Why Does Mold Grow in My House?

5/16/2023 (Permalink)

Mold is a common problem that many homeowners face

Mold is a common problem that many homeowners face. It can cause damage to your home and belongings, as well as create an unpleasant musty smell. But why does mold grow in the first place? In this blog, we’ll explore the reasons why mold grows in houses and what you can do to prevent it.

Moisture

One of the main reasons why mold grows in houses is due to moisture. Mold spores are present in the air all around us, but they need a moist environment to grow. If your home has areas that are consistently damp or wet, then mold is likely to grow there.

Common sources of moisture in homes include:

• Leaky pipes or appliances
• High humidity levels
• Water damage from flooding or heavy rain
• Poor ventilation in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms

Poor Ventilation

Another reason why mold may grow in your home is poor ventilation. When moisture is trapped in a room, it can lead to the growth of mold. This is particularly true in areas such as bathrooms and kitchens, where moisture levels are naturally higher.

To prevent mold growth due to poor ventilation, make sure that your home is properly ventilated. This means installing exhaust fans in areas where moisture is likely to accumulate, such as the bathroom, kitchen, and laundry room.

Poor Insulation

Poor insulation can also contribute to the growth of mold in your home. When warm, moist air comes into contact with cold surfaces, condensation can occur. This can lead to the growth of mold in areas such as attics, basements, and crawl spaces.

To prevent mold growth due to poor insulation, make sure that your home is properly insulated. This includes insulating your attic, walls, and crawl spaces.

Clutter

Clutter in your home can also contribute to the growth of mold. When items are stored in damp or humid areas, such as basements or closets, mold can grow on them. This can be particularly problematic if the items are made of organic materials, such as paper or fabric.

To prevent mold growth due to clutter, make sure that your home is organized and that items are stored in dry, well-ventilated areas. Avoid storing items in basements or crawl spaces unless they are properly sealed and protected from moisture.

In conclusion, mold growth in your home is often due to a combination of factors, including moisture, poor ventilation, poor insulation, and clutter. By addressing these issues, you can help prevent mold growth in your home. Make sure that any leaks or water damage are promptly addressed, and that your home is properly ventilated and insulated. Keep your home organized and avoid storing items in damp or humid areas. By taking these steps, you can help ensure that your home remains mold-free.

7 Essential Steps for Creating a Fire Escape Plan for Homes and Businesses

4/13/2023 (Permalink)

Here are some tips to help you create an effective fire escape plan for your home or business.

Fires can happen at any time, and they can quickly spread and become dangerous. Having a fire escape plan is essential for both homes and businesses to ensure everyone's safety. A fire escape plan is a well-thought-out emergency plan that outlines the steps to follow in the event of a fire. This plan should be discussed and practiced regularly to ensure everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency.

Here are some tips to help you create an effective fire escape plan for your home or business:

Identify all possible escape routes

It's important to identify all possible escape routes in your home or business, including windows and doors. Make sure that these exits are clear and easy to access in case of an emergency. It's also essential to ensure that these routes are safe and free from obstacles or hazards that could impede escape.

Install smoke detectors

Smoke detectors can save lives by alerting people to the presence of a fire. It's crucial to have smoke detectors installed in every room of your home or business and to test them regularly to ensure they are functioning correctly. Additionally, make sure to change the batteries at least once a year.

Create a designated meeting point

Choose a designated meeting point that is a safe distance from the building. This will ensure that everyone is accounted for in the event of an emergency. It's essential to stress to everyone that they should not return to the building until it's declared safe to do so.

Practice the escape plan

It's not enough to create a fire escape plan; you must practice it regularly with everyone who will be involved in the escape. This includes family members, employees, or tenants. The more you practice, the more confident everyone will be in their ability to carry out the plan in case of a fire.

Consider people with disabilities

People with disabilities may need additional assistance in the event of a fire. Make sure to include any special considerations in the escape plan and assign someone to assist them if necessary.

Have fire extinguishers and other fire safety equipment

Fire extinguishers and other fire safety equipment should be readily available and accessible. Make sure everyone knows where they are located and how to use them in case of an emergency.

