Prepare for the Storm. Prepare your Property Before a Storm

9/20/2023 (Permalink)

Make sure your business is safe in case of a storm.

Preparing your home or business for an oncoming storm can be a time-consuming and hectic process. However, taking the necessary steps to secure your property before a storm hits can help minimize damages and protect your assets. In this blog post, we will discuss essential tips for securing your property before a storm hits.

Trim Trees and Shrubs

Trimming trees and shrubs around your property can help reduce the risk of fallen branches and flying debris during high winds. Removing dead or diseased trees close to your property will also reduce the risk of damage to your surroundings. If there are any large trees located near your home that pose a risk for falling onto your property, consider hiring a professional to remove them.

During a storm, outdoor furniture and decor can quickly become hazardous, damaging your property and those around it. Securing these items before a storm with ropes, chains, or bungee cords will help prevent them from blowing away. It’s also a good idea to store these items indoors if possible.

Reinforce Windows and exterior 

High winds generated during a storm can easily break windows or doors, creating a risk of injury and property damage. Reinforce windows and glass doors with storm shutters, plywood, or impact-resistant glass. Make sure the doors have sturdy hinges and latches, and consider installing a deadbolt for added protection.

When gutters and downspouts are clogged with debris, water cannot drain from the roof, causing damages to the structure of your building. Ensure that the gutters and downspouts around your property are cleaned before the storm.

Turn off Electrical and Gas Source to Your Property

Turning off the electrical and gas sources to your property appropriately before a storm is important as this minimizes the risk of electrocution and gas leaks caused when strong winds carry debris into your property.

Turn off and unplug all major appliances to avoid an overload that can cause damage to electrical equipment or fire. If you live in an area prone to flooding or near a body of water, consider investing in a backup sump pump to avert flooding in your home or building.

Keep Important Documents and Valuables Safe

Keep important documents like insurance policies, passports, and other valuable items in a waterproof and secure location such as a safe or safety deposit box. Make sure to take advantage of cloud services to back up your digital files.

Preparing your property for an oncoming storm is a crucial step in minimizing damages and protecting your assets and safety. By trimming trees and shrubs, securing outdoor furniture and decor, just to name a few, you can be sure that your property is adequately protected. Remember, a little preparation before a storm can prevent possible disaster and bring peace of mind in the face of uncertainty.

What is Fire Damage Restoration? Understanding the Process of Restoring Your Home After a Fire

8/17/2023 (Permalink)

Hire a fire damage restoration company for your fire damage property.

Experiencing a fire in your home can be a devastating and traumatic event. The immediate aftermath can be overwhelming, as you are left to deal with the aftermath and the damage caused by the fire. In such situations, hiring a professional fire damage restoration company is crucial to help restore your home and belongings. In this blog post, we will explore what fire damage restoration entails and how it can help you recover from a fire.

Fire damage restoration is the process of cleaning, repairing, and restoring a property that has been damaged by fire and smoke. It involves a series of steps to mitigate the effects of the fire and bring your home back to its pre-fire condition. Here are the key steps involved in fire damage restoration:

Inspection and Assessment

The first step in the restoration process is to assess the extent of the fire damage. Professionals will inspect both the visible and hidden areas of your home to identify areas that may have been affected by the fire, smoke, and soot.

• Board-Up and Temporary Security. If your home has sustained structural damage, professionals will board up windows, doors, or other openings to secure your property and prevent further damage from weather or potential break-ins.
• Water Extraction and Drying. If water was used to extinguish the fire, professionals will remove the water and thoroughly dry the affected areas to prevent mold growth and further damage.
• Smoke and Soot Removal: Smoke and soot can cause significant damage and leave behind unpleasant odors. Restoration specialists will use specialized equipment and techniques to clean and deodorize your home, including air scrubbers, ozone generators, and thermal fogging.
• Structural Repair: Fire can weaken or damage the structural components of your home. Restoration professionals will repair or replace damaged walls, floors, ceilings, and other structural elements to ensure the safety and integrity of your property.

