Preventing Mold In The Bathroom

Posted on March 16, 2012 by Pam

http://www.rightwayrestoration.com

Mold in the bathroom is more than just something that’s unsightly. There are many different serious health problems that one can develop from exposure to such mold. For example, it is not unimaginable for respiratory issues to develop as a result of inhaling mold growing in the bathroom. As such, it is very important to understand a few basic tips on how to deal with mold in the bathroom.

Mold is the result of too much moisture in the bathroom.  Air flow is a simple solution for this. A properly ventilated bathroom will work wonders as far as reducing the presence of mold and mildew. Increasing ventilation in the bathroom can be achieved with something as simple as opening the windows or leaving the bathroom door open or a combination of both. Also, it is best to do this right after taking a shower since steam will send a great deal of moisture into the air.

It is also important to point out that moisture can enter the bathroom through leaks or other plumbing problems. As such, it is important to look for such problem spots. And if you do discover them, it becomes necessary to fix the issue. This will reduce the amount of moisture in the air which will, in turn, will reduce the amount of mold that grows in the bathroom.

It certainly would not hurt to install an exhaust fan or some other form of automated ventilator. This will certainly reduce the amount of moisture in the air, although this particular method can come with many costs. For those that may be on a budget, a portable dehumidifier might be the right option to explore. There are many different models of dehumidifiers and they all can greatly help reduce the potential growth of mold in the bathroom.

And, of course, it is very important to regularly clean your bathroom. Specifically, you should clean the totality of the bathroom with industrial strength cleaners and bleach. Such cleaning agents can thoroughly devastate the base properties that lead to mold. Therefore, proper and regular cleaning is always recommended.

How often should you clean your bathroom? It is not necessary to clean the bathroom on a daily basis. Really, only one proper cleaning a week should be enough to reduce outbreaks of mold and mildew. Hence, staying on top of proper cleaning of the bathroom is highly recommended. Following such a plan will surely make mold difficult to grow and spread.

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Who You Gonna Call?

Posted on March 15, 2012 by Pam

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“When there’s somethin’ strange in your neighborhood, who you gonna call?”

A water mitigation company!

Water mitigation companies are businesses made to deal with the harmful and destructive effects that water damage can have on your home and property. A flood, be it from that huge rainstorm yesterday or the Mississippi river flooding its banks, is not very fun to deal with. Sure, your children might have fun for a change swimming in their bedroom, but when the water goes down, your mental price count goes up.

The first thing you notice as the waters slowly recede is the walls. They are stained slightly brown, as if someone had coated them with mud. Also, the walls are soggy, the drywall having been immersed in water for hours if not days or weeks. Often, the paint begins to peel off, revealing the bare wall beneath. The cost of fixing all that–the drywall, the stains, the peeling paint–will cost a boatload of cash.

But the waters will continue to drain and more problems of water damage will come to light. Furniture will become visible–soggy mattresses, water laden books, warping wooden bookshelfs, the list goes on. To mitigate the effect that water has on these items, you have to dry them immediately, wading into the room to lift them to somewhere high and dry. But this is backbreaking work, and some of the items are beyond saving.

As the last of the flood waters leave the room, you notice one more thing affected by water damage: the floor. Be it carpet or tile or hardwood, prolonged exposure to water is never good for it. Carpet becomes soggy, trapping moisture, and will eventually rot if not dried or replaced. Tile becomes stained, the laminated covering starts to peel and tile will usually need to be replaced. Hardwood, the most expensive of the three, will warp, stain, and become rough. As an average homeowner affected by this disaster, you could do nothing about it and would have to replace it at a very high cost.

But hardwood floors are a specialty of water mitigation companies. They can dry them out and save you the cost of replacing them. Oftentimes, they can restore damaged furniture and walls that you would normally get rid of and buy new. Instead of replacing all that water damages, wouldn’t it be cheaper and more cost-effective to repair it? Ask yourself, who you gonna call?

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Crawlspace Drying Techniques

Posted on March 13, 2012 by Pam

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First, if your crawlspace contains moisture, ensure that no vents are blocked to prevent air from circulating in the crawlspace. There are several drying/anti-moisture products on the market available at home centers. These products are a type of sealant that can be spread throughout the crawlspace, much like you’d spread paint or glue.

If this isn’t practical, i.e. you have a dirt floor for a crawlspace underneath a house, you might want to try a dehumidifier until you can find the source of the moisture. To rid the crawlspace of current moisture, you can install a small fan to increase air flow and decrease humidity in the crawlspace. Once the current moisture is dry, a layer of plastic can help fend off moisture from the ground. Ensure the plastic covers all of the crawlspace area and is anchored properly for optimum results.

