How to Address Tree Damage to Your Property After a Storm

9/11/2023 (Permalink)

By taking prompt and responsible action, you can restore your property's integrity and maintain a safe and beautiful landscape for years to come.

Severe storms can leave a trail of destruction, with fallen trees posing a significant threat to homes and businesses. As a responsible homeowner or property owner, it's essential to address tree damage promptly and take necessary steps to ensure the safety of your property and everyone around. In this blog, we'll explore the importance of addressing tree damage after a storm and provide practical tips on how to handle the situation effectively.

Prioritize Safety First

When dealing with tree damage after a storm, safety should always come first. Follow these precautions:

1. Keep a safe distance from damaged trees, especially those with hanging or broken branches that could fall unexpectedly.
2. Check for downed power lines near fallen trees and avoid contact with them. Report any issues to your utility company immediately.
3. Inspect your property for structural damage caused by fallen trees or branches and address any potential hazards.

Assessing Tree Damage

Once it's safe to do so, assess the extent of the tree damage:

1. Look for broken branches that need to be removed promptly. Avoid attempting to remove large branches on your own, as this can be dangerous.
2. Examine trees that may have been uprooted or are leaning dangerously. Leaning trees with weakened root systems can pose risks to nearby structures.
3. Inspect the tree's canopy for crown damage. Stripped leaves and broken limbs can leave the tree vulnerable to disease and pest infestations.

Seek Professional Help

For significant tree damage or tree removal, it's best to enlist the services of a professional arborist:

1. Arborists have the expertise and equipment to safely assess and address tree damage.
2. Removing large branches or uprooted trees requires specialized skills to prevent further damage or injuries.
3. Arborists can determine whether a damaged tree can be saved or if removal is necessary, considering the tree's overall health and condition.

Addressing Tree Damage to Your Home or Business

Dealing with tree damage to your property requires careful attention and action:

1. Document the Damage: Take photographs of the tree damage for insurance purposes. This documentation will be valuable when filing a claim.
2. Temporary Repairs: If your property has sustained damage, consider making temporary repairs to prevent further harm. However, ensure you prioritize your safety and seek professional assistance from companies such as SERVPRO as soon as possible.
3. Clearing Debris: Remove fallen branches and debris carefully to clear pathways and access points around your home or business.

Tree Care and Restoration

Once the immediate safety concerns have been addressed, focus on tree care and restoration:

1. Pruning: Trim broken branches and prune damaged limbs to promote the tree's healing process and prevent decay.
2. Mulching and Fertilizing: Apply mulch around the base of damaged trees and consider fertilizing to aid in their recovery.
3. Watering: Adequately water affected trees, especially those with crown damage, to support their revival.

Addressing tree damage after a storm is crucial for the safety and well-being of your home or business. Prioritize safety, assess the extent of the damage, and seek professional help when needed. Document the damage for insurance purposes and clear debris carefully to ensure a safe environment. Remember to provide proper care and attention to damaged trees to aid in their recovery. By taking prompt and responsible action, you can restore your property's integrity and maintain a safe and beautiful landscape for years to come.

Don't Toss It Yet! Exploring the Benefits of Cleaning Fire-Affected Electronics

8/14/2023 (Permalink)

After a fire, the first instinct is often to assume that electronics are beyond repair and should be discarded.

A fire incident can be a distressing experience for any homeowner, leading to damage and destruction of personal belongings. Among the items most vulnerable to fire are electronic devices, including laptops, smartphones, televisions, and more. While it may seem tempting to discard fire-affected electronics, there is hope for salvaging these valuable items through professional cleaning. In this article, we will explore the benefits of cleaning fire-affected electronics and how this restoration process can help homeowners recover their valuable gadgets.

Assessing Fire-Affected Electronics

After a fire, the first instinct is often to assume that electronics are beyond repair and should be discarded. However, before making any decisions, it's essential to assess the extent of the damage. Fire-affected electronics may suffer from visible soot, smoke residue, and water damage from firefighting efforts. Professional electronic cleaning specialists can carefully evaluate each device to determine if restoration is possible.

Proper Handling and Cleaning Techniques

Cleaning fire-affected electronics is not a task to be undertaken lightly. These delicate devices require specialized cleaning techniques to ensure their safe restoration. Certified professionals possess the expertise and knowledge to handle electronic components, delicate circuitry, and sensitive screens without causing further damage. Attempting DIY cleaning may risk permanent damage or render the devices irreparable.

