Month: October 2019

Benefits of Choosing a Mold Remediation Professional

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benefits of choosing a mold remediation professional

The negative impacts of mold can be worrying and like many homeowners, you might be inclined to test for mold and remove it on your own. While that decision might seem financially feasible and convenient in the moment, you should reconsider. DIY mold testing kits aren’t always reliable, and neither is DIY mold removal. In addition, there are laws that require a licensed professional handle the process of mold removal. We understand if you’re not fully on board with the idea of a professional—to convince you, the RestoPros team has prepared a list of the benefits of choosing a mold remediation professional.

1. Professional Mold Assessment

If you think you have a mold problem because you smell a musty scent, have excess humidity or major leaks, it is best to contact a professional to inspect for mold. As we mentioned earlier, DIY mold testing is unreliable and unhelpful. According to Consumer Reports, mold test kits that can be found at home improvement stores have had major problems. While mold removal is incredibly important, it’s also important to have a trustworthy and safe method of testing for mold. With a mold remediation company, you will get professionals using their knowledge, experience and proper equipment to test for mold in your home. There will be lesser room for any mishaps.

2. Detailed Process of Removal

Following the assessment and testing, there will be a detailed and thorough process of removal. If you choose RestoPros, here is what the mold removal process will look like:

  • Initial Testing

A licensed mold assessment consultant will come to your home to perform an inspection and take any air quality samples. Based on what they discover, they will write instructions on how to remove the mold.

  • Removal

We will set up containment around your home to prevent mold spores from spreading to unaffected parts of your home. Then, any affected porous parts such as drywall, carpeting and insulation will be removed – and non-porous parts, such as tiles, will be disinfected.

  • Air Scrubbing

We will use our air scrubbers (tools used to filter the air and remove bacteria from it) for 24 hours inside the containment area.

  • Clearance Test

A professional mold removal consultant will ensure your home’s air quality is healthier. After about 72 hours, the consultant will issue clearance and sign a Certificate of Mold Damage Remediation.

3. Certified Expertise and Knowledge

If you’ve been following our blogs for a while, you’re most likely an informed homeowner who knows a lot about mold. However, licensed professionals bring certified expertise to the table and knowledge of, not just mold, but the best methods and tools to remove and prevent it. In addition, professionals will completely sanitize, deodorize and purify the air to ensure healthy air quality, following any mold removal services. They are also informed about insurance options and can even help you file a claim with your insurance company to cover any damage.

Choose RestoPros for Mold Removal Services!

If you are looking for a mold remediation company to test your home for mold, perform mold removal services or water damage restoration, look no further than the professionals at RestoPros! Call us today at 855-587-3786 or fill out a service request form online!

The Hidden Horrors of Mold

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the hidden horrors of mold

As Halloween approaches, many of you are probably thinking about picking out your costumes, decorating your homes, and throwing the best Halloween party of the century. However, before you go deeper down the Halloween rabbit hole, take a minute to check for the real, hidden horrors in your house. Your home can face many hidden issues and problems, one of them being mold. Mold is a type of fungus that can easily sneak its way into your home. With enough nutrients and moisture, it can start growing and become an even bigger problem when ignored. However, to help you tackle mold before it becomes a monster, the team at RestoPros is here to tell you about some of the hidden horrors of mold.

1. It Can Grow on Many Surfaces

Mold can grow on many materials and surfaces. Primarily, it grows on more porous surfaces that have been exposed to moisture. Places such as roofs, windows and pipes that are prone to leakage or flooding can show signs of mold growth. In addition, you can find mold on:

  • Cardboard
  • Wood products
  • Paper products
  • Ceiling tiles
  • Insulation
  • Drywall
  • Carpet
  • Fabric
  • Upholstery

When an item or area of your home is exposed to excess moisture, it takes between 24-48 hours for mold to start growing. Therefore, it is important you try to prevent additional mold problems by getting rid of products that can’t be dried or cleaned.

2. You Can’t Paint Over It

If you see any mold growth in a part of your home, painting over it or applying caulk over it is not going to do anything. In fact, paint on top of mold is most likely to peel off and the mold will continue to grow, causing even more frustration. If you’re planning on a painting project, it is best to contact a professional to inspect your home for mold, so you don’t make the mistake of applying paint over mold.

3. It Can Grow in The Unlikeliest of Places

As we mentioned before, mold can grow on a variety of places and surfaces. While mold is most commonly known to grow in places with high moisture content such as bathrooms and kitchens, it can grow in some of these unexpected places as well:

  • Filing Cabinets

If your home is particularly humid, mold can find its way in filing cabinets as well because the pulp in paper makes for great food for mold.

  • Front Loading Washing Machines

The seals on the doors of washing machines usually remain wet. With some lint and moisture, mold can make its way into your washing machine as well

  • Chimneys

Often the crevices in the chimney bricks allow for water, dirt and organic debris to collect in the chimney, creating the perfect atmosphere for mold growth.

4. It Can Cause Health Problems

Mold exposure can lead to health problems, especially in people who are susceptible to allergies, have weaker immune systems or have asthma.

21 percent of the current asthma cases in the United States can be attributed to mold growth and dampness in the home. Inhaling mold spores can often worsen asthma symptoms, lead to coughing, wheezing and irritation of the eyes, nose and throat. In addition, mold can also cause sinus infections and another condition called mold-induced hypersensitivity pneumonitis.

Fight the Mold Monster with RestoPros!

