“There Can’t be Mold, We’re in the Desert!!” by DeWynn Nelson
I
can’t even begin to count the number of times that I’ve heard that comment. Even though we live in a desert environment, mold can happen anywhere, under the right conditions. Those conditions include:
SERVPRO® of St. George has the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem.
1. The presence of mold spores (which are everywhere); 2. A food source (organic material, such as wood, paper, drywall, etc.); 3. Temperature (32°-122° F); 4. Water; and 5. Time (as little as two days).
• Significant mold growth can occur in 48-72 hours. • Mold may present a greater risk to children, the elderly, and anyone with respiratory problems. • A strong, musty odor may indicate hidden mold behind drywall or under carpeting.
Here are some things to look for and steps to take if you suspect you have mold in your home or business: Mold Damage Emergency Tips In as little as 48 hours, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business when there’s a water intrusion, like a roof leak or leaking water line. Mold can cause health effects and also significant damage to your property.
If you have a mold problem in your home or business, consider the following facts:
What to Do • Stay out of affected areas. • Turn off the HVAC system and fans. • Contact a restoration professional 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. What is Black Mold? You may have seen sensational news reports that warn about the dangers of “black mold” or “toxic mold.” These reports can be alarming and confusing, so it’s beneficial to get the facts to better understand mold. Stachybotrys chartarum is the type of mold often referred to as black mold, and it does produce allergens and irritants. However, many types of mold can produce allergens and irritants. Treat any mold with caution – stay out of affected areas and don’t touch or disturb the mold. How Do I Tell If It’s Black Mold? Since many types of mold can cause reactions, you should contact a restoration professional regardless of the color or type of mold. In many instances, multiple types of mold may exist in the same house or structure. If you suspect you have a mold problem, contact a restoration specialist immediately. Understanding Mold: When water intrudes into your property, mold growth can start in as little as 48 hours. Consider the following mold facts: • Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors. • Mold spores are microscopic, float along in the air, and may enter your home through windows, doors, AC/ heating systems, or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or on a pet. • Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants. • Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must
28