Archive for September, 2010

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Mold Behind Wallpaper: What You Should Know

Wednesday, September 29th, 2010
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), inexperienced people who have attempted to remove mold from behind wallpaper usually exacerbate the problem by releasing a “massive” amount of spores when the wallpaper is taken down. They also state that just by killing mold, and not getting rid of it, it can still cause serious health problems to some people. Therefore, when dealing with mold behind wallpaper, what you should know is that it is best to contact an export mold remediation company. This will ensure that the problem will be effectively resolved, and will provide a safe environment for you and your family.

Usually people who have mold behind wallpaper may not suspect that it is there. The most common place for mold to grow is behind the wallpaper that is in bathroom. As you can imagine, this is where there is a lot of moisture present from daily showering, etc. Therefore, it is a breading ground for mold because the glue also attracts organic materials, such as dust, which is the favorite food combination for mold.

The most common type of black mold is called “stachybotrys”, which is very toxic to your health. Many times, before there is even any physical signs of mold present, mold may still be growing, but in a different form. Therefore, if you suspect that you may have a mold problem, but don’t see any evidence of it, there are many clues that you can look for. For instance, if you find faint purple, yellow, blue, or red stains, you might want to investigate further; as mold can be many colors, even colorless. Also, if you find bubbles where the wallpaper no longer sticks, then you should check further. There may be a possibility that mold in underneath other parts of the wallpaper where moisture is trapped.

If you find mold behind your wallpaper, it is best if you call a company who specializes in mold remediation. Damage can be limited to a small area such as a leaking window or air conditioning unit. Or, you can have a bigger problem such as a major plumbing leak. Whatever the case, you want to be able to resume a healthy living environment within your home by leaving this problem up to mold remediation exports. They will not only remove the mold, but investigate the source of the problem, so that it won’t occur again.

Call us today for a free consultation 800-516-8059 or by email at: info@superrestoration.comIn your service,

Rene Vargas
Super Restoration
1 800 516 8059

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Why you shouldn’t paint over mold

Wednesday, September 29th, 2010
Mold is not something that only grows on old food in your refrigerator. Instead, it is something that can spread like wildfire around a home or commercial space. If you have mold, you need to deal with this as soon as possible. Mold appears after a flood or after something like an old washing machine breaking down and releasing fluids into a space. If this water is not dealt with, mold can end up growing, which can turn into a health risk. Do not think you can simply hide the mold and call it a day. The following are some reasons for why you shouldn’t paint over mold.

Chiefly, mold is a health risk. Most people are allergic to mold, which can really affect one’s breathing and mobility. You should not have to wake up coughing and with watery eyes just because you decided to hide mold rather than work with a company that can get rid of it for you. Hiding the issue will not get rid of it.

In fact, the mold will keep growing, which will make the paint job a waste of time, money, and resources. Mold is something that will still be able to be seen, especially when it starts to grow again. Even the thickest coats of paint will not be able to help you. This is why you should think about hiring a professional coach to help you.

Be smart if you spot mold in your home: Get rid of it with the help of a professional company. This will protect your loved ones’ health and will ensure your home is not overrun by this issue. Work with experts in the field and the mold will be gone in no time at all, something which will protect your property from wear and tear.

Call us today for a free consultation 800-516-8059 or by email at: info@superrestoration.comIn your service,

Rene Vargas
Super Restoration
1 800 516 8059

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Water Damage Effects on Linoleum Flooring

Monday, September 27th, 2010
When torrential rains or busted water pipes flood a house, homeowners are at a loss. Most people do not know how to deal effectively with a flooded home. Some things in a water-damaged home are not salvageable. However, linoleum is not one of them if handled in the proper manner. That is why many people hire a restoration company to clean up after a floor has been flooded.

Wiping the water from linoleum is simply not sufficient. Linoleum will stain if exposed to water for a long period. The linoleum needs removed quickly and thoroughly dried to salvage it. That is only the beginning step. The sub floor has to completely dry as well. The sub floor is the foundation for the linoleum, so it is vital that that it be done right.

The sub floor requires quick and thorough drying, or the homeowner will experience problems in the future. If linoleum lies on a damp sub floor, mold will grow in the moist environment between the two. It may take a little longer, but if the sub floor is anything other than concrete, it will begin to rot. The homeowner may never see the mold or rot until it is too late to do anything but replace the entire sub floor and linoleum.

