The Basics of Mold Prevention | SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

3/29/2024 (Permalink)

Are you dealing with a home mold invasion? No worries, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls in Here to Help®. Contact us today for a quick restoration.

Mold is a naturally occurring substance that is part of every environment, but that doesn’t mean we want it in our homes. Beyond the basic ick factor that comes along with slimy, fuzzy green spots, mold can multiply incredibly fast and cause damage that go all the way to your foundation. 

While some mold outbreaks can occur after a natural disaster strikes, leaving us very little time or opportunity to stop them, everyday mold growth and spread can be controlled in our home. Keeping mold in check is pretty simple, too. 

Moisture Control

To thrive, mold only needs a little bit of moisture and an organic substance like wood or paper. Since your home is made up of the very organic substances mold likes to grow on, controlling the moisture in your home is key to preventing an outbreak. 

Maintain a steady temperature during both the spring and the winter in order to keep your humidity level from getting too high. If you touch your wall and it feels damp, there is a musty odor in the air or your books all have curling edges, your home is too moist. 

If keeping a close eye on your thermostat doesn’t seem to be enough, consider adding a dehumidifier to pull excess moisture out of the air. These can be particularly helpful in basements or garages. 

Condensation on our windows can be a common problem in the spring when the days swing between warm and cold and the snow begins to melt. This condensation can creep in between walls or siding and allow for mold to form and spread. Check the seals on your windows every fall and spring to keep things tight, and dry up any moisture you do see as often as possible. 

No Dripping Allowed

Maintaining the moisture in your entire home is a great approach to keeping things mold free, but there are some additional steps you will want to take in some mold hotspots around your house. The spots where mold commonly and quickly can start to take over include bathrooms and your kitchen. 

Check under your sinks and around your toilets and showers weekly. This might sound like a lot, but the faster you can find and correct leaks, the less likely mold will form. A quick visual check might be enough, but if you do notice any moisture or smell a musty odor, run your hands along all your water lines. Make sure everything is tightly sealed, and replace any materials that have started to wear out. 

Dry up spills and keep wet towels off the floor as another way to keep mold at bay. Make sure there is plenty of ventilation in both your kitchen and your bathrooms. Let bathroom fans run for 10–15 minutes extra after you are done showering to ensure things are getting as dry as possible. 

With basic home maintenance, you can keep your home not only ick-free, but also damage-free. Don’t let mold move in on your space. Control the moisture and dry up the drips. 

Have you discovered mold growing in your home? Contact us to get remediation handled fast.  

Preventing Mold in the Kitchen | SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

3/22/2024 (Permalink)

Are you under the distress of finding mold in your home? No worries, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls has your back. Call us today!

The kitchen is the heart of a home. If you have ever hosted a party and spent hours cleaning your living room, you know that it is inevitable that almost everyone in attendance will end up in the kitchen. 

The kitchen is also one of the prime places that mold develops. Moisture from appliances and cooking makes it easy for mold to form and spread. 

With some simple prevention steps, you can stop mold before it becomes a very unwelcome party guest in your kitchen. 

Find It

In order to prevent potential mold growth, you have to first locate the places it is most likely to form and spread. It only takes 24–48 hours for a mold colony to start making your kitchen its home, so it’s crucial to regularly check and clean these spots.  

Mold needs moisture, so anywhere that can be wet is the first place you should check. This includes under the sink, but don’t forget about appliances that use water. Weekly, check around your kitchen sink for potential water leaks. Run your hand along the pipes and other water lines to feel for drips. 

Along with moisture, mold needs an organic material to grow, which means if it has started growing, the most likely place will be the wooden bottom or back of your cabinet. Keep an eye out for spots as a key indicator that there is a bigger issue. 

Every three to six months, pull your refrigerator and dishwasher out to look for excess moisture or mold growth underneath them or behind them. Keep a close eye around your stove, too. Always use a hood vent when you cook in order to pull moisture out of your kitchen. 

Prevent It

There are a few other ways to keep your kitchen protected along with putting the top places that mold can form on your regular cleaning list. 

Keeping moisture under control will always be the best way to stop mold before it starts. If there is a window in your kitchen, open it when you cook—especially on days you are using multiple cooking devices. 

Avoid clutter in the kitchen, and keep things clean. Cluttered counters can not only prevent seeing mold formation, they can also give moisture sneaky places to hide out. Put unused appliances away (make sure they are completely dry), and don’t forget to wipe down the backsplash daily. 

Clean the trash can, too, and try to avoid throwing steamy foods out. Don’t put dishes away wet. It doesn’t take much moisture on a wooden cabinet to result in mold growth. 

With regular maintenance and cleaning, you can prevent mold in your kitchen. Remember to allow for plenty of air flow when you cook, and if you do find spots, get remediation started with a single phone call to our office. We will get things taken care of so your kitchen can be the heart of your home again. 

Are you concerned about mold growth in your kitchen? Contact us to get things assessed and remediated fast. 

Preventing Mold in the Kitchen | SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

3/1/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is Here to Help® when you have a mold emergency on your property.

The kitchen is the heart of a home. If you have ever hosted a party and spent hours cleaning your living room, you know that it is inevitable that almost everyone in attendance will end up in the kitchen. 

The kitchen is also one of the prime places that mold develops. Moisture from appliances and cooking makes it easy for mold to form and spread. 

With some simple prevention steps, you can stop mold before it becomes a very unwelcome party guest in your kitchen. 

Find It

In order to prevent potential mold growth, you have to first locate the places it is most likely to form and spread. It only takes 24–48 hours for a mold colony to start making your kitchen its home, so it’s crucial to regularly check and clean these spots.  

Mold needs moisture, so anywhere that can be wet is the first place you should check. This includes under the sink, but don’t forget about appliances that use water. Weekly, check around your kitchen sink for potential water leaks. Run your hand along the pipes and other water lines to feel for drips. 

Along with moisture, mold needs an organic material to grow, which means if it has started growing, the most likely place will be the wooden bottom or back of your cabinet. Keep an eye out for spots as a key indicator that there is a bigger issue. 

Every three to six months, pull your refrigerator and dishwasher out to look for excess moisture or mold growth underneath them or behind them. Keep a close eye around your stove, too. Always use a hood vent when you cook in order to pull moisture out of your kitchen. 

Prevent It

There are a few other ways to keep your kitchen protected along with putting the top places that mold can form on your regular cleaning list. 

Keeping moisture under control will always be the best way to stop mold before it starts. If there is a window in your kitchen, open it when you cook—especially on days you are using multiple cooking devices. 

Avoid clutter in the kitchen, and keep things clean. Cluttered counters can not only prevent seeing mold formation, they can also give moisture sneaky places to hide out. Put unused appliances away (make sure they are completely dry), and don’t forget to wipe down the backsplash daily. 

Clean the trash can, too, and try to avoid throwing steamy foods out. Don’t put dishes away wet. It doesn’t take much moisture on a wooden cabinet to result in mold growth. 

With regular maintenance and cleaning, you can prevent mold in your kitchen. Remember to allow for plenty of air flow when you cook, and if you do find spots, get remediation started with a single phone call to our office. We will get things taken care of so your kitchen can be the heart of your home again. 

Are you concerned about mold growth in your kitchen? Contact us to get things assessed and remediated fast. 

Uncommon Places for Mold Growth | SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

2/1/2024 (Permalink)

Don't let mold invade your home! Call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls for fast remediation!

We often talk about the places the mold can commonly be found in your home. It is essential to find and correct mold growth before damage sets in, and checking the hotspots around your living space is a great way to stay ahead of the spread.

In order to truly protect your home from mold growth, though, you also need to get to know the uncommon places it can thrive as well. The more you know about where mold likes to hang out, the safer you can keep your house.

Your Appliances

You might already have your appliances that use water on your list of regular places to check for mold, but you need to make sure you are checking all the right areas. Leaks can be common underneath large appliances, but because water touches many more surfaces, there are several spots you need to keep an eye on in order to prevent potential spread.

In your washing machine, check around the seals on the door. Mold commonly grows there on front-loading washers, but regardless of what kind you have, keep it clean.

