Understanding Mold: A Guide for Home and Business Owners

8/23/2024 (Permalink)

Mold Mitigation

Mold is an ever-present part of our environment. While it plays an essential role outdoors, mold can cause significant problems when it invades our homes or businesses. Understanding how mold spreads, why it grows, and how to handle it is crucial to maintaining a safe and healthy indoor environment. In this blog, we'll explore what mold is, dispel common myths, and detail how SERVPRO of East Greenville can help with mold remediation.

The Nature of Mold: Why It's Everywhere

Mold spores are tiny, almost invisible to the naked eye, and found virtually everywhere. Whether you’re inside your home, at your business, or outdoors, mold spores are in the air. These spores can easily enter buildings through windows, doors, HVAC systems, or by hitching a ride on clothing or pets. Because of their ubiquity, completely removing mold from an indoor environment is impossible. This is why mold remediation, rather than removal, is the appropriate approach.

Mold Remediation vs. Mold Removal: The Reality

You may have seen companies advertising “mold removal” services that claim to eliminate all mold from a property. However, this is misleading. Given that mold naturally exists indoors and outdoors, it is impossible to remove all mold from any environment. The goal of mold remediation is to reduce mold spore counts to natural, safe levels, addressing the underlying moisture issue to prevent future growth.

Mold remediation involves multiple steps, including inspection, containment, air filtration, removal, cleaning, and restoration. SERVPRO of East Greenville follows these steps meticulously to ensure that mold is effectively managed.

Key Facts About Mold

Understanding mold is the first step to protecting your property. Here are some key points:

• Mold is natural: Mold spores exist everywhere, both indoors and outdoors.
• Mold thrives on moisture: Mold spores need moisture to grow. When exposed to water, mold spores can quickly develop into colonies that produce allergens and irritants.
• Moisture control is essential: Addressing the source of moisture is critical before beginning mold remediation; otherwise, mold is likely to return.
• Mold is often identified by its odor: A strong, musty smell can indicate the presence of mold in your property.
• Humidity encourages mold growth: Maintaining indoor humidity below 45% is essential to prevent mold growth.

The Mold Remediation Process: SERVPRO's Approach

When mold is discovered, it's important to act quickly to prevent it from spreading. Here’s how SERVPRO of East Greenville manages mold remediation:

1. Emergency Contact: The process begins when you contact SERVPRO®. Our specialists gather information to determine the necessary resources and personnel for your situation.
2. Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment: Our team conducts a thorough inspection of your property to identify visible signs of mold and locate hidden moisture sources that could contribute to further growth.
3. Mold Containment: Containment procedures, such as negative air chambers and physical barriers, are used to prevent the spread of mold during remediation. We also turn off HVAC systems to avoid spreading spores.
4. Air Filtration: Using advanced filtration equipment, including HEPA vacuums, we capture microscopic mold spores from the air. This step is critical to improving air quality and preventing further contamination.
5. Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials: Depending on the extent of the infestation, mold-infested porous materials like drywall, carpeting, and insulation may need to be removed. Anti-fungal and antimicrobial treatments are applied to prevent new colonies from forming.
6. Cleaning: Our professionals clean and sanitize affected areas and belongings, including furniture, curtains, and personal items. We also use specialized techniques to deodorize your property.
7. Restoration: After remediation, we restore your property to its pre-mold condition. This may involve minor repairs like replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet, or more extensive reconstruction, depending on the damage.

Preventing Future Mold Growth

While mold is a natural part of our environment, there are steps you can take to minimize its presence in your home or business:

• Control Humidity: Use dehumidifiers and air conditioners to keep indoor humidity levels below 45%.
• Fix Leaks Promptly: Repair any leaks in your roof, walls, or plumbing immediately to prevent moisture accumulation.
• Ensure Proper Ventilation: Keep your property well-ventilated, particularly in moisture-prone areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
• Use Mold-Resistant Products: Consider using mold-resistant drywall, insulation, and paints during renovations or construction.

Mold can be a daunting issue, but with the right knowledge and professional help, it can be effectively managed. At SERVPRO of East Greenville, we understand the complexities of mold and offer comprehensive remediation services to protect your property and your health. Our team of experts is equipped with the training, tools, and techniques necessary to handle any mold issue, regardless of size.

If you suspect mold in your home or business, don’t wait. Contact SERVPRO of East Greenville today to schedule an inspection and let us help you restore your property to a safe, mold-free environment.

