Crawl Space Mold: How to Prevent and Remove It

11/10/2024 (Permalink)

Mold growing in crawl spaces is something many homeowners don’t notice until it’s too late. These areas are often damp and poorly ventilated, creating the perfect environment for mold to grow. If not addressed, mold in your crawl space can spread and cause damage. SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas is here to share expert tips on how to prevent mold from forming and what to do if you already have it.

Signs of Mold in Your Crawl Space

There are some clear signs that mold might be hiding down there:

• A musty or unpleasant odor coming from below
• Visible mold or discoloration on floor joists, walls, or insulation
• Wood that appears stained or damp
• Extra moisture in the air or visible water in the space

If you notice any of these signs, it's time to take action.

How to Prevent Mold in Crawl Spaces

Preventing mold is always easier than getting rid of it. Here are some steps to keep mold from forming in your crawl space:

• Control Moisture: Moisture control is the most important step in preventing mold growth. 
• Install a vapor barrier: A vapor barrier, made of plastic or foil, can help keep ground moisture from rising into the crawl space.
• Fix leaks quickly: Check for any leaking pipes or cracks in the foundation and repair them immediately to avoid water build-up.
• Redirect water: Make sure your gutters and downspouts direct water away from your foundation to keep your crawl space dry. 
• Increase Ventilation: Good airflow helps dry out moisture in crawl spaces. Consider installing a ventilation system or fans to keep air moving. Also, make sure crawl space vents are clear of debris, allowing air to circulate.
• Regular Inspections: Inspect your crawl space regularly, at least once a year. Look for any signs of dampness or mold. By catching problems early, you can prevent bigger issues later on.

How to Remove Mold from Crawl Spaces

If you find mold in your crawl space, you’ll need to act fast to stop it from spreading. Here’s how to address the problem:

1. Contain the Area: Before starting cleanup, seal off the affected area. Use plastic sheeting to cover vents or openings to keep mold spores from spreading to other areas of your home.

2. Remove Mold-Damaged Materials: Any materials that are too moldy to clean, like insulation or drywall, should be removed and disposed of. Be sure to wear protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and a mask.

3. Clean Moldy Surfaces: Scrub affected surfaces using a cleaning solution designed to kill mold. A mixture of water and detergent works well for most non-porous surfaces like concrete or wood. For tougher cases, you may want to use a mold-killing cleaner.

4. Use a Dehumidifier: After cleaning, use a dehumidifier to dry out the crawl space and lower humidity levels. Mold thrives in moist conditions, so keeping the space dry will prevent mold from coming back. It’s recommended to keep humidity below 50%.

When to Call SERVPRO®

If you discover a significant mold problem in your crawl space, it’s best to call in the professionals. SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas has the right equipment and expertise to safely remove mold and make sure it doesn’t come back. We use advanced techniques to clean and remediate the area, restoring your home to a mold-free state.

Mold in New Construction: Prevention and Early Intervention

7/10/2024 (Permalink)

New construction projects represent the promise of fresh beginnings, innovative designs, and modern living spaces. However, even in newly built structures, the threat of mold contamination looms large if proper precautions are not taken during the construction process. Mold growth in new construction can occur due to various factors, including moisture intrusion, inadequate ventilation, and poor construction practices. Preventing mold in new construction and implementing early intervention measures are crucial for safeguarding the integrity of the building and ensuring the health and safety of occupants. In this blog, we'll delve into the importance of addressing mold in new construction and discuss strategies for prevention and early intervention.

Recognizing the Risks of Mold in New Construction

Mold growth in new construction poses numerous risks, including:

1. Structural Damage: Mold can compromise the integrity of building materials, leading to deterioration, staining, and weakening of structural components such as wood, drywall, and insulation.
2. Financial Losses: Addressing mold contamination in new construction can be costly and time-consuming, potentially leading to delays, disputes, and additional expenses for property owners, builders, and contractors.