Leave the door open between uses so that things can dry out completely.

The same spot in your dishwasher is prone to mold growth, so keep an eye on the seal around the door. Don’t put away wet dishes, either—this can cause mold to grow on their surface or in your cabinets.

Your HVAC unit is another spot you may not be checking often enough. Maintain regular temperatures in your home in order to prevent excess humidity. Check around your vents to make sure things are staying clean and dry. Dust is a great meal for mold, so the cleaner things are, the less growth you will have.

Storage

Another uncommon area of our home where mold can thrive is in storage. It is easy to pack things away and forget about them. Even if you do check your attic or basement for extra moisture regularly, you need to also check cardboard boxes, papers filed away and stored toys.

Paper is a great catalyst for mold growth due to the natural materials it is made out of. If you have filing cabinets in your basement, use a dehumidifier to keep things dry. Avoid putting paper in cardboard or other paper-based storage containers as another way to prevent moisture access to the contents inside.

Keep toys that are stored away clean and dry as well. If you have young children, assume toys that should never be wet could be wet. It only takes one of your kiddos having a quick taste of his favorite plaything to leave behind bacteria and enough moisture to start the formation of mold.

Keeping mold at bay can feel like a challenging task when it can live in so many different places, but keeping a close eye on things regularly and maintaining steady temperatures in your home can go a long way in preventing growth. Getting to know the uncommon places can help you stop mold before it starts and keep your home safe from damage.

Have you found mold in your home? Contact us for fast remediation!

Everyday Ways to Prevent Mold | SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

1/16/2024 (Permalink)

Don't let mold take over your home. Call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls at the first sign of mold!

Mold and moisture are best buddies, but as much as we all love seeing best friends spending time together, these are two we need to do everything we can to keep apart.

While you can’t rid your home of all moisture, you can do something every day that will help keep your moisture levels in check and prevent mold growth.

Before you start dreading the thought of adding something new to your daily to-do list, fear not! These are easy, and there is a good chance you already do some of them.

Keeping your home free of mold problems can be pretty simple.

Start Outside

In order to protect the inside of your home, start outside. Take a look at the seals around your windows and doors in order to ensure water isn’t dripping in between your siding layers. Clean your gutters regularly as well so that water can’t sit anywhere on the outside of your home.

Not only should you keep your gutters cleared out, but you want to make sure your entire gutter system is in good shape. This is so important for ensuring water runs away from your home.

Your downspouts should stay clear, and they should be long enough to keep water moving quickly out of your yard. That means you should clear the snow away from them after a storm!

Your yard can also play an important role in keeping excess moisture out of your home. Make sure you have plenty of organic materials that create sloping away from your foundation. Keep your yard in good shape throughout the year to control moisture from the outside in.

Keep the Inside Dry

Taking care of the outside of your home is a great way to prevent excess moisture inside, but there are also things you can do every day inside. Most things are pretty simple, like hanging wet towels instead of leaving them on the floor and drying up spills right away (if you have kids, you know why this is a daily activity).

There is some other home maintenance you can do in order to keep mold at bay inside. Check for leaks regularly under your sinks, around your toilets and near your tubs.

These are hot spots for mold, so looking at them at least once a week will help you stay ahead of any growth and prevent potential damage.

Keeping your floors clean is another way to keep things safe from mold. When you mop, make sure you aren’t leaving behind puddles. If you have carpets or rugs in your home, it is crucial to make sure they stay completely dry after a spill or cleaning.

With a little bit of work each day, you can protect your home from potential foundation damage that extensive mold growth can cause. Get the whole family involved, and make sure everyone in your home understands the importance of keeping things dry.

Have you found mold in your home? Contact us to get remediation handled fast!

The Causes of Mold | SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

1/2/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is here for your when you need mold removed!

Mold feels like one of those words that you should only whisper in secret. It can quickly cause a little bit of panic in any homeowner’s heart when the topic of potential mold growth comes up in conversations.

Mold actually grows everywhere, though, and is always present in the air outside, too. But it can quickly become a problem when it begins to hang out and spread, and it can even leave your home dealing with structural issues.

Understanding what causes mold is the best way to take preventive steps against it. Most everyone knows that mold and moisture are best buds, but get to know some of the other factors that could lead to a mold problem so you can stop the spread.

The Main Causes

Mold thrives in dark and damp atmospheres, but it can also grow just about anywhere. In your home, attics, bathrooms, kitchens and basements are the most vulnerable to rapid and damaging mold growth.

Moisture and organic materials are required for mold to grow and spread, but there are a few other things you should look for when you are investigating for potential mold development.

1. Poor ventilation. Rooms with high levels of humidity are at risk for mold growth when the moisture in the air has nowhere to Bathrooms and kitchen commonly have this problem, but any room in your home that lacks air flow can be at risk. Uneven temperatures in your home can also lead to an increase in humidity.

2. Leaks. This one might feel a little more obvious, but did you know that a leak the size of a pinhole can waste between two and 20 gallons of water a day? Leaks under appliances or sinks can often go unnoticed, creating a moist environment perfect for mold development.

3. Condensation. Water droplets that form on pipes, appliances or air vents create a good atmosphere for mold growth. Like with small leaks in water lines running under appliances, condensation often goes unnoticed until it becomes a much bigger problem.

Preventive Steps

The good news is that even with these often overlooked mold-prone areas, there are steps you can take to keep your home protected and stop growth before damage is done. A little regular maintenance can go a long way in avoiding costly repairs.

Pull your appliances with water lines out and away from the wall every few months. Look for mold on walls near the appliance and under it, and check to make sure there are no drips or soft spots in the floor.

Update the ventilation in your bathrooms and kitchens to ensure moist air has somewhere to go. Even just opening a window after a shower or while you cook can help prevent excess moisture. Maintaining a steady temperature in your home is another helpful way to stop mold before it can start.

Mold really isn’t a dirty word, and it really isn’t something we should fear either. The more you understand about how it forms and what to do about it, the safer your home will stay.

Have you spotted mold in your home? Contact us for fast remediation.

Control the Mold by Controlling the Moisture | SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

Mold invading your space? Call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls to get your home back in shape.

Can you think of all the sources of moisture in and around your home right now? Sinks, refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines, toilets, showers, tubs, gutters, faucets…the list could get pretty long.

Water is such a dominant factor in our everyday life, and we are accustomed to being able to control sources of water at the turn of the handle. But with so many sources of water all around, our homes are also vulnerable to mold.

Mold loves moisture, and it doesn’t take much for it to start growing and spreading. The good news is that with a little regular maintenance and control, you can keep your home dry enough to ensure mold growth is kept at bay.

Start Outside

In order to keep mold from growing, you have to keep water out. Your landscaping is a great place to start ensuring that the elements remain outside. By creating slopes with natural materials, you can ensure water runs away from your home quickly. These materials also help absorb water, which can prevent puddles from forming near your home.

Keeping the gutters clean is another way to protect your home from the outside in. With our snowy weather in the winter, getting your gutters cleaned out is especially important in order to avoid ice dams from forming.

You should also consider your roof and the rest of your home’s exterior. Shingles or other roofing material should be layered properly in order to allow water to run down quickly. Flashing should be added to flat places or anywhere that is uneven in order to create enough sloping to keep water moving.

In general, as you consider the outside of your home, you want to think about where water is going and ensure it isn’t flowing toward your house. Drainage in your yard will go a long way in protecting your home from excessive moisture that will lead to mold.

Prevention on the Inside

The interior of your home should be watertight, but with so many different ways that water enters our homes, the possibility of a leak is always present. Get used to checking under sinks and around toilets and tubs regularly to check for moisture.

Mold loves to hide in these areas, and something as small as a pinhole can create a problem quickly.

Keep a steady temperature in your home, even when you are out of town for a while. Resist turning your HVAC off altogether when you are going to be gone, and instead, set it at a temperature that it won’t run often but will keep your home dry.

Always use exhaust fans in the bathroom and the kitchen, and check the seals on your windows and doors. If you have spent time doing all you can to prevent excess moisture and still notice water droplets or musty smells, consider bringing in a professional. Your home may need extra ventilation or other repairs that can help prevent mold growth long-term.

