Recent Mold Remediation Posts

How to Recognize Mold

10/8/2024 (Permalink)

Mold is a fungus. It's everywhere, and mold infestations are also very common. Mold is one of the most common indoor air pollutants. The most favorable condition for mold growth is warm and humid environment. Most of the time you can see it and/or smell it. If you see some kind of discoloration on your ceiling or walls, it could be sign of mold growth. Another way of recognising mold is musty smell in your home particularly near areas where there is moisture from a leaky pipe, leaky roof or window. 

If you notice mold in your home, we always recommend contacting an environmental testing agency to test the air quality. This will give you an idea how much(if any)mold is present in your home.

After you have consulted with an environmental hygienist, call SERVPRO of Tracy. We will inspect the areas of concern and give you a thorough  plan of how we are going to fix it. Don't try to do it yourself!

 

Understanding Mold

10/9/2023 (Permalink)

Mold damage can be a serious issue for homeowners. It’s a silent invader that can affect your health and property. As a homeowner, it is necessary for you to understand the importance of mold remediation and how it can protect your living space and you. Mold growth can lead to structural damage, health problems, and unpleasant odors. With the help of professionals, you can get rid of mold infestation in Tracy and prevent it from causing further damage to property.

How Professionals Can Help You in Removing Mold?

Assessment: The first step in dealing with mold damage is to determine the severity of the situation. This includes checking for visible signs of mold growth on walls and ceilings, musty smell and damp areas. The professionals will utilize specialized tools like moisture meters and thermal imaging to find hidden mold and identify the source of moisture causing the mold growth.

Remediation and Restoration: The next step in dealing with mold damage is to remediate and restore the affected area. This involves removing any visible mold growth and cleaning and sanitizing the affected areas with chemicals and specialized equipment.

Preventing Mold Infestation: The professionals  can offer you advice on how you can prevent it from occurring again in the future. Mold thrives in humid environments, so it's essential to keep humidity levels low in your home. Keep an eye on any kind of leaks and water damage. It is essential to get it repair as soon as possible to prevent mold growth. Proper ventilation and regular maintenance of home’s plumbing, HVAC system, and appliances can help prevent mold growth.

If you are facing mold issues, please call SERVPRO of Tracy. We are proud to provide mold remediation service in our area. Act now to make sure your house is a safe place for you and your loved ones and don’t wait for mold to become a widespread problem. For any questions, you can contact SERVPRO of Tracy, we are here to help you.

Tips If You Suspect Mold

12/7/2022 (Permalink)

If you suspect visible mold, do not disturb it. You can unintentionally spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

Do's (What to do)

  • Stay out of the affected area.
  • Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
  • Contact SERVPRO of Tracy for mold remediation services.

Don'ts (What Not To Do) 

  • Don't touch or disturb the mold.
  • Don't blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
  • Don't attempt to dry the area yourself.
  • Don't spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, expertise to remediate the mold.

Tips on Candle Safety!

12/6/2021 (Permalink)

Blow out candles when you leave the room. Avoid the use of candles in the bedroom and other areas where people may fall asleep.

SERVPRO of Tracy would like to advise you to take personal responsibility with candles.

With cooler weather upon us, many people start using candles this time of the year within their homes.

FACTS:

  • Candles may look and smell pretty, but they can be a cause of a home fire.  Remember, a candle is an open flame, which means that it can easily ignite anything that can burn. Also, while the candle is burning there is a smoke that the candle emits. 

  •  November and December are the peak months for home candle fires.

  • Roughly one-third of home candle fires start in a bedroom.

  •  More than half of all candle fires start when things that can burn are too close to the candle.

    For example: drapes/curtains.

Candles and Kids:

  • Never leave a child alone in a room with a burning candle.
  • Keep matches and lighters up high and out of children's reach.

Candles are pretty and smell good, but think about using flame-less candles, they look and smell just like the real thing!

Be safe this holiday season!

If something should happen, please don't hesitate to call SERVPRO of Tracy at 209-834-0200  for assistance. We will make it "Like it never even happened."

What is a SERVPROXIDE?