Essential Storm Safety Kit: What to Pack in Your Emergency Kit

6/19/2024 (Permalink)

Items to pack in your storm emergency kit.

Storms can strike with little warning, leaving behind significant storm damage and potential hazards for your home and family. Being prepared with a well-stocked storm safety kit is crucial for ensuring your safety and minimizing damage during these emergencies. In this guide, we will explore the essential components of a storm safety kit including tools, supplies, and communication devices. From flashlights and first aid kits to generators and hygiene essentials, ensure your home is protected and your family is safe during emergencies.

A storm safety kit is more than just a collection of items; it's a lifeline that makes sure you have what you need when normal supplies and services are disrupted. As storms can cause power outages, flooding, and even force you to evacuate your home, being prepared with the right tools and supplies can make a significant difference. Let's look into the key components of an effective storm safety kit.

Essential Tools and Supplies

• Flashlights and Batteries: Power outages are common during storms, so ensure you have several reliable flashlights and an ample supply of batteries. Having a backup set of batteries is crucial since you might not have access to new ones for an extended period.
• Multi-Tool or Swiss Army Knife: A versatile multi-tool can be invaluable in emergency situations, providing you with tools like pliers, screwdrivers, and a knife. This can help with everything from cutting through debris to making quick repairs around the house.
• Manual Can Opener: In the event of a power outage, a manual can opener will allow you to access your canned food supplies.
• Duct Tape: Duct Tape can be used for quick repairs, sealing leaks, and securing items. Its strong adhesive properties make it ideal for temporary fixes in a variety of situations.
• Plastic Sheeting and Tarps: These can be used to cover damaged areas, prevent further water intrusion, and create makeshift shelters if needed. They can also be laid on the ground to keep your living area dry if your home is compromised.
• Sandbags: If you live in a flood-prone area, having sandbags ready can help divert water away from your home and prevent storm damage. Properly placed sandbags can be an effective barrier against rising water levels.

First Aid Kit

• Basic Medical Supplies: Bandages, gauze, antiseptic wipes, adhesive tape, scissors, tweezers, and a digital thermometer. These items can help address minor injuries and prevent infections.
• Medications: Include a supply of any prescription medications your family members need, as well as over-the-counter pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and antihistamines. Having a few days' worth of medication ensures that medical needs are met even if access to pharmacies is limited.
• First Aid Manual: A first aid manual or guide can be extremely helpful for addressing injuries and medical issues during a crisis. Knowing how to properly treat wounds, burns, and other injuries can make a big difference in an emergency.

Communication Devices

• Battery-Powered or Hand-Crank Radio: A weather radio can keep you informed about storm updates, emergency alerts, and evacuation orders. Choose a model with multiple power options, including battery and hand-crank.
• Cell Phone and Charger: Ensure your cell phone is fully charged before the storm hits and include a portable charger or power bank in your kit. A fully charged phone is essential for staying in touch with family, friends, and emergency services.
• Whistle: A whistle can be used to signal for help if you are trapped or need assistance. Its sound can carry much further than a voice, making it an effective tool for attracting attention.

Food and Water Supplies

• Non-Perishable Food: Canned goods, dried fruits, nuts, energy bars, and other non-perishable food items that require minimal preparation. Foods with long shelf lives and high caloric content are ideal for maintaining energy levels.
• Water: Store at least one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days. This water should be used for drinking and sanitation purposes. In addition to bottled water, consider water purification tablets or a portable water filter in case your supply runs out.

Hygiene and Sanitation

• Hygiene Essentials: Soap, hand sanitizer, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and feminine hygiene products. Keeping clean helps prevent the spread of bacteria and viruses.
• Sanitation Supplies: Garbage bags, plastic ties, and a portable toilet or bucket for waste disposal. These items help manage waste when regular plumbing is unavailable.

Shelter and Warmth

• Blankets and Sleeping Bags: Pack enough blankets and sleeping bags to keep your family warm in cold weather. Choose items that are lightweight and compact for easy transport.
• Emergency Blankets: These lightweight, space-saving blankets are designed to retain body heat and can be a lifesaver in cold conditions. They are also waterproof and windproof.
• Tent or Shelter: A small tent or portable shelter can provide temporary protection if you need to leave your home. It can also serve as a designated sleeping area within your home if it’s damaged.

Important Documents and Cash

• Important Documents: Store copies of important documents in a waterproof container. These should include identification, insurance policies, medical records, and bank account information. Having these documents accessible ensures you can quickly start the recovery process.
• Cash: In the event of power outages, ATMs and card readers may not be functional, so having cash on hand can be crucial for purchasing necessary supplies. Small denominations are ideal for making transactions easier.