Cleaning and Restoration of Belongings

Fire can damage or ruin personal belongings such as furniture, clothing, and electronics. Restoration experts will carefully assess and restore salvageable items using specialized techniques such as content cleaning, deodorization, and upholstery cleaning.

Reconstruction and Repairs. In cases where the fire damage is severe, reconstruction may be necessary. Restoration professionals will work with contractors to rebuild and restore your home to its pre-fire condition.

Throughout the fire damage restoration process, professionals will also work closely with your insurance company to document and evaluate the damage, manage the claims process, and ensure that you receive the appropriate compensation for your losses.

It's important to remember that fire damage restoration is not a DIY project. Restoration professionals have the expertise, training, and specialized equipment to handle fire damage effectively and safely. Attempting to clean or repair fire damage on your own can lead to further damage or health risks.

When faced with the aftermath of a fire, reaching out to a reputable fire damage restoration company is crucial. They will guide you through the entire process, from initial assessment to the final restoration, helping you recover and rebuild your home after a devastating fire.

Understanding Water Heater Leaks

7/28/2023 (Permalink)

Discovering a water heater leak can be a cause for concern and can lead to water damage if not addressed promptly. A leaking water heater not only wastes water but also indicates an underlying issue that needs attention. In this blog, we will explore common causes of water heater leaks, the potential risks they pose, and possible solutions to resolve the problem.

Pressure Relief Valve

The pressure relief valve is designed to release excess pressure from the water heater. If it's faulty or malfunctions, it can cause leaks. Check for any water dripping or pooling around the valve. If you notice a leak, it's essential to replace the valve to prevent further issues.

Similar to the pressure relief valve, the T&P valve helps regulate temperature and pressure within the water heater. If it malfunctions, excessive pressure can build up and result in leaks. Testing and replacing a faulty T&P valve should be done by a qualified professional.

Corrosion and Rust

Over time, water heaters can develop corrosion and rust, especially in older units or areas with hard water. Corroded parts, such as the tank or pipes, can lead to leaks. If corrosion is the cause, replacing the affected parts or the entire unit may be necessary.

Water heaters have various connections for incoming and outgoing water supply. If these connections become loose or damaged, they can cause leaks. Inspect all connections, including inlet and outlet pipes, and tighten or replace any faulty components.

Drain Valve Issues

The drain valve is located at the bottom of the water heater and is used for flushing out sediment and performing maintenance. If the drain valve is loose, damaged, or not fully closed, it can lead to leaks. Tighten or replace the drain valve to address the issue.

In rare cases, the internal tank of a water heater may develop cracks or damage. This can be caused by excessive pressure, corrosion, or manufacturing defects. If the tank is damaged, it's crucial to replace the entire unit to prevent significant water damage.

High Water Pressure

Excessively high water pressure can put a strain on the water heater, leading to leaks. Consider installing a pressure regulator to maintain optimal water pressure and protect the integrity of your water heater.

Improper Installation or Maintenance

Incorrect installation or inadequate maintenance can contribute to water heater leaks. Ensure that your water heater is installed by a professional and that it receives regular maintenance, including flushing to remove sediment buildup.

A water heater leak can be a sign of underlying issues that need attention. Understanding the causes, such as pressure relief valve malfunction, corrosion, loose connections, drain valve problems, internal tank damage, high water pressure, or improper installation, is key to addressing the problem effectively. If you notice a water heater leak, it's essential to take immediate action to prevent water damage and potential hazards. Consult a professional plumber to assess the situation, make necessary repairs, or recommend a replacement if required. Regular maintenance and periodic inspections can also help prevent leaks and prolong the lifespan of your water heater.

6 Essential Steps to Take After a Tornado

6/15/2023 (Permalink)

Follow these 6 steps to stay safe and get your property back to its preloss condition.