9/8/2021 (Permalink)

This is our SERVPROXIDE.

SERVPRO of Tracy are proud to announce our new product from our corporate headquarters in Gallatin, TN, that create and provide us with top notch products to use for our customer's.  Recently, SERVPRO introduced SERVPROXIDE to our arsenal of products.  

SERVPROXIDE is an EPA registered, stabilized chlorine dioxide based disinfectant and sanitizer. The great thing about SERVPROXIDE is that is carries the EPA's lowest toxicity rating and is safe for everyday use.

This product is designed to kill harmful bacteria, viruses and mold on hard surfaces and is an effective sanitizer for soft surfaces.  On top of all the great things this product provides, it can be used just about anywhere!

SERVPRO of Tracy teams are excited and are using  this new product on our mold job! 

Cleaning and disinfecting can reduce the risk of spreading infection by reducing and killing germs on surfaces people frequently touch.

SERVPRO of  Tracy is here to help you with the clean up your property needs.  Just call 209-834-0200

September 2021 is The National Preparedness Month

9/3/2021 (Permalink)

We, at SERVPRO of Tracy, would like to let you know about National Preparedness Month is observed every September to promote disaster and emergency planning to help ensure the safety of your family and community. Now is a great time to plan ahead and prepare for the unexpected. 

September is Emergency Preparedness Month. The 2021 theme is Prepare to Protect. Preparing for disasters is protecting everyone you love. National Preparedness Month (NPM) is an observance each September to raise awareness about the importance of preparing for disasters and emergencies that could happen at any time.

If you do nothing else this month, take time to create a disaster plan including an emergency escape plan at home and at work.

  1. Emergency escape procedures and emergency escape route assignments;
  2. Procedures to be followed by employees who remain in their positions to operate critical operations before they evacuate;
  3. Procedures to account for all employees after evacuation has been completed;
  4. Rescue and medical duties for those employees who are able to perform them;
  5. The preferred means of reporting fires and other emergencies;
  6. Names or regular job titles of persons or departments who can be contacted for further information or explanation of duties under the plan;
  7. Practice evacuating your home and work place twice a year. This makes it a routine and can make a real emergency situation less stressful.

Any questions please call SERVPRO of Tracy on 209-834-0200

What Causes Mold in Our House?

7/14/2021 (Permalink)

No one wants to find mold in house areas. Not only is it unsightly and smelly, it’s dangerous to your home and may cause health effects. Mold prevention starts with understanding how and why it grows. SERVPRO of Tracy has some..

Mold Prevention Tips...

  • Mold spores thrive on moisture, oxygen, humidity, organic matter and warmth. When exposed to water, it can quickly grow into colonies producing health effects. Because many of these elements are found organically in nature, it may be hard to remove them from your home to discourage mold growth. However, you can control the moisture levels in your house with preventative measures and mold testing.
  • Inspect Plumbing: A regular inspection of toilets, dishwashers, pipes and other sources of water can help you better understand where leaking water could be. When you are familiar with the state of your plumbing, you will be able to catch leaks and other issues quickly. This can help stop water damage from taking place.
  • Respond to Leaking Water and Other Moisture Immediately: Whether you notice your bathroom getting especially steamy during bathing or you see a small drip in your bedroom ceiling, you need to act quickly when you notice water issues to prevent mold from growing.
  • Make a Plan: While not quite part of a mold prevention plan, know who you’re going to call should you find leaking water or mold in your home. The faster you get a mold testing and remediation team into your house the sooner your living space will be free of the unwanted growth.

When you call SERVPRO of Tracy to assist with your mold prevention and problems, we will ask several questions to determine what equipment and resources are required, including how many trained experts from our crew will be needed. Prepare for the call with these tips!

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today!

7/14/2021 (Permalink)

Does your home have a Mold Problem?

Mold can spread through a home in as little as 48 hours. 

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What to Do:

  • Stay out of affected areas.
  • Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
  • Contact SERVPRO of Tracy for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

  • Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
  • Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
  • Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
  • Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

About Our Mold Remediation Services:

SERVPRO of Tracy specializes in mold cleanup and restoration. Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

  1. Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
  2. Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
  3. Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may cause health effects.
  4. Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
  5. Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead to possible mold problem areas.
  6. Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today –SERVPRO of Tracy 209-834-0200...

