Mold Removal Lincolnwood IL 773-885-8528

MOLD REMOVAL LINCOLNWOOD IL

Mold Removal Vs Mold Remediation

If your home in Lincolnwood IL has a mold problem, then you definitely want to get rid of it. That much is a given. Mold is a green, black, sometimes yellowish fuzzy growth on walls, flooring, piping, etc., usually accompanied by a noxious smell. And while not all molds are actively dangerous, they are unpleasant and should be dealt with promptly.

Unfortunately, far too many people think that mold removal is all that is required, and of course there are any number of companies out there who advertise using the phrase “mold removal” and who will come in an eliminate the mold from your home.  Sounds easy enough, right?  Wrong. On every count.

You have to remember that mold is the byproduct, the after effect, of a much larger problem. Usually this is water damage, but mold can also be linked to fires and even something as seemingly innocuous as increased humidity.  Unless that original problem is properly addressed, then by removing the mold, all you are doing is putting off the problem temporarily.  Mold removal is useless if the environment that is favorable to the mold growth is allowed to remain.

This is where mold remediation comes in. By remediation, we mean not just the removal of the mold growth itself, but active and thorough treatment of the affected area in order to make sure you don’t find yourself with another mold problem down the road.

The mold remediation process is twofold….one you have to eliminate the existing mold growth, and do so without causing it to spread to other areas of the home. This is done by sealing off the affected area and using specialized gear and techniques to safely remove the growth and dispose of it.

The second step, and the most important one, is to properly treat the area, as well as the problem that caused the mold in the first place. This includes repairing and restoration of any and all water damage problems in and around the home, disinfecting and sanitizing the area where the mold grew, increasing ventilation throughout said area, and bringing down relative humidity levels to within acceptable parameters, usually between 40-45%.

This second step is absolutely vital when it comes to a successful mold remediation project. Any company that you consider hiring should be able to describe this step to you in detail. If their only plan of action is to clean up the mold, then run. Run like a river when the snow melts, and hire a qualified, experienced mold remediation professional (and for the record, that would be us, The CleanUP Guys!) to handle all of your mold and water damage restoration needs. 

Mold Remediation Chicago 773-885-8528

MOLD REMEDIATION CHICAGO

Mold Removal Vs Mold Remediation

If your home has a mold problem, then you definitely want to get rid of it. That much is a given. Mold is a green, black, sometimes yellowish fuzzy growth on walls, flooring, piping, etc., usually accompanied by a noxious smell. And while not all molds are actively dangerous, they are unpleasant and should be dealt with promptly.

Unfortunately, far too many people think that mold removal is all that is required, and of course there are any number of companies out there who advertise using the phrase “mold removal” and who will come in an eliminate the mold from your home.  Sounds easy enough, right?  Wrong. On every count.

You have to remember that mold is the byproduct, the after effect, of a much larger problem. Usually this is water damage, but mold can also be linked to fires and even something as seemingly innocuous as increased humidity.  Unless that original problem is properly addressed, then by removing the mold, all you are doing is putting off the problem temporarily.  Mold removal is useless if the environment that is favorable to the mold growth is allowed to remain.

This is where mold remediation comes in. By remediation, we mean not just the removal of the mold growth itself, but active and thorough treatment of the affected area in order to make sure you don’t find yourself with another mold problem down the road.

The mold remediation process is twofold….one you have to eliminate the existing mold growth, and do so without causing it to spread to other areas of the home. This is done by sealing off the affected area and using specialized gear and techniques to safely remove the growth and dispose of it.

The second step, and the most important one, is to properly treat the area, as well as the problem that caused the mold in the first place. This includes repairing and restoration of any and all water damage problems in and around the home, disinfecting and sanitizing the area where the mold grew, increasing ventilation throughout said area, and bringing down relative humidity levels to within acceptable parameters, usually between 40-45%.

This second step is absolutely vital when it comes to a successful mold remediation project. Any company that you consider hiring should be able to describe this step to you in detail. If their only plan of action is to clean up the mold, then run. Run like a river when the snow melts, and hire a qualified, experienced mold remediation professional (and for the record, that would be us, The CleanUP Guys!) to handle all of your mold and water damage restoration needs. 

Mold Remediation and Water Damage 773-885-8528

HELP TO KEEP YOUR HOT WATER SYSTEM MOLD FREE!

If you think neglecting your water heater’s care is acceptable, you might want to think again. Many homeowners repeatedly commit the sine of not observing necessary water heater upkeep. Ensure your water system stays in peak condition by keeping in mind the following recommended maintenance tips.