Concerned about mold and want to talk about the remediation process? Give us a call.

Preventing Mold in the Kitchen | SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

Don't let mold hold you back! Call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls if you think mold is in your home.

The kitchen is the heart of the home, right? You spend so much time in the kitchen preparing delicious meals, grabbing a quick snack or praying the coffee brews a little faster. It seems like no matter what you do to make the rest of your home inviting, when you have guests over, they all end up crowded into the kitchen.

The kitchen may be a favorite spot to congregate, but if excess moisture is allowed to set up, the kitchen can quickly become a mold hotspot.

Take a few simple steps to protect your kitchen from mold. You can keep things clean and dry so only welcome guests take up space.

Find the Hiding Places

In order to prevent mold, you have to first find it. Mold is notorious for being excellent at playing hide and seek, and the longer it hides, the more it will grow. If you add checking some of the most likely places mold is growing to your regular cleaning responsibilities, you can win hide and seek every time.

Kitchen cabinets and under the sink are two of the most common places mold could be hiding out. Check under your sink every week and fix any drips, leaks or spills quickly. Feel the back of your cabinets for moisture that could indicate mold growth, and check for any musty odors.

Every few months, remove all the items from your kitchen cabinets and give them a thorough cleaning. This will not only help you find a problem, but it can also prevent one by removing anything that could cause excess moisture.

Consider the appliances in your kitchen when you are checking for mold as well. Leave the dishwasher door open until it completely dries after it has completed a cycle, and feel under your refrigerator regularly to watch for leaks. Any soft spots in the flooring near an appliance that uses water is another indicator of an issue that could cause mold growth.

Oh, and clean or replace your kitchen sponge regularly!

Keep It Dry and Keep It Clean

Moisture and mold are best buds, so one of the easiest ways to prevent mold growth is to keep things dry. But if you have kids, your kitchen might be one part of your home that faces constant spills and drips.

Keep a towel handy and dry up anything as soon as it hits the ground. Allow towels and rags to dry out completely, or switch them out on a daily basis to prevent moisture from those as well.

Run the exhaust fan on your stove when you are cooking to help draw moisture out of your kitchen. Maintaining a steady temperature throughout your house can also go a long way in the fight against mold. For the kitchen, that might mean adding an extra fan or cracking a window to alleviate the heat of the stove or other cooking elements.

Keep your kitchen as the hangout spot in your home, but don’t allow mold in. Your guests will all be so thankful!

Have you spotted mold in your kitchen or anywhere else in your home? Contact us for fast remediation.

How Water Damage Fuels Mold Growth | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

6/12/2023 (Permalink)

No job is too big or small. Call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls today to schedule your mold remediation estimate.

Water damage is a nightmare in and of itself, but the hidden difficulties that might arise long
after the initial incident can be even worse. Mold is one such sneaky intruder that can emerge when you least expect it.

Water damage is not always visible, and it can appear and lurk under your appliances, walls,
flooring and other items. The hidden nature of water damage is what makes it easy for mold to
settle and hide.

Learning how mold follows water damage is a great place to start as you work to prevent growth. Your Sioux Falls house does not have to suffer from this devastating combination, and there are
measures to prevent water damage from adding to your problems.

When Moisture Invades
Mold spores can be found all around us, searching for the proper circumstances to grow. Sadly,
water damage creates an ideal breeding environment. Moisture is one of the elements of water damage that allows mold to quickly form.

Things like a broken pipe, a leaky roof or heavy rain can send moisture seeping into your drywall,
carpet and insulation. Once it’s soaked in, excess humidity and improper ventilation allow mold to
pop up in these moist areas.

Leaks You Spot Too Late
One of the problems with water damage is that it sometimes goes unrecognized or is not properly
treated. Even a tiny amount of water that leaks into your home unnoticed can quickly worsen,
leading to mold growth when the environment is perfect.

These leaks can occur almost anywhere in your home, but they are most commonly found near your appliances, in your bathroom or in your kitchen. These concealed crevices, hidden from view, provide an ideal climate for mold to bloom. Frequent inspections and repairing water damage quickly can help keep this problem from worsening.

Putting Aside Repairs
Putting off repairs is one of the most common mistakes people make after a water emergency. When you delay restorations, you not only enable water damage to develop, but you also invite mold growth to form in the same spots.

Even if the water issue you’re dealing with is small, it can still have a big impact on your home.
To properly mitigate water damage and avoid future mold issues, it is critical to seek the
assistance of specialists armed with advanced technologies and years of experience.

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to handle your water issue before it becomes a mold problem. Through an initial inspection and expert restoration, you can have peace of mind that mold won’t be invading your home anytime soon!

Don’t let a water problem turn into a mold problem—contact SERVPRO today! We'll
control the matter before it gets out of hand.

When Mold Invades the Bathroom… | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

5/11/2023 (Permalink)

Do you need to protect your health and home from mold? Trust our experts at SERVPRO of Sioux Falls to remove it.

Mold isn’t particular about where it establishes itself in your home, but there are a few
spots it could be drawn to. Mold can be found in your attic, basement or, more typically,
deep within your bathroom.

Mold can grow in the darkest corners of your bathroom due to a variety of factors,
including poor ventilation and a heated environment. There are numerous reasons why
mold could be growing in your Sioux Falls bathroom, but excess moisture is the primary
culprit.

The good news is: There is always a solution, no matter how or when mold grows in
your bathroom! You just need to take the necessary actions to guarantee mold is
effectively removed.

Know the warning signs. Mold and mildew can both grow in the bathroom, and
despite their similar appearances, they mean very different things for the safety of your
property.

Mildew appears in lighter colors such as gray, yellow or white, while mold appears in
black, green or orange. Mildew will feel powdery to the touch, whereas mold will feel
slimy and damp.

One of the most obvious signs of mold is the foul odor it releases as it begins to grow. If
you fear mold is taking over your bathroom, sniffing around will be the most effective
technique to locate it.

Search for the cause. As previously stated, poor ventilation, humidity and excess
moisture are all causes of bathroom mold. When all of these elements are present in
your bathroom, mold growth is unavoidable.

Mold and leaks go hand in hand, and if a bathroom leak isn’t repaired, mold will emerge
somewhere nearby. If you believe that your bathroom fixtures are leaking, you must act
quickly to prevent mold growth.

A lack of ventilation is a mold problem waiting to happen. If your bathroom lacks an
exhaust fan or a window, moisture has nowhere to go, leading to a mold problem near
any damp areas.

Call a remediation specialist. So you’ve finally identified the cause of your mold
infestation. What’s next? Your best plan of action is to call in the professionals who can
kick mold to the curb once and for all!

Trying to address mold development on your own is a temporary solution that may lead
to a bigger, more expensive problem in the long run. When you work with our
SERVPRO professionals, we use innovative technologies and certified remediation
techniques to solve the problem so you don’t have to deal with the frustrating fungi
alone.

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls has the solution for your bathroom mold emergency! We can
begin the remediation process as soon as you get in touch.

All the Ways Hidden Mold Reveals Itself | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

2/27/2023 (Permalink)

If you find hidden mold SERVPRO of Sioux Falls should be your first call!

One of the main reasons mold becomes such a severe issue for homeowners is because of its
ability to go undetected until it evolves into a headache that cannot be avoided. Those tiny
spores that form as a result of excess moisture are excellent at hiding, and if you don’t know
what to look for, they can grow into a terrible home infestation.
In many cases, there are no visible signs of growth, but there are a few other subtle indicators to
look for. It’s possible that mold is intruding on your home and making small, unusual changes
around the house.
So, if you suspect mold is growing in your home but see no visible evidence, you’re not crazy!
You could be dealing with invisible mold that requires a closer inspection to lead you to the
source.
What’s That Smell?
Whether mold is hidden or visible, it will always produce a musty, unavoidable smell. The nasty
odor is commonly described as earthy, rotten and stale.
Sniff around your home with your nose; wherever the smell is strongest, that’s where your mold
problem may be hiding. If you smell something but can’t figure out where it’s coming from, look
in places that are prone to leaks, such as your bathroom.
Cosmetic Changes to the Home
If your wall, ceilings or floors aren’t looking as clean as they usually do, it could be mold.
Changes such as warped walls, peeling paint and discoloration could be mistaken for a home in
need of a touchup.
Dark stains or spots can appear in all sorts of shapes, sizes and colors. As you search around,
be on the lookout for spots in hues of black, brown, green and white.
Previous Moisture Problems
If you’ve ever had a toilet overflow or a pipe leak that let water into your home, you may have
had it repaired and forgotten about it. Locations where flooding or leakage occurred should be
one of the first places you look if you detect mold growing in your home.
Unfortunately, mold can appear quickly, and even if there is no visible leak, you may still have a
problem hidden deep where it occurred.
Mold growth can be devastating for homeowners, but our team can kick mold to the curb for
good! Reach out to SERVPRO of Sioux Falls for rapid mold remediation.