Mildew vs Mold: What is the Difference??

12/5/2020 (Permalink)

When it comes to mildew vs mold, SERVPRO of Tracy homeowners often have trouble identifying the differences between two fungi.

Many people might say," It's mildew , not mold".

The truth is both are fungi and both are necessary for our environment. But not in our bodies or our homes. To answer the question, mildew is mold in it's early stages.

Mold can grow fast. It can take only 24 to 48 hours for it to grow. In 1 to 12 days mold can colonize and grow fast.

Mold can come from many sources, some you may not have even thought of. 

Here are a few examples:

  • Damp Basement/crawl space
  • Over Flows from sinks and tubs
  • Flooding, leaks
  • High Humidity
  • Steam Cooking
  • Dryer Vents
  • Humidifiers

So keep the mold outside where it's needed for soil and leaves to break down.

So now you know. Keep it out of your home and call the professionals at SERVPRO of Tracy - 209-834-0200. We have the training and chemicals to help you.

SERVPRO of Tracy; Your Water Restoration Company

9/10/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Tracy has been your water restoration company since 2006, for over 14 years. Our experience and know how will have you back in your home in no time. 

There are many different types of water damage that can occur in your home or work place. We are equipped to handle any water damage, no matter the size of the job. 

  • If you’ve experienced a broken pipe in your home. That floods your base, to a leaking faucet that has ruined your floor, or even a toilet that has backed up. We are "Here to Help". Our crews will clean and get you and your family safely back into your home. 
  • SERVPRO of Tracy truly appreciates you and your business. We are locally owned and operated. Our technicians are extremely proud to serve you in your time of need, we understand that is what we are here to do. 
  • If you find you are in a position you are dealing with water or fire damage, please do not hesitate to call us at SERVPRO of Tracy. We are always here for your needs..
  • We can be reached 24 hours a day, 365 days a year at 209-834-0200
  • Disasters don't take a day off and neither do we....

Happy Labor Day!!!

9/4/2020 (Permalink)

Happy Labor Day from SERVPRO of Tracy Team!!!

Happy Labor Day from SERVPRO of Tracy Team!!!

Labor Day is a celebration for us to take a break from all our hard work. Most of us work 8 to 12-hour shifts, 5 to 3 days a week at our full-time jobs. Labor Day was born after many men and women fought hard for fair wages and reasonable work hours. It was not uncommon in the 1800s for a man to work 12 hour days, 7 days a week and still barely keep a roof over his head or food on the table.

  • As terrible as it was for them, it was more difficult for children working as many hours and at a fraction of the wage.
  • I know we all work very hard and sometimes wonder when that vacation will ever come but thanks to many strong Americans, we have laws and regulations that help each of us.
  • We celebrate those Americans that worked so hard and fought so hard for us to be able to live the way we do today. Thank you! 
  • I am very proud of our production staff here at SERVPRO of Tracy. As I work primarily on the back end of things, these dedicated workers are on the front lines of water damage, fire restoration, and COVID-19 cleanup. They truly are experts in every job they do, all the while, caring and compassionate towards our customers, who are often in very difficult positions.
  • When our technicians are called out in the middle of the night on a Saturday night, to a commercial building involving a major loss, they understand how important it is for those essential workers to get back to their jobs as quickly as possible.
  • Our SERVPRO of Tracy staff understands the faster we work, the faster someone else can get back to work to serve others. We are your frontlines. We understand hard work and we pride ourselves on the quality of work we do. 

Happy Labor Day! Please remember to thank and appreciate all of our essential workers in our community. They keep us safe, they keep us healthy, they keep us fed. We are so lucky to live in this great country with truly caring people.

We can be reached 24 hours a day, 365 days a year at 209-834-0200. Disasters don’t take a day off and neither do we. 

First Steps to Mold Remediation...

7/15/2020 (Permalink)

We, here at SERVPRO of Tracy wants to give you some insights of Mold.