Strategies for Mold Prevention in New Construction

Preventing mold in new construction requires a proactive approach that addresses potential sources of moisture and creates a hostile environment for mold growth. Some key strategies for mold prevention in new construction include:

1. Proper Site Preparation: Begin by ensuring proper site preparation, including grading, drainage, and waterproofing measures to prevent water intrusion into the building's foundation and basement areas.
2. Moisture Management: Implement moisture management strategies during construction, such as using moisture-resistant building materials, installing vapor barriers, and sealing gaps and openings to prevent moisture infiltration.
3. Effective Ventilation: Design and install effective ventilation systems to promote airflow and reduce humidity levels within the building. Proper ventilation helps prevent moisture buildup and creates a healthy indoor environment for occupants.
4. Quality Construction Practices: Adhere to high-quality construction practices, including proper installation of roofing, siding, windows, and doors to prevent water leaks and moisture penetration into the building envelope.
5. Regular Inspections: Conduct regular inspections throughout the construction process to identify potential sources of moisture, water leaks, and construction defects that could contribute to mold growth.

Early Intervention and Remediation

Despite best efforts to prevent mold in new construction, unforeseen issues may arise during the construction process or after occupancy. Early intervention and remediation are essential for addressing mold contamination promptly and effectively. Some key steps for early intervention and remediation include:

1. Identification of Mold: Conduct thorough inspections to identify signs of mold growth, including visible mold, musty odors, and moisture stains on building materials.
2. Moisture Mitigation: Address sources of moisture promptly to prevent further mold growth. This may involve repairing water leaks, improving ventilation, and implementing moisture control measures.
3. Professional Remediation: Engage certified mold remediation specialists to conduct comprehensive mold inspections, remediate contamination, and implement preventive measures to prevent recurrence.
4. Documentation: Keep detailed records of mold remediation efforts, including inspection reports, remediation plans, and documentation of cleanup and restoration activities.

Preventing mold in new construction requires a proactive approach that addresses potential sources of moisture, implements effective ventilation systems, and adheres to high-quality construction practices. In cases of mold contamination, early intervention and remediation are essential for mitigating risks and restoring a healthy indoor environment. By prioritizing mold prevention and early intervention measures, builders, contractors, and property owners can ensure the long-term sustainability and safety of new construction projects. Give SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas a call for your mold remediation cleanup services. 

Kitchen Mold: How to Prevent and Eliminate It

3/13/2024 (Permalink)

We know the kitchen is the heart of your home, but what happens when unwelcome guests like mold decide to crash the party? At SERVPRO®, we understand the frustration and concern that come with discovering mold in your kitchen. Fear not! In this blog post, we've got your back with practical tips on how to prevent and eliminate kitchen mold.

Understanding the Enemy: Mold 101

First things first, let's get to know our adversary a bit better. Mold loves moisture, darkness, and organic materials—ingredients readily available in your kitchen! From leaky pipes to hidden spills, these culprits create the perfect breeding ground for mold. The key to winning this battle lies in knowing where mold might lurk.

Prevention is the Best Defense

• Ventilation is Key: Proper ventilation is your first line of defense against kitchen mold. Install exhaust fans and use them while cooking or washing dishes to reduce humidity levels.

• Fix Leaks Promptly: A dripping faucet may seem harmless, but it's a mold invitation. Fix any leaks in your kitchen immediately to eliminate excess moisture.

• Keep Surfaces Dry: Wipe down countertops, sinks, and appliances regularly. Moisture is mold's best friend, so deny it the chance to settle in.

• Inspect and Clean Appliances: Regularly check and clean appliances like refrigerators, dishwashers, and garbage disposals. These can be hotspots for mold growth if neglected.

Eliminating Mold: A Step-by-Step Guide

• Identify the Source: Before diving into the cleanup, locate and eliminate the source of moisture. Whether it's a leaky pipe or poor ventilation, fixing the root cause is crucial.

