Spring Into Action and Stop Mold Growth at Home

3/21/2023 (Permalink)

Prevent Mold Growth in Your Home This Spring With These Tips

Spring is here, and temperatures are heating up — along with our desire to spend more time outdoors! But as the season progresses, let's not forget about one unwelcome guest: mold. While it may seem unavoidable at times, rest assured that you can avoid this pesky problem in your home by following some simple solutions. With a few changes, you'll be all set for spring and beyond!

Control Humidity Levels in Your Home

When it comes to mold growth, humidity levels tend to be one of the main factors that cause this issue. Investing in a dehumidifier will help control the humidity levels in your home and, consequently, mold growth. It should be placed in the area with the highest moisture level (e.g., basements) to be effective. Additionally, keep the humidity level in your home between 40-60%.

Repair Leaks and Condensation Buildup

It's important to promptly identify and fix any potential mold-causing leaks or condensation buildup in your home. This can be done by checking around vents, windows, plumbing fixtures, and other areas that could be a possible source of mold growth. Also, mold-resistant caulking on pipes and fixtures can help deter mold growth in these areas.

Clean and Repair Areas Prone to Moisture

Areas like bathrooms and kitchens are prone to mold growth due to their high moisture levels. To help prevent growth in these spaces, clean them regularly with mold-fighting cleaning agents. Additionally, repairing any damage, such as water stains or missing tile grout, can help you stay ahead of mold growth this spring.

Remove Standing Water and Excess Moisture

Any standing water or areas of excessive moisture should be removed immediately to prevent mold growth. This includes checking around air conditioning units, pipes, and leaky windows for any potential mold-causing water sources. It would also help to regularly inspect your home for signs of mold, such as musty odors or discoloration.

Improve Airflow and Ventilation

Improving the airflow and ventilation in your home is a big help when it comes to reducing mold growth! This includes opening windows or using fans to circulate air, especially in high-moisture areas like bathrooms. You can even consider installing exhaust fans in these rooms to help reduce mold-causing humidity.

Reliable Mold Remediation Services in Suffolk County, NY

Following these steps, you can help protect your humble abode and family from mold growth. However, if mold grows in your home, it's important to take action immediately. At SERVPRO of North Bay Shore, we provide reliable mold remediation services throughout Suffolk County and beyond! 

Call us today at (631) 948-2458 to speak with one of our mold remediation specialists and get your home mold-free this spring. 

Can Water-Damaged Hardwood Floors be Saved?

2/21/2023 (Permalink)

Can a Water-Damaged Hardwood Floor be Saved?

When hardwood floors become water-damaged, homeowners first worry about the cost of repairs or replacement. But, before investing in a costly repair or replacement, there are a few steps you can take to determine whether your hardwood flooring can be saved.

The Suffolk County water damage repair and restoration professionals at SERVPRO of North Bay Shore share some quick tips to keep in mind should you face this situation in your humble abode.

Assess the Damage

The first step is to assess the extent of the damage at hand. If the wood appears to look warped, you will likely have to replace it, as this type of damage cannot usually be repaired. On the other hand, if your flooring appears to be discolored and/or has some cupping and peeling finish, it may still be possible to save it.

Estimate When the Incident Happened

The next step is to consider how long ago the damage occurred. If the damage occurred fairly recently (e.g., within a few days), your best bet for salvaging your hardwood might be to have a professional water damage restoration company dry the area thoroughly so it can eventually resurface with a new finish coat.

What to Keep in Mind

While some water-damaged hardwood flooring may be salvaged with minimal effort and expense, each situation must be evaluated on a case-by-case basis depending on the severity and extent of damage sustained and desired outcome by the homeowner.

If any area or feature of your home has sustained water-related damages, SERVPRO of North Bay Shore is here to help save the day. Contact us today by calling (631) 948-2458 or requesting service through our online contact form to learn more about how we can help you.

What Can Cause a Bad Smell in Your House?

10/27/2022 (Permalink)

The Common Causes of Foul Stench in Your Home

Has there been an unidentifiable odor persistent in your house for a few days? No matter how long your candle has been lit or how many times you have mopped your floors, it doesn’t seem to go away? There may be an underlying cause for that interesting smell.