Minimizing Financial Loss

Electronics represent a significant financial investment for homeowners. Discarding fire-damaged electronics without exploring restoration options can lead to substantial financial losses. By opting for professional cleaning services, homeowners have the chance to salvage their gadgets and avoid the cost of replacing them with new devices.

Restoring Functionality and Performance

Professional electronic cleaning can effectively remove soot, smoke particles, and water residue from the affected devices. This restoration process can help recover the functionality and performance of the electronics to a significant extent. In many cases, restored devices can operate almost as well as they did before the fire incident.

Data Retrieval and Memory Preservation

In addition to restoring functionality, electronic cleaning can also facilitate data retrieval and memory preservation. Vital information, cherished photos, and important documents stored on fire-affected devices can be recovered through professional cleaning, offering invaluable peace of mind to homeowners.

Sustainable and Environmentally Friendly

Salvaging fire-affected electronics through cleaning aligns with sustainable practices and environmental consciousness. By opting for restoration instead of replacing devices, homeowners contribute to reducing electronic waste, which can be harmful to the environment.

Insurance Claims Support

Cleaning fire-affected electronics is often an essential step in the insurance claims process. Insurance providers may require detailed documentation of damaged items and their restoration efforts. By utilizing professional cleaning services, homeowners can provide thorough records to support their insurance claims and potentially maximize their coverage.

When faced with fire-affected electronics, the knee-jerk reaction may be to discard them immediately. However, exploring the benefits of professional electronic cleaning can lead to a much more favorable outcome. With the help of certified specialists, such as our SERVPRO of Boston Downtown/Back Bay/South Boston team, homeowners can salvage their valuable gadgets, restore their functionality, and preserve cherished memories. Furthermore, opting for electronic restoration supports sustainable practices and can significantly minimize financial losses. Before saying goodbye to fire-affected electronics, it is well worth considering professional cleaning as a viable and cost-effective solution.

Is It Normal to Have Water in My Crawlspace?

7/25/2023 (Permalink)

Discovering water in your crawlspace can be concerning, and it's natural to wonder if it's a common occurrence or a cause for alarm. In this blog, we will explore the question, "Is it normal to have water in my crawlspace?" We will discuss the potential causes of water intrusion, the risks associated with a wet crawlspace, and the steps you can take to address the issue effectively.

Understanding Water Intrusion in Crawlspace

A crawlspace is a susceptible area for water intrusion due to its location and proximity to the ground. While a small amount of moisture or dampness may be expected, standing water or excessive moisture in the crawlspace is not normal and should be addressed promptly. Here are some common causes of water in the crawlspace:

Poor Drainage - Improper or inadequate drainage around your home can lead to water pooling near the foundation. This water can seep into the crawlspace through cracks, gaps, or porous foundation walls.

Plumbing Leaks - Leaking pipes or faulty plumbing fixtures can introduce water into the crawlspace. Over time, even minor leaks can accumulate and cause significant moisture issues.

Groundwater Seepage - In regions with high water tables or heavy rainfall, groundwater can infiltrate the crawlspace. This can happen through hydrostatic pressure or cracks in the foundation.

Insufficient Ventilation - Inadequate airflow and ventilation in the crawlspace can trap moisture and create a conducive environment for water accumulation.

The Risks of a Wet Crawlspace

Having water in your crawlspace can lead to various problems, including:

Structural Damage

Excess moisture can weaken the foundation, causing it to shift, crack, or deteriorate over time. This compromises the structural integrity of your home.

Mold and Mildew Growth

A wet environment provides an ideal breeding ground for mold and mildew. These microbial organisms can multiply rapidly, leading to health issues and further damage to building materials.

Pest Infestation

Dampness in the crawlspace attracts pests like termites, ants, and rodents, which can damage insulation, electrical wiring, and wooden structures.

Indoor Air Quality Issues

Moisture from the crawlspace can rise into your living spaces, affecting the overall indoor air quality and potentially causing respiratory problems for occupants.

Addressing Water in the Crawlspace

If you have water in your crawlspace, it's essential to take appropriate action to prevent further damage and maintain a healthy living environment. Here are some steps to consider:

Identify and Address the Source

Hire a professional to inspect your crawlspace and identify the source of water intrusion. This can be drainage issues, plumbing leaks, or foundation cracks. Fixing the underlying problem is crucial to prevent future water accumulation.

Install Proper Drainage Systems

Implementing effective drainage solutions, such as French drains or sump pumps, can redirect water away from the foundation and prevent it from entering the crawlspace.