Tornadoes are unpredictable and can cause significant damage to homes and businesses. If you have experienced a tornado in your area, it's important to take the necessary steps to ensure your safety and begin the recovery process. Here are 6 steps to take after a tornado:

Ensure Your Safety

The first and most important step after a tornado is to ensure your safety. Check yourself and your loved ones for any injuries, and seek medical attention if needed. If your home is not safe to stay in, find a safe place to go, such as a shelter or hotel.

Assess the Damage

Once you are safe, assess the damage to your property. Take photos or videos of the damage for insurance purposes, and make a list of any damaged items. This will help you file an insurance claim and get the compensation that you need to repair your property.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the damage and begin the claims process. Provide them with all of the information that they need, including photos and videos of the damage and a list of damaged items.

Call a Professional Restoration Company

It's important to call a professional restoration company like SERVPRO to begin the cleanup and restoration process as soon as possible. Tornado damage can be extensive, and it's important to have a team of experts on your side to help with the cleanup and restoration process.

Secure Your Property

If your property has sustained significant damage, it's important to secure it to prevent further damage or theft. Board up any broken windows or doors, and cover any damaged areas with tarps or plastic sheeting.

Be Patient

Finally, be patient during the recovery process. Tornado damage can take time to repair, and it's important to work with your restoration company and insurance company to ensure that everything is done correctly. Stay in communication with your restoration company and insurance company, and ask any questions that you may have.

In conclusion, if you have experienced a tornado in your area, it's important to take the necessary steps to ensure your safety and begin the recovery process. Follow these 6 steps to stay safe and get your property back to its preloss condition. Remember to ensure your safety, assess the damage, contact your insurance company, call a professional restoration company, secure your property, and be patient. If you experience tornado damage, contact SERVPRO of Affton/Webster Groves to help with the cleanup and restoration process. Stay safe!

7 Essential Mold Prevention Tips for Attics and Crawl Spaces: Keep Your Home Healthy and Mold-Free!

5/17/2023 (Permalink)

Preventing mold from growing in your attic is crucial for maintaining a healthy home.

Mold is a common problem that can occur in attics and crawl spaces of homes. It can be unsightly, produce a musty odor. Mold thrives in damp and dark environments, which makes attics and crawl spaces susceptible to mold growth. Fortunately, there are several mold prevention tips that homeowners can follow to keep their attics and crawl spaces mold-free. In this blog post, we will explore some effective mold prevention strategies for attics and crawl spaces.

Keep Moisture in Check

The most important step in preventing mold in attics and crawl spaces is to control moisture. Mold needs moisture to grow, so it's crucial to keep these areas dry. Inspect your attic and crawl space regularly for any signs of water leaks, condensation, or dampness. If you notice any issues, address them immediately to prevent mold growth. Fix any leaks in the roof, walls, or plumbing, and ensure that gutters and downspouts are working properly to divert water away from your home.

Improve Ventilation

Proper ventilation is essential for preventing mold in attics and crawl spaces. Without adequate airflow, moisture can become trapped and create a conducive environment for mold growth. Install vents in your attic and crawl space to promote air circulation. Roof vents, soffit vents, ridge vents, and gable vents are common types of vents that can be installed to improve ventilation. Additionally, make sure that your attic and crawl space vents are not blocked by debris or insulation.

Insulate Properly

Insulation is another key factor in mold prevention. Insulate your attic and crawl space properly to reduce condensation and prevent moisture from entering these areas. Use insulation materials that are resistant to moisture, such as closed-cell spray foam insulation or rigid foam insulation. Avoid using cellulose or fiberglass insulation in areas that are prone to moisture, as they can absorb water and promote mold growth.

Monitor Humidity Levels

Monitoring humidity levels in your attic and crawl space can help prevent mold growth. The ideal humidity level for these areas is below 50%. Use a hygrometer to measure the humidity levels and invest in a dehumidifier if necessary to keep the humidity in check. Make sure to empty the dehumidifier regularly and clean it to prevent mold growth inside the unit.

