Tag: Mold Removal

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!

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!

DIY Mold Removal Tips

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diy mold removal tips

Mold is a common and frustrating problem that many homeowners deal with daily. Often, they ask if they can remove it on their own using DIY methods. That depends on the size of the area the mold is covering and the extent of the damage it has caused. Usually, if its in a small, easy to clean area, you can remove it by yourself. To help you out, here are some effective DIY mold removal tips from the team at RestoPros!

1. Do Your Research

Whenever you take on a home service project, it’s important to do your research and be prepared. If you just jump in without any information, preparations and precautions you will just be making things harder for yourself.  

When doing research, look into the Environmental Protection Agency’s guidelines regarding DIY mold removal. According to the EPA, if the moldy area is less than 10 square feet or roughly within a three feet by three feet patch, you can tackle the mold problem yourself. However, if there has been extensive water damage or the moldy area is larger than 10 square feet, it’s best to call a professional. In addition to guidelines, the EPA also has great mold removal tips and techniques to help you safely remove mold from your home.

Another thing you should know before you remove mold is what to wear. Make sure you have long, rubber gloves on and goggles that don’t have ventilation holes. In addition, you can wear an N-95 respirator to avoid inhaling mold spores—this is especially helpful if you have mold allergies or are prone to allergies in general.

2. Baking Soda, Vinegar and Hydrogen Peroxide Are Your Best Friends

Alright, you have done your research and you have concluded that you can handle the mold on your own. The next thing you need to know is that baking soda, vinegar and hydrogen peroxide are great natural mold killers. Here are some ways you can use them:

  • Baking Soda

Simply add one-quarter or one-half tablespoon of baking soda to a spray bottle containing water. Then, shake the bottle until it’s dissolved. Spray the affected area with the solution and let it sit for a few minutes. Scrub the area until the mold is gone and rinse the area.

  • Vinegar

Pour distilled white vinegar into a spray bottle without watering it down. Spray the vinegar onto the mold surface and let it sit for about an hour. Then, scrub and wipe the area clean with water and let the surface dry.

  • Hydrogen Peroxide

This solution is a great bacteria killer. Pour three percent concentration hydrogen peroxide into a spray bottle then spray the entire moldy area. Let it sit for 10 minutes. Then, scrub the mold away, rinse it off and wipe it dry.

3. Spray and Scrub to Remove Exterior Mold

We’ve talked a lot about mold growing inside your home. However, mold can also grow on the exterior of your house as well and it can cause significant damage to your home by eating away at the wood and even sneaking into the inside of your home.

To remove mold from the exterior surfaces of your home and spray a very diluted bleach solution (1-to-10 solution of bleach and water) on the affected area. Then scrub any stains with a stiff bristle brush dipped in solution. Let the solution sit for 20 minutes and rinse with a garden hose.

4. You Might Have to Dispose of Some Items

Keep in mind, this might not be necessary when only a very small portion of your home has been affected by mold. However, some porous surfaces such as carpets may have to be thrown away if they become moldy. Even if it doesn’t look so bad on the surface, mold spores can show up in tiny cracks and crevices of porous items and it might be impossible to get rid of the mold entirely.

RestoPros: Experts in Mold Removal

If mold doesn’t seem to go away no matter what you do, you might have to call a professional. Look no further than RestoPros! We offer services such as mold testing, mold remediation and water damage restoration. Our well-trained and knowledgeable experts will make sure your home is 100 percent mold free! Get in touch with us today by calling 855-587-3786 or by filling out a service request form

What Is Black Mold and Is It Dangerous?

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what is black mold

The term “black mold” is often used a blanket term to give the impression that mold is a highly toxic monster waiting to enter your home and wreak havoc on your kitchen, bathroom or basement. While mold is problem that should be dealt with before it gets out of hand, it’s important to understand the facts behind it to ensure you’re informed and prepared.  If you suspect you have mold growth in your home, keep reading this guide from the team at RestoPros to answer your nagging question: What is black mold?

What is Black Mold?

Mold in general is a type of fungus that spreads through spores and can be found indoors and outdoors. While mold spores are often present everywhere, usually floating through the air or in dust, they grow in damp and moist conditions. That is why your kitchen, bathroom and basement are prone to mold—they are the damper areas in your home.

Black mold is not a specific type or species of mold. The term “black mold” is often used by news media to describe molds that produce mycotoxins. One of the species of molds that produce mycotoxins (toxic substances released by certain fungi) is Stachybotrys charatarum or Stachybotrys atra which is often referred to as black mold.

Stachybotrys atra is greenish-black in color and can grow on dust and lint as well as in areas where there is excessive moisture from humidity, water damage or flooding. There is no specific information about how often stachybotrys atra is found in residential buildings. It’s not rare but it is not as common as other mold species such as Aspergillus, Alternaria and Penicillium.

Is Black Mold Dangerous?

