Mold and Mold Remediation 773-885-8528

Mold Types and Colors: The big world of mold is a many colored place.  Molds exist in just about every shade you presumably can take into consideration, ranging from purest white to darkest black with stops alongside the spectrum at brown, tan, inexperienced, purple, orange, yellow, and even blue.  Nonetheless, till you are a mycologist (a scientist specializing throughout the study of molds) the color is irrelevant when deciding on a mildew killer.

Biologically a mildew is a mildew is a mildew.  The color of the growth will assist a scientist determine what species a specific mildew might be, nonetheless color alone doesn’t inform you one thing a number of mold growth aside from what shade the growth happens to be at a selected reduce-off date.  The color of mildew growth is influenced not solely the species of the mold, however as well as by the circumstances whereby the mold is rising, the nutrient provide the mold is utilizing, and even the age of the enlargement.

Mold Types and Colors

Mold which could be black in coloration have obtained an extreme quantity of press as being in all probability probably the most threatening and dangerous of all molds.  Sadly, this hysteria isn’t actually universally true the least bit.  Many black molds are comparatively benign and customary throughout the setting.  The black pigment makes them no further dangerous than another mold improvement.  The reality is, the mold growths that set off basically probably the most concern amongst mildew specialists are actually the white molds which can embrace some very dangerous characters definitely, along with Histoplasma capsulatum, primarily found east of the Rockies and significantly inside the Missouri, Ohio, and Mississippi River valleys and Cocciodies immitis throughout the western USA.

Regardless of the color of the mold, a mildew killer acts by chemically disrupting the bodily building of the rooting and fruiting our bodies of the mold organism itself.  It is helpful to think about mold as being additional plant-like versus being further like a micro-organism.  Molds are further extraordinarily structured and complex of their constructing and life cycle than any micro-organism or virus.  Merely as is important with weeds in your yard, destruction of the ground buildings solely offers you a quick reply, frequent with merchandise labeled as a mold cleaner, whereas a mold killer, kills the entire organism, root and all, to help assure a protracted-time interval decision to your mold points.

Mold Types and Colors

Not like bleach, mold killers is protected to utilize on many different sorts of surfaces, along with supplies, upholstery, drywall, garments, and even in air ducts without caring regarding the hurt to surfaces or discoloration so frequent with bleach.  Mold eliminators incorporate proprietary substances designed to help take away the ineffective mildew residue, forsaking a transparent flooring and a up to date scent that comes from the killing and supreme elimination of the mold, not solely a cowl up fragrance and sweetness eradicating of solely the ground progress of mold.

When used as a part of an entire methodology to mold elimination and mold remediation, which ought to on a regular basis embrace the killing of all energetic mildew, elimination of residue, and elimination of any provision of  water mold requires to reside and develop.  The CleanUP Guys can handle any mold related issue in your property, whether commercial, residential, or industrial.  Call us at 773-885-8528.

Mold Removal Chicago 773-885-8528

Mold is prevalent throughout the year but really starts to kick in towards the end of spring. We start getting rain and an increase in overall humidity that creates an environment where mold thrives.

The unfortunate truth about mold is it’s not like other environmental allergies where it’s as simple as wiping off our feet and cleaning our faces to decrease the amount we endure. Mold growth can be obvious in bathrooms or showers, but we encounter mold in our homes, work spaces and schools without even knowing it.

A few ways to tackle mold allergies in your home are:

·         Keeping the indoor humidity below 50% 
You can combat this by using a dehumidifier and keeping your windows and doors closed (especially after rainy days). A Hygrometer, or instrument that measures humidity, can help you keep track. Humidity is a staple of affordable indoor home weather stations. Some modern thermostats, such as Nest, will help you monitor the level of humidity in your home. You can also.

·         Removing mold spores in your living area 
A HEPA filter removes more than 97% of the mold spores in your home and only around 20-40 dollars.

·         Don’t hang wet clothes inside the house
Make sure clothes are completely dry before hanging them in the closet or putting them away in drawers.

·         Wash tiles and grout in the bathroom frequently
These areas are prime environments for mold growth. Regular cleaning can help prevent mold growth.

·         Use a fan in the bathroom that exhausts outdoors
Air flow is your friend, bathroom fans extract moisture that would otherwise settle into your floor and linens. Run the fan during showers and for a few minutes after you get out.

·         Take indoor plants outside
Moist soil lets mold thrive. Disturbing the plant and soil can release countless mold spores into the air and aggravate allergies.

If you continue to suffer symptoms of mold allergies, it might be time to see an allergist to discuss treatment options.  If you need professional mold removal or mold remediation services, contact The CleanUP Guys to get rid of the pest, and bring your indoor air quality back to living and breathable conditions.