Keep the Area Clean and Dry

Regular cleaning and maintenance can go a long way in preventing mold in attics and crawl spaces. Keep these areas clean and free from debris, dust, and dirt. If you notice any signs of mold, such as black spots or a musty smell, clean it immediately using a mold cleaner or a mixture of water and detergent. Dry the area thoroughly after cleaning to prevent moisture from lingering.

Use Mold-Resistant Products

When renovating or building a new home, consider using mold-resistant products in your attic and crawl space. Mold-resistant drywall, insulation, and paint can help inhibit mold growth and provide an extra layer of protection against mold. These products are specifically designed to resist moisture and prevent mold from taking hold in your attic or crawl space.

Seek Professional Help

If you are unsure about how to prevent mold in your attic or crawl space, or if you suspect a mold problem that is beyond your control, it's best to seek professional help. Mold remediation experts can assess the condition of your attic and crawl space, identify the source of the moisture, and provide appropriate solutions to prevent mold growth.

In conclusion, mold prevention in attics and crawl spaces is crucial for maintaining a healthy home environment. By keeping moisture in check, improving ventilation, insulating properly, monitoring humidity levels, keeping the area clean and dry.

Smoke Damage in Your Building: What You Need to Know

5/1/2023 (Permalink)

If your building experiences smoke damage, give SERVPRO a call today.

Smoke damage is a common issue in buildings, especially in those that have experienced a fire. Smoke can cause a wide range of problems, from discoloration and staining unpleasant odors. If you are a property owner or a tenant, it is important to understand what smoke damage is, how it can affect your building, and what you can do to prevent and remediate it.

What is Smoke Damage?

Smoke damage is the result of smoke particles that settle on surfaces in your building. These particles are microscopic and can penetrate deep into materials such as walls, carpets, and furniture. Smoke damage can cause discoloration, staining, and corrosion, and can also produce unpleasant odors that are difficult to remove.

How Does Smoke Damage Affect Your Building?

Smoke damage can have a number of negative effects on your building. First, it can compromise the structural integrity of your property. Smoke particles can penetrate deep into materials, weakening them over time. This can lead to cracks, warping, and other issues that can be costly to repair.

Finally, smoke damage can reduce the value of your property. Smoke stains and discoloration can be unsightly and difficult to remove, making your building less attractive to potential tenants or buyers.

Preventing Smoke Damage

The best way to prevent smoke damage is to take steps to prevent fires from occurring in the first place. This includes ensuring that your building is up to code with respect to fire safety, including installing smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and sprinkler systems.

In addition, it is important to educate occupants of your building on fire safety and prevention. This includes providing training on how to use fire safety equipment, as well as emphasizing the importance of not smoking indoors or leaving cooking appliances unattended.

Remediating Smoke Damage

If your building has experienced smoke damage, it is important to take steps to remediate it as soon as possible. This may involve hiring a professional cleaning service that specializes in smoke damage remediation. These professionals will use specialized equipment and cleaning products to remove smoke particles and odors from your building.

In addition, it may be necessary to replace or repair damaged materials such as carpets, furniture, and walls. This can be costly, but it is important to address smoke damage promptly in order to prevent further damage.

In conclusion, smoke damage can be a serious issue for building owners and tenants. By taking steps to prevent fires and educating occupants on fire safety, you can reduce the risk of smoke damage in your building. If your building has experienced smoke damage, it is important to take prompt action to remediate it in order to prevent further damage.

A water leak could cost you thousands

3/7/2023 (Permalink)

If you suspect a leak, give SERVPRO a call

Water leaks are a serious issue for homeowners. They can lead to costly repairs, damage, and wasted water. You may think that you have a small drip somewhere in your house, but if the problem is not fixed promptly it could become something much bigger than you ever imagined.

Water leaks can go undetected for a long time.

Water leaks can go undetected for a long time. If you suspect a leak, call the professionals to help detect where the leak is coming from. Water leaks can cause extensive damage and waste thousands of gallons of water annually, leading to costly repairs and damage.

