The Mold vs Mildew Debate: Understanding the Differences and How to Clean Them

5/17/2023 (Permalink)

Mold and mildew are two common types of fungi that can grow in homes and other indoor environments.

Mold and mildew are two common types of fungi that can grow in homes and other indoor environments. While they share some similarities, there are also some key differences between the two. In this blog, we'll explore the differences between mold and mildew.

Appearance

One of the main differences between mold and mildew is their appearance. Mold is usually fuzzy or slimy and can be black, green, white, or other colors. It can have a musty or earthy odor. Mildew, on the other hand, is typically white or gray and appears as a powdery substance. It has a more pungent odor than mold.

Habitat

Mold and mildew also differ in their preferred habitats. Mold tends to thrive in damp, dark environments and can grow on a variety of surfaces, including wood, drywall, and carpet. It can be found in areas with high humidity, leaks, or flooding. Mildew, on the other hand, prefers warm, moist environments and is commonly found in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms.

Cleaning 

When cleaning mold and mildew protective gear is required. Identifying the type of surface, preparing the cleaning solution, scrubbing the surface, rinsing and drying, and preventing future growth. If the mold and mildew are severe or cover a large area, it's recommended to seek professional cleaning and remediation services.

Removal

Mold and mildew require different removal methods. Mold is more difficult to remove than mildew and typically requires professional remediation services. Mildew can be removed with household cleaning products, such as bleach or vinegar, and regular cleaning can help prevent its growth.

Prevention

Preventing the growth of mold and mildew is key to maintaining a healthy indoor environment. To prevent mold, it's important to address any water damage or leaks promptly and maintain adequate ventilation in your home or business. Reducing humidity levels can also help prevent the growth of mold. To prevent mildew, it's important to keep areas with high moisture levels, such as bathrooms and kitchens, clean and dry.

In summary, mold and mildew are two types of fungi that differ in appearance, habitat, and removal methods. While mildew is less harmful than mold, both can be problematic and should be addressed promptly to prevent their growth and minimize their impact on your home.

How Do Fire Sprinklers Work During a Fire? A Guide to Understanding Fire Sprinkler Systems

4/10/2023 (Permalink)

Fire sprinklers are a crucial component of fire safety systems for your business.

Fire sprinklers are an essential part of fire safety systems in buildings. They are designed to protect people and property from the devastating effects of fires. Sprinklers work by detecting a fire, activating a valve, and releasing water onto the flames. This blog will explain how fire sprinklers work during a fire and how they help prevent fires from spreading.

Fire sprinklers are typically installed in the ceiling of a building. They consist of a network of pipes, valves, and sprinkler heads. The sprinkler heads are the most visible part of the system, and they are designed to detect heat and smoke from a fire. When the temperature in the room reaches a certain level, the sprinkler head will open and release water onto the fire.

The sprinkler system is activated when a fire breaks out in the building. The heat from the flames causes the air in the room to expand, and the pressure in the sprinkler pipe increases. This increase in pressure triggers a valve that opens and releases water from the pipes.

Each sprinkler head is designed to activate individually, depending on the heat level in the room. This means that only the sprinklers closest to the fire will activate, and not all the sprinklers in the building. This is an important feature of fire sprinklers because it means that the water is directed only to the areas where it is needed.

When the sprinkler head opens, it releases water at a predetermined flow rate. The water flows through the pipes and out of the activated sprinkler heads onto the fire. The water helps to extinguish the fire by cooling the flames and reducing the amount of heat that is being generated. As the fire is brought under control, the amount of smoke and heat being generated is reduced, and the sprinkler system will eventually shut off.

Fire sprinklers can be a lifesaver during a fire. They can help prevent fires from spreading by quickly extinguishing the flames. The water from the sprinklers can also help to contain the fire until the fire department arrives.

Fire sprinklers are also beneficial because they can reduce the amount of damage that is caused by a fire. The water from the sprinklers can help to keep the fire from spreading to other parts of the building, and it can also help to minimize the amount of smoke damage that occurs.

In conclusion, fire sprinklers are a crucial component of fire safety systems in buildings. They work by detecting a fire, activating a valve, and releasing water onto the flames. Sprinklers are designed to activate individually, depending on the heat level in the room, so only the sprinklers closest to the fire will activate. Fire sprinklers can help prevent fires from spreading, reduce the amount of damage caused by a fire, and ultimately save lives. It is essential to ensure that fire sprinkler systems are installed, maintained, and inspected regularly to ensure they are working correctly in the event of a fire.

What should I do with my water damaged electronics?