Being prepared with a well-stocked storm safety kit can make all the difference when a storm strikes. By including essential tools, supplies, communication devices, and other critical items, you can ensure your home is protected and your family is safe during emergencies. Remember, the key to effective emergency preparedness is planning ahead and regularly updating your kit to meet your family's evolving needs. Stay safe and be prepared!

For more information on storm damage preparedness and recovery, contact SERVPRO of East Greenville County. Our professionals are ready to help you protect your home and respond quickly to any storm damage.

Preparing for Winter Storm in Greer, SC

11/17/2023 (Permalink)

Preparing for Winter Storm | A SERVPRO Guide for Residential Homeowners, Business Owners, and Property Managers.

A SERVPRO® Guide for Residential Homeowners, Business Owners, and Property Managers

With winter quickly approaching, there is a high possibility of heightened storm activity. So now is a good time to prepare as a resident or property owner in East Greenville which includes Greer, SC. It is important to be proactive and take measures to safeguard your property and assets from the damaging effects of winter storms. In addition to reducing anxiety and ensuring you are ready to handle any emergency that may arise, being well-prepared can help protect your assets. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to prepare for winter storms in Greer, SC.

Create a winter emergency kit: Having a winter emergency kit on hand is one of the best first steps to prepare for a winter storm. Be sure your kit contains items such as a first-aid kit, a flashlight, blankets, a portable radio, and non-perishable food such as canned goods and snacks. A backup power source such as a generator is an investment worth making, just  in case of power outages.

Insulate your property: Winter storms often lead to frozen pipes and water damage. To avoid this, ensure that pipes and outdoor fixtures are well-insulated. Consider covering hose outlets with this protector (Amazon Link). These will not only help to prevent frozen pipes but will also help to reduce energy bills by keeping your property well heated. Do a visual check of all weatherstrip doors and windows to prevent drafts and retain warm indoor air.

Trim trees and clear gutters: Southern winter storms can produce heavy snowfall, strong  winds that can cause tree branches to fall, causing damage to your property. Simply, trimming your tree branches, so they don't hang in critical areas, can be a game changer. Clearing your gutters of fallen leaves and asphalt granules, will also help to prevent water from seeping into your roof and causing damage.

Secure loose outdoor items: Winter storms will often cause debris to fly around. It is a good idea to secure outdoor items like patio furniture, planters, and grill covers. It would be a good idea to store them in a secure location, like a storage unit. Or tie them together or down to prevent them from getting carried away by strong winds.

Have SERVPRO, a restoration and cleaning professional on standby: Add SERVPRO of East Greenville County's phone number, (864) 292-3495 to your cell phone. In the event of damage to your property caused by a winter storm, SERVPRO of East Greenville County, is on standby. We can assess the damage to your property and provide the necessary services such as water damage restoration or mold removal. SERVPRO restoration and cleaning professionals have the expertise and equipment required to handle any storm damage.

Winter storms can be devastating, but being well-prepared can help reduce the impact. Creating an emergency kit, insulating your property, clearing gutters, trimming tree branches, securing loose outdoor items, and having a restoration and cleaning professional on standby are all effective measures to prepare for winter storms. Take these preventative measures, and you'll be well on your way to protecting your property from winter storms. With the right preparation, you can keep your home or business safe and secure this winter season.

Be sure to find and follow us on all or your favorite Social Media.
Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram 

Our Class is a Family

10/5/2023 (Permalink)

Mrs. Evatt's class showing off their new books, purchased by SERVPRO® of East Greenville County.

Exciting news, everyone! SERVPRO® of East Greenville County is thrilled to team up with our amazing local schools to support education. We recently had the wonderful opportunity to donate a bunch of awesome books to Mrs. Evatt's class at Fairforest Elementary School. And guess what? The chosen book, "Our Class is a Family," is perfect for kicking off the kindergarten year with a bang! Let's embrace the joy of learning together! 

Investing in the next generation is key to any communities growth. Nothing is more important than getting involved with our youth and their education and future. We are thankful for teachers like Mrs. Evatt for pouring into her students.

#SERVPRO #SERVPROofeastgreenvillecounty #stormdamage #WaterDamage #disasterrelief #moldremediation #fastertoanysizedisaster #carpetcleaning #EmergencyReadyProgram #ERP #winddamage #haildamage #pipeburst #fairforestelementaryschool #inthecommunity #supportlocalschools

Greenville Community Ministries

10/5/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of East Greenville County shinning up the kitchen floor for Greer Community Ministries and Meals on Wheels.