Contact emergency services

As soon as everyone is safely out of the building, contact emergency services. Provide them with accurate and detailed information about the location and nature of the fire.

In conclusion, having a fire escape plan is essential for both homes and businesses. The plan should be well-thought-out, practiced regularly, and updated as necessary. By following the above tips, you can create an effective fire escape plan that will ensure everyone's safety in the event of a fire. Remember, being prepared is the best way to prevent injury or loss of life in case of an emergency.

4 Common Causes Of Dishwasher Leaks

3/13/2023 (Permalink)

If you are having problems with your dishwasher, check these items before calling a repair technician.

If you have a dishwasher, you know how convenient it is to just load and run it. But when your dishwasher starts leaking, it’s an unpleasant surprise. We've compiled a list of four common causes of leaks that can help you troubleshoot before calling for repair services.

Faulty Gasket

Gaskets are rubber seals that keep water from leaking out of your dishwasher. They can become brittle and crack over time, so it's important to check them regularly. If you notice any damage or decay on your gasket, it should be replaced immediately.

Drainline is loose or damaged

If your drain line is loose or damaged, it could be causing a leak. The drain line is typically made of vinyl and can become loose over time. If you suspect that this is the cause of your dishwasher leak, first check to see if there's any damage in the area where the pipe connects to the machine. If so, consider replacing this section of the pipe. If not, then tighten up any clamps that may have loosened during normal usage--this should hopefully stop any future leaks as well!

Water supply line leak

The water supply line is the pipe that connects the dishwasher to your home's water supply. If this connection becomes damaged or corroded, then it could leak and cause damage to other parts of your dishwasher.

The first sign of a leaky water supply line is usually a small puddle forming under your sink or countertop. This means that some water has leaked out of this connection point before reaching its destination inside the appliance itself--which means it's time for repairs!

Unlevel dishwasher

If your dishwasher is not level, it can cause water to leak from the bottom of the appliance. If you are unsure how to check if your dishwasher is level, it's best practice to call in an expert repair technician who can inspect your dishwasher and determine if it needs adjusting or leveling off with shims.

If you are having a problem with your dishwasher, check these items.

• Check the gasket.
• Check the drain line.
• Check the water supply line.
• Ensure the dishwasher is level.

If you are having problems with your dishwasher, check these items before calling a repair technician. You may be able to fix the problem yourself and save money on costly repairs or replacements. If your dishwasher has leaked and caused damage to your home, don't hesitate and give our SERVPRO of Northeast Minneapolis team a call today. Our team can assist with all your water damage cleanup and restoration needs.

How to Clean Up Water Damage

2/10/2023 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes, give SERVPRO a call

Water damage can be devastating, but it doesn’t have to mean the end of your home. The right water cleanup team will make a difference with their experience, knowledge, and expertise.

Many water damage scenarios require professional assistance. Here at SERVPRO, we have a tried and trie 5-step water cleanup process in place to help you.

• Inspection & Damage Assessment
• Water Removal
• Drying and Dehumidification
• Cleaning and Sanitizing
• Restoration

1. Inspection & Assessment

In this step, our team will inspect your property, assessing the extent of the damage. We will also check for sources of water, any potential hazards, or mold growth.

We will then make a detailed report of our findings and provide you with a quote for the work required. We can complete all mitigation and repairs, including any necessary reconstruction.

2. Water Removal

The next step in the water damage cleanup process is to remove as much of the water as possible. Water removal involves using specialized equipment to extract water from hard surfaces, such as floors and walls, or soft surfaces like carpeting and furniture.

The longer water sits on a surface, the more damage it can cause. To minimize this damage, it is important to remove standing water within 24 hours of detection.

Some of the specialized equipment used by SERVPRO includes pumps, truck-mounted units, portable extractors, and moisture meters.

3. Drying and Dehumidification

Once the water is removed, it's time to dry and dehumidify your home. This can be done using powerful equipment that will remove any remaining moisture from your floors, walls, and ceiling. Drying out a room is essential for preventing damage to furniture and other belongings as well as mold growth in the future.