Mold Removal Chicago 773-885-8528

 THE CLEANUP GUYS

773-885-8528                                                               

 

Mold and Moisture

Mold is one of the most ancient organisms on the planet, therefore it needs very little in regards in the way of nutrients to survive. Its primary form of sustenance is cellulose material and moisture, both which are plentiful in regards to water damage restoration and water restoration.

Mold is a significant problem in relation to water damage and general problems with moisture in the home. This can often be caused by a backup of a sump pump, a leaky roof, or a pipe bursting. Mold is often an after effect of these moisture disasters that occur.

When dealing with mold the general factor that seems to aid in the creation of the problem is water. Water is a basic ingredient for mold growth. It allows for mold to travel at a rapid pace and latch on to the walls that if made of wood materials can easily provide sustenance for the mold to grow on and reproduce their spores. These spores can travel quickly through the air and therefore can spread to other parts of the home. Spores can also lie dormant for long periods of time, waiting for the right atmosphere and environmental humidity to proliferate, thus precipitating the need for mold remediation. 

Here are parts of the home that usually have consistent moisture problems that can cause mold to develop.

§  The attic area of the home usually has a consistent moisture problem due to it not being well insulated, or that there is a potential for a leaky roof. This area is a prime area for mold to grow in the home due moisture being built up in the area because it has nowhere else to go.

§  The basement area of the property is a prime example of a place that mold can easily grow. Many basements have issues with moisture permeating from the soil surrounding, and with the possibility of a sump pump being in the basement it is also a problem. The moisture in this area needs to be controlled otherwise the mold will keep reoccurring.

§  The kitchen of the home often has a mold problem, because of moisture as well. With sinks and dish washers in this area of the home there is almost a constant source of moisture. Though it may not be apparent these sources can help in the producing of mold areas that are not entirely visible such as under the cabinet surfaces or behind the kitchen cupboards.

The CleanUP Guys has certified and trained crews in helping to deal with mold removal issues in areas where there are moisture problems occurring. We can help efficiently remove the mold problem from your property with care and precision. Our technicians will treat you in a courteous manner, and offer professional mold removal, getting rid of the mold problem in your property the best way!

Mold Inspection Mold Removal 773-885-8528

10 QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR MOLD INSPECTOR

Not all businesses are created equal. The same can be said about professionals, like mold inspectors. While many mold inspectors are credible, experienced, certified and up to speed on all of the latest industry techniques and practices, others are everything but – and only looking to make money off of a homeowner’s misfortune of discovering (or thinking that they may have discovered) mold growth in the home.

Most of the time, you can separate the good inspectors and remediation companies from the bad ones by simply browsing their website or doing some research on consumer-oriented sites like Angie’s List. But aside from this background vetting, it’s never a bad idea to get a feel for their qualifications for yourself as well, whether it’s over the phone or in person at a mold estimate appointment. With that being said, here’s a look at 10 questions to ask your mold inspector so you know you’re not getting ripped off:

ARE YOU FAMILIAR WITH THE IICRC S520?

The IICRC, or International Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification, has published the S520 standard – its official reference guide for mold remediation. While mold inspectors aren’t required by law to follow this, the credible ones generally do. The IICRC is a leading trade association serving cleaning and restoration/remediation professionals.

Chicago Mold Facts and Information

ARE YOU WRT OR AMRT CERTIFIED?

WRT, or water restoration technician, and AMRT, or applied microbial remediation technician, are two certifications offered by the aforementioned IICRC. Ideally, your mold inspector should have both, but in this case, the AMRT one is more important. Such certifications require continuing education credits to uphold.

ARE YOU A CIE?

In addition to the above certifications, ask if your mold inspector is a CIE, or a certified indoor environmentalist. This is another credible title to have in the industry.

ARE YOU GOING TO TEST/SAMPLE THE MOLD?

If you simply want the mold remediated, there’s really no reason why mold has to be tested to determine what species it is. All molds are removed by the same technologies. So if they’re planning to send the mold out for testing, it could end up costing you extra. Sampling/testing is recommended, however, if you’re unsure if a certain substance is mold or if you smell a musky odor that you think may be mold, but aren’t sure where it is coming from.

WHERE DOES THE SAMPLE GO TO BE TESTED?

If they say “we buy test kits from the local hardware store,” then run. The most credible inspectors have testing labs that they do their work out of.

DO YOU ALSO REMEDIATE THE MOLD?

Some mold professionals or mold companies inspect and remediate mold, though there are some exceptions to avoid conflict of interest. If a mold inspector simply does the inspection, make sure they can recommend you to a qualified company for the remediation.

WHAT TECHNOLOGIES DO YOU USE TO REMEDIATE MOLD?

Generally speaking, mold professionals either remediate using mold-killing and removing chemicals or via media blasting. If a mold inspector tells you anything different, make sure it’s legit.