If there is a source of drainage and moisture accumulating under your house, you might want to try a sump pump to dry out the area. If moisture returns from run-off, you could install a drainage pipe from the space and have it drain into your yard. A lower crawl space may need to have the the ground graded nearby to help the area drain.

A moisture removal company can also help by installing new foundation vents. Some of these vents regulate themselves to temperature and moisture. Vent wells can also keep rainwater from running into the crawlspace. Make sure your gutters are clear as well, so water doesn’t accumulate near the house.

If your crawlspace is an attic crawlspace, check the ceiling, insulation, and roof areas to make sure there are no leaks. If you find leaks or sources of moisture, use the anti-moisture sealant mentioned earlier. It would also be good to have someone inspect your roof for any missing shingles or leak sources on the outside. Plus, make sure that your roof vents are open and functioning properly. Put a fan in the crawlspace just as you would for a crawlspace under the house to dry out the area.

In summary, make sure you circulate the air in the crawlspace. Air movement and air flow play a major role in helping to avoid moisture in crawlspaces. Remove current moisture through dehumidification. Locate the sources of any moisture and seal them properly to prevent them from recurring in the future. You will save yourself thousands of dollars and headaches.

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Flooded Basements and the Problems That Follow

Posted on March 12, 2012 by Pam

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Dampness on the walls of your basement is a definite red flag or indicator that a water crisis is happening in the lower level of your home. Damp walls may be a forewarning precursor for internal plumbing leaks. You must procure a look at the walls and investigate for water stains. If there are visible water stains, it is necessary to track the water stains to locate the starting place of the trouble and repair the leak right away. Even the smallest sign of a leak in the basement must be treated quickly. You should make certain there are no leaks or signs of dampness. Also, make certain that these penetrations are well sealed. When basements flood this triggers moisture to develop in homes, which can cause serious health problems. In today’s progressive age of environmental health, it is apparent that suitable water damage repair is crucial. There is more to water repair than just removal of water from the carpet and pad. Controlling and ending the expansion of bacteria, mold and mildew is a primary concern. It is essential to be aware of the fact that mildew is not active below 75 degrees, so maintaining a temperature below 75 degrees until all the repairs are finished would be valuable.

Ideally, water damage repair must be completed by trained technicians who understand the appropriate procedures and chemical treatment. Qualified workers will supply the needed modification to the environment by altering temperature and humidity intensity to dissuade creation of mold, mildew and bacteria.

Flooded basements supply the “premier” setting for the development and reproduction of mildew and bacteria. Both are parasitic, meaning they live off dead or decaying organic material for food. One of the preferred foods for bacteria and mildew is the moldy organic jute backside of carpets. Bacteria can also thrive well in the dampness of wet sheet rock. Once sheet rock has gotten wet, unless the temperature is kept at 75 degrees or below, mold and mildew will grow. The dampness, coupled with humid air, creates the ideal environment for mold and mildew reproduction. Mold and mildew may cause severe side effects and allergic reactions such as depression, arthritis, puffy eyes, chronic cough, rheumatism, asthma or headache.

If you have water damage or you think that there may be damage behind the walls, do not delay, call a professional. Basement or any type of water damage can become dangerous and disturb your health and the health of your family.

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Repairing Tornado Damage

Posted on March 7, 2012 by Pam

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If your home has recently suffered from tornado damage then there are a few methods to help repair most, if not all, of the damage done.

The first thing you want to do after a tornado is access the level of damage done to your home. Tornadoes are extremely destructive and can generate wind speeds in excess of two hundred miles an hour. If your home has suffered damage from a lower category tornado and still has all of its structure in tact then, chances are, you can perform many of the repairs yourself.

The most common damage from tornadoes is caused by high wind speeds and flying debris. Most likely after a tornado you will have debris outside, as well as, inside your home. The first thing you want to do to start the repairing process of any damage is acquire the proper equipment. This means heavy gloves to protect your hands from glass, eye goggles to protect against any dust or harmful airborne toxins and a chainsaw and tree trimmers, in the case of a fallen tree.

To get started you want to remove all debris from your home and lawn area. While doing this, take note that some of these items could belong to your neighbors and they may want it back. Once the debris is cleared away you can go about the repairing process. Depending on what your situation is and how much damage your home has received you can start by tearing out any loose pieces of broken windows or parts of the wall. The process is similar to a home renovation in that you have to remove the broken pieces so new ones can go in their place. With all broken windows and any broken pieces of wood out of the way you can look into replacing them.

Hardware store visits are a must in the repairing process after tornado damage. Most local hardware stores will provide repair kits for windows and other materials needed for repairs. Often times these stores will offer materials at special prices to help ease the financial burdens brought on by tornado damage.  With all of your repair materials bought and ready to use you can either hire a contractor to help repair the damage or do it yourself, if the damage is light enough. Once you have everything installed and back into its original condition you may want to consider purchasing extra support structures. This would help to tornado proof your home in the case of a second tornado.