The process of removing moisture from the air is known as dehumidification. It's common practice when dealing with water damage because it helps remove any excess moisture from the air and prevent any mold growth from forming on your property.

4. Cleaning and Sanitizing

Cleaning and sanitization are the fourth steps of the process. This step is important because it can reduce the risk of further damage, and it's also a vital part of the restoration process. In this step, all affected areas are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized with special cleaning solutions. Our team will also remove any odors and deodorize your property.

A home that has suffered from a water damage event should be cleaned and sanitized before residents live and exist in the area.

5. Restoration

Once you've completed the cleaning and mitigation process, it's time to get back on track. The final phase is restoration, which involves repairing or rebuilding damaged areas of your property. This will include any repairs that are needed or full reconstruction of entire rooms.

If you have water damage, it's important to take action quickly. The longer you wait, the more damage can occur, and the higher the cost will be to repair it. If you need help with cleanup or restoration services after a flood, call SERVPRO of Northeast Minneapolis today!

Building an Emergency Kit

1/20/2023 (Permalink)

When storms hit, emergency services may be limited, so having an emergency kit to help whenever possible is important.

It is easy to understand that emergencies can happen at any time in our lives.  Having an emergency kit on hand can be an invaluable tool when you find yourself vulnerable and face an emergency. When storms hit, emergency services may be limited, so having an emergency kit to help whenever possible is important. Here are some things you need to include in your emergency kit.

Water

You will need to have plenty of drinking water for your emergency kit. It is important that you have enough water for each member of your family for one gallon per person per day. Drinking water can be used for cleaning, cooking, and hygiene. This means you will also need to include items such as soap or hand sanitizer so that you can wash dishes in the event that there is no running water or other methods for doing so.

When determining how much drinking water you should add to your kit, consider how many people are in your family and whether there are any special needs (for example if someone has diabetes). The general rule of thumb is 1 gallon per person per day but this can vary greatly depending on the size and activity level of each individual as well as their age group. 

First Aid Kit

Have a first aid kit with bandages, gauze, tape, and antibiotic cream. Bandages are important for covering cuts and scrapes. Gauze can be used to stop bleeding from wounds or to protect an injury. Tape can be used to secure bandages in place or even as a sling for an injured arm or leg. Antibiotic cream is helpful for preventing infections when cuts are present on the skin. 

Flashlights, Batteries, and Battery-Powered Radio

Include a flashlight, extra batteries, and a battery-powered radio. In the event of an emergency, you’ll want to be able to keep yourself informed of the latest developments. A flashlight will allow you to find your way around in low light conditions and stay safe from any dangers that may loom ahead. A battery-powered radio will also allow you to stay up-to-date on news updates as well as listen for instructions from authorities on what actions they would like citizens to take.  

Keep Cash

You may not be able to get cash from an ATM or bank during the storm. There could be long lines and power outages, which will make it difficult for those machines to operate. ATMs are also known to run out of money quickly because so many people try to withdraw at once.

So don't rely on your debit card or credit card if you need cash. Instead, have enough cash on hand so that you can buy necessities in case stores are closed and/or without power. Make sure you have enough money for at least a week's worth of groceries and other items that may be hard to find after a hurricane.

Pet Care Items

If you have pets, make sure to include pet food and medications in your emergency kit along with a leash. Include a pet first-aid kit, as well. Make sure to also include a pet carrier and extra water for your pet.

Blankets, Sleeping Bags, and Extra Clothes

Consider adding blankets or sleeping bags as well as extra clothing to your emergency kit. Blankets and sleeping bags will keep you warm during the night when temperatures drop. Extra clothing can be used in case you have to stay outdoors for several days due to power outages or damage done by the storm. 

Having a plan and being prepared will help keep everyone safe during this time. If your home or business does experience damage due to a storm, give SERVPRO of Northeast Minneapolis a call, and we will get your Minneapolis property back to normal as quickly as possible.