A water leak can lead to costly repairs and damage.

Water damage is not always obvious, and a small leak can cause significant damage over time. A water leak is the most common cause of mold in homes. When you have a leak in your home, mold can grow on walls, ceilings and floors, this can lead to secondary damages that could add up along the way as well. It may also cause structural issues in your home if left untreated.

Water leaks are often caused by aging plumbing systems as well as worn out faucets/taps. There are other ways that leaks could sneak up on you, including leaking pipes damaged by other construction or just normal wear and tare of the pipes themselves.

A leak wastes thousands of gallons of water annually.

If you have a leak, you are likely wasting thousands of gallons of water annually. A small drip can add up to hundreds of dollars in wasted water over time. A small drip is an obvious ones, but there are plenty more places where leaks can occur and go unnoticed until they're too late.

If you suspect a leak, contact your plumber immediately.

If you suspect a leak, contact your plumber immediately. Don't try to fix it yourself. To find the source of a leak, a plumber will use special tools and techniques. They can use water pressure gauges that measure how much water is flowing through pipes. Ultrasonic devices that send out ultrasonic sound waves and then measure how long it takes for the sound to bounce off different parts of your plumbing system. This allows them to detect leaks easily, even if they're hidden inside walls or floors or behind cabinets or appliances. Electromagnetic induction testers that detect electrical currents in metals like copper pipes so you can tell if there's any corrosion on them which can lead to a leak.

If you suspect that you have a leak, it is best to contact a plumber immediately. Leaks can be hard to find and may go undetected for months or even years. The sooner you get them fixed, the better off you'll be! Give SERVPRO a call if your home has suffered a water loss due to a water leak.

Causes of Fires in Healthcare Facilities

2/5/2023 (Permalink)

Fires in healthcare facilities can be caused by a variety of factors.

Fires in healthcare facilities are an unfortunate fact of life. These fires can be caused by a variety of factors, including improperly stored or used oxygen, drugs and alcohol abuse by staff members and visitors, cooking equipment left on unattended overnight or during breaks, electrical issues related to poorly maintained wiring systems or faulty equipment.

Improperly Stored or used Oxygen

Oxygen is used in hospitals for medical purposes. The most common uses of oxygen include, storage of oxygen in tanks or cylinders, use in medical equipment such as nebulizers and use during medical procedures such as laser surgery or cataract operations.

Flammable Substances

Hospitals store a wide variety of drugs, both prescription and over-the-counter. Many of these medications are highly flammable and can be ignited by sources as small as a cigarette lighter or even an electrical ignition source such as a defibrillator. Alcohol is another potential fire hazard because it is a solvent that can ignite on contact with an open flame or spark. In addition to these materials being stored at the hospital's pharmacies, they may also be used in areas such as operating rooms and emergency rooms to treat patients before surgery begins or after it has been completed.

Smoking

Smoking is a leading cause of fires in healthcare facilities. A combination of common causes such as matches, lighters and candles may ignite tobacco products left unattended, or even smoldering cigarettes left in ashtrays.

Staff and visitors are prohibited from smoking within all patient rooms, common areas and patient parking lots, including waiting areas with signs at entrances that state: "No Smoking". The prohibition also extends to balconies where patients may be treated outdoors.

Cooking Equipment

Because cooking equipment is used in healthcare facilities to prepare food for patients and staff, fires can occur when cooking equipment is not properly maintained or used. For example, a hot plate may be left unattended on a countertop while the staff member who was using it goes to another room to complete another task. In this case, if the hot plate isn't turned off or put away properly after use and left unattended, it may start a fire if someone comes along later and touches it while it is still hot.

Cooking equipment also needs to be stored properly so as not to pose any danger of starting a fire. In addition, staff members need training in how to avoid any unnecessary exposure to heat sources such as heating elements in stoves or microwaves.

Chemicals and Solvents

Chemicals and solvents are used in healthcare facilities for a variety of purposes. They can be found in cleaning products, medical equipment, and even some medications.