Drain hot water system at least once a year

Draining your tank from the bottom helps get rid of debris and sediments that are accumulated due to constant use.  It also helps maximize heating efficiency and prevents rust and corrosion.

Check the temperature and pressure (T and P) relief valve

The T and P relief valve is designed to ensure your tank does not become too hot or overly pressurized.  While not many people realize it, the importance of looking after this valve cannot be overstated.  When neglected, you can end up dealing with all the hassles and inconvenience a ruptured tank can bring.  In thin with this, having it checked at least once a year is deemed ideal.

Insulate your tanks’ water pipes

Many homeowners not only fail to regulate their water heater’s insulation materials, they also commit the major mistake of not insulating the heater’s water pipes.  The necessity to insulate cannot be overemphasized as it provides energy and money-saving benefits.  Apart from a dramatic reduction in heat loss, insulation can also effectively enhance the water’s temperature. Consider yearly insulation upkeep if you wish to take full advantage of the benefits it has to offer. Also, if you intend to purchase a new heater, opt for one with a thick insulation, so you are guaranteed it will last for a long time.

Inspect for any leakage

A hot water heater leak can cause more damage than most homeowners anticipate.  Leaks that are left unattended are not only detrimental to your property, it can also pose serious health risks. Case in point, the presence of moisture encourages mold growth, which can trigger numerous health issues, like asthma, allergic reactions, and other respiratory problems.  To further ensure leaks are kept at bay, check the drain valve and see to it that it’s tightened properly.

Observer routine upkeep regimen

Just like other pieces of machinery, your water heater can surely benefit from regular and expert care.  If you do not have the spare time or the necessary expertise to look after your heater, the help of a plumber will surely come in handy.  While plumbing fees can come off as an unnecessary expense you can do without, nothing can be farther from the truth.  Keep in mind that regular maintenance can reward you back in the form of lower bills, increased efficiency and reduced risks.

Reset or replace the thermostat

The inability to produce hot water after it has been turned on is a clear indication something is amiss with the thermostat.  In cases like this, cleaning the thermostat or replacing it (whichever is applicable) are two options you have at your disposal.  Also, it is best to remember that this job is best left in the hands of a professionals, so have a qualified technician help you out.

Call a plumber if your water begins to smell

If you notice a light sulfuric smell in your water, it is a foolproof sign there is something wrong with your system.  A sulfuric smell is often the result of a decline in water pressure so having this checked right away is mandatory.  Enlist the help of a professional so damaged hot water parts can be checked and replaced when necessary.

Call a water damage restoration company

If you should get water in your basement because of neglecting the above, don’t hesitate to call awater damage restoration specialist who can get the water out of your basement fast.  This is important for obvious reasons, such as mentioned above, mold can develop quite quickly in a basement.  Water damage allowed to sit too long can precipitate mold spore growth and thus, a need to have mold remediation services done as well.  Many homeowners have neglected taking care of water extraction immediately and have paid the price in time, resources, and finances because of neglecting water in the basement, and subsequently mold removal.  Don’t let it sit there.  Do something about it fast!

Mold Removal & Remediation 773-885-8528

BEWARE OF OUTDOOR MOLD TOO!

We often think of mold as something we find in our homes or in our business.  We rarely associate mold with the outside of these places. But in fact, outdoor mold is just as common as its indoor companion. Mold can essentially grow anywhere that the spores can float to and land on materials that are porous on the surface it can latch onto are the greatest risk for mold damage. The environments that these surfaces are also big contributors to the growth of mold; environments that are shady and damp are the most common, and this growth usually happens during the months of the rainier seasons, as well as when lots of precipitation is involved, like snow. Many people think that once the winter months come along, the cold will simply kill it off and prevent any mold damage from growing… this is simply not true. Mold spores can live dormant during the cold season and continue to thrive once the weather heats up. Though it is true that the mold damage will not spread in the cold weather, thinking that it will completely die out is wishful thinking.  Proper mold remediation can get rid of or kill the contaminants for good.

Because mold spores (especially the ones outside) are so small and subject to the ever changing environment around it; many people are affected by mold and don’t even realize it. The spores can cause health issues that are associated with the common cold and can be overlooked by someone who doesn’t realize they have mold on the outside of their home or business. What many people claim as “allergies” could be an exposure of mold spores in their surrounding area.

These 5 places are breading grounds for outdoor mold and should be checked regularly. If you find signs of mold make sure to clear it out as soon as possible… it may dramatically improve your health.

Stucco:  a common location to spot mold.  Make sure to call a professional mold removal company when needing to remove mold damage from stucco because removing it incorrectly can cause more damage to your home than good.