SERVPRO® of East Greenville County had the privilege of assisting the Greater Greer community. We were grateful for the opportunity to clean the kitchen tile, which is used for Meals on Wheels and Senior Dining at Greer Community Ministries. Greer Community Ministries assists in providing food, clothing, and meaningful social interaction to those in need. They offer four programs: Meals on Wheels, Senior Dining, Food Pantry, and Sharon’s Closet. Take a look at the pictures of both the SERVPRO van and the Greer Community Ministries van, both of which play a vital role in supporting our community.

Our Community Liaison, Johnathan Evatt, recently spent sometime with James Abbott with Greer Community Ministries. James and his team are dedicated to the less fortunate in our Greer community and go the extra mile to see that they are well loved and cared for.

#SERVPRO #SERVPROofeastgreenvillecounty #stormdamage #WaterDamage #disasterrelief #moldremediation #fastertoanysizedisaster #GreerCommunityMinistries #GreerCommunity #MealsonWheels #SharonsCloset #foodpantry

New Quick Response Water Truck

10/5/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of East Greenville County's new Quick Response Water Truck with our super excited team.

The key to any battle is the equipment you have to work with. We just received our One Of A Kind, Quick Response Water Truck and our entire team is PUMPED! Speaking of pumped, we have ordered a top of the line extraction pump for this truck and will have it installed soon. When you have a loss and time is of the essence, we have the equipment to get your loss restored. We continue to invest in our staffs training and the equipment that we use. This makes us Faster To Any Size Disaster Trust SERVPRO® of East Greenville County, we will make it "Like it never even happened." If you find yourself in need of help, call the pros. 864 292-3495 

www.SERVPROeastgreenvillecounty.com

 #SERVPROeastgreenvillecounty

#QuickResponse #waterdamage

#disasterrelief #FasterToAnySizeDisaster

Breathe Easier: The Benefits of Cleaning Your Air Ducts

7/14/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO East Greenville County cleaning Air Ducts in a local apartment complex.

As things heat up, we have a tendency to spend more time inside. One of the most overlooked items when it comes to our health, is the air that we breathe.

Your HVAC system draws in air from within your home, running past a filter, cooling it down and then introducing it back into your home. That is the short version of what happens. It is a bit more complicated than that, but in a nut shell that is what happens.
There are a number of things that can and should be done to make sure that the air that you breath is the best it can be.

Monthly Filter Changes - It is recommended to change your air filters out monthly. In addition to making sure you are not breathing in cool dirty air, it will help your HVAC stay healthy. It will also reduce the amount of dirt that gets past your filter and begins to build up on your air ducts that run throughout your home.

Air Duct Cleaning - Perhaps one of the most over looked maintenance item within a home, is the cleaning of air ducts.
Your air ducts are essential for maintaining comfort in your home. They circulate air from your heating and cooling systems to every room, ensuring a cozy environment year-round. However, when neglected, these ducts can become a breeding ground for dust, pollen, mold, and other debris. This buildup of pollutants can impact the air quality in your home and pose a risk to your family's health. That's why regular duct cleaning is crucial. Here's why:
Improve Indoor Air Quality: The air that flows through your ducts is the same air you and your loved ones breathe. Unfortunately, it can contain contaminants like pet dander, dust, chemicals, and even carbon monoxide. These substances get pulled into your HVAC unit and, over time, accumulate in your ducts. When the system is running, these pollutants re-enter your living space, potentially causing respiratory issues and allergies. By cleaning your ducts regularly, you can eliminate these harmful particles, improving the air quality in your home and safeguarding your family's well-being.

Boost HVAC Efficiency: As dust and debris accumulate in your ducts, they can obstruct airflow. This leads to uneven distribution of conditioned air, creating uncomfortable hot and cold spots throughout your home. To compensate, your HVAC unit works harder, consuming more energy and driving up your utility bills. By clearing away this debris, air can flow freely, allowing your system to operate at peak efficiency. Not only will this improve your comfort, but it will also save you money in the long run.

Say Goodbye to Awful Odors: Get rid of unpleasant smells in your home caused by paint fumes, tobacco smoke, cleaning agents, mildew, and food. Our professional air duct cleaning eliminates stale odors that are trapped in the ductwork, ensuring that they don't continue to circulate throughout your home. We also remove bacteria, mold, and the disgusting smells they emit. Plus, we'll clear out any droppings or decomposing critters that may be hiding in your ducts, discouraging insects from nesting. Say hello to a fresh-smelling home again!