One advantage to hiring a restoration company is they have the equipment needed to dry the floor as quickly as possible. A restoration company will remove and salvage the linoleum by using big fans and vacuums. Fans and vacuums brought into the home will thoroughly dry the sub floors. When the floor is completely dry, the salvaged linoleum can be re-laid. Since the floor is dry, no mold or rot will exist between the linoleum and the sub floor.

The majority of insurance companies will pay, or partially pay, for the cost of a restoration company. It will depend on each individual insurance policy and coverage. It is more cost effective, for an insurance company to pay to have everything dried thoroughly, than the replacement cost of linoleum and sub floor later.

Call us today for a free consultation 800-516-8059 or by email at: info@superrestoration.comIn your service,

Rene Vargas
Super Restoration
1 800 516 8059

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Soot damage to a home effects on health

Friday, September 24th, 2010
A fire is often a traumatic event for a person, especially if one’s home or office is affected. However, what many people do not consider following a fire are the after-effects. The property in question may still be intact, but there may be a lot of soot to deal with. Dealing with such an issue is more than simply having a couch vacuumed or washing a rug. Instead, it means that you will have to call in a professional company to deal with all of the soot. The following are some of the major effects of having soot in a home.

Soot can ruin a home. It is incredibly hard to get rid of. This debris has been known to stay in a home for more than a decade, even with constant cleaning. This means that your home may not be the same if you do not enlist the help of experts who know how to rid a space of soot. You do not want your home to smell and look like soot months or years after a fire.

And of course, there are some serious health risks to having soot in a home. This is something that can affect a person’s breathing. If you or loved ones already have allergies and issues with asthma, this can make it nearly impossible to sleep at night. Additionally, soot is more than dirt: It can have harmful chemicals and pieces of glass in it, which is why you should take the time to rid your home or space of this. Talk to professionals and they can come in with the latest equipment and techniques to thoroughly clean your home.

Soot damage is a serious after effect of a fire, which is why it is important to really talk to professionals about cleaning up after a fire. Treat this seriously so that you do not put your loved ones’ health at danger or have to deal with the smell and look of soot in every nook and cranny of your home or office.

Call us today for a free consultation 800-516-8059 or by email at: info@superrestoration.comIn your service,

Rene Vargas
Super Restoration
1 800 516 8059

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Infrared imaging, why you need it after water damage

Wednesday, September 22nd, 2010
After a fire or flood, it is important to really take care of a space. The property may still be standing, but there will no doubt be a lot of water damage, soot, and debris to take care of. Do not think that you can handle all of this yourself. Dealing with the aftermath of a natural disaster or accident can be really difficult. You just may not have the technology, skill, or training to thoroughly clean a space following water damage. This is why you should talk to a company that is well versed in how to detect and deal with water damage. Such companies are often used by huge corporations and companies and by insurance groups looking to deal with such issues in a quick, efficient, and cost effective manner. The following are some reasons for why you should invest in such a group and to invest in infrared imaging.

Sometimes, water damage is not simply mopping up excess water and calling it a day. Water can seep into everything from carpets to walls. By using the latest in infrared imaging, one can spot water damage or leakage they may not normally see with just their eyes. This means that what could ruin a home’s structure and property could be removed. State of the art electronics are important because they can save you a lot of money when it comes to repair costs. After all, you do not want to receive your insurance payout or compensation until you know the full extent of all the damages. This is why infrared imaging is just so valuable an investment and why you should always work with water damage experts after a flood, fire, or similar issue.

Be smart so that your investments are always protected. Using the latest imaging techniques and equipment means that you will never have to worry that there is water still lurking in your home. Cover all your bases and work with professionals who will explore every nook and cranny of a home or commercial space.

Call us today for a free consultation 800-516-8059 or by email at: info@superrestoration.comIn your service,

Rene Vargas
Super Restoration
1 800 516 8059

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Most Common Places To Check For Mold Growth

Monday, September 20th, 2010
Mold Growth – What To Look For
Mold growth can be dangerous. Particularly, if it’s black mold. Mold occurs as a result of too much moisture in an enclosed area. Spores form and begin to grow into full colonies until they are large enough to be visible with the human eye. Mold can be a result of moisture in an enclosed room with too high a temperature or even in ambient temperatures where spores can attach themselves to walls and floors. This is the most common place to find mold growth.

