Can Mold Cause A Smell To The House?

5/18/2023 (Permalink)

Reduce humidity levels, fix leaks, use ventilation, and clean regularly to prevent mold growth.

Not only can mold cause damage to your home and pose health risks, but it can also create a foul smell that can be difficult to get rid of. Here is what you can do to prevent mold.

What Causes the Smell? 

Mold releases a musty odor that can be quite unpleasant. This smell is caused by the chemicals released by mold as it grows and breaks down organic matter. Mold thrives in damp environments, such as bathrooms, basements, and areas with water damage. If you notice a musty odor in your home, it could be a sign that mold is present.

Health Risks Associated with Mold. 

Mold not only creates a foul smell but can also pose health risks to you and your family. Exposure to mold can cause allergic reactions, respiratory problems, and other health issues. Children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable to mold-related health problems. If you suspect that mold is present in your home, it's important to take action to address the issue as soon as possible.

Here are some steps you can take to prevent mold growth in your home:

• Reduce humidity levels: Mold thrives in humid environments, so it's important to keep humidity levels low. Use dehumidifiers in areas prone to moisture, such as basements and bathrooms.
• Fix leaks: Mold needs moisture to grow, so fixing any leaks in your home is crucial. Check for leaks around windows, doors, and pipes, and repair them promptly.
• Use ventilation: Proper ventilation can help prevent mold growth. Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens, and open windows to increase airflow.
• Clean regularly: Regular cleaning can help prevent mold growth. Clean surfaces regularly with a solution of bleach and water, and use mold-resistant paint in areas prone to moisture.

If you discover mold in your home, it's important to take action to remove it as soon as possible. Here are some steps you can take to remove mold:

• Identify the source: Identify the source of the moisture that's causing the mold to grow. Fix any leaks or water damage before removing the mold.
• Use protective equipment: Wear protective equipment, such as gloves and a mask, to avoid inhaling mold spores.
• Clean surfaces: Clean surfaces with a solution of bleach and water. Use a scrub brush to remove the mold from porous surfaces, such as drywall.
• Dry the area: After cleaning the mold, dry the area thoroughly to prevent the mold from returning.

Prevention is key when it comes to dealing with mold. Reduce humidity levels, fix leaks, use ventilation, and clean regularly to prevent mold growth. If you discover mold in your home, take action to remove it promptly. 

SERVPRO Of Foxborough is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire, mold, water, and storm damage.

What to do if there is mold in your walls

4/7/2023 (Permalink)

Mold on your walls is not only unsightly, but it can also be a health hazard if left untreated.

Mold on your walls is not only unsightly, but it can also be a health hazard if left untreated. 

Here are some steps you can take to deal with mold on your walls:

• Identify the cause of the mold: The first step in dealing with mold on your walls is to identify the underlying cause. Mold thrives in damp, humid environments, so it's important to identify any sources of moisture that may be contributing to the problem. Common causes of mold on walls include leaky pipes, roof leaks, high humidity levels, and poor ventilation.
• Remove the mold: Once you have identified the cause of the mold, it's time to remove it from your walls. Depending on the severity of the mold, you may be able to clean it yourself using a mixture of water and bleach or vinegar. However, if the mold has spread over a large area or is particularly stubborn, it's best to call in a professional mold remediation company to ensure that it is completely removed.
• Repair any damage: Once the mold has been removed, it's important to repair any damage to your walls. This may include replacing any damaged drywall or insulation, repairing leaks, or installing a dehumidifier to help control moisture levels.
• Prevent future mold growth: To prevent mold from growing on your walls in the future, it's important to take steps to control moisture levels in your home. This may include repairing any leaks promptly, using a dehumidifier in areas with high humidity, and ensuring that your home is properly ventilated.

Dealing with mold on your walls can be a daunting task, but it's important to take action as soon as possible to prevent it from spreading and causing further damage. 