How to Choose the Right Smoke Detector for your Home

12/4/2022 (Permalink)

Smoke detectors are an important part of your home’s security system.

How to Choose the Right Smoke Detector for your Home

I'm sure you've heard the saying, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." In other words, it's much better to take steps to prevent something from happening than to deal with the consequences once it does. That's why we strongly recommend that you install smoke detectors in your Lauderdale, MN home.

Consider the shape and size of your home.

Smoke detectors are available in a variety of shapes and sizes. To fit into certain areas, they can be mounted on the ceiling or on a wall, or they can even go flush with the corner of two walls. Some models are battery-powered while others plug directly into an electrical outlet or use wires to connect to a central alarm system that alerts you when there's a problem.

Don't forget about the power source.

You may have noticed that smoke detectors are available in both battery-powered and hardwired versions. If your home has no electric power, the battery-powered ones will work just fine.

The same goes for wireless models: they come with a battery backup in case of power outage. That way, you don't need to worry about charging the device every month or so—it'll keep working even when there's no electricity on tap!

Be aware of false alarms.

You may be tempted to ignore a false alarm, but don't. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), false alarms can be very dangerous. Smoke detectors are designed to be sensitive and may go off accidentally when steam from cooking or showering sets them off, or when pets set them off. As such, it's important that you check your detector regularly, at least once a month in order to ensure its accuracy and ensure that it is working properly.

If you have an old smoke detector that has been making frequent false alarms and isn't working properly anymore, it's time for a replacement! In fact, replacing your smoke detectors every 10 years is recommended by the NFPA based on battery lifespan and other factors related to reliability and functionality of these devices.

Location is key.

Where to install smoke detectors:

Smoke detectors should be installed in all bedrooms, kitchens, and small rooms. Smoke detectors are also recommended for hallways leading to bedrooms as well as at the top of staircases.

Where to install CO Detectors:

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a deadly gas that can't be seen or smelled by humans. It is often created by appliances not working properly and results in poisoning deaths every year. To ensure your family's safety from this silent killer, it's important that you have carbon monoxide detectors installed in any room with a furnace or water heater (including basements). These devices can also be helpful if you have an attached garage where people could potentially get trapped inside while using their car engines on cold days.

Smoke detectors are vital for every home, so choose the right one for your needs to ensure your safety.

We all know how important smoke detectors are in the home, but it can be tricky to choose which type is best suited to you and your family’s needs. There are many factors that make a difference when choosing which brand of detector works best for you, including price range and how long it takes to install. When it comes down to it there’s no such thing as perfect smoke detector—they all have pros and cons—so consider what features matter most before making a purchase.

Smoke detectors are an important part of your home’s security system. They can alert you to the presence of smoke, which can be dangerous and even fatal if not addressed quickly enough. For the safety of yourself and others on your property, ensure that you have fully functioning smoke detectors across your entire property.

Mold vs Mildew

11/1/2022 (Permalink)

If you need mold remediation or mold cleanup call SERVPRO of Northeast Minneapolis.

Mold vs Mildew

The growth of mold and mildew is one of the most common household problems. Mold and mildew typically grow in areas where there’s moisture, such as basements, bathrooms, and kitchens. Mildew is a type of fungus that grows on plants and is often associated with damp environments such as bathrooms or basements. On the other hand, mold can grow anywhere there’s moisture as it requires little light to survive. What is the difference between mold and mildew? 

The differences between them go beyond their appearance. 

Mold and mildew are both fungi that grow on surfaces. They can be found all over the world in places like bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and attics. Both mold and mildew thrive in damp environments with high humidity levels.

Mold is a fungus that grows in damp, dark areas such as your bathroom shower or basement floors. It's composed of tiny threads called hyphae that spread across surfaces where moisture collects — like wallpaper or wood cabinets — creating colonies called spore molds (also known as mycelium). These spores can float through the air until they land on another surface where they will continue to grow under the right conditions. 

Mold is usually black or brown, but it can also be white, blue or green. When mold has grown into a large colony it may have a fuzzy appearance similar to the coat on an animal (hence why some people refer to it as "fur" or "hair").