 

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Blood Stain Removal and Cleanup Process

Posted on March 6, 2012 by Pam

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Blood stains are especially difficult to remove from fabrics because of the process of coagulation. And if the stain is old and dry, it is nearly impossible to remove. Removing the stain as quickly as possible is the best course of action and will give you the best results. The longer the stain remains in the fabric the more difficult it is to remove.

Extract and rinse the stain with cold water only. Hot water will only assist in setting the stain and making it more difficult to remove. Extract and rinse a little at a time, being extra careful not to spread the stain. After adding some water to the stain, blot with a white cloth or white paper towels. Don’t rub the stain or it will spread, only blot the area. Another option to try is to use a wet/dry vacuum to soak up the water . If access to a wet/dry vauum is not possible, using a white cloth or white paper towels to blot the area is just as effective.

Remove the remaining stain with a solution of mild dish washing liquid (such as Dawn dish washing liquid) and a cup of cold water. Work this solution into the stain and blot it away. Again, do not rub. This will only spread the stain and could damage the fibers, making it easier for stains to appear later. Repeat the process until there are no signs of blood transferred onto the white cloth or white paper towels. When no transfer is evident, blot the rest of the excess water.

To dry the area, place a fan to blow directly onto the spot for quicker drying. Another option you can try is to place a cloth or a layer of paper towels directly on the spot. Then place something heavy on it, such as a stack of books, and let it soak up the remaining water. Repeat with a dry cloth or dry paper towels until the spot is completely dry.

Another solution that you could try is using club soda instead of the dish washing liquid. Also, using a urine stain remover could remove the blood stain. You can usually find this product in most pet supply stores. If the stain still remains. Repeat the process with the urine stain remover or solution of choice and dry as directed. The most important things to remember is to treat the stain as soon as possible and use cold water, never hot, so the stain won’t set into the fabric.

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Flood Damage Repair – Taking Back Your Home

Posted on February 21, 2012 by Pam

http://www.rightwayrestoration.com

When you have a flooded home the question looming on your mind is, “What do I do first?”. Of course the first thing is to open windows and get the air circulating. Germs and mold grow best in damp, moist areas. A house that has been flooded is a prime location for mold, bacteria and mosquitoes to breed. Open all the windows and doors and get some fans blowing to help it dry.

The most important thing is to get the water out and get fresh air in. Mold spores and bacteria can get in your lungs and cause respiratory problems as well as other health related problems. Also, be sure to keep children and pets out of the home until it has been cleaned up and properly dried.

Document everything with photos or video for your insurance company. Depending on the cause of the flood and the coverage of your policy, you may be eligible for partial or full compensation.

The effects of water damage on a home:

Water damage can take a toil on your home, especially if not dealt with quickly. Wet wooden beams can swell and buckle causing structural rot. Wet carpeting, walls, furniture and appliances will need attention right away. Any delays in cleaning up will result in further damage. Steps need to be taken immediately to minimize and contain the damage so it doesn’t spread to other areas of the house. Water travels easily and will seep into other areas possibly causing further damage to your home.

Get rid of any standing water right away, if you can. The sooner you begin the drying process the better. If possible, pump the water out or use a bucket if that’s all you have access to.

Remove any of your belongings that are not affected to another area of the home to avoid being damaged. Picture albums or keepsakes should be put in a safe place. Place them inside of a plastic bag to keep moisture in the air from damaging them. Anything that can be washed will be fine.

What can you do to fix a home that has been flooded? Call a restoration company as soon as possible. They usually have an emergency service line for quick response. A quick response time will lessen the chance of losing your furnishings and having to replace everything.

Their equipment and expertise can speed up the drying time for walls and floors, deter mold and bacteria growth from the environment and keep the rest of your home from being affected by the damaged areas. In some cases, they may be able to restore your home to it’s original condition.

Restoration crews are well-trained and certified in dealing with cleanups from fire, smoke and flood damage. This is your best chance of recovering your home and belongings without costing you thousands of dollars in repairs and reconstruction.

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Flood Damage Home Repairs

Posted on February 10, 2012 by Pam

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If you have been unfortunate enough to have experienced a flood in your area that has caused water damage to your home, here are some steps to follow for flood damage repairs.

The first thing you want to do when you have water damage to your home from a recent flood is access the situation. Get an idea of how much damage has been done to your home. Also, determine if you are going to need to rip out and restore parts or if it can be refurbished.

Once you understand how much damage has been done to your home you can look into the materials required for repairs. Most water damage to homes will require you to spray the exposed area with a mold repellent and may even require you to replace the wood. When your home is being constantly exposed to water you can develop moisture build up. This means if you own a home with wood parts in areas, those areas can become a breeding ground for a mold infestation. The way to avoid this possible mold growth is removing unsalvageable materials, beginning the drying process and applying an anti-microbial spray.