We service Bellingham, Foxborough, Franklin, Millis, Norfolk, Wethersfield, and Wrentham, MA

SERVPRO Of Foxborough is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire, mold, water, and storm damage.

How to prevent mold damage in Foxborough MA

3/5/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Of Foxborough is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire, mold, water, and storm damage.

Mold grows in damp and humid environments, and it can thrive on various surfaces, including walls, ceilings, carpets, and furniture. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent mold damage in your home. 

1. Keep your home dry: Mold thrives in damp and humid environments, so the best way to prevent mold damage is to keep your home dry. You can do this by fixing any leaks in your plumbing, roof, or windows. Make sure that your home is properly ventilated, especially in areas like the bathroom, kitchen, and laundry room. 
2. Clean and maintain your HVAC system: Your HVAC system plays a crucial role in maintaining the air quality in your home. It can also help to prevent mold growth. Make sure to clean and maintain your HVAC system regularly to prevent any buildup of dust or moisture, which can lead to mold growth. 
3. Use mold-resistant products: When renovating or building your home, consider using mold-resistant materials such as drywall, paints, and insulation. These materials are specially designed to resist mold growth.
4. Monitor indoor humidity levels: Mold thrives in humid environments, so it's important to keep an eye on indoor humidity levels. The ideal humidity level is between 30 and 50 percent. You can use a hygrometer to measure the humidity levels in your home. 
5. Clean and dry any water damage promptly: Water damage is one of the leading causes of mold growth. If you experience any water damage in your home, it's important to clean and dry the affected area as soon as possible. 

Mold damage can be a significant problem for homeowners, but it's a problem that can be prevented. By keeping your home dry, maintaining your HVAC system, using mold-resistant products, monitoring indoor humidity levels, and cleaning and drying any water damage promptly, you can help to prevent mold growth and protect your home from mold damage. 

We service Bellingham, Foxborough, Franklin, Millis, Norfolk, Wethersfield, and Wrentham, MA

SERVPRO Of Foxborough is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire, mold, water, and storm damage.

How Does Mold Damage Happen?

2/15/2023 (Permalink)

If you suspect mold damage in your building, consult with a professional remediation service to help you address the issue.

Mold is a type of fungus that thrives in damp and humid environments. It grows quickly and can spread rapidly, causing damage to the structure of a building and posing a health risk to its occupants. 

Causes of Mold Damage

Mold thrives in damp and humid conditions. This means that any area of a building that is exposed to moisture is at risk of developing mold. Some of the most common causes of mold damage include:

1. Water leaks: Leaky pipes, roofs, and windows can all contribute to the growth of mold.
2. Flooding: If a building is flooded, the excess water can create a perfect breeding ground for mold.
3. Humidity: High levels of humidity in a building can create conditions that are ideal for mold growth.
4. Poor ventilation: Without adequate ventilation, moisture can become trapped in a building, providing a perfect environment for mold to grow.

Effects of Mold Damage

Mold damage can have a number of negative effects on a building and its occupants. Some of the most common effects include:

1. Structural damage: Mold can weaken the structure of a building, leading to cracks, warping, and other forms of damage.
2. Health risks: Exposure to mold can lead to a number of health problems, including respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and skin irritation.
3. Property damage: Mold can damage walls, floors, and other surfaces, requiring expensive repairs and replacements.

Prevention of Mold Damage

Preventing mold damage is much easier than dealing with it after it has already occurred. Here are some tips for preventing mold growth in your building:

1. Keep humidity levels under control: Make sure that your building has adequate ventilation and use dehumidifiers to control humidity levels.
2. Repair water leaks: Fix any leaks as soon as they are detected to prevent moisture from building up.
3. Keep your building clean: Regular cleaning can help prevent mold growth by removing any spores that may be present.
4. Inspect your building regularly: Regular inspections can help you identify any potential problems before they become major issues.