Now that you know what black mold is, it’s time you learned the facts about whether it is dangerous or not.

The most important thing to note about the dangers and health impacts of mold is that its effects depend on the individual. Usually, people susceptible to allergies might have a reaction to the presence of mold or more accurately, the toxins produced by mold. There is little information on the health effects of mycotoxins, but the consensus is that prolonged and direct exposure might lead to some reaction.

It has also been found that people with weaker immune systems might be more likely to get mold infections. In addition to that, people with asthma who encounter molds might experience the worsening of their asthma symptoms. Mold spores inhaled by people with asthma or those who are allergic to mold can cause their lungs to constrict and produce more mucus. This can lead to coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath.

How Do You Prevent Black Mold?

Just like other molds, black mold must immediately be removed to prevent any health risks as well as property damage. Here are some ways you can prevent black mold:

  • Mold requires excess moisture to grow so it is important you maintain the moisture and humidity levels in your home. Ideally, the humidity levels must be kept between 30-50 percent to prevent mold. Invest in a hygrometer or a dehumidifier to control your humidity levels.
  • Ensure your home has proper ventilation (especially damp spaces such as your bathroom) by using your exhaust fans.
  • Keep your house clean and dust-free as much as you can. Regularly replace your AC air filters, clean out your fridge and ensure there are no clogs or leaks in your kitchen and bathroom.
  • Try using non-toxic DIY mold cleaning products for mold prevention.

Stay Mold-Free with RestoPros!

At RestoPros we believe in arming our customers with the right information about mold removal so they can tackle mold when they see it. However, keep in mind that the best way you can be mold-free is with the help of professionals. Get in touch with the experts at RestoPros for our top-notch  mold removal and remediation services by calling 855-587-3786 or by scheduling a service on our website!

My Home Has a Mold Problem! Now What?

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So, you’ve had a professional mold testing done in your house and your worst suspicion has been confirmed. The very thought of this issue can strike fear into the heart of even the toughest homeowners. However, you can no longer deny the fact and it’s time to take some action. So, say it with me: My home has a mold problem! Now that you have accepted the worst, the experts at RestoPros are here to help with some advice about what you can do from here.

 

Supplies for Treating the Mold

In serious mold cases, most experts would recommend having professional mold remediation. However, if your professional mold testing expert has verified you can clean it yourself, here are some supplies you will need:

  • Protective Gear 

    You should have a mask or respirator, eye protection, rubber gloves, a fan, and a dehumidifier. You do not want to risk inhaling the mold spores you will be cleaning.

 

  • Cleaning Chemicals 

    If the intense list of protective gear was not a clear indication, mold is not something you can clean with everyday cleaning supplies. On the contrary, you will need to procure non-ammonia detergent, chlorine bleach, and white vinegar to mix your cleaning solution.

 

  • Cleaning Tools 

    Make sure you have plenty of rags and more than one scrub brush (both of which should be disposed of after you finish treating the mold). You should also have a large pail and a plastic garbage bag.

 

Steps for DIY Mold Treatment

1. Dampen the Area:

This is an important first step to keep mold spores from releasing into the air. With a damp rag soaked in plain water, coat the affected area.

 2. Remove as Much Mold as Possible:

With your scrub brush and detergent, remove as much of the mold as you can, and dispose of the brush.

 3. Mix and Apply Your Bleach Solution:

In your large pail, mix together 1 ½ cups of chlorine bleach to 1 gallon of water. Use a new rag to generously coat the affected surface with this mixture. Once this is done, let it soak for 15 minutes.

 4. Scrub the Solution into the Affected Area:

With a new scrubbing brush, scrub the area with the bleach solution thoroughly and rinse with clean water. Repeat this bleach step until all visible mold is gone.

 5. Eliminate All Moisture from the Treated Area:

Use your fan and dehumidifier to dry the area thoroughly to prevent new mold growth.

 6. Wash Your Clothes:

Unless you chose to wear work clothes that you don’t mind disposing of, wash the clothes you wore for the mold treatment immediately. Place them in a plastic bag to transport them to the washing machine. Add ¾ cup white vinegar to the water to kill the mold spores on your clothing.

 

My Home Has a Mold Problem! What Else Can I Do?

If you have followed the previous steps and removed the mold on your own, you have already saved money on professional mold removal. The best thing you can do for the long-term safety of your home is to enlist the help of mold remediation experts you can trust. Let the knowledgeable team at RestoPros take it from here. Call us at (855) 587-3786 or fill out a service request form online to conquer your mold problem today!

 

Black Mold: What Is It & How Does It Affect Your Home & Health?

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black mold

Black mold is a common industry term used by experts in the field and, more recently, by concerned homeowners. The name sounds threatening, like something you would hear in a horror movie. ‘Everyone get out of the theater! The black mold is coming!’ It has been the subject of erroneous internet rumors, backed by misinformation about its toxicity and its effects on a household.