Located in Suffolk County, the cleaning and restoration experts at SERVPRO of North Bay Shore are here to help you determine the possible causes of that lingering stench by guiding you through each room in your house.

Kitchen

In your kitchen, there are a few areas that you should take a look at to locate the smell. 

• For starters, open your dishwasher. It produces a lot of moisture, becoming a breeding ground for mold, mildew, and old food crumbs. 
• If that isn’t the problem, check the garbage disposal. You should cleanse it daily because leftover food and grease can stick to the blades. 
• If the smell is coming from your refrigerator, make sure that you clean up spills, throw away expired food, and give a good wipe down inside.

Living Room and Bedrooms

Do you have carpet in your room? Everyday containments such as dog hair, dirt, or food and beverage spills can make your floor look filthy and smelly over time so it might be time for a thorough cleaning. If you recently purchased new furniture, it may pollute your indoor air due to the vinyl and fire resistance used on the fabric. Therefore, you should keep the room ventilated and have a fan on to eliminate the smell. 

Another tip to get a smell out of your home is to clean your sheets weekly and wash laundry regularly. If you put your laundry basket in the closet, consider keeping the door open to prevent trapping moisture and keep the air circulating.

Bathroom

Is the odor musty? It may be coming from your lavatory. As you take showers, hot water will lead to mold; thus, you should ensure that you open a window or run the fan for ventilation. Poor air circulation makes it easy for fungi to grow in wet conditions. You should consider calling professional mold remediation if you detect mold in your bathroom.

Need Cleaning Services in Suffolk County?

Are you tired of dealing with that awful odor? We’re here to help! At SERVPRO of North Bay Shore, we offer cleaning and restoration services for residents and business owners. With our advanced cleaning equipment, we’re ready to properly clean and restore your home to make it like home again. 

Get your house professionally cleaned today at (631) 948-2458, or fill out a short form!

What are the Biggest Fire Hazards at Home?

9/28/2022 (Permalink)

Most Significant Fire Hazards in Your Home

Are you aware of the common fire hazards? We know that losing personal items and a safe place can devastate homeowners. Though some fires are unpredictable, most of them can be avoided with some safety precautions measures. 

From the Suffolk County fire damage professionals at SERVPRO of North Bay Shore, we’re here to share important advice to prevent a fire from starting in your home.

1. Cooking

According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking was the number one cause of reported home fires from 2015 to 2019. When you’re cooking, stay alert and don’t leave anything unattended. Additionally, avoid using the stove if you are exhausted and limit kitchen items (e.g., oven mitts or wooden spoons) on your stovetop, as they are highly flammable.

2. Candles

As much as we love using candles to make our homes smell like apples and cinnamon, they are huge fire hazards that can get out of control easily. Before lighting a candle, ensure that you read the safety instructions to prevent burning it for any longer than what is recommended. Furthermore, candles should only be burned on heat-resistant surfaces, away from children and pets.

3. Smoking

Smoking in a house could have various consequences, the main one being causing a fire. If cigarettes are not properly put out, they can create a flame, as the end of the cigarette can remain lit for hours, making it a risk. Make sure to use a sturdy ashtray on a solid surface, not on a chair or sofa, because someone may bump into it, and it will start a fire. What’s more, avoid throwing hot cigarette butts on the ground.

4. Barbecues

Hosting a family gathering is all fun and games until there is a fire. When you are barbecuing, ensure your grill is outside and has a clear path around it, meaning no plants, tablecloths, or tree branches nearby. We recommend that you maintain the grill by cleaning it with soapy water and cleaning the grease trap to reduce the fire risk.

5. Electrical Equipment

A myriad of electrical items can lead to a fire transpiring; lamps are one of the most hazardous ones. Due to the lightbulb's high temperature, ensure that it is not touching flammable objects and does not remain powered when you leave the house. 

Another fire hazard is extension cords. If there are too many cords plugged into the power strip, it can cause a spark. A good tip is to unplug cables once you are not using them anymore or to invest in a surge-protected power strip.

24-Hour Emergency Fire Damage Services

Though you may be experiencing a stressful situation, we’re here to help. Located in North Bay Shore, NY, SERVPRO offers emergency disaster damage repair and restoration services for residents and business owners. Contact us today at (631) 948-2458 or fill out a form for assistance!