Stop Mold From Setting Up Shop in Your Basement | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

2/17/2023 (Permalink)

When you find hidden mold call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

If you live in a house with a basement, it may not be your favorite location to visit. The stale air
and dim lighting are reasons enough to get in and out as quickly as possible. While visiting the
basement may be unsettling, it is vital to do so on a regular basis to check for threats like mold
growth.
Basement mold growth is a common issue that can lead to substantial damage. Darkness,
humidity and excess moisture make your basement an ideal breeding ground for mold. And
since you might not frequent your basement, mold might grow there without your knowledge.
Regular maintenance and inspections are the most effective ways to keep mold at bay in your
basement. The more you maintain it, the fewer scary trips you’ll have to make down to your
basement!
Eliminate Seepage
You should start by ensuring there are no areas of your basement water that might be able to
seep in. Inspect your foundation for cracks and gaps along the walls and seal them up. Cracks
aren’t always a cause for concern, but it’s important to keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t
expand.
Cracks aren’t the only issue that can create moisture problems. Your pipes and appliances can
both flood your basement before you know it. Inspect your pipes and the appliances you keep in
your basement after each usage to ensure there is no leakage.
Even if there is no water leak, the moisture levels in your basement may be high, allowing mold
to flourish. Using a humidifier in your basement can lower humidity and control moisture. The
humidity levels you need to set will vary depending on the season and climate, but 30 to 50% is
the ideal range.
Protect the Inside From Outside
Creating safeguards around the exterior of your property is another great technique to secure
your basement. Small tasks like cleaning your gutters, maintaining your roof and extending your
downspouts can help keep outside water from leaking in and growing mold.
The landscape that surrounds your home also has an impact on how much water seeps down
into your basement. Grading your yard is an effective way to send excess water flowing away
from your home’s foundation. Create a slope using dirt to allow water to flow away from your
home rather than pooling at the sides.
If you find mold lurking in your basement, we are the team to call! SERVPRO can perform
expert remediation and return you to a safe, mold-free property.

Can Mold Still Grow During a Frigid Winter? | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

1/25/2023 (Permalink)

Got Mold? We can help!

Mold demands three important ingredients in order to thrive and spread. Excess moisture, the
right location for growth and the ideal temperature all combine to produce the ideal setting for
mold to wreak havoc on your home. So, this must imply that mold gets cold feet during the
winter, right? Wrong!
Mold growth isn’t a seasonal issue. Even when temperatures drop below mold’s sweet spot,
there is still a risk of growth. You need to be aware of a number of factors that make mold a
year-round threat.
Winter weather doesn’t give your Sioux Falls home a break from the risk of mold development.
To keep mold at bay this season, make sure you understand how mold can grow even in
subfreezing temperatures.
Does Mold Freeze Up in the Winter?
Cold weather might not scare away mold completely, but it can slow it down. If your home
already has a mold problem, cold weather does not kill the spores; instead, they become
inactive until the conditions are right.
A sudden increase in indoor temperature and winter weather threats that create excess
moisture are two factors that keep pesky mold at work during the cold months.
Indoor Heating Creates the Perfect Environment
When winter arrives, we use many different heating appliances to make sure our homes stay
warm and cozy. When indoor heating is turned on and the outside temperature is cold, excess
moisture is created, which can result in condensation build-up.
Thanks to this rise in condensation, mold growth around your windows is very common
throughout the winter. Keep an eye on your window sills during these cold months and seal up
any cracks to prevent water from leaking inside.
Winter Weather Brings Water Into Your Home
It should come as no surprise that severe water damage problems could result during these
cold seasons. Sioux Falls’ winter weather brings hazards such as snow and ice storms and
freezing temperatures. When water damage strikes and goes unnoticed, mold is sure to follow!
Snow melt, a frozen pipe rupture and ice dams are just a few of the issues that could send
water straight into your home, increasing your chances of mold growth. When water makes its
way indoors, humidity increases, allowing mold to develop even faster.
If you detect mold growth in your home this winter, call our SERVPRO experts. We can perform
professional remediation and get you back to your cozy home in no time.

Keep Mold at Bay After a Water Emergency | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

11/1/2022 (Permalink)

Mold typically grows in the lower portion of a room, particularly behind the baseboard.

As if a water disaster isn’t trouble enough, mold is capable of popping up fast when water is left standing and affected areas are left untreated. Water damage worsens quickly, and mold growth can appear shortly after, ready to wreak havoc.
Once you’ve found the source of your leak and completely shut it off to prevent any more damage, it’s a smart idea to call in a mold remediation expert like our team at SERVPRO to get your problem under control.

Until our team arrives at the scene of your disaster, there are plenty of ways to keep mold at bay. Quickly taking action after water seeps into your home will allow you to avoid a much bigger problem until help arrives:

Quickly Dry Out the Area

You may not be able to dry out everything depending on the severity of your situation, but you can take steps to start the drying process. This won’t just keep mold under control, but it could also mitigate damage caused by standing water.
If possible, open up any doors and windows around your property to allow some ventilation. If water is puddled, clean up anything you are able to with towels. Mold can be prevented by using equipment such as a dehumidifier or a box fan to circulate air and reduce humidity.

Remove Any Affected Items

When it comes to water damage, any items that are soaked can possibly create mold. Collect any affected items and move them to a safe location, preferably one that can hasten the drying process.
It’s helpful to move any items out of impacted rooms even if they aren’t waterlogged to keep anything else from being damaged.

Keep an Eye Out for Growth

The location of your water emergency will play a significant role in the development of mold. Mold may appear quickly in areas like your bathroom, basement and attic since these rooms provide the ideal environment for growth. So it’s helpful to keep an eye out for any signs of mold development.
Even when you dry out areas that are soaked with water, hidden mold coils still become a problem right under your nose. To ensure your water emergency and the risk of a pesky mold problem are both remediated, contact our crew at SERVPRO of Sioux Falls, a certified remediation and rapid restoration partner.

Don’t let mold become an out-of-control problem in your home. Count on SERVPRO to dry out your home and keep mold at bay.

What to Do When You Suspect Mold Growth | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

9/27/2022 (Permalink)

Improper humidity control in a bathroom can lead to mold growth.

Mold growth is a problem that can go unnoticed and worsen over time, but even when you don’t see it spreading, you’ll still be able to notice its effects. When mold begins developing in your home, there are a number of signs that you’ll notice.
To ensure this pesky annoyance doesn’t make itself comfortable, you’ll need to know what to look for as soon as you suspect its growth. Since mold can be good at hiding, you might need to rely on growth indicators to locate the source.
Whether you’re dealing with mold or mildew, acting fast should be your top priority to ensure this problem doesn’t worsen. Here’s what you should do if you detect mold growing in your home.

Be Aware of the Signs

When it comes to mold growth, no two situations will be the same. Mold can appear in various shapes and sizes, each of which produces its own distinct characteristics. Thankfully, the warning signs will be relatively similar regardless of the type of mold you’re dealing with.
A musty, rotten smell is one of the first and most apparent indications you’ll notice. Mold’s overpowering earthy smell is an instant giveaway that it’s developing inside your home.
Your carpet, ceiling and walls can all be a breeding ground for mold. Inspect these areas for signs of growth through discoloration, dark spots and warping. If your problem is growing from a leak, you might also find wet spots or condensation around your home.