Remediation of Mold Damage

If you suspect that you have mold damage in your building, it is important to address the problem as soon as possible. Here are the steps involved in mold remediation:

1. Identify the source of the problem: Determine the source of the moisture that is causing the mold growth.
2. Contain the mold: Use barriers to prevent the mold from spreading to other areas of the building.
3. Remove the mold: Use specialized equipment and cleaning agents to remove the mold.
4. Repair any damage: Repair any damage that was caused by the mold growth.
5. Take steps to prevent future mold growth: Take steps to prevent future mold growth by addressing any moisture problems and keeping the building clean.

By understanding the causes and effects of mold growth, as well as how to prevent and remediate it, you can protect your building and the people who use it. If you suspect mold damage in your building, consult with a professional remediation service to help you address the issue.

SERVPRO of Foxborough is your premier choice for fire damage and restoration. Our teams are ready to respond 24 hours a week, any day of the year. When you bring us on the job our team of licensed contractors and certified technicians will work collaboratively with you throughout the duration of the project. They will keep you updated on the project's status and ensure that your expectations are met. We will help you to move forward and make it “Like it never even happened” for all of your fire damage. 

SERVPRO of Foxborough Shares Preventing Mold Damage: Essential Tips for a Healthy Home

2/5/2023 (Permalink)

If you suspect mold growth in your home, it is important to have it inspected and professionally remediated to avoid further damage

Mold damage can be a major problem in many homes. It is important to understand the conditions that allow mold to thrive and what steps can be taken to prevent its growth.

Here are some tips to help you prevent mold damage in your home:

1. Control humidity levels: Mold thrives in moist environments, so it is essential to keep indoor humidity levels low. Use a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture from the air.
2. Fix leaks: Promptly fix any leaks in your roof, walls, or plumbing to prevent water damage and mold growth.
3. Keep surfaces clean and dry: Regularly clean and dry surfaces in high-risk areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. Use a mold-resistant cleaning solution to disinfect surfaces and prevent mold from growing.
4. Increase ventilation: Ensure that your home has proper ventilation to help prevent mold growth. This can be achieved by opening windows and doors regularly, using exhaust fans, and keeping air vents clear.
5. Inspect and maintain HVAC systems: Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems can become a breeding ground for mold if not properly maintained. Inspect them regularly and have them serviced by a professional if needed.
6. Store items properly: Store items, especially paper products and organic materials, properly in sealed containers to prevent mold growth.
7. Regularly inspect your home: Regular inspections of your home can help identify mold damage early, allowing you to take action before it becomes a bigger problem. Look for discoloration on walls and ceilings, a musty odor, or any other signs of moisture damage.

You can help prevent mold damage in your home, protecting your family's health and your home's structure. If you suspect mold growth in your home, it is important to have it inspected and professionally remediated to avoid further damage 

SERVPRO of Foxborough is your premier choice for fire damage and restoration. Our teams are ready to respond 24 hours a week, any day of the year. When you bring us on the job our team of licensed contractors and certified technicians will work collaboratively with you throughout the duration of the project. They will keep you updated on the project's status and ensure that your expectations are met. We will help you to move forward and make it “Like it never even happened” for all of your fire damage. 

Is A Mold Inspection Necessary When Purchasing Commercial Property

10/18/2019 (Permalink)

Corner of Church walls, floorboard heaters and tile flooring covered in mold

When you consider purchasing a commercial property in the Foxborough area, you likely have a checklist of things to look for. The building not only has to suit all your business needs but it must be structurally sound. This means checking for signs of mold and knowing when you may need a mold inspection.

Know Where to Look

Mold grows best in damp, moist conditions. As you walk through the property, consider any areas of the building that fit this description, and keep an eye out for signs of water damage. Some notable places to look for visible mold include:

• Bathrooms - Check near showers, sinks, tubs and toilets.
• Basements - Pay attention to signs of leakage or condensation on pipes, as well as flood-prone areas.
• Windows - Rainwater leaks and condensation from humidity can cause mold formation.