  1. While mold can be dangerous, it is also important to know that there are normal levels of mold in every indoor and outdoor environment.
  2. There are certain kinds of mold that are non-toxic and can be treated by yourself, when using the proper products. Unless you have dealt with mold issues and not sure what steps to take next.
  3. Inspection and testing will confirm if there is presence of mold in your home or business, and how far it has spread. Testing may include air samples from separate rooms or inside walls and surfaces samples when visible mold is present.
  4. SERVPRO of Tracy are professionals in mold remediation and mitigation, and will lay out all the steps that are needed to be done in order to remedy the mold issue.
  5. When it comes to mold, just call in the professionals, the mold mitigation and remediation team of SERVPRO of Tracy on 209-834-0200

Mold can Hide from You...

7/15/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Tracy wants to give you some insights of Mold...

Mold can occur anywhere in your home but mainly is concentrated to areas where moisture is present. These moisture areas are common to the bathroom and basements.

Mold can cause health effects and should be removed if found as soon as possible.

Most restoration companies only do mold inspections if the mold is visible, an industrial hygienist would come in and search for traces of mold that are not visible.

One of the first places mold can collect and you may not think to check is under the refrigerator. Under the fridge tends to collect moisture and dirt which can cause a breeding ground for bacteria and mold.

Another place is the AC unit. AC units are known to collect debris, dust and moisture from the air, which can lead to mold spores.

Mold can even grow in or around a washing machine or its parts. Moisture and lint can cause a presence of mold spores.

Other area in your house include anywhere moisture and dirt may form such as window corners.

For Mold, Fire & Water Cleanup & Restoration Call SERVPRO of Tracy at (209) 834-0200

Mold at Home or Businesses....

12/6/2019 (Permalink)

If you have any questions or concerns about mold in your home or business, call SERVPRO of Tracy on 209-834-0200

SERVPRO of Tracy took care of this growing mold.

  • Microscopic mold spores naturally occurs almost everywhere, both indoors and outdoors. Mold and mildews mostly grow in warm, damp and humid conditions.
  • We offer many services to our growing community, one of them is being mold remediation.
  • Mold is easier to prevent than it is to clean so keeping a watch on common sources of mold and maintaining a dry, ventilated home and drying homes from water damage within 24 hours of the incidence is the best way to prevent mold from happening in the first place. If you have a mold problem and you would like information about how to get it professionally cleaned, please call SERVPRO of Tracy at 209- 834-0200. 
  • We specialize in mold cleanup and restoration. Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

Have Mold Problems?

9/6/2019 (Permalink)

Trust the professionals at SERVPRO of Tracy

Signs of Mold

Mold sounds like a very scary thing, most people have it in their minds that once you see or smell mold that you are already sick. Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors.

Consider the following mold facts:

  1. Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
  2. Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
  3. Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
  4. Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
  5. Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If you see any signs of Mold, call SERVPRO of Tracy today: 209-834-0200

What is Mold?

9/4/2019 (Permalink)

Mold behind cabinets due to water damage

SERVPRO of Tracy would like you to have some fun facts that a person should know about mold before calling the professionals in. Outdoor mold exists nearly everywhere. Most likely, every home has mold somewhere.

Not all mold is harmfully toxic but it can certainly cause allergy problems. Mold helps break down, or decompose, organic material. 

Mold growth in a home is not limited to flooding & water damage – any exposure to moisture such as a lawn sprinkler, condensation, steam (as from an unvented shower in the bathroom) or periodic leaking that is not attended to will foster the growth of mold. 

And your homeowner insurance may specifically exclude coverage for damage directly related to mold.

When it comes to mold, just call in the professionals, the mold mitigation and remediation team of SERVPRO of Tracy on 209-834-0200

Mold Remediation

7/30/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Tracy Team was called to this house in Manteca, CA to clean-up mold remediation. Our team was under full PPE to remediate the mold.

From the moment that our SERVPRO of Tracy team remediation professionals enter your home, an assessment begins to isolate the area where mold currently is growing as well as the source of the moisture that has been feeding the colonies to this point. Through isolating the affected area with negative air chambers and air scrubbers with HEPA filters, our technicians did successfully prevent the spread of spores to new areas of your home while we work to remove the colonies.

