Common Home Damage Scenarios
Home damage can strike unexpectedly, leaving homeowners grappling with the aftermath. At New York Total Damage Restoration (NYTDR), we believe that being informed is the first step to preparedness. In this blog post, we’ll shed light on common home damage scenarios, exploring the nuanced restoration processes and insurance claim considerations associated with each. 1. Water Woes: Water leaks and flooding are among the most prevalent home damage issues. Whether it’s a burst pipe, a faulty appliance, or severe weather-related flooding, the impact can be extensive. We’ll delve into the immediate steps homeowners should take, the importance of swift water extraction, and how comprehensive drying techniques are crucial to prevent long-term structural damage. 2. Ravages of Fire: Fire damage can be devastating, leaving homes in disarray. From assessing the extent of the damage to addressing smoke residue and structural concerns, NYTDR will guide homeowners through the complexities of fire damage restoration. We’ll also discuss the emotional toll of such incidents and the importance of a compassionate and professional restoration approach. 3. Nature’s Fury – Natural Disasters: New York City is not immune to the forces of nature. Whether it’s a hurricane, earthquake, or severe storms, natural disasters can wreak havoc on homes. Explore how NYTDR is equipped to handle the aftermath of such events, emphasizing the urgency of a rapid response and the comprehensive restoration measures needed to bring homes back to their pre-disaster state. 4. Mold Menace: Often a consequence of water damage, mold poses its own set of challenges. We’ll delve into the health risks associated with mold, the importance of thorough mold remediation, and how NYTDR employs advanced techniques to eradicate mold and prevent its recurrence. 5. Storm Surge and Wind Damage: Severe weather events can lead to storm surges and wind damage, particularly in coastal areas. Explore how NYTDR assesses structural damage, addresses water ingress issues, and undertakes necessary repairs to restore homes battered by the elements. 6. Insurance Claims Navigation: Each type of home damage scenario requires a tailored approach to insurance claims. Our blog will provide insights into the documentation needed for different scenarios, communication tips with insurance providers, and how NYTDR collaborates with homeowners to ensure a smooth and transparent claims process. At NYTDR, as experienced water damage company in NYC, we understand that no two home damage scenarios are alike. By providing homeowners with knowledge about the intricacies of restoration following water leaks, fire damage, natural disasters, and more, we aim to empower them to make informed decisions in times of crisis. Stay tuned for our upcoming posts as we continue to unravel the complexities of home restoration, offering a beacon of guidance for homeowners in their time of need.
Mold Matters: Why Quick Remediation is Crucial in NYC
When it comes to your home or business in New York City, mold is not a problem to be taken lightly. The fast-paced lifestyle and unique climate of the city can create the perfect conditions for mold growth. It’s essential to address mold issues promptly and effectively, not only for your health but also for the safety and longevity of your property. At NYTDR, we understand the urgency of mold remediation and are here to help you navigate the process, including acting as your insurance representative. The NYC Mold Challenge: New York City’s climate, with its hot, humid summers and cold, damp winters, can make buildings susceptible to mold growth. Mold thrives in moist environments, and the city’s bustling lifestyle often means that water leaks or moisture problems go unnoticed until they become significant issues. Here’s why quick mold remediation is crucial in NYC: Health Concerns: Mold can trigger a range of health issues, especially in individuals with allergies or respiratory conditions. Symptoms may include coughing, sneezing, eye irritation, skin rashes, and more severe respiratory problems. In NYC, where air quality can be a concern, addressing mold promptly is essential for maintaining a healthy indoor environment. Property Damage: Mold not only poses health risks but can also damage your property. It can weaken structures, stain surfaces, and compromise the integrity of your building. In a city where real estate is a significant investment, preserving your property’s value is paramount. Legal Implications: In NYC, landlords and property owners have a legal obligation to provide safe and habitable living conditions for tenants. Failing to address mold issues promptly can lead to legal complications, fines, or even eviction proceedings. Why Choose NYTDR for Mold Remediation: At NYTDR (New York Total Damage Restoration), we specialize in mold remediation and understand the unique challenges that NYC residents and businesses face. Here’s how we can help: Prompt Response: We understand that time is of the essence when dealing with mold. Our team is ready to respond swiftly to assess the situation and begin the remediation process immediately. Expertise: Our technicians are trained and certified in mold remediation techniques. We use advanced equipment and follow industry best practices to ensure the mold is effectively removed and prevented from returning. Insurance Representation: Dealing with insurance claims can be complex and time-consuming. NYTDR can act as your insurance representative, helping you navigate the process and ensuring that you receive the coverage you deserve. Preventive Measures: We not only remove existing mold but also take steps to prevent its return. This includes identifying and addressing the source of moisture or leaks to ensure a long-term solution. Comprehensive Services: NYTDR offers a range of restoration services beyond mold remediation, including water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, and more. We are your one-stop solution for property restoration needs. Don’t Wait—Contact NYTDR Today: Mold is a problem that won’t go away on its own, and its effects can be far-reaching. In NYC, where the stakes are high, it’s crucial to address mold issues promptly and professionally. At NYTDR, we’re here to ensure that your home or business is mold-free, safe, and healthy. Let us take the stress out of the process, from remediation to insurance representation. Contact NYTDR today, and let’s get started on the path to a mold-free future for your property in the city that never sleeps.