Of course, mold is not always visible. It can lurk within HVAC ducts and behind walls, ceilings or floorboards. If you notice any current or previous signs of water damage, you should consult the experts at SERVPRO of Foxborough to determine the extent of any infestation.

Inspection and Remediation

If there are no signs of mold or water damage, it may not be worthwhile to pay for a mold inspection. However, if you suspect a problem, trained inspection and restoration experts can help you determine the extent of the issue and figure out a cleanup method. The good news is that even if your ideal property has a slight mold problem, this does not mean it is out of the running. With the assistance of skilled mold remediation experts at SERVPRO of Foxborough, the route cause will be identified and fixed followed by proper remediation of any infestation.

CDC Facts on Mold

6/25/2018 (Permalink)

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention's website:

There is always some mold everywhere – in the air and on many surfaces. Molds have been on the Earth for millions of years. Mold grows where there is moisture.

Mold and Your Home

Mold is found both indoors and outdoors. Mold can enter your home through open doorways, windows, vents, and heating and air conditioning systems. Mold in the air outside can also attach itself to clothing, shoes, bags, and pets can and be carried indoors.

Mold will grow in places with a lot of moisture, such as around leaks in roofs, windows, or pipes, or where there has been flooding. Mold grows well on paper products, cardboard, ceiling tiles, and wood products. Mold can also grow in dust, paints, wallpaper, insulation, drywall, carpet, fabric, and upholstery.

If you suspect the presents of mold in your house please give our expects a call at SERVPRO of Franklin/Walpole 508-533-5305

Industrial Hygienist

6/25/2018 (Permalink)

If you suspect you have a mold issue give us a call today at 508-533-5305! If you suspect you have an issue but are unable to actually see the mold you may need what we in the industry call an Industrial Hygienist to come out and do some testing.

The company we turn to is always Oasis Environmental. 

For over fifteen years, Oasis Environmental Contracting Services, Inc. (Oasis) has been providing quality environmental advice and support to there valued clients. Oasis is veterans owned business/registered with CCR Cage/NCAGE 5KC12.

Oasis provides an eclectic array of environmental services and products, and we specialize in Environmental Investigations. Their meticulous and unique forensic approach provides clients with the historic data considered necessary to formulate options and make educated decisions regarding difficult environmental questions.

Matthew E. Montefusco, CHMM, CMC, CES, founded Oasis on the premise that individuals faced with environmental problems prefer and deserve a calm place (an Oasis) to obtain sensible and cost effective solutions to their particular situation. With Mr. Montefusco's twenty-nine plus years of environmental experience and the diligent efforts of the Oasis conscientious staff, environmental problems can be solved in a professional manner with the client's best interest in mind. 

For more information contact our office at SERVPRO of Franklin/Walpole. 

BLEACH vs MOLD ~ Who Knew?

4/10/2018 (Permalink)

Despite popular belief, BLEACH DOES NOT KILL MOLD on porous surfaces!

Because Mold grows in colonies and has roots which grow deep into the material, bleach will NOT kill Mold in its entirety. Bleach will kill the surface Mold but the water content contained in bleach will actually worsen Mold conditions! Mold is a living organism which means it needs food to survive. Within a porous structure, Mold will use the water in bleach as a food source to feed its roots. This will actually cause the mold to grow back stronger!

The following are some Interesting, Educational FACTS about BLEACH and MOLD

• The Clorox ® Company, EPA and OSHA have specifically advised that Bleach should not be used in mold remediation
• Bleach does not kill mold, it will only remove the stain caused by mold
• Bleach in some cases will allow toxic mold to grow where it was not present before
• Bleach itself is considered to be toxic and is classified the same as gasoline
• Bleach on gypsum (the material found in sheet rock or drywall) will emit chlorine gas for at least a week
• Bleach applied to wood will push mold spores deeper into the wood fibers creating more problems later
• Bleach does more harm than good

Contact SERVPRO of Franklin/Walpole TODAY to Remediate YOUR Mold Issue!

Are conditions in your town right for Mold?