Improve Ventilation and Encapsulation

Properly ventilate the crawlspace to promote airflow and reduce moisture buildup. Additionally, consider crawlspace encapsulation, which involves sealing the area with a vapor barrier to prevent moisture intrusion.

Seek Professional Assistance

Consulting with a reputable disaster restoration company that specializes in crawlspace waterproofing and remediation can provide expert guidance and ensure comprehensive solutions for your specific situation.

While some moisture in a crawlspace may be normal, standing water or excessive dampness is not. It is crucial to address water intrusion promptly to avoid structural damage, mold growth, and

Emergency Preparedness 101: Conducting Effective Emergency Drills at Work

6/12/2023 (Permalink)

As a disaster restoration company, we know the importance of being prepared for emergencies. Conducting regular emergency drills is one way to ensure that your workplace is ready to handle unexpected situations. In this blog, we'll go over the steps for conducting an emergency drill at work to help keep your employees safe.

Step 1: Plan the Drill

Before conducting an emergency drill, it's important to plan out the details. Determine what type of emergency you want to simulate, such as a fire or earthquake, and decide on a date and time that works for everyone. Make sure to communicate the drill plan to all employees, including what actions they should take during the drill.

Step 2: Conduct a Safety Review

Before conducting the drill, review the safety procedures for the emergency you'll be simulating. Make sure all employees are aware of the procedures and know how to respond. This review should include identifying emergency exits, the location of first-aid kits and fire extinguishers, and any other safety equipment that may be needed.

Step 3: Conduct the Drill

When conducting the drill, make sure to treat it as if it were a real emergency. This means activating alarms and instructing employees to follow the emergency procedures outlined in the safety review. After the drill, review the results to identify any areas for improvement and adjust your emergency plan accordingly.

Step 4: Debrief and Provide Feedback

After the drill, it's important to debrief with employees to discuss what worked well and what could be improved. This feedback can be used to improve the emergency plan and to ensure that all employees are prepared for future emergencies. Make sure to also thank employees for their participation and emphasize the importance of emergency preparedness.

Step 5: Conduct Regular Drills

Conducting regular emergency drills is key to ensuring that your workplace is prepared for unexpected situations. Make sure to schedule drills on a regular basis, such as once a quarter, to ensure that all employees are familiar with the emergency procedures and to identify any areas for improvement.

In conclusion, conducting emergency drills at work is an important part of ensuring that your workplace is prepared for unexpected situations. By following these steps and conducting regular drills, you can help keep your employees safe and minimize the impact of emergencies. If your workplace has experienced a disaster or emergency, our team at SERVPRO of Boston Downtown/Back Bay/South Boston is here to help with disaster restoration services. Contact us today to learn more.

For more information on emergency preparedness and to access additional resources, visit the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) website.

The Silent Thief: How Mold Can Damage Your Personal Belongings and What You Can Do to Protect Them

5/16/2023 (Permalink)

By taking these steps, you can protect your personal belongings and ensure they remain usable for years to come.

Mold is a common issue that many people face, and it can be incredibly damaging to your personal belongings. It can grow on a wide variety of surfaces, including fabric, paper, wood, and even electronics. If left untreated, mold can cause irreversible damage and even render your belongings unusable. In this blog, we'll discuss how mold can affect your personal belongings and what you can do to prevent and address the issue.

Fabric Items

Mold can grow on a wide variety of fabric items, including clothing, upholstery, and bedding. It thrives in damp, humid environments, and can quickly spread if left unchecked. Mold can cause the fabric to become discolored, stained, and even develop a musty odor. In severe cases, it can also weaken the fabric fibers, causing them to deteriorate and tear. To prevent mold growth on fabric items, it is important to keep them clean and dry. If you notice any signs of mold growth, such as discoloration or a musty smell, it is best to have them professionally cleaned or disposed of if necessary.

Paper and Books

Mold can also grow on paper and books, which can be particularly damaging as they often hold sentimental or historical value. Mold can cause the paper to become discolored and weak, and it can also damage the ink or printing on the paper. In severe cases, mold can even cause the paper to disintegrate entirely. To prevent mold growth on paper and books, it is important to keep them in a dry environment and away from areas with high humidity levels. 

Wood and Furniture

Mold can also grow on wood and furniture, which can be particularly challenging to address. Mold can cause wood to become discolored, weakened, and even warped. It can also cause furniture to become musty and develop an unpleasant odor. To prevent mold growth on wood and furniture, it is important to keep them dry and well-ventilated.