• Scrub with Mold-Fighting Solutions: Mix a solution of water and detergent or baking soda, and scrub the affected areas thoroughly. For tougher mold, vinegar or hydrogen peroxide can be effective alternatives.

• Use Mold-Resistant Products: Consider using mold-resistant materials for surfaces in your kitchen. These materials are designed to inhibit mold growth, providing an added layer of protection.

• Seek Professional Help: If the mold infestation is extensive, don't hesitate to call in the pros. SERVPRO is just a phone call away, ready to assess and remediate the situation efficiently.

Remember, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. By adopting these practical tips, you can safeguard your kitchen against mold and keep your home a mold-free zone. For more information and professional assistance, contact your local SERVPRO experts today. We're here to help you reclaim your kitchen and maintain a healthy, happy home!

The Mold Remediation Process

1/25/2024 (Permalink)

Mold growth is a common issue that many homeowners face, especially in regions with humid climates like Southwest Las Vegas. When it comes to tackling mold problems, SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas has a comprehensive mold remediation process to ensure your home stays clean.

The first step in our mold remediation process involves a thorough inspection. Our experienced technicians assess the affected areas to identify the extent of the mold infestation. Using advanced technology, we pinpoint the sources and develop a tailored plan for efficient remediation.

Next, containment measures are implemented to prevent the spread of mold spores to unaffected areas. This ensures that the remediation process is focused and effective. Our skilled team then uses specialized equipment to remediate the mold safely. We employ industry-approved techniques to clean and sanitize surfaces, leaving your home mold-free.

Once the mold is remediated, we address the root cause to prevent future growth. Our experts provide recommendations for moisture control and offer preventive measures to safeguard your property. We understand the importance of a swift and thorough mold remediation process, and our dedicated team at SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas is committed to restoring your home to a safe and comfortable environment. If you suspect mold growth in your property, trust us to handle the remediation process with precision and care.

Mold Remediation, Preparing for Post Testing

3/21/2018 (Permalink)

Mold Remediation

SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas has been in the Mold Remediation industry for over 50 years and has been here in the Las Vegas area for over 15 years.  SERVPRO is always finding ways to affectively/properly remediate and handle mold situations and this is one of the many reasons we are top in the industry.  In the photo it shows a picture of an area that has been opened and wiped down ready for post testing.  The drywall needed to be removed and the framing was sanded, wire brushed and detailed cleaned with the approved SERVPRO anti-microbial agent.  Once everything is detailed cleaned (this includes all walls, floors and ceiling in the contained area) a post tester must wait for at least 24 hours before entering the containment to do the testing.  After the testing is completed by a licensed environmentalist it takes another 24 hours (sometimes longer depending on the samples and size) to get results back.  In this case SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas passed on the first testing and the property was ready for build back.

Mold Remediation Condo Unit

1/7/2018 (Permalink)

Water damage can cause secondary damages if not dried out properly.  Even though we are in Las Vegas, which can be very dry and very hot it by no means, means that mold is impossible. When water gets trapped between walls or in other tight places it can start to create its own greenhouse effect.  When this happens mold can begin to grow within anywhere from 1-3 days.  It's important to immediately call out a SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas estimator to test all wet areas and make sure the moisture reading are safe.  Condos seem to be a huge trap for mold mainly because there are a lot of times where leaks are not detected until it's too late or tenants have water issues that they take care of themselves without letting the homeowner know.  Because of this we know to be very cautious when a condo leaks.  If you are a tenant it's important to let the homeowner so they can send SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas out for a FREE inspection.

