodorization using fogging equipment.

Restoration

Depending on the level of mold damage, drywall, subfloors, and other building materials may be removed. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.