Search for the Source

Once you’ve identified where the signs first appear, you’ll be better able to pinpoint where mold may be growing.
Mold will thrive in your home as long as the conditions are present and there is enough moisture. Factors such as moisture and humidity can all contribute to the development of mold. Keeping your home well-ventilated and ensuring moisture levels are under 50% can help keep mold under control.
Another problem that could result in mold growth is a hidden leak. Your roof, basement, bathroom and just about any area of your home could begin leaking and eventually result in mold. Have these leaks fixed immediately to ensure mold doesn’t have the moisture it needs to flourish in your home.
And if you need some extra help finding the source of growth, our experts in mold remediation can give you a hand! Our team can inspect your entire property, determine the areas where mold is forming and get the problem under control.

Don’t let mold take over your home! Contact our crew at SERVPRO and we can stop the spread of mold in your home or business.

Easy Ways to Keep Mold at Bay | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

9/12/2022 (Permalink)

Think you may have found mold in your home? Call 605-213-3303 for an inspection.

Mold can have disastrous consequences for your property and any belongings inside. Because mold growth isn't always easy to detect, it’s best to take preventive actions before it develops. Although dealing with mold can be challenging for homeowners, there are easy measures to make it less likely you’ll ever have to.
Factors like excess humidity, the cleanliness of your home and moisture levels can all contribute to mold growth. Controlling these mold growth factors can help you keep mold from invading your home.
Taking steps to ensure mold can’t make itself at home starts with making small changes around your property:

Control Indoor Humidity

High humidity not only causes discomfort in the home, but it can also lead to mold growth! To ensure humidity levels in your home aren’t conducive to mold, use an air conditioner or a humidifier. A humidity meter is a great tool you can use to ensure levels are under 50%.
Exhaust fans are another essential way to ensure rooms like your bathroom or kitchen don’t get too humid. Turn on your fan while showering or when cooking in the kitchen. Make sure not to turn them off right away, leaving them running for a few minutes after you're done.

Keep Moisture Out

Multiple sources of water might introduce moisture into your house. Mold can establish itself fast within your home when moisture is produced by events like powerful storms or a leaking pipe. You might notice excessive dampness in areas like your bathroom, basement or attic.
To stop water from leaking into your house, make sure to fix any leaks from locations like your pipes or roof before they get out of hand. Check your appliances regularly to ensure they’re connected to water securely and aren’t leaking.
Plants can be a decorative way to help keep moisture and humidity levels at bay, as well. Use houseplants to spruce up your home and regulate humidity by sapping up excess moisture!

Keep It Clean

Mold can be prevented in your home by regularly cleaning and disinfecting the surfaces in areas like the kitchen, laundry room and bathroom. With a little elbow grease, mold can be removed from surfaces such as tile, wood or fabric.
Of course, not all mold can be eliminated by simple cleaning, and mold could still be lurking deep within whatever surface it’s growing on. Calling in specialists to properly rid your property of mold spores is the best course of action if you discover mold patches that return despite your cleaning efforts.

When mold develops in your home, don’t wait for it to spread! Call on our experts at SERVPRO to remediate your mold problem before it worsens.

The Many Places Mold Can Grow | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

8/1/2022 (Permalink)

Find a strange growth on your walls? Call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls!

When it comes to mold, there is almost no surface where it can’t grow. Your clothes, food and many of the rooms you frequent inside your home daily can all be mold hosts. As long as it has every ingredient mold needs to form, you could be looking at a huge problem waiting to worsen!
Not only does mold grow super quickly when conditions are right, but it can find a spot in almost every corner of your home. Of course, there are some rooms where you’ll be more likely to find your mold problem developing.
In any case, here are a few locations in the home where mold can pop up and what it takes for it to grow:

The 3 Key Ingredients for Mold Growth
Mold needs a few key conditions to flourish in order to spread rapidly inside your home. The combination of all these factors gives mold the perfect opportunity to create a major issue in your home.
Moisture is the main component of mold development; without it, mold wouldn’t be able to form in the first place. After this, humidity is what gives mold an environment to survive in.
Finally, all mold needs is a place to grow inside your home. Whether it’s on your walls, ceiling or floor, mold can find a home on almost every surface of your property. Mold is especially favorable to dark rooms inside your home because UV light helps to kill mold spores.

So, where could you find these annoying spores in your home?

Deep within your basement. As stated above, mold thrives in dark corners of the home, so it’s no surprise mold is commonly found in the basement. Moisture is prevalent in basements due to foundation leaks or condensation from your appliances.

Up in your attic. Another place you could spot mold is in your home’s attic. The attic can be the perfect environment for mold due to it being humid and collecting moisture from issues like a leaky roof or poor ventilation. Wood framing in the attic can also collect moisture which leads to mold growth.

Inside your bathroom. The bathroom is one room in your house where water is used practically everywhere. Mold loves a humid environment and the moisture from your shower or bathtub, which provides it the ideal breeding ground.

Rooms that utilize appliances. The kitchen and laundry room both contain water-using equipment like refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines. While these appliances are helpful in many ways, they can sometimes malfunction and lead to leakage. Water drips onto your floors or walls and gives mold the opportunity to swoop in and leave you with a big problem!

If you detect mold in your home, we can remediate it no matter where it pops up. Our team at SERVPRO of Sioux Falls uses advanced techniques and equipment to make your home mold-free.

Mold growth from Humidity

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

Visible mold growth on corner of basement wall.

Depending on where you live in the United States, on top of heat during the summer, you may be experiencing a little bit of humidity. If you’re reading this in Southeastern South Dakota, you are nodding along. In our part of the world, we are very familiar with humidity. As our air conditioning units struggle to keep up with our cooling demands, its important to also focus on other things that may be caused by the humidity.

On a recent estimate for mold, while inspecting an evident mold growth, our technician noticed a small seam in the basement wall of a small home being used as an office. When their is no obvious source of water damage, we believe moisture and humidity are seeping in through the foundation, providing the perfect conditions for mold to grow.

Take the time to inspect the dark and sometimes damp corners of your home. Garages, utility rooms, etc. You may not spend a lot of time in these rooms, but often they may be areas where moisture can be present. If you do find something you would like inspected, please call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls at 605-213-3303!

Mold Remodel

4/26/2021 (Permalink)

Mold growth on drywall

A customer contacted SERVPRO of Sioux Falls this week while in the middle of a kitchen remodel. Upon removing a set of cabinets, the customer found a fairly extensive mold colony on the wall that had been covered up by the cabinet. 

They immediately placed a call to our team to get the issue sorted out quickly so their remodel could continue. After performing an estimate on the same day that we received the call, the customer agreed to our scope of work and we began the process of remediating the mold in the home. 

Our team loaded up on fungicide and got to work. We decided to remove a small portion of drywall as the mold was extensive and had grown through to the backside. After completion, our reconstruction crew got to work replacing the drywall! A total job process of three days got the homeowners back on track with their remodel. 

Do you have mold in your home or business?

3/22/2021 (Permalink)

Mold growth found under air vent cover in a Sioux Falls home.

Mold spores are constantly around us both indoors and outdoors. They are carried by the wind as well as on our clothing. However, just because mold spores are constantly present, that does not mean that you have a mold growth that can become a problem. There are a few tell-tale signs to look for when you think you may have a mold growth in your home or business.

• The first and most obvious is a visible mold growth. Mold can come in many shapes, sizes, and colors. Common signs include a fuzzy appearance and the colors of white, green, or black.
• Another big sign of an active mold growth is a musty smell in the affected room. A smell of dampness that doesn’t seem to dissipate.
• Damp areas or past water damage that was not properly dried.
• An uptick on health effects that are irregular.

Mold needs three items to grow in your home of business:

1. Water: Mold needs a source of moisture to grow. This is can be a constant source of water such as a leaky pipe, or it can be a damp spot on your drywall that received water damage that was not properly dried.
2. Oxygen: This is the food source that we really can’t work on preventing. If there is a room in your home or business that is not oxygenated, you may have some bigger problems.
3. Food source: A food source for a mold colony includes basically any organic material such as wood or drywall.