3/13/2023 (Permalink)

We have the experience to restore your electronics after water damage.

You are just about to leave for work, and you realize that there is a leak in your bathroom. You rush to the kitchen sink, grab an empty glass and fill it up with water. You take two steps out of the kitchen and drop the glass on the floor. The glass shatters into pieces, but what worries you is that you can still hear water dripping from the faucet behind you. Your first thought may be: "My electronics!" If your home has experienced water damage from a flood or leaky pipe, then it's important to act quickly to salvage any important items in your home. Here are some tips on what to do if this happens.

Water Damage is quick.

Water damage can happen in an instant, but its effects are long-lasting. If you have water damage to your electronics, the longer you wait to address it, the more it will cost you. Water is one of the most destructive forces, don't wait, call the professionals quick.

If you have experienced any kind of water damage or if your device has been submerged in liquid, give SERVPRO a call quickly. We are available 24/7.

Don't wait.

The longer you wait to address water damage, the more it will cost you. As soon as possible after a spill or other exposure to water, remove the device from its source of moisture and place it somewhere dry. Then begin drying out your device immediately with a towel or paper towel (do not use an electric fan as this may cause more damage).

If your device can still power on after being exposed to water, turn off its power and leave it alone until you can get help from someone who knows what they're doing. If there is any chance that liquid has entered the interior components of your electronic device, for example if there was visible condensation inside when turned back on, you should not attempt any further repairs yourself but instead seek professional assistance immediately.

Contact a professional.

If you're not sure whether or not something needs professional attention, it's best to call a professional as soon as possible. It could cost more money in the long run to try to fix the electronics on your own. Professionals have the experience and equipment to help restore your electronics back immediately. Getting immediate help can save you money and ensure the electronics are restored properly.

Give the professionals a call at SERVPRO of Cape Coral for your water damaged electronics.

Kitchen Fires Can Damage Your HVAC System

2/8/2023 (Permalink)

Call the professionals to assess the damage after a kitchen fire in your Cape Coral home or business.

When a fire starts in your kitchen, it can spread throughout your house quickly. Smoke and soot damage can travel through the ductwork and settle in other areas of your home. This can cause some serious damage that requires cleanup and restoration services after the fact. In some cases, though, it is possible for these types of damages to cause problems with your HVAC system later on such as an unexpected shutdown of heating or cooling.

Kitchen Fires can cause Damage to your home

Kitchen fires can damage your HVAC system. Even if a kitchen fire does not spread beyond the kitchen, the fire and smoke can cause damage to other areas of your home as well. Make sure that all vents are clear before using them again. Remove any debris that might have accumulated in them over time.

Check for leaks or gas smells after use and call for professional help if there is any sign of damage or malfunctioning parts on your heating unit or air conditioner.

Heat Damage from Fire

After a fire, your HVAC could possibly become damaged from the heat of the fire. The heat from the fire could warp or melt some of the parts that make up your system. It is possible for these types of damages to cause problems with your HVAC system later on such as an unexpected shutdown of heating or cooling. Heat from a fire could damage the compressor, the fan motor, or the thermostat.

Homeowners Coverage

Your homeowner’s insurance policy will cover most of the damage done by fires but what it covers when it comes to your HVAC system depends on how old the system is and whether or not you already had coverage in place that specifically covered disasters or fires when they occurred. Make sure to check your homeowners policy for coverage detail.

If your HVAC system is damaged by a kitchen fire, you will need to call in professionals to assess the damage and get it fixed as soon as possible. SERVPRO of Cape Coral offers services for fire and water damage along with HVAC cleaning. We understand the stress and frustration of a loss, but with our professional knowledge and equipment we can restore your home back to pre water and fire loss.

Tips to Minimize Flood Damage in your Home

1/9/2023 (Permalink)

Flooded home in Pine Island, FL.

Flood damage is an unfortunate reality of living on the east coast. It's also one of the most expensive types of home damage, with average losses ranging from $50,000 to over $250,000 depending on the size of your home and its contents. A flood can happen for many reasons: sewer backup or pipe breaks; a natural disaster like rain or flooding; or being in the wrong place at the wrong time such as during a storm surge or a tsunami. Regardless of how it happens, flooding can quickly spread throughout your home destroying everything in its path—especially if you don't take steps now to prepare yourself for potential flooding.

Be Aware of Your Flood Risk

Much like any other disaster, you can't prepare for a flood unless you know the risks and signs of one. Floods vary in size and impact depending on many factors, including how quickly they rise, how much rain falls prior to the storm, if there is heavy snow melt in springtime, or if there are already high water levels due to heavy rains earlier in the season. The best way to protect yourself is by learning about these risks before damage occurs so that when it does happen, you're prepared for it.