The Foundation:  concrete and cement make up a huge portion of your building and can be a breeding ground for mold.  This can cause serious structural damage to your home.  Call a professional immediately.

Wooded Siding:  wood is a huge contributor to mold growth.  It is a natural surface that mold can grow and expand in easily.  This can also do serious damage to the structure of your home especially if you have a lot of wood siding.  A tip is to use a professional power washer to help remove and kill the mold.  The treat with an anti-microbial spray.

Wooded Gates and Fences: see reason #3 for details.

Concrete Patios:  (especially those that stay wet from weather).  See reason #2 for details.

Many companies off heat treatments to get rid of your outside mold issues and can be completed in a fairly quick amount of time. Don’t let the foundation and structure of your home be under attack from mold damage when you can easily remedy it.

Attic Mold Removal Services 773-885-8528

HAVE YOU GOT A CASE OF ATTIC MOLD?

If you have found mold in the attic in your home or office building, you need to get an assessment done as soon as possible.  Clearing out mold in an attic or crawl space is a tedious job and really should be handled by a professional mold remediation company.  Mold removal in and of itself, may seem to be a simple task.  But if not handled properly it can easily spread into other areas of the home.  Many may the mistake of using a fan or blower while involved in the mold removal task. This is an absolute no-no.  The blower itself becomes contaminated as well as the rest of the environment that the mold spores are shot towards.

INSPECT: The attic is prone to getting mold activity because it is exposed to various intrusions of moisture or humidity.  Since we as homeowners don't go up there a lot, it can develop go unnoticed for weeks, months, and even years.  You should inspect attic at least once a month to make sure no creepy mold contaminants are forming.  Even in the most pristine of attics and crawl spaces, mold can find its way.

VENTILATE: What is proper ventilation?  It is the proper air flow in the space to keep moisture levels at bay and a more controlled humidity.  Attics can be a great source for mold or fungi activity because many of them don't have proper ventilation or air flow.  Fresh air needs to be circulated somehow to keep the environment safe.  Safe from what?  Well, germs, fungi, microorganisms, and the like can breed uninhibited.  To keep these critters from manifesting themselves a good cleaning along with regular maintenance will do the trick.

CLEAN: Some tend to try to clean it themselves.  And while cleaning is a proper thing to do in most cases, it is a lot different with mold.  We must remember that mold removal is not mold killing or mold destroying.  You need to get at the root of the problem, by completely eradicating it or it will most certainly resurface.  Porous materials such as wood, boards and certain fabrics need something that will penetrate and get at the source of the problem at its roots.  If mold spores are not exterminated properly, it will return to feed on more materials in your attic or crawl space.  Thus, wiping it away is a temporary bandage at best.

You need a professional mold remediation and mold removal company who will use the right agents to get the job done.  There are specialized techniques and specific products along with Negative Air Equipment needed to rid your space of mold.  A EPA rated HEPA air scrubber and/or HEPA vacuum equipment should be administered.  Sometimes, the mold is so bad that the only way to get it out would be to remove the infected source completely, as in drywall, baseboards, trimming, doors, etc., that may be contaminated, properly bagged and discarded.  This way the mold contaminants don't come into contact with anything else in your home or office space.

If you want to get at the source of your mold issues, and get it done right a mold remediation contractor might be the best way to go!

Mold and Hot Water Heater Damage 773-885-8528

HELP TO KEEP YOUR HOT WATER SYSTEM MOLD FREE!

If you think neglecting your water heater’s care is acceptable, you might want to think again.  Many homeowners repeatedly commit the sine of not observing necessary water heater upkeep.  Ensure your water system stays in peak condition by keeping in mind the following recommended maintenance tips.

Drain hot water system at least once a year

Draining your tank from the bottom helps get rid of debris and sediments that are accumulated due to constant use.  It also helps maximize heating efficiency and prevents rust and corrosion.

Check the temperature and pressure (T and P) relief valve

The T and P relief valve is designed to ensure your tank does not become too hot or overly pressurized.  While not many people realize it, the importance of looking after this valve cannot be overstated.  When neglected, you can end up dealing with all the hassles and inconvenience a ruptured tank can bring.  In thin with this, having it checked at least once a year is deemed ideal.

Insulate your tanks’ water pipes

Many homeowners not only fail to regulate their water heater’s insulation materials, they also commit the major mistake of not insulating the heater’s water pipes.  The necessity to insulate cannot be overemphasized as it provides energy and money-saving benefits.  Apart from a dramatic reduction in heat loss, insulation can also effectively enhance the water’s temperature.  Consider yearly insulation upkeep if you wish to take full advantage of the benefits it has to offer.  Also, if you intend to purchase a new heater, opt for one with a thick insulation, so you are guaranteed it will last for a long time.