If you believe you may have a mold growth in your home or business, call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls for a free estimate in the Sioux Falls area! 605-213-3303

Improper drying can lead to mold growth

3/3/2021 (Permalink)

Mold growth found in closet of Sioux Falls area home

Imagine a scenario where your water heater malfunctioned and led to a small water loss in your utility room. You may not have even known there were such things as restoration companies, so you decided to place a couple of fans and dry it out yourself. The room has concrete floor, you tell yourself, there can’t be too much damage. After a few days of running fans, the area looks dry to you. 

Fast forward two months as you go to your utility room to grab supplies and you notice a funky-colored growth on the drywall behind your water heater. Mold? How did this get here?

Most likely, water from the damaged water heater seeped up in to your dry wall and was not properly dried. This presence of moisture acted as a fuel to promote the growth of mold. 

What do you do now? Call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls! Not only do we do mold remediation, we are the company to call when you have a water loss in your home! Proper drying after water damage goes hand in hand with preventing mold growth. For a company who excels in both, call SERVPRO!

Most Frequent mold strain

1/20/2021 (Permalink)

Mold growth spreading across walls in Sioux Falls home

The most common mold found throughout homes is known as Alternaria.  Alternaria mold tends to grow where ever dampness occurs, which can come from a variety of sources in your home. Mold can grow just about anywhere and Can be very difficult to prevent. No matter how clean your home may be it will always contain invisible mold spores. But don’t fret! Mold is most commonly found in bathrooms, basements, and kitchens.

The ten most common sources of moisture that can aid mold growth in your home are:

1. Persistent humidity
2. Leaky pipes in the home
3. Leaking roof
4. Build up of condensation
5. Poor ventilation in your home
6. Wet and Damp Clothing
7. Home flooding
8. Damp basement
9. Foundational leak  
10. Leaking or condensation from an A/C System. 

If you’re looking for a Mold Remediation Specialist, Call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls at 605-213-3303! We will make that pesky mold growth in your home, “Like it never even happened.”

Mold on the Move

1/19/2021 (Permalink)

Visible mold in air ducts

A mold growth in your HVAC unit can be a nuisance for you and your family. As our HVAC systems move air continuously throughout the home, this too means mold spores in the system are being moved throughout your home. Mold can harm our respiratory system in a number of ways. Not sure if you have mold present in your HVAC system? Here are some potential signs:

• Visual Signs: Fortunately, some mold may be easy to spot and can give you a definitive answer. Check the spots of your HVAC system that you can easily see regularly. This includes around the furnace and A/C units, as well is any intake or outflow vents. For some examples of what mold can look like, please visit our photo gallery.
• Odors: Pay attention for any odors you don’t normally sense around your home. Oftentimes mold can give off a musty scent as it thrives with sufficient moisture.
• Symptoms: If you or anyone in your home is noticing persistent respiratory issues or increased severity of allergies, mold could potentially be the culprit.

What should you do if you believe you have mold in your HVAC system?

Our recommendation would be to call a mold remediation company as well as a company that can clean ducts. It just so happens, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is equipped to help with both! With our industry experience in both areas, we will be able to help you get your home back to tip-top shape.

Mold in your dream home!

12/30/2020 (Permalink)

Mold under cover of air vent

Depending on the market and what you are looking for, the home buying process can be either exciting or excruciating. You have to have a keen eye on homes coming on to the market and have trust in your realtor that they are looking for what suits your needs. 

After countless tours and maybes, you’ve finally found your dream home! You put an offer in and are now waiting on the home inspection. Everything looks great until you see the inspector found a few spots of mold in the utility room in the basement. Don’t worry though, it’s not the end of the world! SERVPRO can help!

At SERVPRO of Sioux Falls we are well-versed in the remediation of mold. We offer free local estimates, aimed to be returned within two days of the inspection. We know the home-buying process can be on a strict timetable so we aim to perform our work as efficiently and effectively as possible to make your dream home your home!

All About Mold

12/2/2020 (Permalink)

Black Mold growth in Sioux Falls home

Did you know that there are over 100,000 strains of mold! Keep in mind not all types of mold are a threat, some are benign while some are even used in medicinal treatments.

TYPES OF MOLD

Some of the most common types of molds we come across are Aspergillus,  Chaetomium, and Stachybotrys Atra (commonly known as black mold). Each strain has its own characteristics and can affect humans in different ways. Due to possible effects on health, it is important to remediate mold in your Sioux Falls area home. The most common areas to keep an eye out for mold in your home are basements & cellars, under or around sinks, and behind walls that also house plumbing.

Prevention Tips:

• To help prevent mold in your house be sure to make sure the humidity level is below 60, with the recommended range between 30-60.
• Dry items completely before storing them.
• Repair Leaks. Responding quickly and treating the source of a leak is crucial to preventing mold growth.
• Use methods to improve the airflow throughout your home. For instance, getting your ducts cleaned regularly can help!

If you find or suspect mold in your home be sure to reach out to a professional like SERVPRO of Sioux Falls to get it taken care of as soon as possible; living with mold in your house doesn’t always cause health problems, but it should always be removed! If you think your home may have mold don’t wait, give us a call at 605-213-3303!

Mold in the workspace

10/28/2020 (Permalink)

Technician removing moldy drywall

Finding Mold in your Sioux Falls area workplace is not a matter to take lightly. Mold colonies in the workplace can lead to health complications for your employees, as well as negatively affecting their pre-existing conditions such as allergies or asthma. A workplace with employees out sick regularly means a workplace where operations aren’t running as efficiently as they should.

Where to find Mold in the office:

While mold spores are all over the natural and indoor world, they really don’t cause any damage to humans until they find a safe, dark, and damp environment to begin growing and multiplying. Mold growth in the office can commonly be found in cupboards below a water source, such as a kitchen sink. Spots where previous water damage has occurred are ripe locations for mold growth if not properly dried.

What to do:

To remove a mold growth in your office, call the experts at SERVPRO of Sioux Falls! We are trained to remediate mold in any setting, be it your attic at home, or a large commercial office space. During our mitigation efforts, we can set up containment around the affected area to isolate the mold, and to keep the rest of your office space functioning. Keep you employees and customers healthy, call us today at 605-213-3303!

Free Mold Estimates with SERVPRO

8/26/2020 (Permalink)

Mold Growth on basement walls

After being cooped up at home the past five months, students are returning to school and your home might be getting a break from the chaos. Maybe you take this opportunity to get your home deep cleaned and freshened up. Vacuuming, dusting, maybe even getting your carpets cleaned. Perhaps you are packing up some toys and putting them in to storage. While moving stuff around in your storage space, you notice a weird fuzzy patch on your wall. If you’re unsure if its just dust or mold, give SERVPRO of Sioux Falls a call!

Free estimates within 30 mile radius:

At SERVPRO, we will come assess your home for a mold growth and give you a free estimate on remediation and potential reconstruction should you fall within a 30 mile radius of our shop. With this estimate you will be able to decide the correct course of action for your home.

Where is mold commonly found?

8/13/2020 (Permalink)

Mold growth behind drywall

As mold has a tendency to grow in cramped, poorly-lit locations in your home, you may not have any idea that you even have a mold infestation. The physical signs of a potential mold growth can present itself in your body in the form of health effects. These symptoms may be difficult to separate from the same symptoms that allergies produce in people. However, if someone has been dealing with allergies their whole life, they likely know when their symptoms are stemming from normal allergies and when something may be amiss and causing more issues than usual. Whether you have allergies or not, if you are experiencing health effects, it may be time to investigate for mold in your home.

Common places for mold:

Mold requires oxygen, moisture, and a food source to grow. To start eliminating potential locations of mold growth, exclude places that typically don’t get moisture. This typically can mean eliminating rooms such as bedrooms and living rooms. However, window sills in these rooms can still be a potential spot of mold growth if they are not sealed tight and prone to receiving moisture.