If your home floods or is at risk for flooding then knowing what the signs are will help keep your family safe from harm during an emergency situation like this one. When looking at homes with potentially hazardous conditions; look out for cracks or openings where water could enter walls or floors below ground level where pipes connect together under concrete slabs which could pose problems if left unattended too long without being fixed soon enough!

Upgrade Plumbing Components

For the most part, your pipes should be in good shape. But if you suspect that they're not, check for leaks and replace any worn-out components immediately. Old faucets should also be replaced with modern ones that use less water. Look for corroded pipes—these can leak over time and cause more damage than a burst pipe will cause in one go.

If you have an older home with a wellhead, it's worth installing a pressure regulator which will reduce how much pressure is delivered to your home's plumbing system.

Talk to Your Insurance Agent

Contact your insurance agent to find out if your policy covers flood damage, and to determine whether or not you have enough coverage. Your agent can also help you file a claim and address any questions about temporary housing.

Find a Local Restoration Company

The first step in minimizing flood damage is finding a local restoration company that specializes in water damage repair. The best way to do this is by asking friends and family for recommendations, as well as contacting your insurance provider.

Once you’ve found a few companies, it’s time to start comparing their credentials and experience. Look for a company that has been in business for several years, has positive reviews on independent review sites like Yelp and Google Reviews, offers 24/7 emergency services (in case of flooding), provides references from past clients, is licensed and insured and most importantly—is willing to give you an estimate before they begin any work!

The best way to avoid flood damage is to take steps to prevent a flood from ever happening in your Pine Island, FL home.

If you live in a flood zone and have a sump pump, make sure it's working. It's not just the water that can cause damage but also the mud that comes with it. But if your home is in a low-lying area and has no basement to speak of, consider raising it up on stilts or pilings.

If you don't have a sump pump installed in your basement, get one. A good backup generator will allow you to run certain appliances—like refrigerators, freezers, and even lights—during an outage. You should also keep at least three days worth of food at home for use when power is out or supplies are limited due to flooding (e.g., bottled water).

Have an emergency plan: What should I do if my house floods? When will help arrive? How long will we stay here? Where will we go? These are all questions that must be answered before disaster strikes so there aren't any surprises during an actual crisis situation when emotions run high and time becomes short!

In the end, we should all be aware that floods can happen to anyone. It doesn’t matter if your home was built on a floodplain or not; it matters that you take the necessary steps to protect yourself and your family from any damage that may occur during a flood event.

Why is Biohazard PPE Gear important?

12/16/2022 (Permalink)

PPE is used to protect workers from exposure to biological and chemical hazards.

Sometimes, it can seem like there are a million pieces of personal protective equipment (PPE) out there. That is actually a good thing! PPE is necessary for your health and safety when you work around dangerous materials or equipment. It's also important to choose the right type of PPE for your situation so that you don’t accidentally put yourself at risk again. In this blog post, we'll walk through the basics of biohazard PPE gear and why it's important for workers who are exposed to bloodborne pathogens at work.

Why is Biohazard PPE Gear important?

Here are the top five reasons why it's important to use Biohazard PPE:

• To protect your health.
• To protect others' health.
• To protect the environment.
• To protect the workplace and product from contamination.

What is the goal of PPE? 

PPE is essential to protect workers from exposure to hazardous materials. The goal of PPE is to prevent a worker from coming into contact with harmful substances, but it can also help protect the worker from other hazards as well. Depending on what kind of hazard you are protecting against, there are several categories of PPE that have been developed over time.

PPE can be used in many different situations, including when working around chemicals and toxic materials, handling pathogens (for example, viruses or bacteria) and even radioactive materials. It’s also useful for protection against physical hazards such as extreme temperatures or dangerous equipment that could cause injury if not equipped properly.

Which are the most common items for PPE?

If a worker is dealing with a hazardous material, it's important to select the right PPE. For example, if you're working with biowaste and your eyes are exposed to these hazards, you'll want to wear goggles. If PPE has been selected properly and worn as instructed by the manufacturer's instructions, it can help prevent injury or illness while doing this type of work.

The most common items used in personal protective equipment (PPE) include: 

• Gloves
• Goggles/face shields/eye protection
• Respirators and face masks. 

You should choose which is best for your situation based on what you'll be doing at work—and how likely it is that there will be exposure to chemicals or harmful organisms.

The type of PPE depends on the hazards present.