Now that you know a little more about the hidden horrors of mold, it’s time you get ready to fight it wherever you see it. While you might be inclined to take on this task alone, it is best to get the help of a professional. For mold testing, removal and remediation services, get in touch with none other than RestoPros! Call us today at 855-587-3786 or schedule an appointment online!

Common Misconceptions About Mold

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common misconceptions about mold

There is a lot of information about mold, its health effects and how you can prevent it – all across the internet. However, since it is the internet, some myths and misconceptions can sneak their way in. Having the right sources and knowledge is integral to becoming a well-informed homeowner. With the right information, you can tackle mold growth safely and confidently. So, to help you figure out which sources and articles can be trusted, the team at RestoPros has developed a list of common misconceptions about mold! 

1. Black Mold is Deadly

Black mold has somehow gained a reputation as the deadliest of all mold species. We believe that reputation is a little overhyped. Here are some important facts about black mold that aren’t sensationalized:

  • Black mold isn’t a specific type or species of mold. The term black mold is often used to describe molds that produce mycotoxins, which are naturally occurring toxins. One of the species known for producing mycotoxins are Stachybotrys charatarum or Stachybotrys atra—this species, which is greenish-black in color, is often referred to as black mold.
  • It is not rare, but it is not as common as other mold species such as Penicillium, Aspergillus and Alternaria.
  • The health effects of black mold are dependent on the individual. Adults and children who have weaker immune systems, frequent allergies, and asthma might react to mold exposure and mold spore inhalation.
  • Black mold can be prevented just like any other mold species: By avoiding excess moisture and by maintaining cleanliness. 

2. You Can DIY Mold Removal

There are several unreliable sources that say you can test and remove mold all by yourself and ultimately save money. While you might be inclined to go on this route, take a moment to reconsider. Mold testing kits aren’t always reliable and there are many states have laws about mold removal. These regulations often require that mold related activities such as assessment and remediation be handled by a licensed professional. In addition, mold often starts growing in porous areas (such as drywall) and it can be hard to remove mold on your own from porous materials. Because of these reasons, it is best to leave mold removal to the experts.

3. Mold is Rare

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, mold is very common in homes and buildings—it can be found in indoor environments if it has the right moisture content and nutrients. So, while you might think mold could never grow in your home, think again. Mold spores are in great quantity all around us and there isn’t anything particularly wrong with that. The problem is when they settle in a specific area in our home and start to grow.

4. No Odor, No Mold

Sure, mold might have a distinct musty smell, but just because you don’t smell any odor doesn’t mean you don’t have a mold problem. While an odor is a sign of mold, it isn’t the only sign of mold. The best way to know whether you have mold or not is to have an inspection done. Experts can perform professional mold testing and discover whether you have a significant mold problem or not.

Contact RestoPros For Mold Removal Services

We hope this list of common misconceptions about mold has been helpful. If you suspect you have a mold problem, get in touch with the experts at RestoPros! We offer services such as water damage restoration, mold testing, removal and remediation! Call us today at 855-587-3786 or schedule a service online!

How to Prevent Garage Mold

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how to prevent garage mold

With enough moisture and proper nutrients, mold can pretty much grow anywhere. In fact, mold spores can survive harsh and dry conditions as well. With the right environment, mold can settle in any place in your home, including the garage. A lot of homeowners don’t often pay much attention to their garages, but it’s an important place to keep clean and inspect for any signs of decay, mold or mildew. We at RestoPros understand that mold growth in your garage can be a great inconvenience for you. That is why we’re going to tell you a little bit about how you can prevent garage mold in order to avoid any long-term consequences.

1. Remove Standing Water

Sometimes water can collect in your garage because of rainy or snowy weather or because of water dripping from the bottom of your car. Whenever you see puddles of water in your garage, remove them by using a squeegee and pushing the liquid into the driveway. You can do this easily as driveways are slanted downwards and will allow you to push away the water from your garage floor. Clean up any leftover moisture using a paper towel or a mop. Make sure you don’t leave behind any excess water and moisture.

2. Don’t Use Cardboard Containers

While many homeowners think it wise to make use of any leftover cardboard containers to store garage supplies, it’s best you use plastic containers. The moment cardboard is exposed to water, it absorbs the moisture very quickly. Because it is porous material, like a sponge, it will remain damp and soggy for a long period. Not only will the cardboard become fragile and lose it’s sturdiness, it will also create the perfect environment for mold growth.

Clear plastic containers and boxes will be sturdier and won’t be susceptible to mold. You can purchase these containers from any home improvement store. If you want to continue using cardboard boxes, make sure they are not directly placed on the garage floor. Instead, keep them on a shelf to prevent contact with moisture.

3. Seal Up Your Garage Door

If your garage is not properly sealed up, there is a chance of water seeping into your garage and forming puddles all over your floor. You can probably squeegee it away but there are only so many times you can do that before you get tired. Consider sealing up your garage door from the bottom. You have many options such as a panel weatherstripping and garage door weatherstripping. You can purchase seals and weatherstripping from any home improvement store near you.

4. Use a Dehumidifier

If you read our blog, you know that one of the best ways to maintain humidity in any part of your home is by using a dehumidifier. This trusty appliance comes in different sizes—for your garage, go for a smaller option. Make sure the humidity is set between 30 to 50 percent as that is the ideal setting to prevent mold growth.

Prevent Garage Mold with RestoPros

We hope this guide on how to prevent garage mold is helpful and informative. If you are worried your home might be affect by mold, get in touch with the experts at RestoPros. We provide the DFW area with mold testing, mold remediation and water damage restoration services. Call us today at 855-587-3786 or schedule an appointment online!