Cleaner Home and Breathe Easier: Dust particles can accumulate in your ductwork when your HVAC unit is off, only to be recirculated when you turn it on. This leads to excessive dust settling on your furniture, bedding, floors, and more, making it a constant chore to keep your home clean. But with our air duct cleaning services, you can prevent these pollutants from continuously entering your house. Enjoy a cleaner living environment for a longer period of time, and spend less time dusting and more time relaxing in a pristine home.

Don't settle for subpar air quality. Count on SERVPRO of East Greenville County to make your indoor air "Like it never even happened."

Cozy Up Safely for the Wintertime | SERVPRO® of East Greenville County

1/22/2023 (Permalink)

Winter is here, and you are sure to feel the chill here in Greenville. Winters here tend to be chilly but moderate, but every now and then we get a surprise visit from heavy snowfall, such as the storm that hit us earlier this year, which was one of the worst in years!

Even if we don’t receive any more snow, it’s important to stay warm, and it’s equally important to heat your home safely. Whether you use a space heater or a fireplace, without the correct measures, fires could quickly ignite.

Avoiding flames and keeping warm is simple when you know what to avoid. Here are some tips on how to warm up your home safely during the winter.

<h3basics">Furnace Basics

Most homes come with a furnace and an HVAC system that helps send warm air throughout the house. Regular maintenance is the key to keeping your furnace working properly during the winter. If you haven’t already, check your furnace for any apparent issues and give it a deep-clean so it can run without problems from a buildup of dust and debris.

Go ahead and replace your air filter while you’re maintaining your HVAC system. As long as you replace your filter at the beginning of every new season, you can keep your home’s air quality fresh from allergens, dust and dirt while prolonging the lifespan of your HVAC.

<h3safety">Fireplace Safety

A fireplace is one of the best ways to heat up your entire home, but if it isn’t used with caution, a fire emergency is sure to ensue. Cleaning it and checking for any issues on the regular can keep you safe from an accidental fire.

If you use a wood-burning fireplace, clean up any excess ash, clear your chimney of blockages and clear any smoke or soot remnants from nearby areas. For an artificial fireplace, take off the glass cover and wipe it down. Give the inside a thorough clean too by dusting around and cleaning off any buildup.

<h3heaters">Portable Heaters

One gadget that makes cozying up the home simple is a space heater. While they are easy to use, they can be a fire hazard when used improperly. Plug up your space heater at least three feet away from anything flammable, and remember to shut it off before heading to bed.

Keep your space heater balanced and in an area where it won’t get tipped over. Always plug space heaters directly into the wall and avoid plugging them into an extension cord!

When using your space heaters or fireplace, be sure to supervise your children and pets while they are around them. You only need one mishap to create a large-scale catastrophe in your home this winter.

If you experience fire damage this season, give us a call at SERVPRO of East Greenville County for immediate assistance. We’re here ²⁴⁄₇ when you need us!

Faster to Any Size Disaster

9/26/2022 (Permalink)

Flooding can happen at any moment SERVPRO of East Greenville County for the fastest response..

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours, and neither do we. SERVPRO of East Greenville County provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of East Greenville County arrives speedily and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 at 864-292-3495

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water absorbs into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

About SERVPRO of East Greenville County

SERVPRO of East Greenville County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our highly trained staff specializes in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our team is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Certifications

• AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
• ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
• ECTP - Employee Certification Training Program
• FSRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• HST - Health and Safety Technician
• IICRC Certified Firm
• OCT - Odor Control Technician
• OSHA - 10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
• RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation

Ready to Help

9/26/2022 (Permalink)

Help is available 24/7

A water damage of any degree could be a disaster in anyone's home. If left unchecked, the damage will spread and become worse. Here at SERVPRO of East Greenville, we take pride in our ability to react fast to a water damage, and help our customer in both the issue from the water loss and to reassure that we are more than capable of taking care of their problems. We lead a team of qualified individuals, and every one of them are willing and able to answer questions about a loss. Water heater leaks, HV/AC leaks, broken dishwasher, washing machine overflows, we handle it all. And, should the issue come from somewhere less than sanitary, we are able to clean that up as well. No matter the size of the loss, be it multi-story to a single room, our team at SERVPRO of  East Greenville will be ready to help.