Mold Damage Remediation Las Vegas

1/2/2018 (Permalink)

Mold usually means that water has been trapped for a period of time.  In some cases it's because a water loss occurred and wasn't cleaned up properly or a leak was so small that it was never detected until it's too late.  In this photo SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas is using a BIG air scrubber and a HEPA vacuum to help clean the affected area.  This loss was caused by a faulty roof which was slowly leaking then a wind storm came by causing massive amounts and rain to fall through big opening.  The insurance company recommended a licensed company to get on site with the knowledge to do the work.  The homeowner was recommended to contact SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas.  SERVPRO is a mold remediation professional willing to take on any size of loss.

Mold Remediation Las Vegas

10/17/2017 (Permalink)

If you find mold in your home SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas can come give a free assessment of the damages and properly remediate the dwelling so your home can be a safe living environment again.  In this photo mold was found exposed on the outside of the drywall in the ceiling area.  SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas professionals know that mold can spread and sometimes we're only seeing the tip of the iceberg.  On this particular job an estimator was able to warn the homeowner about the areas where the mold could spread, everything was photographed and documented and the homeowner was pleased that SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas was called out.  Although the damages were excessive the homeowner felt that the property was now a safe place for the family.

Mold Damage Las Vegas

10/11/2017 (Permalink)

Although Las Vegas is very dry mold can still form if a property isn't dried down properly.  When water gets trapped between a wall, or under a water heater stand or between two floors it can start to create its own greenhouse effect and mold can start to grow anywhere from 24 to 72 hours.  It is very important to contact SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas immediately to assess the damages even if you think they are not that bad. SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas always offers free estimates because we know it's important to keep your loved ones in a healthy environment. In this photo is one of our high powered air scrubbers, this air scrubber was placed in an area containing massive amounts of mold and is used to help keep spores from spreading throughout other areas of the property.

Mold Remediation Las Vegas NV

10/11/2017 (Permalink)

In many cases mold can be hidden or trapped behind materials such as vinyl, laminate, drywall baseboards and more. If you don't notice anything out of the norm then it's always best to get an environmentalist out to check the air quality in the concerned areas, call a professional from SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas to check out what's going on.  In this photo an environmentalist found higher mold levels in the dining area of a home SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas was called out to take care of the damages.  SERVPRO placed this air scrubber on site to help purify the air in the location of the mold to help collect any lose spores throughout the area.  The customer was happy with the knowledge and professionalism the SERVPRO technicians had.

Commercial Mold Remediation, Las Vegas

3/13/2017 (Permalink)

Juan properly containing an area of the commercial building where mold was found.

SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas has over 49 years’ experience with mold from our experts who started in Tennessee.  With the knowledge and training SERVPRO has set up for its franchise SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas has become very knowledgeable and well trained concerning any type of mold remediation.  In this scenario mold spores formed over a matter of time and spread throughout multiple places of this well known commercial building.  Juan is prepping one of the areas where mold was found, he is properly containing the area with our 6mil and tape.  This business owner had no idea the amount of mold that was present until an environmentalist was called out.  After the discover and fear of the employees the owner called someone trusted  and SERVPRO was out within a half hour assessing the situation and making a plan for remediation.

Mold Remediation Las Vegas NV

12/30/2016 (Permalink)

A slow water leak caused a small water damage to turn into a much needed mold remediation in Las Vegas. This photo shows proper containment set up in the kitchen which allowed SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas to remediate the job safely for our technicians and for the employees working in the surrounding areas. SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas was able to work around the schedule of the employees and still finish the project within a week.  Build back was done immediately after and the owner was pleased with the work done.

SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas is ready and prepared to take on any situation, our employees are well trained and trained enough to change a job if needed.  We inspect and make sure the area is safe for ourselves and especially for those in the surrounding areas.

Mold Remediation Las Vegas NV

12/30/2016 (Permalink)

The photo shows a basic containment set up in the Kitchen

A small leak under the sink caused a much needed mold remediation in this townhouse located in Las Vegas.  SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas was able to get out on site and discovered the mold right away, came up with a game plan, presented it to the homeowner and before you knew it we were starting the remediation process the next day.  The photo shows one of our many containments.  We were able to contain the kitchen, protected the other areas of the home from lose spores and also protect the upper cabinets with our plastic. The following was a layout of the job details.