The most common locations for mold to be found include:

• Bathrooms- A poorly ventilated bathroom, which consistently is exposed to moisture in the form of showers and baths, is a prime location for mold growth. Check in and around your shower, as well as below your sink.
• Basement/Utility Rooms- Mold likes to grow in locations with lack of UV light. This makes subterranean rooms ripe for mold growth. Condensation from an air conditioning unit can lead to potential mold growth. An improperly dried room after a water damage event can also lead to mold growth.
• Kitchen- Another room of your home that sees a lot of moisture, in the form of washing dishes and the processes involved in cooking.

These are not the only rooms where mold can be found, but are typically a good place to start looking. Mold can also grow in your HVAC system, which gives it the opportunity to be spread throughout your home.

 If you believe you have a mold growth or you have found a mold colony in your Sioux Falls area home, it’s best to call a company that has expertise in mold testing and mold remediation. SERVPRO of Sioux Falls has been a local leader in the mold remediation business for years. Call us to schedule a an estimate in your home today. We can find mold, begin the remediation process, and perform any necessary rebuild to get your home back to tip-top shape.

Summer Safety Series: Mold in the home

7/20/2020 (Permalink)

Mold growth on windowsill

In the Sioux Falls area, we haven’t had to worry about rainfall totals quite as much as last year. It has been an uncharacteristically hot with rain events spaced out every few weeks. However, we have been experiencing high levels of humidity. Usually humidity does not become a factor until late July and August, however, this year we have been seeing extremely high humidity levels throughout the summer. While the lack of rain has been preventing extensive water damage, its important to monitor your home for humidity as mold growths can begin with just small amounts of moisture in your home.

How Humidity can start mold growth:

There are a few factors that need to be present for mold to grow. The most important factor is moisture. Next, the mold needs a source of food. This can include drywall, wood, and other materials used to build your home. The next most important factor needed for mold growth is a lack of UV light. Mold likes to grow in often unseen parts of our home that receive little to no light. Think of a utility room in your basement.

Sources of moisture in the home:

Excluding a large rainfall event, the most common causes that create moisture in the home during the summer are typically linked to keeping your home cool. One common place for mold growth in the summer is around windows that are not often used or may not receive a lot of direct sunlight. As the temperature and humidity rise outside, we often run our air conditioning unit more to compensate for the high heat. This juxtaposition of heat outside and cool air inside, can lead to condensation forming on your windows and running down onto wooden window frames, creating an environment for mold to grow. We recommend drying and cleaning your windows and their frames regularly if you notice moisture buildup. The next most common culprit for mold growths in the summer stem from runoff from air conditioning units. Typically, an AC unit will have a drain line that takes moisture away from the unit and towards a proper drainage system. However, older models can leak, leading to moisture getting in to crawl spaces and other hard to access areas of the home.

What should I do if I find mold?:

If you are unsure if you have a mold growth in your home, it is best to reach out to a company like SERVPRO that handles mold remediation in the Sioux Falls area. At SERVPRO of Sioux Falls, we are capable of performing mold tests and mold estimates. Our standard is to have a quote returned to you within two business days of a mold estimate. Should you need mold remediation services, SERVPRO is trained and has the necessary chemicals to treat your mold growth. Should any tear out and reconstruction work be needed, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls can handle the entire process from beginning to end!

Mold in your HVAC system?

6/12/2020 (Permalink)

Moldy vent before and after treatment.

Keeping Cool

As we reach the warmest part of the year, many folks will be rushing to turn on their air conditioning to try to beat the heat. As you turn on your system for the first time since using it for heat in the winter months, it is important to assess your system to make sure it is operating effectively and efficiently.

Musty Smell

As you run your air conditioner for the first few times, be sure to assess the system and see if any condensation is forming around your unit. Excess condensation along with a musty smell throughout the home can be signs of a potential mold growth in your HVAC system. A large mold infestation may be visible around vents as well if they mold has had time to grow. If after changing the air filter, the musty smell persists, it’s best to call a professional mold remediation company like SERVPRO of Sioux Falls.

Treating your HVAC system

At SERVPRO, we both clean ducts and are in the business of mold remediation. We offer free mold estimates and have the technology to assess and clean your duct work. Should you encounter a mold growth in your HVAC systemin the greater Sioux Falls area, call the experts at SERVPRO of Sioux Falls 605-213-3303!

Mold in the summer cabin?

6/3/2020 (Permalink)

Mold growth on drywall

It’s that time of the year folks. Weather is getting warmer, the flames on the grill are roaring, and its time to take the family to the lake cabin on the weekends. You load up the car, pick out your snacks and cheesy road trip songs and head out on the road for a weekend of fun. As you unload your luggage when you get to the lake house you start to notice a musty smell. Suddenly, the magical weekend is on hold.

As you start to investigate you notice some black fuzzy spots around the window sills in your cabin. A little old fashioned google research tells you that you have a mold infestation growing in your summer home. Oh no! There goes the summer right? Wrong! At SERVPRO of Sioux Falls we are Here to Help remediate that mold and get you back to enjoying your summer!

 Should you encounter what you believe is mold, give us a call at 605-213-3303 and we will perform a free estimate. At SERVPRO of Sioux Falls we will use our proprietary disinfectants to eradicate the mold growth. Worried about having to hire multiple contractors if drywall needs replaced? Fear Not! We are staffed and equipped for all of your reconstruction needs.

Musty smell in the basement?

4/28/2020 (Permalink)

Mold growth behind drywall.

Can’t seem to shake that musty, damp smell in your basement? Perhaps you had a small water loss that you worked on yourself, but it took you a few days to get the area completely dry. 

If this is the case, mold could be growing in your basement. Under the right conditions, mold growth can begin within 48-72 hours of a water loss event. Give our team at SERVPRO of Sioux Falls a call at 605-213-3303! We can assess your situation and get to work on drying your basement and remediating the mold! We offer free estimates for mold remediation with an expected turnaround time of two business days. If removal of drywall or any other materials is necessary after the remediation is complete, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is a licensed general contractor and we are able to help with any reconstruction. 

What’s that smell??

3/26/2020 (Permalink)

Mold on wood

What’s that smell?  What is that growing on the walls?  Why don’t I feel good? 

Mold is many times the culprit of a strong musty odor or what you might visibly see growing on your walls or the reason you may not feel well. When untreated water intrusion has occurred at your home or business place, it can produce mold and also an unhealthy environment.  When water damage is not addressed right away mold spores may grow and multiply.  If you find yourself with mold, SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls is here to assist you.  Not only can we assist in water remediation but we can also assist in the remediation of mold.  Our team is professionally trained in mold remediation.  If you would like more information about mold removal, please reach out to us at 605-213-3303.  We want to get your living space or work space back to normal and “Like it never even happened.”

Mold in the home

3/16/2020 (Permalink)

Mold growth on wall

As the season turns to spring and fresh air fills your home, you might be struck with the motivation to do some spring cleaning. Maybe you do some dusting, vacuuming, and cleaning of your windows so the sun can shine brightly through them.

Maybe the sunshine even has you feeling good enough to the point that you’re ready to tackle the growing pile of stuff in the utility room in the basement. You know, the stuff you swore you needed but ended up tucking away after one use. The time has come to donate, throw out, and de-clutter. Things are going well and you’re on your last box tucked away in the corner of your basement. Feeling triumphant you pick up the box and see a weird black fuzzy spot on the wall behind it. Uh-oh, what is that? That, my friend is mold.

Mold loves to grow unchecked in moist, dark places in your home. If the conditions are right, even a small amount of water that does not get properly dried can lead to a mold growth in the home. Which can be frustrating as a homeowner. It doesn’t take a burst pipe to cause a mold growth.

Should you find a mold growth while doing your spring cleaning, give SERVPRO of Sioux Falls a call at 605-213-3303. As your local mold damage experts, we will give you a free estimate on the work needed. We have the technicians and technology to remediate the mold growth and do any necessary reconstruction to repair your home “Like it never even happened.”

Mold growth within three days of water loss?

1/29/2020 (Permalink)

Mold growth on wall

Do you know how quickly mold can grow after a water loss? The timeframe is probably shorter than you might imagine. Given the right moisture level and temperature, mold can begin to germinate within 24-48 hours. Part of the reason people may not feel concerned regarding mold growth after a water loss is because it can take 18-21 days for this mold colony to be visible.

