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Black mold isn’t just unsightly spots on the wall – as spores multiply and spread through the home, it can cause allergic reactions, respiratory problems, and even pneumonia. Mold feeds on and breaks down organic matter, causing structural damages and posing safety and security risks.
While it is possible to remove minor mold infestations using DIY methods, large affected areas require the help of a professional.

What is Black Mold?

Stachybotrys chartarum, most commonly known as black mold, is a type of fungus that thrives in damp, dark places. Areas of the home with persistent moisture, such as bathrooms and basements, are most prone to the development of black mold. Under the right conditions, it grows at an alarming rate.
Musty odors are often the first sign that indicates a mold problem is present. Other visual signs include:

• Dark spots (slimy and fuzzy in appearance) on walls, ceilings, or floors
• Peeling, bubbling, or cracking paint or wallpaper, which can indicate problems underneath the surface
• Distorted or warped surfaces on drywall and wood
• Discoloration or water stains on ceilings and walls

Molds spread through tiny reproductive cells, called spores. These spores can lay dormant for years until the right conditions trigger accelerated growth.

Are All Molds Dangerous?

Mold can come in all shapes and colors. They are a natural part of the environment and can be found almost anywhere that moisture and oxygen are present. Some molds are safe and are utilized in the production of certain foods like cheeses, while other molds produce mycotoxins which can cause health issues.
Common symptoms of mold exposure include:

• Allergic reactions, such as a runny nose, itchy eyes, or skin rashes
• Neurological problems, like headaches or feeling fatigued or dizzy
• Respiratory issues, like coughing, sneezing, or trouble breathing

Just because a mold may be black in appearance does not necessarily mean it is Stachybotrys. However, no matter the species, they all have one thing in common:
You do not want to find it inside your home!

What Should You Do When Your Home Has Mold?

Full removal is the best course of action to take when it comes to molds that pose a health risk. This process is called mold remediation and is best left to a professional team. It involves removal of mold-contaminated building materials and sanitation of the remaining structure.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is necessary to reduce the risk of health issues that may result from exposure. A proper containment barrier should be installed to prevent cross-contamination of airborne spores.
Black mold is a dangerous fungus that poses severe health risks. Removing it as soon as it is discovered is crucial. It won’t disappear on its own and is likely to spread and infest other areas of your home unless you intervene.

After Mold Remediation, What’s Next?

The biggest concern after removing and remediating a mold infestation is ensuring it doesn’t return. Eliminating excessive moisture is the biggest key to preventing mold growth. Here are other things to keep in mind:

• Avoid installing carpets in rooms that experience elevated moisture levels, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
• Ensure proper ventilation in these high-moisture areas. Use a dehumidifier or air conditioner to maintain humidity levels below 60%.
• Fix any leaks in roofs, walls, or plumbing promptly to prevent long-term damages. Keep gutters clean and in good condition.
• Mold inhibitors can be added to paint when applying fresh coats to deter it in the future.

Regular mold inspections can offer peace of mind for those living in areas of high humidity.

Our Recommendations

Mold thrives in moist environments, therefore it is imperative that any water damage is addressed and resolved immediately. Health and safety should always be the first priority when dealing with black mold.

Navigating the aftermath of a fire can be an overwhelming challenge to face. Stress and adrenaline can interfere with the ability to look at the situation from an objective standpoint. Even after flames are extinguished, the damage left behind is a painful reminder of the catastrophe.

Safety First

Fires are known to be among the most destructive of all disasters. The air is contaminated with smoke, soot, burned chemicals, and everything else combusted by the fire. Toxic particles spread and get trapped in fabric, carpeting, drapes, bedding, and clothing.
Regardless of the fire’s severity, the top priority should always be making sure you and your family are safe. As damages can spread significantly from the area the fire is contained in, it is often wise to seek temporary shelter during the cleanup and restoration process.

The Dangers of Smoke and Soot

Soot results from the burning of various materials. This black residue sticks to any surface that is at a cooler temperature than the fire. It usually accumulates on walls, ceilings, and other hard surfaces, and can embed itself easily into porous materials like wood and fabric.
Smoke and soot cause their own secondary damages after the fire has been extinguished, and they can pose more harm than the initial damages from the flames.

• Smoke odor can continue to linger due to smoke particles embedding themselves into objects and materials. Odor particles can permeate deep into porous materials and can continue to emit unpleasant odors.
• Walls and other objects can be discolored or stained. These damages can take a few days to become visible and can become permanent if not cleaned in a timely manner, or if incorrect cleaning methods are applied.
• Soot can take different forms depending on the nature of the fire. From dry and powdery to sticky, this residue is often very acidic. When it comes into contact with metals, there is the risk of the soot corroding the material.

In addition to damages to the home, the presence of smoke and soot can pose health risks. Soot particles are tiny and can enter the body through inhalation, ingestion, or in contact with the skin and eyes. Health hazards can include:

• Coughing, exacerbated asthma attacks, and other breathing difficulties
• Eye irritation
• Headaches
• Nosebleeds
• Sore throat

Considering the hazards of soot and smoke, it is highly recommended to contact a professional restoration rather than handle the cleanup with DIY methods. Soot is a known carcinogen, increasing your cancer risk if exposed. Quick removal is imperative to avoid any health consequences.