What is mildew?

Mildew is a type of fungus that grows on plants, fabrics, paper, and other materials. It can cause damage to these items. Mildew looks like tiny white or gray spots and is most commonly seen as a powdery substance on houseplants or in bathrooms and kitchens where humidity levels are high. 

How to tell mold from mildew

How can you tell the difference between mold and mildew? The easiest way is by looking at their appearance.

Mold is fuzzy, either black or green (or both), while mildew is powdery and usually gray or white. Molds are capable of spreading through spores in the air, while mildews grow on organic materials such as wood, paper, and plants. Mildew can be found growing inside your shower near the top edge of the glass where it meets metal pipes:

there are several methods to remove it:

If you have either, you need to address it immediately.

Mold and mildew can cause extensive damage to your home or business, so if you suspect either is in your home, you should address it immediately. Mildew tends to be more common on the exterior of buildings and other structures because it’s found in moist areas with stagnant air, like bathrooms or kitchens. Mold can grow anywhere there’s moisture, but it prefers dark places such as basements or closets where there’s not much air circulation.

SERVPRO of Northeast Minneapolis is here to help with all your mold remediation and mold cleanup needs in Minneapolis, MN, and surrounding areas!

Fire Prevention Tips

10/7/2022 (Permalink)

Never leave a lit candle unattended in your Minneapolis, MN home.

Tips for Fire Prevention

A fire can be devastating. It destroys property and can cause serious injury to you and your loved ones. But if you are proactive, there are steps you can take to help prevent fires from happening in your Minneapolis, MN, home. Here are some of the most common causes of residential fires, as well as tips on what homeowners can do to help reduce their risk for this disaster:

Only use multi-plug outlets and extension cords 

It's important to only use multi-plug outlets and extension cords that are designed to handle the power load needed. Not all extension cords are the same, so it's important to check their ratings before using them with your appliances. You should also make sure that the appliance you're plugging in is rated for use with a heavy-duty extension cord. If you need more power than what can be provided by a standard household outlet, consider using an industrial-grade flathead plug or GFCI-protected circuit breaker.

Always ensure that smoke detectors are installed and working properly.

Smoke detectors are designed to alert you in the event of a fire, but they can't do their job if they aren't working properly. To maximize the effectiveness of your smoke detectors and keep your family safe, follow these tips:

• Check the batteries regularly. Smoke detectors use a small amount of power constantly, so even when they're not sounding an alarm, they need to always have fresh batteries. Make sure you change them every 6 months (or sooner if you know they've been running low).
• Test your detector's battery weekly by pressing the test button on top. Also test it monthly with a smoke stick or candle flame until you learn how long it takes for your detector to go off as this varies from model to model and brand to brand!

Keep flammable items locked away from children.

Keep matches, lighters, and other flammable items out of the reach of children. If you are unable to keep them locked away, consider childproofing the area. Store these items in a locked cabinet or drawer.

Never leave a lit candle unattended even if it's in a holder that looks like it might be able to contain flames—they often don't. Also, avoid smoking in bed or when you're tired as these activities have been proven to increase the risk of a fire breaking out.

It is important for homeowners to understand some of the common causes of house fires, as well as what they can do to help prevent them.

The most common causes of house fires are:

• Cooking and heating equipment
• Electrical wiring, outlets, or appliances
• Careless smoking habits or other acts of negligence

To prevent fires in your home, keep flammable items, including furniture, bedding, and clothing at least three feet away from heat sources. This will help to stop a fire before it gets started. Additionally, keep matches out of the reach of children. If you smoke inside your home, make sure there is no ash on surfaces where they could set something on fire by accident (such as a table). Make sure that all electrical products are installed properly and that there are no exposed wires or damaged plugs/sockets in use anywhere in your house.

The causes of fire are many and varied, but they all have the same result: a house that is no longer safe to live in. In this article, we’ve explored some of the most common causes of house fires, as well as some tips for preventing them. By taking these precautions into account when you’re considering buying a home or making renovations, you can rest assured that your property will be safer from fire damage in the future.