However, chemicals and solvents can also be hazardous if they catch fire or if they are not stored properly. If you work with dangerous chemicals or solvents at your job, it's important to know what makes these materials so dangerous when exposed to heat sources like flames or high temperatures.

Electrical Issues

Electrical issues are the leading cause of fires in healthcare facilities. Electrical issues can be caused by faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, and improper use of extension cords. They might also be caused by equipment that is not properly grounded to protect against electrical shock or electrocution hazards.

Electrical problems can result from damaged or worn out electrical cords, plugs and/or sockets, loose connections, damaged insulation, worn out wires, loose screws holding switches together with the panel box (also known as a junction box). Overloaded circuits due to adding new lights without upgrading wiring service and ungrounded outlets installed in wet areas where water may seep into a receptacle's ground prong area because of poor installation practices or conditions such as excessive moisture accumulation within an enclosure.

It’s important for hospitals and healthcare facilities to have a plan in place for fire safety. It should be part of the facility’s disaster management plan, and it should include regular inspections and maintenance checks on fire suppression systems, sprinklers and alarms.

How to Get Your House Ready for High Winds

1/10/2023 (Permalink)

Storm shutters are the finest way to secure your windows.

Preparing Your House for High Winds

When the weather gets windy, we all know that it can be dangerous. But did you know that high winds also pose a serious risk to your home and family? In fact, according to FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency), nearly half of all tornado-related deaths are caused by flying debris—and 90 percent of those deaths occur in homes. That's why it's so important to take the necessary precautions ahead of time to ensure your home is ready for these potentially deadly storms. 

Clean Up the Yard

To secure your home, you’ll want to remove all loose items from your yard. This includes:

• Trampolines
• Decorative tree ornaments (such as lights and ornaments) that aren’t securely fastened to a tree trunk or other solid surface
• Excessive lawn furniture (like the massive patio sets) that could be blown away by high winds

Remove any dead or dying branches and cut back any branches that are overhanging the house from all trees in your yard. Also, trim back any branches that are touching the roof of your home, as this can cause damage to your roof in high winds. If you have a tree in close proximity to power lines, it is important that you do not trim those limbs because they could come into contact with those power lines and cause an electrical hazard. Finally, make sure not to trim back a tree near a swimming pool if there are children playing around it!

Secure Windows

The best way to secure your windows is through storm shutters. If you don’t have storm shutters, you can board up your windows with plywood to prevent flying debris from damaging the window. Another alternative could be window clips. Although these are not as secure as plywood or shutters, they are a good option for a limited time. Window clips can be purchased at most hardware stores and will do wonders for preventing damage to your home when the wind kicks up. They're easy to install, so there's no reason not to do it!

To secure the plywood with nails, hammer in a nail near each corner of the window or door. Then, pull out the nail and move over 1/4 inch and hammer it back down again. Repeat this process until all four sides of the window are covered with nails. To secure plywood using screws, use a screwdriver to drive two small screws into each side of the plywood that faces inward toward your house (this could be between siding boards).

Reinforce the Doors

You can reinforce your doors with weather strips and door sweeps. Weather strips are made of rubber and stretch across the opening where the door closes, sealing out air and moisture. Door sweeps are similar but have a metal band attached around them to help keep out water and other debris.

Both products come in different sizes to accommodate any type of door, so make sure you measure your frame before purchasing new ones (you may need to look for a custom-sized model). Once they're installed on your doors, they're not that hard to clean or maintain—simply wipe them down occasionally with a damp cloth if they get dirty or dusty. And if you live in an area where hurricanes are frequent, take extra care because these two items will be exposed to high winds!

Brace your Garage Doors

You can install a 2x4 to brace the garage door. The 2x4 should be placed horizontally on top of the door and secured with rope or chain. 