The Different Types of Mold
Mold is a common problem in NYC apartments due to the warm and humid climate. If left untreated, mold spores can cause health issues such as asthma, allergies, and other respiratory problems. It’s important to know what types of mold you may come across in your homes so you can take proactive steps toward prevention and mold removal when necessary. Each type has its own set of risks; some may be more dangerous than others depending on the individual case. Knowing how to recognize these molds will help you better protect your loved ones from potential health hazards caused by exposure. Let’s discuss the common types of molds and what to do if you find them in your apartment. 1. Acremonium Acremonium mold appears white to gray and grows on various surfaces, including wood, drywall, ceiling tiles, carpeting, and insulation. It is widespread in damp environments such as bathrooms and basements with high humidity or moisture levels. It can also spread through air conditioning ducts as spores when disturbed by movement within the home. Exposure can cause health issues such as respiratory problems, skin irritation, eye irritation, and even gastrointestinal upset. Long-term exposure to this mold can also trigger more severe conditions like cancer. The best way to treat an infestation of Acremonium mold is through professional mold remediation rather than DIY methods. NYTDR Professionals will inspect your home for signs of contamination before developing an appropriate treatment plan, including removing any affected materials from your living space and disinfecting remaining surfaces before sealing them off from further fungal growth and water damage. 2. Alternaria Alternaria mold often appears as dark green or black spots on walls, ceilings, and floors. It thrives in areas with high moisture levels, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements, where it can feed off materials like wood, paper, and fabrics. Alternaria spores can cause allergies, asthma-like symptoms, and upper respiratory tract infections when inhaled or ingested. Removing Alternaria from your home requires professional services. NYTDR experts use specialized chemical agents explicitly designed for mold removal. They also use air filtration systems to help remove airborne spores, which could aggravate existing health conditions. 3. Cladosporium Cladosporium appears as black or green fuzzy growth on damp surfaces such as walls, ceilings, and floors. The spores can cause allergic reactions when inhaled or ingested, with symptoms ranging from coughing and wheezing to skin irritation and eye inflammation, depending on the level of exposure. Long-term inhalation can trigger more severe conditions, including pulmonary infections, which may lead to hospitalization. Removing Cladosporium from your home requires professional remediation services. NYTDR mold remediation professionals will also take steps to prevent future infestations. They identify potential sources of moisture around your home, such as leaks, poor ventilation, or humidifiers, and take corrective action to reduce the risk of reoccurrence. 4. Ulocladium Ulocladium typically grows in damp areas with water damage, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. It usually appears as gray or black fuzzy growth on walls, ceilings, and floors. Ulocladium spores often cause allergic reactions when inhaled or ingested, with symptoms like coughing, wheezing, skin irritation, and eye inflammation. Removing Ulocladium from your home requires professional services. NYTDR has the skills and experience to handle mold removal and prevent future infestations. Once all contaminated materials are out, these experts use proper cleaning techniques like scrubbing down affected surfaces with detergent and thorough rinsing. 5. Aspergillus Aspergillus mold is common in damp areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. It appears as a black or green fuzzy growth on walls, ceilings, and floors. Aspergillus spores can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Long-term inhalation can lead to more severe conditions, including pulmonary infections. Keeping all affected areas clean and dry is vital by regularly checking for water damage and moldy spots, cleaning them with detergent, and allowing them to dry. This should help prevent future outbreaks before they even start. Be proactive with Mold infestations. Mold can be a severe health hazard in New York City apartments as the mold spores can cause respiratory and skin reactions like coughing, wheezing, eye irritation, and more severe pulmonary infections if left untreated. It’s essential to recognize when mold has become a problem within your home and seek a proper consultation with certified professionals from NYTDR. We have experience dealing with water damage and these issues regularly, so we’ll visit your home, evaluate the damage and share a detailed quote for insurance coverage. This way, you ensure complete removal and preventative measures to minimize the likelihood of recurrences.