Inspect for any leakage

A hot water heater leak can cause more damage than most homeowners anticipate.  Leaks that are left unattended are not only detrimental to your property, it can also pose serious health risks.  Case in point, the presence of moisture encourages mold growth, which can trigger numerous health issues, like asthma, allergic reactions, and other respiratory problems.  To further ensure leaks are kept at bay, check the drain valve and see to it that it’s tightened properly.

Observer routine upkeep regimen

Just like other pieces of machinery, your water heater can surely benefit from regular and expert care.  If you do not have the spare time or the necessary expertise to look after your heater, the help of a plumber will surely come in handy.  While plumbing fees can come off as an unnecessary expense you can do without, nothing can be farther from the truth.  Keep in mind that regular maintenance can reward you back in the form of lower bills, increased efficiency and reduced risks.

Reset or replace the thermostat

The inability to produce hot water after it has been turned on is a clear indication something is amiss with the thermostat.  In cases like this, cleaning the thermostat or replacing it (whichever is applicable) are two options you have at your disposal.  Also, it is best to remember that this job is best left in the hands of a professionals, so have a qualified technician help you out.

Call a plumber if your water begins to smell

If you notice a light sulfuric smell in your water, it is a foolproof sign there is something wrong with your system.  A sulfuric smell is often the result of a decline in water pressure so having this checked right away is mandatory.  Enlist the help of a professional so damaged hot water parts can be checked and replaced when necessary.

Call a water damage restoration company

If you should get water in your basement because of neglecting the above, don’t hesitate to call a water damage restoration specialist who can get the water out of your basement fast.  This is important for obvious reasons, such as mentioned above, mold can develop quite quickly in a basement.  Water damage allowed to sit too long can precipitate mold spore growth and thus, a need to have mold remediation services done as well.  Many homeowners have neglected taking care of water extraction immediately and have paid the price in time, resources, and finances because of neglecting water in the basement, and subsequently mold removal.  Don’t let it sit there.  Do something about it fast!

Residential Mold Removal 773-885-8528

WAYS TO PREVENT MOLD

If you are the type of person who lives in fear of mold taking a hold in your house, then you are right to do so. The fact of the matter is that there are loads of different ways in which residential mold can begin to surface, and if you are not careful, the problem can be really troubling. You will find that there are plenty of ways in which you can get rid of it, but that is not the be all and end all, much better is to prevent it from occurring in the first place! Have a look over the following ideas as to how you can prevent mold from ever entering your home, and ensure that you don’t suffer its evils, nor have to spend age cleaning it away!

For a start, there is the fact that mold develops in damp, hot and humid places. So, if you can think of places in the home that are like this fairly often, then you should likely get to thinking about how you are going to avoid mold spores developing in those places. You will see that the bathroom is the first place that is a likely haven for mold, as the combination of hot water and poor ventilation can often mean that the room remains humid for longer than it should. Boiler rooms can be very hot as well, and if they get damp or humid then this is another problem area. Whilst these two places are very commonly warm or humid, sometimes whole houses can be damp, especially subterranean flats, and this can mean that damp and mold grow throughout the place if you are not careful.  Thus, a possible need for mold cleanup might ensue and fast!

 

With these conditions being perfect for mold to grow in, how do you prevent them? The main trick is to ensure that ventilation throughout the house is always in place, whether it be through regularly opening windows, or just installing proper ventilation into the windows, so that you don’t have to think about opening or closing them. You will likely find that the opening of windows by yourself gets less and less manageable over the winter as the coolness of the air outside makes it less comfortable, so it may well be a good idea to look into getting the installed ventilation. You will find that allowing the air to flow through the house at all times will ensure that there is much less of a chance for things to get too damp, and this ensures that you are not likely to allow the mold to spore and grow, which is a massive plus in terms of your fight against the need for mold removal.

Clothing is a place that mold can grow, and if it does start to grow in a piece of clothing, it can spread to more clothing, and even the structure of the drawer or cupboard that the clothing is stored in. You will find that after exercise and if you come in out of the rain, you should wash your clothing immediately, or at least hang the clothes in a well-ventilated area. The heat of your body combined with the damp of rain or sweat will likely lead to mold or damp if you leave the clothing bunched up. Throwing it in the laundry basket will make the problem worse, as the air won’t get to the clothing, and the mold can affect other clothes as well! Be sure to take things straight out of the washing machine to hang them up when the wash has finished, as the same issues can occur if not!  These methods can be used to prevent mold growth and the need for possible professional mold remediation or professional mold removal.