Drying the area removes the food source for mold spores, and this process gets accomplished with dehumidification equipment and HEPA Vacuum.

The owners were very happy to see their home nice and clean and thanked SERVPRO of Tracy.

The Story behind MOLD...

7/26/2019 (Permalink)

While we, at SERVPRO of Tracy and many of us think of mold and cringe because we associate it with bad things such as infections, disease and death, the truth of the matter is that there is a lot of mold in the world that we love to eat and couldn’t live without! 

Did you know?

  • Cheese is made from mold.Geotrichum candidum to be exact.
  • Quorn, a meat substitute primarily sold in the UK, is fusarium venenatum.
  • Alexander Fleming, a brilliant Scottish physician, microbiologist and pharmacologist discovered penicillin from a mold called Penicillium Notatum. It was actually the world’s first antibiotic.
  • The immunosuppressant drug cyclosporine, used to suppress the rejection of transplanted organs, is derived from the mold Tolypocladium inflatum.
  • Several statin cholesterol-lowering drugs are derived from molds.

Any questions, feel free to call SERVPRO of Tracy on 209-834-0200

How to Deal with Mold Damage in Your Home

12/19/2018 (Permalink)

Trust SERVPRO of Tracy Professionals to Remove Mold Damage and Prevent Future Growth.

  • There are many misconceptions about mold, and it seems that most of the surrounding area of Tracy homeowners believe that fungal growth is something that is unlikely or improbable for their house. In all actuality, it is a straightforward process for mold to grow in your home, as it only really requires two elements to start colonizing: moisture and organic material.
  • However, even with the ease of which mold damage can occur to your home, many homeowners are still misled to believe fungal growth is not a serious concern. In actuality, mold growth in your house is linked with potential health effects for you and your family when you are exposed, so correcting the issue when you see it should be a priority. Moreover, this is a concern that should get dealt with by certified mold remediation specialists, as they can safely remove the colonies from your home and help you to prevent recurrences in the future.
  • From the moment that our SERVPRO of Tracy IICRC certified remediation professionals enter your home, an assessment begins to isolate the area where mold currently is growing as well as the source of the moisture that has been feeding the colonies to this point. Through isolating the affected area with negative air chambers and air scrubbers with HEPA filters, our technicians can successfully prevent the spread of spores to new areas of your home while we work to remove the colonies.
  • Locating the source of the moisture that feeds this mold growth in your home is a critical component of the remediation process. Otherwise, the mold damage is likely to return again and again. In areas like your bathroom/basement, which is a common location for fungal growth in homes, the culprit is often cracks or vulnerable points in the block construction of the foundation walls that have weakened over time.
  • Drying the area removes the food source for mold spores, and this process gets accomplished with dehumidification equipment and large air movers.
  • Finding mold damage in your home is not something that you should take lightly. Trust SERVPRO of Tracy team of certified mold remediation specialists to help you through the intricate process of removing the presence of mold and fungus from your residence. Give us a call today at 209-834-0200

Found a Mold ?

9/10/2018 (Permalink)

No matter how big or small a mold damage, our SERVPRO of Tracy crew can clean and remediate your issues... Call now - 209-834-0200

Trust SERVPRO of Tracy Professionals to Remove Mold Damage and Prevent Future Growth..

There are many misconceptions about mold, and it seems that most of the Tracy, and it's surrounding areas, homeowners believe that fungal growth is something that is unlikely or improbable for their house. In all actuality, it is a straightforward process for mold to grow in your home, as it only really requires two elements to start colonizing: moisture and organic material.

However, even with the ease of which mold damage can occur to your home. Many homeowners are still misled to believe fungal growth is not a serious concern. In actuality, mold growth in your house is linked with potential health effects for you and your family when you are exposed, so correcting the issue when you see it should be a priority. Moreover, this is a concern that should get dealt with by certified mold remediation specialists, as they can safely remove the colonies from your home and help you to prevent recurrences in the future.