Day1. Contain and prep the area, start demo

Day2. Finish Demo, Final clean

Day3. Post testing

Day4. Received results back, passed post testing.

The homeowner was please with the work done and ready for build back the following week.

Mold Remediation Las Vegas NV

10/5/2016 (Permalink)

A SERVPRO technician is shown scrapping tile in a commercial building needing mold remediation

Understanding Mold

Microscopic mold spores exist naturally almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors, so removing all mold from a home or business is impossible. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air, and they may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. 
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise the mold may return.
• Let your nose lead the way. Mold often produces a strong, musty odor, and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher than normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

Mold Remediation Las Vegas NV

10/5/2016 (Permalink)

The photo shows multiple air scrubbers set in a commercial building needing mold remediation

The Mold Remediation Process

Every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our “typical” process:

1. Emergency Contact - (702) 436-2555

The mold cleanup and restoration process begins when you call us. Our representative will ask a series of questions to help us determine the necessary equipment, resources, and personnel.

2. Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment

We carefully inspect your property for visible signs of mold. Mold feeds on cellulose and water and can be hidden from plain view. We use various technologies to detect mold and hidden water sources.

3. Mold Containment

Our professionals use various containment procedures to prevent the spread of mold. We may use advanced containment procedures like negative air chambers to isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to keep the mold spores from spreading during the cleanup process. All fans and heating and cooling systems will be turned off to prevent the spread of mold.

4. Air Filtration

Our specialized filtration equipment allows our Professionals to capture microscopic mold spores out of the air. We utilize powerful “air scrubbers” and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in process.

5. Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials

The mold remediation process depends on the amount of mold growth and the types of surfaces on which the mold appears. We’ll use antifungal and antimicrobial treatments to eliminate mold colonies and to help prevent new colonies from forming. It may be necessary to remove and dispose of mold-infested porous materials, like drywall and carpeting, to remediate heavy mold growth.

6. Cleaning Contents and Belongings

We clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains, clothing, and other restorable items affected by mold. We use a variety of cleaning techniques to clean and disinfect your belongings. We’re also trained to remove odors and deodorization using fogging equipment.

7. Restoration

Depending on the level of mold damage, drywall, subfloors, and other building materials may have been removed. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business. The restoration step gets your home or business back to normal.

Remediation Las Vegas NV

10/5/2016 (Permalink)

Carlitos is Remediating mold found in a commercial building

If you have a mold problem in your home or business, consider the following facts:

• Significant mold growth can occur in 48-72 hours.
• Mold may present a greater risk to children, the elderly, and anyone with respiratory problems.
• A strong, musty odor may indicate hidden mold behind drywall or under carpeting.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas 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.

Mold Remediation Services

If you suspect that your home or business has a mold problem, SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas has the training, equipment, and expertise to handle the situation.

Las Vegas Home owners: Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

6/3/2016 (Permalink)

Be careful! Without proper training, you could be spreading mold throughout your home.

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 SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas 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 SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas 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.

Mold found in Southwest Las Vegas home

12/7/2015 (Permalink)

Rafael is a technician that works for SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas. He is wearing a tyvek suit, protective eyewear, and a half mask

A continual on and off water leak caused a massive amount of mold in this home located in Southwest Las Vegas.  SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas was called to remediate the mold! With the right PPE (Personal protective equipment) and tools our techs were able to remove the mold and protect themselves from contact of any dangerous particulates.

 When a home suffers a water damage event, a mold infestation can quickly arise and spread throughout a home in 48-72 hours. Because mold can produce allergens and irritants, you will want a professional that has training and experience to properly resolve the mold infestation. If you suspect that your Las Vegas home or business has a mold problem, SERVPRO of Southwest Las Vegas can inspect, assess and remediate your property.