WHAT OTHER SERVICES DO YOU PROVIDE?

Most good remediation companies specialize only in mold inspection or removal, environmental remediation (i.e. asbestos, lead) or related services, like water damage restoration. Anyone who does an abundant of other services (i.e. handyman, HVAC maintenance, landscaping, etc.) may be the sign of a bad company. Just how qualified and specialized are they?

WHAT’S THE COST OF THE INSPECTION?

Get a cost breakdown, from inspection and sampling fees to the cost for remediation (should the inspector or company also perform that work).

HOW CAN I ENSURE THAT THE MOLD WON’T RETURN POST-REMEDIATION?

Most unethical inspectors/companies won’t be able to answer this question. Why? Because as long as they get paid for the work, they don’t care. But good companies will work with you to determine the source of the mold growth and get it resolved to eliminate future problems. Wherever moisture is present, there’s the potential for mold growth – and growth can occur in as little as 24 to 48 hours. Many good companies will offer warranties and guarantees that they’ll not only remove all of the mold, but will have solved your mold problem in a specific area once and for all.

It’s never fun to discover what appears to be mold in your attic, basement or elsewhere in the home. But perhaps just as frustrating is hiring an under-qualified and unethical professional to inspect and remediate it. To get a professional mold remediation company to handle your project, call the services of The CleanUP Guys in Chicago.

Get Rid of Mold 773-885-8528

10 QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR MOLD INSPECTOR

Not all businesses are created equal. The same can be said about professionals, like mold inspectors. While many mold inspectors are credible, experienced, certified and up to speed on all of the latest industry techniques and practices, others are everything but – and only looking to make money off of a homeowner’s misfortune of discovering (or thinking that they may have discovered) mold growth in the home.

Most of the time, you can separate the good inspectors and remediation companies from the bad ones by simply browsing their website or doing some research on consumer-oriented sites like Angie’s List. But aside from this background vetting, it’s never a bad idea to get a feel for their qualifications for yourself as well, whether it’s over the phone or in person at a mold estimate appointment. With that being said, here’s a look at 10 questions to ask your mold inspector so you know you’re not getting ripped off:

ARE YOU FAMILIAR WITH THE IICRC S520?

The IICRC, or International Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification, has published the S520 standard – its official reference guide for mold remediation. While mold inspectors aren’t required by law to follow this, the credible ones generally do. The IICRC is a leading trade association serving cleaning and restoration/remediation professionals.

Chicago Mold Facts and Information

ARE YOU WRT OR AMRT CERTIFIED?

WRT, or water restoration technician, and AMRT, or applied microbial remediation technician, are two certifications offered by the aforementioned IICRC. Ideally, your mold inspector should have both, but in this case, the AMRT one is more important. Such certifications require continuing education credits to uphold.

ARE YOU A CIE?

In addition to the above certifications, ask if your mold inspector is a CIE, or a certified indoor environmentalist. This is another credible title to have in the industry.

ARE YOU GOING TO TEST/SAMPLE THE MOLD?

If you simply want the mold remediated, there’s really no reason why mold has to be tested to determine what species it is. All molds are removed by the same technologies. So if they’re planning to send the mold out for testing, it could end up costing you extra. Sampling/testing is recommended, however, if you’re unsure if a certain substance is mold or if you smell a musky odor that you think may be mold, but aren’t sure where it is coming from.

WHERE DOES THE SAMPLE GO TO BE TESTED?

If they say “we buy test kits from the local hardware store,” then run. The most credible inspectors have testing labs that they do their work out of.

DO YOU ALSO REMEDIATE THE MOLD?

Some mold professionals or mold companies inspect and remediate mold, though there are some exceptions to avoid conflict of interest. If a mold inspector simply does the inspection, make sure they can recommend you to a qualified company for the remediation.

WHAT TECHNOLOGIES DO YOU USE TO REMEDIATE MOLD?

Generally speaking, mold professionals either remove mold using mold-killing and removing chemicals or via media blasting. If a mold inspector tells you anything different, make sure it’s legit.

WHAT OTHER SERVICES DO YOU PROVIDE?

Most good remediation companies specialize only in mold inspection or removal, environmental remediation (i.e. asbestos, lead) or related services, like water damage restoration. Anyone who does an abundant of other services (i.e. handyman, HVAC maintenance, landscaping, etc.) may be the sign of a bad company. Just how qualified and specialized are they?

WHAT’S THE COST OF THE INSPECTION?

Get a cost breakdown, from inspection and sampling fees to the cost for remediation (should the inspector or company also perform that work).

HOW CAN I ENSURE THAT THE MOLD WON’T RETURN POST-REMEDIATION?