From the moment that our SERVPRO of Tracy IICRC certified remediation professionals enter your home, an assessment begins to isolate the area where mold currently is growing as well as the source of the moisture that has been feeding the colonies to this point. Through isolating the affected area with negative air chambers and air scrubbers with HEPA filters, our technicians can successfully prevent the spread of spores to new areas of your home while we work to remove the colonies.

Drying the area removes the food source for mold spores, and this process gets accomplished with dehumidification equipment and large air movers.

Finding mold damage in your home is not something that you should take lightly. Trust SERVPRO of Tracy team of certified mold remediation specialists to help you through the intricate process of removing the presence of mold and fungus from your business or home.

Call SERVPRO of Tracy - 209-834-0200

Mold Professionals

9/5/2018 (Permalink)

Found a Mold?

When you believe there is mold in your home it is important to call the professionals. Mold can be difficult to find but once identified the Certified Mold Remediation experts from SERVPRO of Tracy can help you with the cleaning and disinfecting of your home.

Let the Professionals do their Magic!

An expert in interior environmental services has special tools to inspect for molds. Air quality testers gather samples from your home. A lab analyzes results to provide information about the extent of an infestation. Mold testing might also include thermographic imaging.

Professional mold remediation experts SERVPRO of Tracy also have the tools and expertise to trap molds and eliminate them. We use containment and personal protective equipment to keep mold from spreading during its eradication and disposal.

For more information call the Mold Professionals at SERVPRO of Tracy on 209-834-0200.

Where do you find Mold?

8/8/2018 (Permalink)

If you see any kinds of mold, Call SERVPRO OF TRACY on 209-834-0200

Homeowners noticed mold growing in their Living Room and straight away they contacted SERVPRO of TRACY to take care of their growing mold.

  • Mold can occur anywhere in a home but mainly is concentrated to areas where moisture is present. These moisture areas are common to the bathroom and basements.
  • Mold can cause respiratory problems and should be removed if found as soon as possible. Most restoration companies only do mold inspections if the mold is visible, an industriale.l hygienist would come in and search for traces of mold that are not visible.
  • One of the first places mold can collect and you may not think to check is under the refrigerator. Under the fridge tends to collect moisture and dirt which can cause a breeding ground for bacteria and mold.
  • Another place is the AC unit. AC units are known to collect debris, dust and moisture from the air, which can lead to mold spores.
  • Mold can even grow in or around a washing machine or its parts. Moisture and lint can cause a presence of mold spores.
  • Other area in the house include anywhere moisture and dirt may form such as window corners.

Our SERVPRO of TRACY's Highly Trained Professional Technicians are at work removing mold by placing a Containment Unit to secure the area.

Mold behind a Washing Machine?

8/8/2018 (Permalink)

For Mold, Fire & Water Cleanup & Restoration Call SERVPRO of Tracy at (209) 834-0200

SERVPRO of Tracy knows Mold is everywhere.  That’s a fact of life all over the world. There is a wide range of mold varieties that can live in almost any location. But mold in small amounts poses little risk and is found in even the cleanest of homes and businesses. When mold colonies become too large, or when they are disturbed by either wind or movement, the mold spreads by sending off spores through the air to colonize other areas including behind a refrigerator or a washing machne.

Perhaps the most important fact to remember about mold is that it’s impossible to eradicate. You can’t get rid of all mold. However, mold remediation is quite possible even in the worst mold situations. 

The Color of the Mold Does Not Matter

In and around Tracy areas many homeowners and business owners want to learn more about mold damage. They want to know what mold means to their health, safety, and the future of their property. You’ll find that much of the information about mold that’s available online is about black mold. Just remember that any type of mold can create unhealthy and harmful conditions. The color of the mold does not matter.

Mold Is in Dry Locations, Too

Mold is found in dry locations—not just in moist ones. Of course, mold can grow more easily in moist, humid areas, but mold located in drier areas only needs to wait for moisture to find it before the mold can grow and send off spores.

For Mold, Fire & Water Cleanup & Restoration Call SERVPRO of Tracy at (209) 834-0200

The professionals at SERVPRO of Tracy are trained in handling mold. We know how to make sure mold does not spread and is contained adequately during the removal process. We also know how to repair mold damage, and when restoration work should include replacing materials. Our goal is restoring your home or property to a clean, healthy, and safe condition. 