After you have taken care of the wood damaged parts of your home you can begin removing or restoring any water damaged goods, such as couches and furniture. There are several companies that specialize in furniture restoration after water damage has taken effect, so do a little research into what those companies can do for you.

Once you have repaired your walls and taken care of any damaged furniture you should inpsect any other damaged parts of the house and see what kind of care they require. Even though the majority of these tasks and home repairs can be done by an average handyman, there are specific companies that specialize in water damaged home repair that can treat your home for the common water damage problems. Keep in mind that it is vital to get the restoration process underway as quickly as possible in order to avoid any potential problems or issues that could develop in the future.

So overall if you are looking into repairs for your flood damaged homes take a visit to your local hardware store or hire a professional to get your house back to its original working order.

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The Importance of Structural Drying

Posted on February 9, 2012 by Pam

http://www.rightwayrestoration.com

Violent storms with high winds can wreak havoc on a home in a matter of hours or even minutes, especially when structural damage is accompanied by heavy rainfall or flooding. After suffering water intrusion it is important to secure your property as soon as possible to prevent additional damage from occurring. Ideally water damage should be addressed within 24 to 48 hours. And depending on the size of the area affected professional assistance may be needed to dry an area quickly and thoroughly.

In the immediate aftermath of water intrusion non-valuable books or papers should be discarded. In the case of important papers or documents it’s best to photocopy and discard originals or freeze dry them in a frost free freezer or meat locker.

Wet carpet and backing, concrete or cinder block surfaces and porous flooring such as linoleum or vinyl should all be vacuumed within 24-48 hours with a water extraction vacuum. To accelerate the drying process, humidity levels should be reduced with a dehumidifier and fans. Although it may be difficult to completely dry within 48 hours the same procedure should be followed with upholstered furniture.

These are some of the important first steps you should take if you have suffered water intrusion damage. Over the past few decades there have been many advances in the water damage restoration industry that have moved beyond the simple task of extraction. This is why you should consult professionals in the field who deal with the bigger issues of bound structural moisture, residual odor, remedial mold contamination and removal of microscopic debris from the air. The end goal should be a verifiable pre-loss condition.

Before the next storm hits there are many things you can do to prevent water damage before it happens. Have a professional contractor examine the stability of your foundation. This is particularly true if you live in an older home. Is the foundation level? Are there any obvious cracks in the foundation that extend into the upper structure? If this is the case it is important to check interior walls, inspect tile for cracks and sheetrock for tears.

Structures with a pitched roof are less of a problem but a flat roof has a tendency to sustain damage from rotting due to undetected leaks. In this case a careful attic inspection of your roof’s underside is in order to determine if there has been previous water damage that might lead to something worse.

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Using Ventilation to Prevent Mold

Posted on February 7, 2012 by Pam

http://www.rightwayrestoration.com

Regular cleaning and proper ventilation of your home or other building can help prevent mold growth from developing, even if you have had mold issues in the past. This can also deter mold from growing on your walls, floors, furniture and clothing. Mold, like mildew, is a fungus and is alive. The spores attach themselves to items, such as the aforementioned, and eventually cause damage . If you live in an area with a warm climate and/or high humidity, such as near a lake, pool or other body of water, you will most likely suffer the visit of mold. In some areas the mold will live within a wall and other than the musty smell it leaves behind you are not aware that you have mold. You need to call a mold removal expert in such a case and walls may have to come down in some instances.

Due to the fact that mold is alive it can be dangerous living with it, simply because you are breathing in the live spores as they become airbourn and try to relocate from their present positions. Breathing in the spores can cause lung problems as well as other breathing complications like asthma. If you are trying to remove the mold yourself, be sure your mouth and nose are covered and that windows and doors to the room are closed. But also ensure the room is well ventilated.

So, how do you keep the mold from infiltrating your home or building? Use cleaning and ventilating your home or building to prevent mold as a ongoing process. Keep vulnerable areas dry by using fans or dehumidifiers. Additionally, keep the areas well ventilated also using fans, open windows or any electrical device that will keep the areas well ventilated. The bathroom can be the most difficult area to keep dry. It is a good idea to wipe down the moisture accumulated on the bathroom walls after a shower or bath. The same applies to the laundry room. Remember mold can accumulate within the walls as well as on the walls.

I can not stress enough the importance of keeping your rooms clean and ventilated to prevent mold from living and growing on your walls, floors, furniture or clothing, as well as within your walls. Nor can I stress enough the danger to you and/or your family’s health by having mold live in your home or building. If you are buying a home or building in a humid area have an expert check the walls and floors for any signs of mold growth or mildew.

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