Common sources of mold growth

6/22/2022 (Permalink)

Common Source of excessive mold-causing moisture

Flooding from storms coming from outside

Sump pump overflow

Roof leaks from damaged roofs, ice dams or blocked gutters

Rain from storms through window frames, exterior walls, or doors

Leaking pipes, sewer back-ups or overflows

Damp basements due to high water table or badly managed water drainage

Condensation on cold surfaces

Mold needs these 3 main things to thrive and stay alive.

High humidity

Warm or temperate Temperature

Poor ventilation

Mold is easier to prevent than it is to clean so keeping a watch on common sources of mold and maintaining a dry, ventilated home and drying homes from water damage within 24 hours of the incidence is the best way to prevent mold from happening in the first place. If you have a mold problem and you would like information about how to get it professionally cleaned please Call SERVPRO of Mason City at (641)424-3382

SERVPRO of Mason City specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate  your mold problem quickly and safely.

Mold vs Mildew

6/30/2021 (Permalink)

When it comes to mildew vs. mold, homeowners often have trouble identifying the differences between these two fungi. Knowing their different characteristics will help you when preparing for the battle against these household culprits.

Mold and mildew are both members of the fungi kingdom.

Mildew is common and will grow on damp materials like paper, leather and fabrics in addition to walls and other wet surfaces. Because of this, mildew is most commonly found in bathrooms, kitchens and basements. Mildew usually gives off a musty smell.

Once mold is found in your home it is important that you make the call to SERVPRO of Mason City to have the experts come and remove it from your home. 

We can be reached 24 hours a day 7 days a week at 641-424-3382

Call SERVPRO for a mold inspection after water damage

5/17/2018 (Permalink)

Mold growth just a day after water into there basement in Mason City.

Call SERVPRO after Water Damage to Help Prevent Mold Growth

Sometimes a slow leak occurs inside your home causing damage that goes unnoticed. Many times people do not know that water damage occurred until they notice a foul mildew smell or see the presence of black mold. Once mold exists, spores created by the fungus can travel to other rooms inside your house.

The spores easily become air-bound and travel to other areas of your home, possibly creating an issue with fungi in other areas besides the source. SERVPRO's technicians know how to mitigate mold. We always follow a strict set of procedures when mitigating fungal issues so that the fungus does not spread into other areas of the home or complex.

Water damage scenarios create increased moisture that makes a good environment for mold development. Mold needs water, food and the ideal temperature to form and become a problem. Mold feeds off of any organic materials including paper and wood.

Various strains of mold grow in different temperatures. Some rare mold strains develop in extremely cold or hot temperatures. However, most types of fungi develop between 68 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit.

Most types of fungus need incredibly high levels of moisture to survive. Although, some mold strains exist in rooms that have a relative humidity of 65%. When trying to prevent mold growth after a water damage situation, we attempt to drop the relative humidity below 65%.

The time it takes for mold to develop depends on the conditions. Some forms of fungus grow within twelve hours of a water damage problem taking place. Other molds grow into colonies but take between 24 and 48 hours to develop.

Most houses offer many food sources for a fungus. Outside dirt, drywall, carpet, and paper all offer mold growth opportunities if the moisture levels and the temperature inside are ideal. The more time that passes, the worse a mold problem can get.

If water sits inside your home for a long time, then it spreads to areas where microbes already exist and cause mold to develop. For help preventing fungus growth, call SERVPRO  of Mason City, IA 24/7 emergency service.