Most unethical inspectors/companies won’t be able to answer this question. Why? Because as long as they get paid for the work, they don’t care. But good companies will work with you to determine the source of the mold growth and get it resolved to eliminate future problems. Wherever moisture is present, there’s the potential for mold growth – and growth can occur in as little as 24 to 48 hours. Many good companies will offer warranties and guarantees that they’ll not only remove all of the mold, but will have solved your mold problem in a specific area once and for all.

It’s never fun to discover what appears to be mold in your attic, basement or elsewhere in the home. But perhaps just as frustrating is hiring an under-qualified and unethical professional to inspect and remediate it. To get a professional mold remediation company to handle your project, call the services of The CleanUP Guys in Chicago.

Remove Mold 773-885-8528

A lot of folks often think that you can take care of the problem yourself. With so many mold removal "How To" articles on the net, in case you are brave enough, you may only do it. Most individuals do not have access to even proper removal disinfectants or proper protection gear. What about bleach? Unfortunately, the notion that bleach kills fungus is false. Bleach only "bleaches" the color out while the roots remain intact and continue to grow. Furthermore, you need to do more than simply kill it, you need to get rid of any traces of it. 

To remove mold, a number of measures must be taken with great safety. For instance, a standard misconception that consumers come across is that you can effectively remove mold from your own bathroom tile. Most so called mold killers commonly available on the market are made of bleach.

The CleanUP Guys remediation technicians are fully equipped to manage any mold scenario, from small to large projects. Normally, after the first call is made, a specialist assesses the scenario and will come out for an estimate. Generally, from that stage, a quote may be made. Next, a thorough mold inspection will take place. The mold remediation process will take place after the review is done. Right away, your property will be restored and mold or contaminant free.

A lot of folks often think that you can take care of the problem yourself. With so many mold removal "How To" articles on the net, in case you are brave enough, you may only do it. Most individuals do not have access to even proper removal disinfectants or proper protection gear. What about bleach? Unfortunately, the notion that bleach kills fungus is false. Bleach only "bleaches" the color out while the roots remain intact and continue to grow. Furthermore, you need to do more than simply kill it, you need to get rid of any traces of it. 

To remove mold, a number of measures must be taken with great safety. For instance, a standard misconception that consumers come across is that you can effectively remove mold from your own bathroom tile. Most so called mold killers commonly available on the market are made of bleach.

It is crucial to make certain that you're dealing with a certified mold removal company by the IICRC.  They restore properties to a state that is better than new and these mold specialists are trained and certified to remove mold entirely.  Additionally, mold remediation companies will often give you personalized advice about how to sustain a mold-free environment after the remediation process is complete.  Clearly, professional mold removal services cost money; nonetheless, the price might be a lot less than you might think.

If however you have a mold difficulty that is straggly, like black mold, growing around all of your windows, in your attic, crawlspace, or in the basement, and even in toilets, it is probably advisable to contact a mold removal company like The CleanUP Guys. Mold isn't only unsightly, but it poses health risks such as fatigue, severe headaches, sinusitis, and asthma, to name just a few.  Call The CleanUP Guys today!

773-885-8528

Black Mold in Chicago 773-885-8528

Toxic Black Mold

Stachybotrys Chartarum (stak-e-bo’tris kahr-tar’um) may not be a well-known name, but it’s definitely well known by its more common reference: toxic mold. Stachybotrys Chartarum is a black mold most often found growing in materials with a high cellulose and low nitrogen content, including damp fiberboard, gypsum board, wallpaper, miscellaneous paper, dust, and lint. It can also be found growing in soil and grain.

A Highly Dangerous, Poisonous Mycotoxin

While it is not technically true that Stachybotrys Chartarum is a toxic mold in itself, the fungi produces a highly poisonous mycotoxin known for many potential health risks, which may include death among people and animals. Infants, pets, seniors and those with compromised immune and respiratory systems are known to have an especially higher susceptibility to be at risk of adverse health effects due to exposure to Stachybotrys Chartarum.

Is it Biblical Leprosy?

As the mold most commonly associated with “sick building syndrome”, there is even evidence to suggest that Stachybotrys Chartarum is a likely candidate for Biblically described leprosy. If you have a moisture damage or leakage issue in your home or professional building, there is a good chance that you have Stachybotrys Chartarum. If so, please call for swift, professional mold remediation to help keep your home and building residents safe.

Chicago Mold Remediation

When you need thorough, effective mold removal and maintenance strategies to protect your home and business, contact The CleanUP Guys in Chicago fast. We are highly skilled in the most advanced mold remediation techniques anywhere. We’ve also got the highest quality products and equipment to deal with Stachybotrys Chartarum and other serious mold andmildew removal needs. If you need help with mold remediation, call The CleanUP Guys of Chicago at (773) 885-8528. We look forward to helping you get your life and property back to normal.