Electronics

Mold can even grow on electronics, which can be incredibly damaging and even dangerous. Mold can cause electronics to malfunction, and it can also create a fire hazard if it grows near electrical components. To prevent mold growth on electronics, it is important to keep them dry and well-ventilated. 

In conclusion, mold can be incredibly damaging to your personal belongings, and it is important to take steps to prevent and address the issue. Keep your belongings clean and dry, and if you notice any signs of mold growth, it is best to have them professionally restored or disposed of if necessary. By taking these steps, you can protect your personal belongings and ensure they remain usable for years to come.

5 Steps to Ensure Your Business is Ready for a Fire Emergency

4/13/2023 (Permalink)

Being prepared for a fire emergency is crucial for any business.

Fires can happen anytime, anywhere, and can cause significant damage to businesses. That's why it's crucial to be prepared for a fire emergency. In this blog, we'll discuss the steps you can take to ensure that your company and its employees are ready in the event of a fire.

Conduct a Fire Risk Assessment

The first step in being prepared for a fire emergency is to conduct a fire risk assessment. This assessment should identify potential fire hazards in your workplace and evaluate the risks associated with them. You should also assess the current fire safety measures you have in place and determine if any additional measures are needed.

Develop an Emergency Plan

Once you've identified the potential fire hazards in your workplace, you should develop an emergency plan that outlines the steps to be taken in the event of a fire. This plan should include:

• Emergency contact information for local fire departments, ambulance services, and police departments.
• Evacuation procedures, including designated evacuation routes and assembly points.
• Procedures for accounting for all employees after an evacuation.
• Procedures for shutting down critical operations before leaving the building.
• Procedures for communicating with employees and emergency services during an emergency.

Install Fire Protection Equipment

Installing fire protection equipment such as smoke detectors, fire alarms, and fire sprinkler systems can help reduce the risk of fire and minimize the damage caused by a fire. It's crucial to ensure that this equipment is installed and maintained correctly to ensure its effectiveness.

Train Employees

Training your employees on fire safety and emergency procedures is critical to ensure that everyone knows what to do in the event of a fire. Your fire safety training should include:

• How to use fire extinguishers and other firefighting equipment.
• How to evacuate the building safely.
• How to account for all employees after an evacuation.
• How to shut down critical operations before leaving the building.
• How to contact emergency services.

Conduct Regular Fire Drills

Regular fire drills can help ensure that your employees are prepared and know what to do in the event of a fire. It's recommended that you conduct fire drills at least twice a year to ensure that everyone is familiar with the emergency procedures.

Being prepared for a fire emergency is crucial for any business. By conducting a fire risk assessment, developing an emergency plan, training employees, installing fire protection equipment, and conducting regular fire drills, you can help minimize the risk of fire and ensure that everyone knows what to do in the event of an emergency. As experienced fire damage restoration professionals, we know the importance of being prepared and are here to help you every step of the way.

4 Steps To Take When Preparing For An Insurance Adjuster's Visit

3/13/2023 (Permalink)

Here are four steps to take to prepare for an insurance adjuster's visit.

When you have a homeowners insurance claim, it's important to be prepared. The adjuster will want to know what happened and how much of your home is damaged. You need to be ready with the facts and documentation so that the process can move forward quickly and easily. Here are four steps to take to prepare for an insurance adjuster's visit.

Take photos of the damage.

Before an insurance adjuster visits your home, it's critical that you take pictures of all of the damage. This will help them determine the cost of repairs and how much they should pay out on your claim.

• Take photos of any broken items or furniture lying around your home.
• Take photos from different angles (up close, far away) so that they can see what kind of damage has been done to each item in detail.
• Take photos showing all sides of each piece of furniture or appliance that was damaged by water or fire etc.,

Make temporary fixes to prevent more damage.

A temporary fix is a quick and easy way to repair your home that will prevent further damage. For example, if there is a window broken in your house, you could board up the hole until the insurance adjuster has visited and you can begin making a permanent fix. If your home has suffered from a water leak, another example of a temporary fix could be to shut off the main water supply to prevent more water from damaging your property or place a bucket under a leaking pipe.

A temporary fix does not have to be expensive or difficult; it just needs to hold up until you're able to get a real repair done by professionals.

Keep receipts and other documentation.

The most important thing you can do is to keep receipts and other documentation of everything that happened. This will help you make an accurate claim, and it will also help your adjuster if there are any discrepancies later on in the process.