While all residential mold should be taken seriously, it’s important to deal with any infestation with factual information. A good starting point is to remember to treat all mold the same. Do not attempt to clean or investigate mold without the proper safeguards – including gloves and a face mask. Always abide by safety precautions and contact a professional mold remediation company (such as RestoPros) immediately if an infestation has gotten out of control.

What Is Black Mold?

  • Stachbotrys chartarum, also known as Stachbotrys atra, is often referred to as black mold.
  • Stachbotrys chartarum is a mold that produces mycotoxins, which are toxic substances released by a fungus.
  • Houses and buildings with water damage and dark areas are the preferred locations for Stachbotrys chartarum to grow and reproduce.
  • Contaminated plant material entering your house can cause this mold to grow as well.
  • Although this mold is not as common as other household molds, it is not rare either.
  • Other molds can be black in color, but Stachbotrys chartarum is most associated with the name.

How Dangerous Is Black Mold?

  • Tons of speculation surround the dangers of black mold, describing it as toxic and sometimes deadly.
  • No scientific evidence has concluded Stachbotrys chartarum is a severe health risk to most people, but allergy and sickness symptoms may arise from the mycotoxins it produces.
  • Although there is little scientific evidence that links black mold to inflammatory responses, mycotoxins have been documented to cause headaches, nasal congestion, and chronic coughing.
  • Infants, elderly, and those with weak immune systems can have more severe symptoms from mycotoxin exposure, and should be removed from areas infected with black mold.

Can Black Mold be Identified?

  • With over 100,000 different types of mold, it’s often difficult to determine which kind is in your home.
  • Black is a very common color for all mold, making it a challenge to identify Stachbotrys chartarum.
  • Check any areas of your home that are dark and have moisture, and focus on finding all mold.
  • A single room in your house can have several types of mold living there, making it less important to identify than to remove outright.
  • All types of invasive mold should be treated and removed by mold remediation professionals.

Black mold is not the toxic horror show that many have been led to believe. However, any mold outbreak in your home should be treated with both caution and immediacy. If you have mold growing in your home, contact RestoPros immediately. We can respond quickly to mold outbreaks and mold damage and have been helping our neighbors in the Dallas/Fort Worth area for years. Give us a call at 855-587-3786 to schedule an appointment with the most trusted mold remediation company in the metroplex.

Removing Mold from Clothes

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Removing Mold from ClothesMold survives and thrives when there’s humidity, warmth and food.  Almost nowhere are these three things in as great a supply as in your laundry.  Whether it’s because you left the hamper for too long after tossing in a wet towel, or simply forgot that you’d already run the washing machine, wet clothes are a breeding ground for mold.  But you should never just reach for the bleach when you find mold on your clothes.

Mold grows easily on clothes because clothes are mostly food-ready surface area.  Fabrics that are bundled up in storage or in a laundry hamper are a smorgasbord for rapid mold growth.  The sooner you act, the more likely you are to be able to save the fabric involved.  But bear in mind that most of the time, if the mold is advanced enough in its growth, there’s little that can be done to save mold-infested clothing (whether it’s a favorite shirt or those curtains you’ve had in the garage since your last move).

Cleaning

First, you should always wear a protective mask and gloves when cleaning mold.  Mold spores are airborne and can act as soft-tissue (eye, nose, or lung) irritants and inflame allergies in sufficient quantities.

When cleaning up mold, remove as much of the surface mold as you can.  Brush off loose or encrusted mold from the fabric.  Be sure to take care of this step outside to prevent spreading mold in your home or through your ventilation system. Since you should already be outside, hang up or lay out the clothing in the sun.  Ultraviolet light is devastating to organic life and will both kill and dry out mold.

When you’re ready to wash, pre-soak the fabric in cold water and wash with hot water and detergent.  Do not wash moldy clothes with other clothes.  Always finish by drying the clothing in the sun rather than an electric dryer.

If, after you’ve finished cleaning the fabric thoroughly, there is still a mold-stain present, then sponge at it with bleach diluted with water.  Lemon juice and a salt solution will also work as a bleach substitute, and is less harsh than bleach in many cases.

Vinegar – the Miracle Cleaner

Vinegar is useful for cleaning in many circumstances.  In fact, it’s often the best solution and is less likely to cause as much damage as harsher chemicals.  If you’re having issues with mold, stains, and smells, run a pre-soaked load of laundry with warm water and ¾ of a cup of white vinegar.  The vinegar will clear away the smell and, with enough washing, will kill and remove the mold as well.  Just be sure to wash once again with detergent and then air-dry the clothing before returning it to the rack, drawer, or box it was stored in initially.

One final alternative is to use a mildicide to clean up the mold.  Be cautious when choosing to use this method and always follow the listed instructions exactly.  Because of the harsh chemicals involved, failing to follow directions can lead to injury or damaged fabrics and clothing.

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