Microscopic Mold in Fridge

8/3/2018 (Permalink)

Finding out mold inside your fridge can be stressful.

This refrigerator was not being used and just within a week mold started  appearing. Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

  • Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
  • Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
  • Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
  • Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
  • The owner of this house called SERVPRO OF TRACY to do mold remediation. Our technicians arrived in no time to solve this problem.
  • Our crew first cleaned and disinfected the entire refrigerator inside and outside. Then we used our SERVPRO Signature Scent for a clean and fresh smell.
  • Homeowner was very happy to see her Refrigerator back and it looked like a brand new delivered today. 
  • Any kinds of mold problems in the house, or business call SERVPRO OF TRACY to make it "Like it never even happened."

Stopping Mold Damage in Tracy

12/22/2017 (Permalink)

Stopping mold growth can be a difficult and even hazardous process.

Stopping Mold Damage

Most people think of mold as belonging to a dark, dank place like Washington state, not California. The reality is that can grow in Tracy just as easily as a home anywhere else.

Stopping it completely requires an extensive inventory of anti-fungal and anti-microbial agents and the training to use them. Every SERVPRO technician is trained and tested on each type of chemical agent before we sent them to stop mold damage in your Tracy home. The EPA tested and approved each type we use.

Commercial Disinfectants
This type destroys about 98 percent of the mold and other contaminants found in most homes. The disinfectants we primarily use are phenols, formaldehyde, chlorine, and cleaning alcohols. They cannot be used on every surface though.

Fungistats And Mildewstats
This category slows the rate of growth on organic material like cotton, leather, paper, and wool. The main advantage of using these types of agents is that they do not stain or otherwise damage surfaces.

Sanitizers
These agents are very efficient at reducing microbial levels deemed safe by state and federal health agencies. That makes them especially useful for kitchens and bathrooms. The only drawback is that we have to reapply them regularly or mold can start to grow again.

Sporicides
As an anti-fungal and anti-bacterial agent, a sporicide is exceptional. In a too large concentration, they can be hazardous to the health of anyone near them, so SERVPRO technicians use each one strictly to manufacturer directions.

Sterilants
These are the strongest agents in our inventory. They kill every microorganism they come into contact with, so our technicians are not allowed to use them without protective gear. Chlorine bleach is a sterilant, but it is not as powerful as the agents we use. They do not pit surfaces despite their strength, which makes them perfect for sinks and faucets in kitchens and bathrooms.

Stopping mold growth can be a difficult and even hazardous process. To do it properly, you need a professional restoration company. If you even suspect there is mold in your home, call SERVPRO of Tracy at (209) 834-0200. We are here for you.

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The Truth About Performing Mold Damage Remediation Services On Your Own

9/7/2017 (Permalink)

Trust the professionals at SERVPRO to remove mold found in your home.

Mold Remediation By Professionals Is the Right Choice

Did you discover a small patch of mold in your Lathrop area home? If so, did you call a professional, or did you attempt to clean the area yourself?

Most people these days try to remove mold damage found on their Lathrop property alone, having little success, before calling a professional mold remediation company to take care of a much larger problem over a week later. Whether you believe us or not, it is true. 

More often than not, people end up spreading mold further, causing additional damages to their home and property while attempting to follow some do-it-yourself post they found online for dealing with mold growth in the home. Who can blame them?

A variety of different websites have posted remedies, with a slightly different explanation and approach, to mold contamination, they make it easy to get lost. Unless you receive professional training, you really cannot tell the difference, which leads to people making the mistake of moving forward with half of the information needed to control mold found on their property, correctly.

AMRT applied microbial remediation technicians here at SERVPRO would like to help you understand that regardless of the amount or type of mold found in your home, there is no match for the quality cleaning you receive from professionally trained mold remediation technicians, try as you might.

SERVPRO technicians take training concerning the control of mold found in your home and use a variety of containment methods, air moving, and negative air-flow equipment to prevent its spread. Spraying chemicals you purchase at your local grocery store does not provide you with a full solution you can rely on, nor should they be used as your only control method.