PPE is an important part of the safety strategy at any workplace. It’s crucial that you understand the risks and how to protect yourself. It’s also essential that everyone knows how to use their gear properly, so they can keep themselves safe while they work.

PPE is used to protect workers from exposure to biological and chemical hazards. It is not a substitute for good work practices, nor is it a guarantee of protection. The type of PPE (and its limitations) depends on the hazards that workers may be exposed to.

Signs of a Hidden Water Leak in Your Bathroom

11/5/2022 (Permalink)

Water spots on the ceilings are a sign of hidden water leaks

Signs of a Hidden Water Leak in Your Bathroom

If you've got a leak in your bathroom, it's not the end of the world. It happens to everyone, and there are ways to fix it. But if you're not sure what's going on with your plumbing, it can be hard to know where to start. This article can help you better understand the signs of a hidden water leak in your bathroom. If any of these signs apply to you or your home, then there's probably some unseen damage happening below the surface:

High Water Bill

If your water bill is higher than usual, don't ignore it. You may think that since you haven't changed the way you use water and your meter isn't broken, the problem must be in your head. But that's not always the case. It could be that there's been an unexplained leak in your home and you're paying for it without even realizing it! If your water bill is unusually high, you might have a hidden water leak!

Discolored Ceiling or Flooring

Water spots on the walls and ceilings are a sign of hidden water leaks because they form when a pool of water in the tub, toilet, or sink drips down, evaporates, then leaves behind minerals and bacteria that build up over time.

When water accumulates in your wall or ceiling, it can lead to dark stains. It is also common to see yellow stains as well. If you see any discoloration on your ceiling or floors, it could be a sign of a water leak. 

If your bathroom has an overhead light fixture with exposed wires (like most do), use caution when inspecting for moisture damage here—you could be electrocuted if you come into contact with wet electrical components!

Dripping Noise or Running Water

If you hear a dripping noise or running water in the bathroom, it may be a sign that a hidden leak is occurring. This can obviously be heard at home, but if you're hearing this sound outside of your house as well, it could mean that the leaks are expanding and spreading to other areas of your property. If this is happening on multiple floors or in different rooms throughout your home, then it's definitely time for some repairs!

Musty Odor

If you notice a musty odor in your bathroom, it's likely that there is mold present. Mold can cause serious problems for you and your family, as well as damage to your home. The smell of mold can be difficult to remove from a room and even more difficult to remove from furniture or other materials.

If you think you might have a hidden water leak in your bathroom, call SERVPRO!

If you think you might have a hidden water leak in your bathroom, contact your local SERVPRO team immediately. Hidden water leaks can cause serious damage to your home if left untreated. Hidden water leaks are can be hard to find, especially if they are located behind walls or under floors! Your local SERVPRO team will use advanced technology to locate any hidden leaks that might be present in your home and then take the necessary steps to mitigate the damage.

How Do I Prepare My Company for a Fire?

10/14/2022 (Permalink)

Make sure you have a fire extinguisher on each floor.

How Should I Prepare My Business For a Fire?

A fire is one of the biggest hazards that can threaten a business. Not only does it cause damage to property, but it can also result in injuries and loss of life. While there's no way to prevent fires from happening, you can do plenty to prepare for them. Follow these steps for making your workplace in Cape Coral safer and more resilient against fire.

How to prepare your workplace for a fire

Check your fire alarm system. Is it in working order? Do you have a backup plan for when it malfunctions, like a manual pull station or an employee who can respond quickly if there's a fire?

Check your fire extinguishers. Are they all labeled correctly and in working order? You should check this once a month and replace them every five years or earlier if they're damaged. Replace any that are expired or missing labels as well.

Make sure the exits are always clear of clutter and hazards, including boxes, equipment, furniture, and other items that could block access to exits in case of emergency. Make sure all staff know where the nearest exit is located so they can get out safely in case of an emergency.

Train employees on how to use the fire alarm system, what they should do if they hear an alarm sounding or see smoke coming from somewhere near them (or both), how to respond when an evacuation needs to happen—and whom exactly will be responsible for doing so—and most importantly: why everyone needs these things! Don't forget about communicating this information across departments so no one is left out during training sessions either.

Evacuation plan

The first step in preparing your company for a fire is to create an evacuation plan. This plan should include:

• Where everyone is supposed to go and what they are supposed to do once they arrive there
• The location of all fire exits, including the best ones (i.e., nearest) for each room or area of your building(s).
• How employees are expected to use fire extinguishers if necessary, and where those extinguishers are kept.

It's also important that employees know how they can call the fire department once they've evacuated; this should be covered as part of your evacuation training program as well.