Help Get Insurance to Pay for Water Damage
Water damage can be one of the most costly types of damage to repair and replace. Rain, floods, and leaks are unavoidable. When an insurance company receives a water damage claim, they will decide whether or not to pay for the claims based on several factors. If the worst happens, you will have to file for an insurance claim to restore the damage caused by water. Doing regular home maintenance and ensuring that your water system runs smoothly will increase your chances of a payout. The steps of getting the entire insurance claim for water damage in New York City’s apartments include: Step 1 Determine the cause of your water damage and check your homeowner’s insurance policy to see if the insurance company covers the water damage. Insurance Covered Damages You can expect your home insurance to cover sudden or accidental water damage, but not damage caused by neglect or lack of home maintenance. Water damages covered by home insurance include those caused by natural disasters like earthquakes, storms, and hurricanes. You can also claim your homeowner’s policy if there are sudden damages like cracked pipes, a burst in the main water supply, or broken water appliances. Remember, your insurance company might only cover the damage caused by the breaks and not the actual appliances or pipes. Uncovered Damages Individual policies vary on the types of water damages not covered in them. However, the general damages in this category include gradual damage, floods, mold, and damage caused by neglect. In most cases, homeowners need to purchase separate flood insurance because of the extensive damage caused by floods. You can prevent gradual damage and damages caused by neglect. Both damages occur over a long time, giving you time to stop their effect. For example, you can inspect your plumbing system regularly and ensure that it is well-maintained. Sometimes, your water damage might not be a gradual or neglect problem but a mold problem. There are several mold warning signs that you can look out for, including: • You can watch out for mold odor. Most molds produce a persistent musty smell that is not easy to miss • There can also be visible signs of mold growth in your home. Molds come in all colors, so any change you see on your walls or damp places is a warning sign. Ensure you fix all your water leaks to avoid breeding grounds for molds • If you observe water stains or discoloration on your walls, floor, or ceilings, the chances are there is a mold in your home. You should also look out for bubbling, cracking, or peeling paint and wallpapers • Molds may also grow in the aftermath of a flood • Report the claim if the policy covers the damage Step 2 Hire a restoration service to clean up the water and moisture professionally. Determine if you need to leave your home. If the damage is severe, leave your home and allow the restoration to continue. Water damages present the risk of electrocution and unhealthy living conditions inside your home. Step 3 Take photos of the damage and things that you need to replace. Your home restoration team might take these pictures, but it is necessary to have your images. Step 4 Meet with your insurance adjuster, who will evaluate the water damage. The adjuster’s work is to determine the cause of the damage and repair cost. Step 5 Find a contractor to repair the damage once your insurance company processes your claim. In some cases, the company may have its preferred contractors. What can New York Total Damage Restoration (NYTDR) do for you? NYTDR is a restoration company that works directly with your insurance company to repair water damage on your property. It does not matter if the damage is in your kitchen, bathroom, or the whole house. The company will help you get the insurance claim and plan and design your restoration. Licensed repair restoration experts, designers, and construction specialists will remediate and restore your property from start to finish. All you need to do is initiate a free consultation!
Should carpet be replaced after water damage?