Create a list of damaged belongings.

Next, you need to create a list of your belongings. This step is also known as creating a "Home Inventory" list. This includes not only the items that have been damaged but also any receipts for those items. You may also want to take photos of these items so that they can be included on this list as well. This will help them determine the value of any damaged belongings as well as how much money is owed by the insurance company.

Be sure to give detailed descriptions of each item on your list--this will help ensure that there is no confusion between similar pieces (e.g., two televisions with different screen sizes).

Be prepared!

An insurance adjuster visit can offer insight into your claim process, so be prepared! Make sure that you have all of your documents ready. An adjuster will want to see receipts, invoices, and other proof of damages before they give you any money on your claim.

If you're in the middle of a home or business insurance claim, an adjuster visit can be a stressful experience. But if you're prepared and know what to expect, it can actually be beneficial for both parties involved. By knowing what questions will be asked, how long this process takes, and how much money could potentially be covered by your policy, you'll have more peace of mind when faced with making decisions about coverage or repairs.

6 Common Causes of Water Damage

2/14/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage can happen unexpectedly, give SERVPRO a call at the first sign of damage.

Water damage can happen to anyone at any time, and it's important to be prepared for it. The best way to prevent water damage is by knowing the common causes of it. Below is a list of some of the top reasons you might have experienced water damage in your home or business.

Water Damage From Faulty Pipes

One of the most common causes of water damage is faulty pipes. If you have a leaky pipe or faucet, it can cause serious damage to the walls and floors in your home. The most common types of damage are:

• Leaking pipes
• Clogged pipes
• Burst pipes

When the pipe is worn or damaged, it loses its ability to move water. This means that it can leak or burst, causing a flood and potentially damaging your home.

To avoid this problem, it's important to check the pipes in your home regularly. If they look damaged or have leaks or other signs of wear, call a professional plumber to have them repaired or replaced.

Water Damage in the Gutters

Leaves and debris can clog the gutters, causing them to overflow and cause water damage. If you don't regularly clean your gutters, you may not be aware of any potential problems until it's too late. To prevent your gutters from causing water damage, it is important to clean your gutters at least once per year.

Water Damage From Appliances

Appliances that use water can leak, resulting in damage to your home or business. Leaks are often caused by faulty valves or seals, which may need to be replaced by a qualified technician. The following appliances can cause water damage:

• Water heaters
• Washing machines
• Dishwashers
• Refrigerators
• Furnaces and hot water heaters

Water Damage From Supply Line Leaks

Water damage from supply line leaks is a common problem. Leaks can be caused by loose fittings, corroded pipes, or defective valves. If you suspect a leak in your home's plumbing system, call in a professional to investigate.

Water Damage From Clogged Drains

The most common cause of water damage is clogged drains. This can happen for a number of reasons, including: 

• Hair and other debris getting stuck in the drain
• A blockage due to foreign objects or food items being flushed down the toilet
• Grease buildup in pipes

Severe Weather

Severe weather is a common cause of water damage. This can include floods, hurricanes, and tornadoes. When inclement weather occurs in your area, it could cause water damage from leaks or flooding. It can also cause significant structural damage such as roof damage.

During these events, you should take extra precautions to ensure that your property is protected from any storm damage or flooding that might occur.

Water damage can be a serious problem that must be dealt with immediately.

Water damage is a serious problem that must be dealt with immediately. It can cause a lot of damage to your home and lead to mold, mildew, wood rot, and electrical problems.

If you find yourself in this situation, it's important to act quickly. The longer you wait before contacting a professional water damage restoration company, the more likely it is that mold will start growing in your home or business and cause long-term damage.

Reasons for Water Damage from Washing Machines

1/20/2023 (Permalink)

Washing machines are convenient household appliances, but they can also be a source of water damage if they are not properly maintained.

Washing machines are convenient household appliances, but they can also be a source of water damage if they are not properly maintained or if they malfunction. Leaks, overflowing, and other issues can cause water to seep into floors, walls, and other areas of the home, resulting in damage to the structure and belongings. It is important to be aware of the signs of washing machine water damage and to take steps to prevent or mitigate it, such as regularly inspecting and maintaining the machine, being alert for signs of leaks or other issues, and taking prompt action if water damage does occur. Here are some reasons your washing machine might cause water damage in your home.