Check Regularly For Mold Growth
In homes where there are high levels of humidity, homes and buildings are often the most common places to check for mold growth. Check basement floors and walls regularly for signs of moisture or moisture vapors in small cracks and crevices. Don’t overlook the upper levels of structures either. Many times, black mold growth can develop around water pipes under the kitchen or bathroom sinks. If the structure has had any damage due to basement flooding or water damage from a fire, it is important to have the structure thoroughly inspected for mold as soon as possible.

Mold In The Refrigerator?
Mold occurs in and around refrigerators as a result of inadequate maintenance. Check behind refrigerators as well as in any collection pans where condensation can occur. Condensation is one of the chief reasons for mold growth. So also check dishwashers and garbage disposal units thoroughly. A reputable inspection and maintenance company that specializes in mold growth remediation is the best way to remediate any problems or potential problems. These professional consultants know all of the most important areas of a structure that can cause mold growth. They can provide a check list after their inspections are done and offer advice to reduce mold growth in the future.

Mold Growth – An Odor Problem
Whenever there is a mold growth problem, by the time mold odors are detected in a structure, it may already be too late to do it yourself to remove the source. Call in a professional for maximum peace of mind.

Call us today for a free consultation 800-516-8059 or by email at: info@superrestoration.comIn your service,

Rene Vargas
Super Restoration
1 800 516 8059

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Do you have the proper insurance for water damage?

Friday, September 17th, 2010
No one goes to sleep and thinks that they will wake up to a major flood or natural disaster. However, emergencies and accidents are not planned. If your home or office has experienced water damage, it is important to really protect yourself. The right insurance means that you will be able to clean up and repair your space after there is some serious water damage. The following are some of the many things to consider when searching for proper coverage for such issues.

First, always read up on any home or property insurance plan you may have. Make sure that it specifically states that it will cover water damage. You do not want to have a natural disaster strike only to realize that because the word water is not mentioned in the plan that you will not be covered. The fine print really does matter. This is why you should ask any and all questions before you sign on the dotted line and commit to any one plan or company. Be smart about this investment so that you always have the help you need when a crisis or emergency strikes.

Similarly, talk to the company to see how such damages or issues are dealt with. Some companies will work with a restoration company and have any and all repairs – from dealing with mold to cleaning up the water – dealt with directly. However, other coverage or plans will offer you payouts so that you can then handle the damage yourself. It is important to know how this process works so that you are not surprised when it comes time to deal with such an issue.

The more prepared you are, the better off you will be. Do not wonder if your insurance plan covers water damage. Ask the company and try to amend this if you find out you do not have coverage. Water damage can ruin a home: not only can it destroy your property but it can result in mold and wood warping, which could make your home unlivable. Protect yourself so that you have the help you need following a flood or emergency.

Call us today for a free consultation 800-516-8059 or by email at: info@superrestoration.comIn your service,

Rene Vargas
Super Restoration
1 800 516 8059

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How Fast Can Mold Grow And Become A Problem?

Wednesday, September 15th, 2010
Unfortunately, mold can be found almost anywhere. However, when mold is present in the indoor environment there is usually moisture present. Mold especially likes to grow where temperatures are 68°F, dim lighting, and very little air circulation. Mold spores are known to travel throughout the air, attach itself to any damp surface, and then begin breaking down the material as it grows. Therefore, it is vitally important for homeowners to contact a mold remediation company when they have experienced a flood or fire in their home.

How Fast Can Mold Grow?

Surprisingly, mold will start growing immediately after spores are attached to an item. Mold can easily grow within 24 to 48 hours, and will begin to colonize in 1 to 12 days. Most times, mold is already a problem before it is discovered. Due to the fact, that the spores are hard to destroy, mold will sometimes return even after the mold source is gone. That’s why it is vitally important to contact a mold restoration company for appropriate and permanent remediation.

When Can I Know That Mold May Be Present In My Home?

Homeowners who have experienced certain problems which are known to be favorable to mold, will usually have mold present. Such mold causing problems are:

Fire
Flood
Plumbing leaks
Leaky Roof
Swollen floor boards/walls
Water stained ceilings

Where Does In-Door Mold Like To Grow?

In-door mold likes to grow on wet cellulose materials. However, homeowners should keep in mind that mold can still grow even when the moisture problem has been fixed. At this time the mold will go dormant, and continue surviving without moisture. Most likely, mold will just continue to feed on materials such as sheetrock, ceiling tiles, wallpaper, carpet, wood, adhesives, paints, upholstery, and fabric.

