mold cleanup: Dealing with mold - 09/04/07 05:04 PM
Hire a professional to clean mold damage
Sanitation
Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces with nonpolluting cleaners and antimicrobial solutions will remove mold and protect against mold growth.
Ventilation
Although proper ventilation is important, minimize air circulation and don't use your ventilation systems if mold is detected in the filters or ducts. Using these systems will disperse the spores and create new mold growth. In addition, mold spores might be inhaled and cause respiratory irritations.
Protective Gear
Mold is a contaminant, presenting health hazards. Protect yourself during clean up using protective gear such as:
Disposable plastic gloves. Respirator with a particulate filter, N-95 respirator, or half-face respirator with a HEPA … (2 comments)

mold cleanup: Recovering from Water Damage - 08/29/07 04:26 PM
What to Keep and What to Discard:
Again, the general rule is: anything you cannot wash and disinfect should be thrown away.
Important Note
The following guidelines are applicable only if the damage is caused by clean water. If you know or suspect that the water source was contaminated with sewage, chemical or biological pollutants, consult a restoration professional immediately.
Do not use fans for dry out before determining that the water is clean and sanitary.
Indoors Furnishings and Personal Belongings
Like with building materials, consult a restoration specialist if you are indecisive about high value or sentimental items.
Upholstered furniture may be impossible to salvage if it … (0 comments)

mold cleanup: Preventing Mold - 08/16/07 07:17 PM
Preventing Mold
After understanding the hazards of mold you probably want to take the measures required to prevent it. A proactive approach is better, healthier and more cost effective than a reactive one.
If you take the measures to prevent it, you will be able to avoid expensive mold mitigation processes and protect your home or business occupants from serious health threats.
The first step to mold prevention is humidity and moisture control. Measure the air moisture levels in your home or office using a moisture meter (hygrometer). Relative moisture (RH) levels must be kept below 45 percent to prevent mold from growing and … (0 comments)

mold cleanup: Prevent Water Damage in the Kitchen - part 2 - 07/19/07 04:56 PM
After following the basic steps in part 1 of this article and learning how to prevent water damage in the kitchen's sink, countertops, and dishwasher, read this part to learn how to inspect and maintain the other high-risk areas of your kitchen.
Refrigerator
Being hard to reach, the area behind the refrigerator is hardly ever inspected. A periodic inspection will significantly reduce the chance for water related problems.
Moisture behind the refrigerator is a major warning. Do not ignore any sign of moisture or leaks, and fix them immediately or hire an appliance repair technician. If mold is spreading underneath the refrigerator, clean it … (2 comments)

mold cleanup: Invisible Causes of Water Damage - 07/16/07 09:55 AM
 
Heating & Air Conditioning Systems
Failure to clean and service air conditioners can lead to poor performance, higher operating costs and moisture problems. Moist and dusty cooling ducts promote mold and other water-borne biological growth.
Plumbing
Plumbing fixtures usually develop leaks due to pipe joint, or hose attachment failures.
Internal wall leaks are hard to detect and often result in significant damage.
Basements
A damp basement is frequently caused by accumulations of moisture dripping through concrete foundations. The moisture evaporates, increasing indoor humidity even if there are no visible leaks or standing water. Another common cause is condensation on the cold concrete walls and floors during more … (0 comments)

mold cleanup: Visible Causes of Water Damage to a home or business - 07/16/07 09:49 AM
Visible Causes of Water Damage
Roof Leaks
Roofing materials wear out and expose the roof decking to moisture intrusion and damage, especially around roof penetrations like chimneys, plumbing vents, and exhaust fans. Worn out shingles tend to curl and crack, allowing moisture intrusion. Cracked chimney caps allow water into interior areas of the chimney.
Rain water accumulates between the roof and a blocked gutter. Flat roof drains can clog and hold water on the roof, increasing the risks of a leak and a possible collapse of the entire roof under the weight of the water.
Attics
Poor attic insulation and ventilation allows heat to escape, turning … (0 comments)

 

Todd Magill

Redondo Beach, CA

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Puroclean Property Damage Restoration

Office: (310) 372-7876

Mobile: (310) 748-3325



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