Faulty Drain Hose

The main cause of washing machine water damage is the drain hose. This part connects to the bottom of your washer, and it's responsible for draining both water and waste from inside the machine. A faulty drain hose can be clogged or disconnected, which will prevent it from draining properly. It can also become damaged by rodents or insects that chew on it, or by other components within your washing machine (such as a broken pump).

Overloaded Washing Machine

Don’t overload your washing machine. If a load of laundry is too big, it can cause the unit to shake, spin out of balance and vibrate heavily during the cycle. This can cause damage to the bearings in your washer's tub and transmission shafts, as well as other vital parts that allow for the smooth operation of your device. 

If you're using an electric model with a direct-drive motor (instead of belt drive), don't overload it with more than 8 pounds per cubic foot capacity—this means 3 cubic feet of space should be left empty so there's room for water flow inside your appliance when it spins around at high speeds while doing its job!

The best rule of thumb: always follow manufacturer recommendations on how much clothing capacity should be used before adding new items into each load.

Faulty Seal

There are several ways to check the seal of your washing machine. If you have a front-loading washer, remove the front panel by unscrewing it counterclockwise. If you have a top-loading washer, locate the screws underneath and remove them using an Allen wrench. Next, lift up on the top of your washing machine until you can see where it connects to your wall bracket; this is usually located at either end or in between depending on how tall or wide your model is.

Once you've found where your washer is attached to its base, look for any holes or gaps in its sealant around the outside edges: if there are any cracks or tears visible here then water can seep out of them during use and cause minor damage over time (if not fixed immediately). If these holes exist then call in a professional plumber immediately! 

There is one thing that can make all the difference when dealing with a washing machine leak: hiring a professional. The longer you wait before hiring SERVPRO of Boston Downtown/Bay Back/South Boston, the more likely it will be that mold will grow and other areas will be damaged as well. By calling us right away, we are able to respond quickly—before any further problems occur—and begin working on restoring your home back to normalcy once again! 

The 4 Most Common Types of Mold

12/13/2022 (Permalink)

Mold can grow almost anywhere.

Mold is a type of fungus that grows in damp areas. When it starts to multiply on walls, ceilings, and floors, mold can cause structural problems. It's important to understand the different types of mold and how they affect your home so that you can take action before the situation gets worse.

Mold spores are everywhere, but they only grow if there are the right conditions—dampness and high humidity being the two biggest factors. If you have excess moisture in your home due to leaks or a lack of ventilation, you're at risk for developing some undesirable molds such as Aspergillus and Cladosporium species. 

Penicillium

Penicillium is a common type of mold that grows on food and in soil. It's usually found in homes, especially near windows and doors, where it can enter through cracks or openings. Penicillium can grow on bread and other foods. Penicillin is produced by this type of mold, which was originally discovered in 1904 when Alexander Fleming noticed that mice were dying after eating bread with mold growing on it.

Penicillin kills bacteria by breaking down their cell walls, so it can be used to treat infections caused by viruses or bacteria as well as fungi. 

Cladosporium

Cladosporium is a common type of mold and can be found in soil, air, and on plant surfaces. It lives in areas with high humidity like houses, schools, and offices. Cladosporium is most likely to grow after flooding occurs when there are high levels of moisture in the air or on surfaces such as walls. This type of mold grows well if you have pets that shed fur indoors because it feeds off pet dander.  

Aspergillus

This mold is found in soil, decaying plant material, hay, grains, and straw. It also grows on food that has been stored for too long or was not properly processed or packaged before being sold at the store.

Stachybotrys chartarum

Stachybotrys chartarum, also commonly known as black mold, is a toxic mold that can cause extensive damage to homes and businesses. This type of mold can be found in water-damaged buildings or homes and should be treated quickly.

There are many types of mold

There are many types of mold, and they all look different. Some have flat-leaf shapes or tiny hairs that grow in clumps; some look like fuzzy green or brown spots, and others have thick tentacles or hair-like structures called “rhizoids” that allow the mold to attach itself to various materials.

When to call a mold remediation specialist

If you suspect that you have a mold problem, it's important to call a professional as soon as possible. Remediation efforts should always be taken if you notice any signs of mold in your home — especially if you see growth on wet surfaces such as linoleum floors or carpets because these areas will likely have other issues as well! 

If you have mold, don’t panic. It can be easy to take care of if you know what type of mold it is and how to deal with it. If you aren’t sure about the type of mold or don’t feel comfortable dealing with it yourself, contact an expert, such as our team here at SERVPRO, who can help you get rid of it safely and effectively.