What Are The Health Effects Due To Mold Exposure?

Mold can be extremely harmful to people. Many of the symptoms related to mold resembles that of a common cold or allergy condition. Therefore, often times the appropriate diagnoses goes undetected. However, most common symptoms that are associated with mold exposure are:

Wheezy/coughing
Watery/Red Eyes
Nasal and sinus congestion
Throat irritation
Skin irritation
Nosebleeds
Headaches
Extreme fatigue
Memory loss
Dizziness
Fevers

In addition, mold can also cause very serious conditions, and can be fatal to infants, seniors, and adults with previously compromised immune systems.

Call us today for a free consultation 800-516-8059 or by email at: info@superrestoration.comIn your service,

Rene Vargas
Super Restoration
1 800 516 8059

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Where did this water come from?

Monday, September 13th, 2010
The most common cause of water damage is flooding due to a river or creek jumping its banks and coming into your home. Other less common causes of water damage can be just as detrimental to your home and your belongings.

Water Heater Leaks
Most homes have a water heater, and most homeowners do not think about it unless it is either not working properly or bursts. Therefore, it is often out of sight, and out of mind for most homeowners. It is common for these to leak as they age, and over time, the leaking can cause significant damage to the floor and subfloor on which the water heater sits. Therefore, it is important to check your water heater and if there is water leaking from either the top or bottom, call a maintenance man to take a look to determine if you could have a larger problem on your hands.

Pipe Bursting Or Leaking
The walls of most homes not only separate living spaces from one another, but also house wiring and plumbing that serves your family’s needs. Pipes buried in between pieces of plaster or sheetrock can burst from freezing or just from age. Older pipes are prone to have weak spots that could burst and cause water damage within the walls that can go unnoticed if it is only a small drip. If you notice wet spots at the bottom of your walls, it may be indicative of a larger problem.

Ew… Mold!
All water damage, large or small, can cause mold to incubate and grow in your home. Mold is unhealthy to all people, but especially young children and the elderly. Breathing in mold spores can cause respiratory issues and can cause you to develop a more serious problem. Therefore, it is important that if your home sustains water damage from an obvious flood or one of the more subtle ways described above, you must contact a remediation company immediately to ensure that the damage is addressed.

Hopefully, these helpful tips on water damage have been helpful and will allow you to be more aware of what may be going on in your home that is difficult to detect.

Call us today for a free consultation 800-516-8059 or by email at: info@superrestoration.comIn your service,

Rene Vargas
Super Restoration
1 800 516 8059

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Different Types of Mold Growth In A Home

Friday, September 10th, 2010
Mold growth in a home can rapidly cause damage in a number of ways. The presence of mold can not only ruin the interior of the house such as carpet, carpet padding or wood work, it can also cause health problems that will increase over time if not properly treated. When faced with a mold problem, the first step is to remove any visible mold such as obviously damage carpets, rugs or items. In some cases it is necessary to have a professional remove them. Removing visible mold is only the first step, not all mold may be obvious to the eye, making a mold restoration company a necessity in restoring the home to its previous state.

Penicillium is one of the most commonly found types of mold in homes. It is most often found on decaying food or soil as well as dust in central air units and can cause health problems and allergies in both humans and animals. Spores of this mold spread easily through the air.

Cladosporium, a powdery dark colored mold, is found on a number of surfaces though mostly on dead organic materials. It is known to cause a number of health problems such as rashes and other skin issues in humans.

Stachybotrys is often referred to as black mold, one of the most dangerous types that is found in homes. This mold produces toxins that can cause serious health complications such as headaches, asthma and cancer. Mold of this variety grows in places that are harder to clean without professional services.

Memnoniella often is found in cottons, woods or other porous materials. It is normally found growing in places where Stachbotrys grows as they are commonly found growing together. This mold is very dangerous and causes serious health problems if left untreated.

Mold of any variety can cause not only structural damage but health conditions which may develop into serious complications if not treated. The most effective method to restoring a home to a mold free state is by hiring professionals who specialize in mold removal and treatment.

Call us today for a free consultation 800-516-8059 or by email at: info@superrestoration.comIn your service,

Rene Vargas
Super Restoration
1 800 516 8059

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