4/2/2018 (Permalink)

It’s estimated that more than 1 million types of mold exist, yet less than 10 percent have actually been named. This means mold is very common in both indoor and outdoor environments. While mold and humans can sometimes co-exist without issue, there are certain species of mold that can cause health effects for some people.

If the right conditions exist, mold will grow.  Those conditions include:

• Water - Different mold types require varying amounts of liquid before growth begins.   
• Temperature - Normal indoor temperatures will promote mold growth.
• Time - Initial mold colonizers can take hold within one day after being exposed to an adequate water supply.

Mold growth can occur in any home, so it’s important to keep an eye out for situations that might promote mold activity. Roof/chimney leaks, wet basements, or condensation from ducts that dampen surrounding insulation are just a few examples of issues that make a house a prime target for mold growth.

If you suspect mold in your home, call SERVPRO of Franklin/Walpole to assess the situation. We have the knowledge, tools and track record to effectively remediate mold in your home or business.

If you suspect mold, call us today at 508-697-5439

What to Do:

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

Mold Tips

4/2/2018 (Permalink)

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 Franklin/Walpole 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 Franklin/Walpole specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 508-697-5439

Kitchen Mold - Plymouth, MA

5/12/2017 (Permalink)

During a kitchen renovation this homeowner found mold.

Your kitchen can be a melting pot for the growth of mold. Outside leaking pipes, here are 7 sources that could help with the growth of mold.

The Refrigerator Drip Tray: This tray is easily forgotten. It is found under the fridge, it could be in the back under the fan grate, or bottom front. 

Garbage Disposal: Mold can grow on rotting food in the garbage disposal if you don't keep it clean. To help avoid mold, pour vinegar down at least once a week.

Compost: Another less thought of mold source is the compost bucket. Make sure to remove it every day and keep covered.

Cutting Boards: In most homes this item is used on a daily basis, but it is a good source for mold growth. Cleaning it once a week with vinegar and let stand for 10 minutes before rinsing should cut down on the threat of mold.

If you have a mold growth in your home contact SERVPRO of Franklin/Walpole at 508-533-5305 for your professional cleaning

Basement Mold - Canton, MA

5/12/2017 (Permalink)

What to do when you find mold in your basement.

One of the areas in your home where you would most likely see mold is in your basement. Because the basement gets not sunlight, very little ventilation and is often humid it is prime real estate for mold to grow. 

Mold can grow on most every thing, drywall, building frames, carpet, insulation to name a few. When looking for mold looks for signs of moisture. 

In order to prevent basement mold you must minimize moisture. Here are a few tips.

Basement Walls: If you see water seeping through the walls applying sealant to walls and floors would prevent water from getting in.

Leaking Pipes: Look over pipes for any condensation or leaks, and get them fixed.

Basement Humidity: It's important to keep the humidity at below 55%. Buying a dehumidifier would would reduce the risk of mold in you basement. 

If you have mold in you basement contact SERVPRO of Franklin/Walpole at 508-533-5305 where our trained and certified technicians can rid your home of mold.

Attic Mold - Plymouth

3/27/2017 (Permalink)

The mold in this attic was not discovered until the homeowner went to get the Halloween decorations.

What can you do when you have found mold growth in your attic. SERVPRO of Franklin/Walpole  have narrowed down the 6 most common causes of mold growth in you attic.

If you're like a lot of people you probably store all your holiday decorations in the attic. During these times it would be a good time to inspect your attic for mold. For some there could be a nasty surprise waiting for us.

SERVPRO of Franklin/Walpole has comprised the 6 common causes.

1: A leaking roof.

2: Missing or improperly installed insulation.

3: Inadequate Ventilation.

4: Dryer vents, kitchen and/or bathroom fans vented into the attic. This practice can pump warm moist air into the attic creating the correct environment for mold growth.

5: Water heaters or furnaces installed in the attic.

6: Ice damming.