To properly brace your garage door, you will need:

• A large wooden board (a 2×4)
• Two small wooden stakes
• Rope (or chain)

Prepare your Roof

To prepare for high winds, you'll want to make sure that your roof is in good shape. First, remove any debris from the roof. This can include leaves and other plant particles (as well as insects) that may be caught up in the gutters or on the surface of your home's exterior walls.

Next, check over any areas where repairs have been made and ensure they're still secure by fastening them again if needed. Check for leaks around pipes or vents; these are especially common areas for water intrusion during storms.

High winds can cause extensive damage to your home. You may be able to save thousands of dollars in property damage and medical bills by taking some simple steps to protect your home from high winds.

Why is it important to protect your home from high winds?

If you follow these tips, your house will be ready for the storm! If you do experience storm damage, give SERVPRO of Affton/Webster Groves a call! We will get your Crestwood, MO home back to normal in no time. 

Mold Remediation After a Flood

12/14/2022 (Permalink)

Mold cleanup is only one call away

When you have a flood, it's important to get the water out of your home as quickly as possible. But that's just the first step—you still need to deal with any mold growth that was caused by the flood. We've put together this guide on how to remove mold after a flood in order to help you recover quickly and safely after your disaster.

Protect Yourself

When you're at an Affton, MO home or office after a flood, it is important to wear long sleeves, pants and gloves to protect your skin. You should also wear goggles when cleaning up any standing water in order to protect your eyes from dust particles. Note that your socks and shoes will likely have mold growing on them after being exposed, so be sure to take those off before entering mold free areas. You may also want to consider wearing a respirator mask if there are high levels of airborne particles that can be inhaled into the lungs (such as after a flood).

Check Thoroughly for Mold

You will need to check thoroughly for mold. Mold can grow in tiny, hard-to-see places. Be sure you are checking all throughout the house to ensure you don’t miss any: 

• Check the backs of cabinets.
• Look in hidden areas like behind the refrigerator, under sinks and in crawl spaces.
• Check for mold in hard-to-reach places like behind a wall or under the floorboards.
• Do not neglect to check for mold on your walls and ceilings if you have water damage from a flood or leaky pipes.

Get Ready to Clean

After the flood, you’ll want to start cleaning up as quickly as possible. Mold can grow at an alarming rate and soon spread throughout your home in ways that are difficult to contain.

A good scrubbing brush or sponge will help remove mold from surfaces such as drywall or plywood. Use hot water mixed with detergent to clean these areas thoroughly, paying special attention to any stains where water may have been trapped for a long time. If possible, wear gloves and protective clothing (like long sleeves) so that you don’t come into contact with any mold spores yourself during the cleanup process! If you do end up getting some on your skin, wash it off immediately with soap and water before it has a chance to get into your system through open cuts.

Goggles should also be worn when dealing with any kind of cleanup project inside—these keep your eyes protected against airborne particles without obscuring vision too much for safety reasons! A respirator mask is recommended if there's more than just light dusting around (more than 1/4 inch thick).

Dealing with Porous Materials

You'll have to decide what to do with your porous materials. Porous materials like wood flooring, drywall, or ceiling tiles that have been wet for more than 48 hours should be thrown away. You can clean and dry carpets within 24 hours—but if you have carpeting it is important to get it cleaned as soon as possible (within 24 hours) so that mold does not grow in the fibers of your carpet.

It's important to take care of any mold growth in your house as soon as possible. If left alone, mold will continue to grow and spread throughout your home—so it's crucial that you remove it quickly and completely. If you suspect that you have a recurring issue with mold growth or if there is a history of flooding in your area, consider hiring an expert to check up on your home regularly. Your professional should be able to find any signs of water damage or potential sources for future leaks (such as faulty plumbing) so they can be repaired before they cause further damage.

Now that you know how to deal with mold, you can put the power in your hands to prevent it from growing on your property. Remember that prevention is key when dealing with this issue because once you have a mold problem, it’s difficult to completely get rid of and may take months or even years before it goes away completely. When you have a serious mold problem in your home or business, the best course of action is to call SERVPRO of Affton/Webster Groves!