How To Clean Electronics Damaged by Water

8/25/2022 (Permalink)

Flooded electronics can be dangerous if not handled appropriately, so it is always best to use caution when approaching these devices.

How to Clean Water-Damaged Electronics

If an electronic device in your building suffers water damage, you may not know the best way to handle the situation. Flooded electronics can be dangerous if not handled appropriately, so it is always best to use caution when approaching these devices.

Here are several tips to help you remove water from your devices safely and effectively.

1. Turn Off the Power Source

Before approaching any electronic device that is submerged in water, it is important to turn off the switch or circuit breaker that supplies power to the outlet.

2. Be Wary of Battery Hazards in Flooded Electronics

If the device has its own battery, look for signs of smoke, heat, or melting. Damaged batteries can be dangerous, and if you see any signs of damage, it is better to leave the device alone and call a professional.

3. Drain Water and Take Apart the Device
Once the device is safe to approach, unplug it. You can shake it gently or rotate it to let water out. Disassemble the device so that you can drain more water and isolate the internal components.

4. Clean the Circuit Board and Other Sensitive Parts

Submerge the circuit board in isopropyl alcohol. Take it out and use a soft brush to clean it. Be careful and avoid knocking any components loose from the circuit board. For the best results, use an ultrasonic cleaner to remove water and corrosion from areas you will not be able to reach with a brush. Dry the components with a blow dryer on cold, or use a desk lamp to help dry them.

5. Call a Professional if You Need Help

If there is extensive electronic damage in your building, it is a good idea to contact a water restoration company in St. Anthony, MN, to help you remove water and restore as many devices as possible.

Following these tips will help you respond to any situation involving flooded electronics.

Should Businesses Prepare for St. Anthony Water Damage Repair?

8/23/2022 (Permalink)

Protect your St. Anthony Business Building and Goodwill with SERVPRO's ERP Emergency READY Profile Plan

SERVPRO Urges Proaction to Minimize St. Anthony Commercial Water Damage Exposure

You likely feel that you cannot spare the time to craft a plan in anticipation of the need for water damage repair. St. Anthony business owners like yourself benefit from scheduling an assessment with one of our experienced project managers to develop an Emergency READY Profile (ERP) rather than reacting without a plan in a water incursion emergency.

How Does a SERVPRO ERP Work to Protect Your St. Anthony Business?  

SERVPRO has the training and experience to limit the need for St. Anthony water damage emergency services and respond effectively if water removal services or sewage cleanup is required. Our assessment focuses on prevention through:

• A comprehensive walk-through of your St. Anthony commercial building to identify structural, utility hook-ups, or supply or wastewater line vulnerabilities that adaptations, replacements, or repairs can eliminate
• An evaluation of your equipment, inventory, and storage configurations, identifying potential water damage disaster “hot spots” and suggesting raising machinery above flood levels or moving documents or goods off-site or to higher spaces inside your building. OSHA strongly recommends industrial preparedness for water and flooding emergencies.

SERVPRO gives you a list of water damage prevention tips after the inspection you can implement before the risks become actual damage scenarios.

What Will Your St. Anthony Commercial ERP Cover to Improve the Efficiency of SERVPRO’s Response After a Water Disaster?

The ERP is a concise digital document our crews access before and during the water damage restoration process. Contained within the ERP is practical information like:

• Your designation of SERVPRO as your preferred disaster restoration company
• Blueprints and photos of the space, including notations about recesses and confined spaces
• Location of utility shut-offs
• Contact information for your company -- owners, managers, security staff, and critical vendors and contractors
• A list of people you designate as your agents to make decisions if you are unavailable
• A detailed agenda of water damage repair and flood restoration interventions our manager developed with your input

Work with SERVPRO of Northeast Minneapolis on an Emergency READY Profile (ERP), setting your mind at ease as we learn important details to avoid or minimize the effects of water damage to your business. Call (612) 421-2040 to schedule an assessment.