If you think you might have mold growth contact SERVPRO of Franklin/Walpole at 508-533-5305 to set up an appoint for one of our experience technicians for their opinion today. 

Skylight Mold - Milton, MA

3/27/2017 (Permalink)

Mold found around this leaky skylight in Milton, MA

Condensation is usually more noticeable on skylights because warm, moist air rises to the ceiling. The problem, however, usually isn't the skylight it's the excess moisture in the room.

Skylights are often installed in bathrooms but sometimes in bedrooms and kitchens. The appeal is understandable. Skylights window, are defined as windows installed at an angle. While they look pretty down the road they can lead to uncomfortable conversations.

The key to mold control is moisture control. Managing excess moisture in your home can help prevent the growth of mold. monitoring your home regularly will help to keep the mold to a minimum.

Open your skylights to reduce humidity and to allow air to circulate. This will reduce the buildup of moisture, which is the biggest cause of mold. If you see a build up of condensation open the window if you can, or run a fan, this will help the air to move.

Mold will never be anyone's idea of a welcomed house guest, but with preventive steps you can be assured you will never have to fear those three letters words: "you have mold".

If you think you have mold give SERVPRO of Franklin/Walpole a call today for your evaluation at 508-533-5305

Window Mold-Sharon, MA

3/27/2017 (Permalink)

Mold strikes a garage window in Sharon, MA

MOLD: The very word is enough to make a person cringe. 

Mold can be good- it's essential in making brie and penicillin, for example, and necessary for the decomposition of organic matter in nature-but it can also be very, very bad, especially when it grows undetected in your home. Mold can grow anywhere: on carpet, clothing, food, paper, and even in places you can't see such as the backside of drywall, areas inside walls around leaking or condensing pipers, and above ceiling tiles.

Here are nine ways to curb moisture indoors, and the mold that thrives on it. 

1: Identify problems areas in your home and correct them.

2: Dry wet areas immediately.

3: Prevent moisture with proper ventilation

4: Equip your home with mold-resistance products.

5: Monitor Humidity indoors.

6: Direct water away from your home.

7: Clean or repair roof gutters.

8: Improve air flow in your home.

9: keep mold off household plants.

Have questions, give SERVPRO of Franklin/Walpole a call today at 508-533-5305 someone will be able to assist you.

Basement Mold-Somerset, Ma

3/27/2017 (Permalink)

Mold build up at a basement in Somerset, MA

The basement is one of the areas in your home that is prone to mold growth usually from the high level of moisture, inadequate ventilation and a lack of dehumidifying. 

Mold formation in the basement can easily go unnoticed because people hardly go their and as such the growth can spread extensively. Because mold can grow on any organic item, it is a good idea to check every item in the basement to spot mold growth.  

Items prone to mold growth include wooden furniture, boxes, cartons, paper, drywall's, carpets and any wood structures that constitute the basement.

To keep basement free from mold, take extra care to keep it dry always. Possible sources of moisture include floods, leaking pipes and faulty ventilation. 

If you think that you have mold in your basement give SERVPRO of Franklin/Walpole a call at 508-533-5305 

Bleach and Mold the hard truth!

5/11/2016 (Permalink)

Bleach does not kill mold on porous surfaces. Mold grows in colonies and has roots which grow deep into the material. The bleach will infact kill the surface mold however the water content of the bleach will seep into the porous structure and provide a food source to the roots. This will actually cause the mold to grow back stronger.

Here are some facts about Bleach and Mold

• The Clorox ® Company, EPA and OSHA have specifically advised that Bleach should not be used in mold remediation
• Bleach does not kill mold, it will only remove the stain caused by mold
• Bleach in some cases will allow toxic mold to grow where it was not present before
• Bleach itself is considered to be toxic and is classified the same as gasoline
• Bleach on gypsum (the material found in sheet rock or drywall) will emit chlorine gas for at least a week
• Bleach applied to wood will push spores deeper into the wood fibers creating more problems later
• Bleach does more harm than good