Ensuring Complete Cleanup

Soot can be a complex problem, requiring considerable time and effort to thoroughly eliminate. Proper methods must be utilized, otherwise it can be easy to aggravate the issue. Thorough cleanup requires:

• A soot sponge, known as a dry-cleaning or chemical sponge, is effective on dry soot resulting from high-oxygen fires. They are ideal for removing soot from ceilings, floors, and other surfaces.
• High-alkali detergents or degreasers are effective against oily soot left from low-oxygen fires. These wet methods are ideal on surfaces made of tile, glass, or other waterproof materials, but should be avoided when cleaning soot off wood, drywall, electronics, and other porous materials.
• HEPA vacuum cleaners and air scrubbers can trap and remove soot particles in the air, helping to deodorize the air. These are paired with ozone and hydroxyl generators to further the deodorizing efficacy.

Traumatic catastrophes like home fires can be distressing, and it’s common for survivors to experience overwhelming emotions as they process what they went through. The weight of grief on its own is a heavy burden, and contacting a professional to ensure thorough cleanup and restoration can bring immense peace of mind.

Precautionary Measures: Our Final Thoughts

• Install and test smoke alarms regularly.
• Keep matches and lighters out of reach of children and teach them proper fire safety.
• Cook with care and attention, and never leave an active stove unattended.
• Have a fire extinguisher ready and a plan of action prepared.
• Examine appliances and wiring on a regular basis, and repair or replace when required.

Fire safety diligence can make all the difference to minimize losses and prevent injuries. When tragedies strike, it’s important to stay level-headed. Taking the correct actions can expedite the recovery and return you to your normal life.

Water damage emergencies don’t adhere to any schedule or take holidays. When they happen, it’s important to understand the actions to take and which mistakes to avoid. Don’t neglect the situation – quick action can prevent further damages and expenses!

How Can Water Damages Happen?

Water damage occurs when water invades an area it shouldn’t be present in. Water damage can happen from many different sources, including:

• Broken or leaking plumbing pipes.
• Weather incidents such as heavy rain, hurricanes, and flooding.
• Malfunctioning appliances such as washing machines, refrigerators, and dishwashers.
• Clogged drains or blocked pipes, especially in bathrooms and kitchens.
• Sewage backups can be especially harmful, introducing pathogens and bacteria to the home.

Identifying the cause and source of water damage is paramount in preventing further damage and future incidents. The signs of water damage depend on the extent of damages and source of offending water.

Some common signs to look for include:

• Peeling or bubbling paint or wallpaper can indicate that water has seeped through, causing it to separate from the wall.
• Water stains, appearing as discolored patches or rings, on walls, ceilings, or floors.
• Warped, sagging, or buckling floors.
• Musty odors, alerting to the presence of mold or mildew growth.

Ignoring these signs can be a slippery slope leading to more extensive and costly repairs in the future. Contacting a professional to be on site as soon as you notice water damage can significantly reduce the cost of restoration and repair.

Dangers of Ignoring Water Damage

The extent of harm is determined by the water category and the length of time that has passed. The category of water indicates its potential health hazards. There are 3 categories:

• Category 1 is “clean water”. This means that the source of water is sanitary and does not pose health risks. Common examples include faucet leaks, supply line breaks, and melting snow or ice.
• Category 2 may contain levels of contaminants that can cause illness if ingested. This type of water is known as “grey water,” and can include dishwasher leaks and washing machine overflows. Category 1 water damage can also escalate into Category 2 if not addressed promptly.
• Category 3 water is the most hazardous to handle. Known as “black water,” it can cause illness or even death. Sewage backups, toilet overflows with fecal matter, and flooding from rivers or streams are common examples.

Water damage emergencies can be stressful, but these problems don’t go away on their own. Ignoring small issues can allow the damages to accumulate and worsen. As water sits, it can seep into floors, walls, and ceilings, weakening structural integrity.
Evaporated water can travel throughout the interior environment, trapping vapor in areas like crawlspaces, closets, and inside of walls. These moist environments create the perfect conditions for mold to grow in as little as 24 to 48 hours. Exposure to the skin and lungs poses hazards to your health, including respiratory issues, rashes, and allergic reactions.
Personal items, such as furniture, electronics, and documents, can be ruined by water damage. Time is of the essence in salvaging these items. Porous materials such as wood and fabrics can absorb and retain water. The longer that these items are exposed to water, the greater the damage. As wood becomes waterlogged, it swells and eventually cracks. Quick removal greatly increases the likelihood of a successful restoration to its original condition.

Long Term Consequences of Delayed Action

Untreated water damage worsens over time. These can result in the need for expensive repairs, lowering a property’s value significantly. Warped ceilings, walls, and flooring send a warning signal to potential buyers that more extensive damage exists under the surface. Foundational erosion, sagging beams, and rotten wood are costly structural repairs that substantially devalue a home.
Ignoring small damages can escalate the repairs cost considerably down the line. Addressing necessary repairs promptly can help to safeguard your property value and ensure a safe and health living environment for yourself and your family.