Fire preparedness can save your business.

Fire can happen to anyone. It's important to be prepared. Fire preparedness will help you save your business, lives, and money. Fire can destroy property and assets that take time and money to replace, affecting productivity and cash flow in the process.

If a fire breaks out in your place of business, it may have devastating effects on employees, customers, and the public as well as damage or destroy property. If your staff has been trained on the proper fire evacuation procedure, you should take the time to ensure that you have the correct fire safety equipment. 

The fire safety equipment checklist includes:

• Fire extinguishers. Make sure you have a fire extinguisher on each floor. They should be kept out of the reach of children and away from heat sources, like stoves or furnaces.
• Fire blankets and hoses. Keep at least one dry chemical fire extinguisher in the kitchen area, because it's the most likely place to catch on fire due to cooking grease, which burns quickly and intensely when it catches fire.
• Smoke alarms: These should be installed at least 10 feet from any sleeping areas and near all sleeping areas (including basements). You also need an automatic sprinkler system for commercial buildings that are more than three stories high or have contents over 50 square feet (this applies even if your business is only partially built on one floor).

The most important thing is to be prepared. Whether you are a business owner or employee, having an evacuation plan and a fire safety equipment checklist will help to ensure everyone's safety in the event of an emergency such as a fire.

The Requirements of Cleaning Sewage From a Building

8/25/2022 (Permalink)

Toilet overflow in North Fort Myers, FL

Even in the best-run businesses, mishaps occur with the plumbing system. Pipes break and sinks get clogged, causing water and sewage to back up into the building. The protocols for sewage cleaning are very specific and require specialized knowledge and training.

Finding the right company in North Fort Myers, FL, is absolutely critical. This will protect your property, your company, and your employees from the dangerous effects of contaminated water. Workers from a water damage remediation team will come equipped with personal protective gear and advanced equipment to clean up the mess. They will have the experience and the training to handle any situation.

Handling a Toilet Overflow

Most commercial companies have several restrooms spread throughout a building. Some could be for customers and some could be designated for employees. When a toilet backs up, professional sewage cleaning is required. SERVPRO technicians will follow a proven process that has been developed over a 50-year period. The following steps are utilized in an emergency:

• Inspection and assessment
• Water removal and cleanup
• Cleaning and disinfecting
• Restoration

The job is done to the highest industry standards. This ensures the facility is safe again and free from harmful germs. It also makes sure areas are dried and dehumidified with professional equipment. This prevents further damage such as the growth of mold. It also prevents the recurrence of odors.

Addressing Other Issues

Whether it is a clogged pipe, a broken sewer line, or some other issue, it is best to rely on trained and certified workers to remedy the problem. Sewage cleaning is just one of many disasters SERVPRO franchises are trained to deal with. They are a big help in the aftermath of fires and floods and can handle problems large and small. They use proven methods to assess the scope of a problem. From there, they come up with a plan of action to restore a company to its original condition.

The Best Methods for a Water Cleanup in a Commercial Building

8/17/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage in office

A flooded company needs a lot of help. That's because a water emergency demands special skills that ordinary cleaners and company custodial staffs do not often have. If the water that spills into a building is contaminated, cleanup workers will need to wear PPE such as gloves and face masks to thwart potential pathogens.

They will also clear affected areas of employees to safeguard them from illness. Additionally, the restoration workers will use approved disinfectants to clean walls, flooring, ceilings, and other areas of dirty water. A local water remediation company in Burnt Store, FL, will arrive on the scene fast to begin the cleanup process.

A Variety of Effective Cleaning Methods

When dealing with a flooded company, advanced cleaning techniques are needed. Technicians will be able to match the best option for getting materials completely clean. Where possible, they will employ a restore versus replace philosophy to save money. Trained workers have the following options at their disposal:

• Dry cleaning
• Spray and wipe
• Wet cleaning
• Immersion cleaning
• Abrasive cleaning
• Foam cleaning
  
  

A deep and thorough cleaning is needed to remove dirty and harmful substances from items. Powerful yet safe antimicrobial and antibacterial agents are also used. This approach eliminates odors and prevents the future occurrence of mold growth.

A Versatile Approach to Water Damage
No two situations are exactly alike. Certified workers use their training and experience to come up with a plan when helping a flooded company recover. In addition to water extraction and drying and dehumidifying, they also might use air scrubbers and fogging equipment if the situation calls for it. They will also dispose of any items or building materials that are ruined from the effects of a broken pipe or some other form of a water disaster. They will use the best methods for each situation as this will save time and money, as well as ensure the most effective restoration.