This is why proper drying techniques and quick response time after a water loss is crucial to avoiding mold growth. That’s where SERVPRO can help! At SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls we follow the 1-4-8 response guidelines. Within one hour from notice of loss a SERVPRO franchise professional will contact you to arrange for service. Within four hours of loss notification, a SERVPRO mitigation professional will be on-site to start mitigation services if necessary. Within eight business hours, a verbal briefing of the scope of the loss will be communicated to you by a SERVPRO Franchise Professional.

No matter the size of your water loss, call the professionals at SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls and we will assess your water loss and begin mitigation if needed!

Help! Our dream house has a mold infestation!

12/30/2019 (Permalink)

Mold colony

Imagine going through the home buying process for months before finally settling on your dream home. All the leg work is done, you’re just waiting on the inspection and closing paperwork.

Everything is moving in the right direction until the home inspection report comes back and shows a mold infestation in the attic. What do you do now?

Don’t panic! You will still be able to purchase your Harrisburg area dream home! Call SERVPRO of  Sioux Falls at (605)213-3303 and we will send a team of trained mold mitigation specialists out to asses your home. We offer free estimates with a two business day turn around on estimates. Let us take care of the hard work and we will clean up, restore, and build back your dream home “Like it never even happened.”

Signs you may have mold in your home

12/12/2019 (Permalink)

Household mold.

Mold can be a tricky problem to deal with. Some mold colonies may be wreaking havoc without your knowledge as they aren’t always easily visible. As mold growths stem from a moisture source, such as a leak, we might not notice unless the leak is substantial enough to have caused other damage. 

Be on the lookout for the following signs of mold:

• Condensation: places where condensation regularly accumulates, such as a small bathroom with shower.
• Musty odor: If you’re home has a damp, musty, strange smell, this may be a sign of mold.
• Look for Warping: Moisture in materials such as drywall can lead to warping. If warping is present you may want to test the area.

What to do if you spot mold: 

If you do find a mold colony, there are steps you can take to try and clean on your own. 

However, if the problem is too large or you are concerned about the associated health risks and want your mold treated by trained professionals, Give SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls a call. We are standing by 24/7 to help you make it “Like it never even happened”. 

Mold Training for Property Managers

10/29/2019 (Permalink)

Mold Training for Property Managers

SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls recently held a breakfast meeting for this group of Property Managers to educate them about mold. Mold growth occurs from moisture that has not properly been cleaned up. Most people don’t realize that it’s not just serious water damage, such as flooding or a visible leak that leads to mold. Any kind of leak that isn’t properly fixed can cause mold to grow. Wet will migrate to dry. An example is a small area of carpet that is wet four feet from the wall. If this is not dried properly the moisture will work its way to the wall where it’s dry and cause further damage, most times going unnoticed. As many of these managers have seen, moisture will also build up from not running exhaust fans in laundry rooms, kitchens and bathrooms and not running AC units. Mold can begin to grow and spread in 24 to 48 hours under the right conditions so taking care of the source of the problem is critical to preventing mold growth. SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls is here help, whether it be through educating or doing the cleanup of mold. Call us today to schedule your next staff training.

Mold Prevention

8/14/2019 (Permalink)

There is no practical way to eliminate all of the molds and mold spores in the indoor environment.  But there are ways to help control moisture and mold growth in your home.  Here is a partial list:

Stop the water

• Fix leaks in pipes, and any damp areas around tubs and sinks.
• Rebuild, or retrofit with water resistant building materials.
• Prevent seepage of water from outside by have the ground around the house slope away and gutters drain away.  
• Cover dirt crawlspaces with plastic to prevent moisture from coming from the ground.

Keep it clean

• Clean fabrics often and keep them dry.  Soil promotes mildew growth.  Keep clean fabric items in a well ventilated area.
• Have air ducts cleaned if you suspect mold exists on the duct's inside surface, or if duct insulation has been wet.

Keep it dry

• In hot weather, reduce moisture by using dehumidifiers, fans, air conditioners and open windows.  Do NOT use fans if mold may already exist.
• Keep humidity below 40%.
• Choose carpets of man-made fibers for moisture prone areas.
• Reduce condensation on cold surfaces by insulating.

Disinfect it

• Bathrooms, laundry rooms and mechanical rooms need to be routinely checked for moldy odors, and disinfect often with a 10% solution of bleach or a commercial disinfectant

Terminology Used in Mold Cleanup

8/6/2019 (Permalink)

The first term you might hear is mitigation. Mitigation means reducing the severity, seriousness or painfulness of something. SERVPRO’s goal is to reduce the severity of mold to a safe level in your home or business. The photo shows a basement wall with mold. Mold loves to grow on organic materials such as wood, paper, drywall and insulation. The plastic covering the stud wall and insulation is called vapor barrier. Contractors use this to prevent moisture from penetrating the walls of a basement by stapling it to the frame of the wall before drywall is hung. It also helps to keep a basement insulated and warm. When our technicians identify mold, it is critical to isolate it so it is not disturbed and sent airborne. Using containment does exactly this. Containment can be as simple as closing a door to the room and not allowing anyone in there or having to use plastic sheeting to enclose the area. Mold is one of the most common problems we see and we are proud to have qualified SERVPRO staff ready to help you 24/7/365 with your needs. Call us today at 605-213-3303.

Ordinary Mold

7/5/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls provides mold testing services to help determine if there is a concern.

If you discover mold in your home in the Sioux Falls area, there are many questions that arise.  Here's a little bit of information about ordinary mold that can help your understanding of the issue.

Fungi and mold naturally occur in our environment.  In fact, over 100,000 kinds of fungi have been identified.  Fungi produce some very useful results.  Yeast is a type of fungi used in preparing breads, baked goods and other food products, including some alcoholic beverages.  The unique flavor of blue cheese is a result of mold.  An edible mushroom is simply a type of fungi, and lifesaving penicillin is a product of mold (Penicillin chrysogenum).

Even though some forms of mold can add value to our lives, other forms can be harmful.  Excessive amounts of mold, different types of mold, and/or exposure to molds may present health concerns for some people. 

SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls provides mold testing services to help determine if there is a concern.  SERVPRO also provides mold cleanup to Sioux Falls and the surrounding area. 

Call (605) 213-3303 to speak with our experts.

Take Precautions

7/5/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals handle water damages every day and know prompt action is required to prevent mold growth.

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals handle water damages every day and know prompt action is required to prevent mold growth.  Mold is more likely to spread in your Sioux Falls home or business when an environment has been subject to moisture for a long period of time.  If your property has sustained a recent water damage, it is vital to remove excess water and dry the structure promptly.  If there is an ongoing moisture problem in the building, it is important to be alert for:

• The presence of visible mold.
• Strong musty odors which may indicate mold is present.
• Any evidence of past moisture problems that might have caused undetected mold growth.
• Excessive humidity.

These conditions may require the expertise of a qualified Indoor Air Quality/Environmental Professional to inspect the building for mold growth and water damage problems.

If you need assistance with water damage or mold in the Sioux Falls area, call SERVPRO at (605) 213-3303.

Mold In Sioux Falls Homes

4/2/2018 (Permalink)

Left untreated or undiagnosed, mold can quickly get out of control.

This year has brought a lot of water to our area.  Coupled with damaging winds, water has come in from up above through damaged roofs and from down below with severe basement flooding. 

When moisture is present too long, mold can grow.  If you see anything or smell anything that you think might be mold, contact us immediately to come do an inspection.  Your health can be compromised from exposure to mold, and you don't want to put it off. 

We completed an inspection recently where we were able to help the homeowner determine that their smell was actually due to a natural gas leak.  Had they not questioned the smell, thinking it was from previous water damage, the consequence could have been severe. 

We use state of the art Thermal Imaging to help make sure our inspection of your home is thorough.  So when you have a concern, don't put it off.  Have us come help you get back "Like it never even happened." 

Sioux Falls Residents: Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

6/5/2017 (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 Sioux Falls 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 West Sioux Falls 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. If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 605-213- 3303