SERVPRO technicians physically remove contaminated materials, often replacing many contents that consist of organic materials mold uses as a food source. We transport and dispose of these items according to EPA, local, state, and federal guidelines while using small applications of an EPA-registered disinfectant to assist with preventing airborne spores from getting away.

Get professional assistance for controlling mold found on your property by calling SERVPRO of Tracy. We provide you with full-service solutions and help you understand how to prevent mold contamination in the future. (209) 834-0200

For more information on the city of Lathrop, visit http://www.ci.lathrop.ca.us/.

Mold Prevention Tips

9/7/2017 (Permalink)

  • Dirty ducts can circulate odors as and contaminats like mold and irritating dust throughout a home or business. 
  • Your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional  uses a Portable ventilation & Air Duct Cleaning System to examine ductwork and make a clean sweep, removing years of dust and grime.
  • Mold are found in every environment, and mold spores reproduce rapidly when moisture is present.
  • An Institute of Medicine study found excessive dampness indoors encourages the growth of mold and other organisms, causing a public health problem.
  • The EPA advice that the potential health concerns from molds are an important reason to prevent moisture problems leading to mold growth.
  • It is especially important to clean up existing indoor mold growth to increase property appeal and retain its value.
  • If a property has experienced a water intrusion, our SERVPRO OF TRACY PROFESSIONAL can inspect the damage to see whether moisture has penetrated materials or is along mold growth. 

Mold Damage Possible in the Dry Climate of Tracy

9/7/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can remediate mold caused by water leaks in your home or business.

Uncontained water can cause mold growth in your home

Microbial growth is not just a plague of steamy, humid areas. It is entirely possible to find mold growth in a semi-arid area, including your home in Tracy. Finding an answer to a persistent mold problem is more likely when professional mold remediation experts weigh in with an inspection and suggestions.

Mold damage is a consequence of water incursion somewhere within your Tracy home. Water is always present indoors but is typically contained in pipes, sinks, tubs, appliances, and drains. If it leaks, seeps, or overflows you are faced with the potential for mold growth that will lead to damage if it is not abated. We offer mold remediation teams to homeowners and commercial clients in our community to ensure that mold proliferation is not a problem for you for long.

Mold spores are a natural part of both outdoor and indoor environments. They cause little harm as they float or collect on surfaces, and are so tiny we rarely realize they are there. When spores combine with water from a leak or a spill growth begins, all that is needed after the moisture activates the growth is a source of organic matter upon which the mold feeds.

Many structural materials and belongings in your home support mold growth once established. Wood and any surface or fixture made from cellulose like wallpaper, sheetrock, documents, or pictures are consumable by mold. Food, soaps, and even hair, dandruff, and dry skin cells nourish mold. No light is necessary, so mold grows unseen beneath cabinets, inside closets, behind walls, and under flooring.

Our SERVPRO mold remediation teams train extensively on the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) protocols determined to be best practices to remediate mold damage. We have the skills and equipment to respond immediately to a mold problem in your home. First, we contain the area with plastic sheeting and often use negative pressure air scrubbers to filter out the moldy particles and keep infectious debris from spreading throughout unaffected areas of your dwelling. Next, we remove the mold colonies and any porous materials they infiltrated, disposing of the infestation pursuant to local law. A sanitization with appropriate antimicrobials completes the cleanup.

Finishing cleanup is not the last step. Our SERVPRO crew also locates and arranges for repair of the leak or other sources of moisture. Mold remediation is only successful when water and mold do not mix in the first place.

SERVPRO of Tracy is your partner for mold damage remediation. Call us at (209) 834-0200 to schedule a consultation.

Click here to learn more about Tracy, California.

How Do you Spot Mold at Home/Business?

8/21/2017 (Permalink)

We, here at SERVPRO of TRACY wants to give you some insights of Mold. 

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level.  Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

  • Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
  • Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
  • Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
  • Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
  • Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
  • Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has any mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Any Signs of Mold, Call SERVPRO of Tracy today –209-834-0200