Flooding, leaks and underfloor burst pipes are some of the ways your carpet may get wet. Water damage is a serious issue that many New York residents deal with. It may be due to old infrastructure and pipes, a result of living in apartment buildings and suffering from a neighbors damage, storms and other weather related issues or simply bad luck but when disaster strikes most people are unprepared. While it’s clear that water extraction must take place if your space is flooded, and all dampness needs to be dried out, what can and can’t be salvaged and the potential unseen dangers are murky. Replacing carpets can be a costly expense and clients often ask whether it is really important to strip the carpet if there is a leak or dampness. Understanding what lies under the carpet, the health and safety hazards involved in mold growth from water damage and the potential increase of damage to your property are factors you will want to weigh in when deciding whether or not to replace water damaged carpet. Is Water Damage Visible? While you may think this is a funny question to ask, the truth is that the majority of the real damage that water and moisture cause is not easily seen. Of course, damaged books, toys, mattresses and even furniture are clearly visible following flooding but the damage that water seeping into flooring, carpets and walls does is usually more harmful to your health and safety. Water travels via the easiest route – often this means it can travel far and build up and cause damage far from the original source. A leak in a bath upstairs can result in water damage in the floor, ceiling but also potentially in a different part of the house depending on the easiest route the water finds, so ensuring you actually find both the source and all the damage caused is important. What are Water Damage Health and Safety Hazards to be concerned about? Beyond the damage to your home which is usually fixable albeit at a price, water damage and mold can affect one’s health permanently. For those already suffering from asthma and other breathing issues, mold and dampness can exaggerate the existing condition, increase wheezing, attacks and general overall health. For others who may never have suffered from asthma, COPD or other respiratory illnesses, prolonged exposure to mold and breathing it in can cause them to develop temporary or permanent issues. Other related health issues including rashes and skin conditions can also be caused by mold. If water is actually left sitting, mosquitoes and other flies and bugs are likely to be attracted and be an additional nuisance and possible health hazard. Carpet Water Damage Water damage carpet cleaning Mold in carpet from water damage It doesn’t take more than a little moisture, warmth and dark space to breed mold quickly, carpet is an ideal home for mold to grow. Homeowners who experience even a small amount of water seeping into their homes either from flooding or a broken pipe should be concerned about mold especially when that moisture gets trapped under an insulted material such as carpet. How to treat water damaged carpet The faster you start cleaning up after water damage, the more likely you are to stop mold from growing under your carpet. Calling in mold remediation experts or water damage specialists is usually recommended to ensure the dampness is fully dried out and any damage that has taken place is dealt with before it spreads. If you are attempting to treat the water damaged carpet yourself Extract all water possible. Get hold of water extraction machine to remove as much of the water as possible. Ventilate the room. Open all windows to distribute fresh air and speed drying. Use floor flans to increase circulations and dehumidifiers to remove moisture from the air and carpet. Treat the smell. Carpet smells after water damage, use vinegar or baking soda to remove the odor and freshen up the carpet. How to get rid of carpet odor from water damage Once you have dried out the carpet, use a combination of one cup vinegar to two cups warm water and gently spray the areas that smell. Be sure not to over spray and create new moisture! Sprinkling baking soda once the carpet is dry and then vacuuming or using a carpet spray freshener can also help to eliminate the moist carpet smell coming from the carpet fibers. While all carpet smells following water damage and dampness, lingering water damage smells could indicate the continued growth of mold or mildew, which thrives in damp conditions. If you the carpet odor continues after you have dried and treated the carpet, don’t wait for mold to appear or for your family to start wheezing, call in a mold remediation specialist immediately. Water Damage Restoration Insurance You may be surprised to discover what is or is not covered by your home insurance following water damage. Certain types of water damage are covered, and ensuring you get the maximum coverage from your water damage restoration insurance is usually dependent on having someone professional asses the complete damage and help with submitting the claim. Because damage may be hidden or not visible, an expert will be able to detail the visible and hidden damages which need to be repaired, restored or replaced.
When Does Homeowner’s Insurance Cover Mold Remediation?
There are few things more difficult than having a problem in your home and not being able to fix it. While smaller issues like appliance breakage or minor repairs can usually be done through tapping into credit cards, more expensive repairs can be challenging to finance. Having a homeowner’s insurance policy for some unexpected repairs can be a big help. However, homeowner insurance policies do not cover all types of damage to a home. It is essential to understand what typical homeowner insurance policies cover and what they do not. While tree damage from storms is one of the most common homeowner claims, water damage and mold remediation are also a primary homeowner insurance policy claim. Water damage is the second most filed homeowner’s insurance claim just behind hail and wind damage. Of all the natural cataclysms, flooding is the number one natural disaster in America. While it may seem simple to remove excess water after a flooding event, water damage can be more difficult to remedy. Water can degrade building materials and cause mold growth. When it comes to water damage and mold remediation, most policies cover some types of water and mold damage. Understanding what is included in your homeowner policy is essential. What is Mold? Mold is a type of fungus that grows in certain conditions, especially ones that have high rates of humidity and moisture. The mold fungus consists of small organisms and is most often found as black, white, orange, green, or purple stains on building materials, clothing, food, trees, and even rock formations. Mold is a serious health risk, and if left unattended, it can make a home uninhabitable. While mold grows naturally in the forest and can be easily identified on rock formations and in moss, when mold grows in a home or confined space, it is dangerous for the body. Mold can cause damage to the lungs and immune system. Any area where water pools or gets trapped, mold can grow. Attics and basements are common areas for storm damage flooding. However, mold can grow in almost any part of a home. In general, mold needs several things to grow, moisture, a lack of air so moisture gets trapped and some kind of food source. The most common food source for mold in a home is building materials and things that are biodegradable such as clothing. In fact, mold can grow on almost biodegradable or rock surface and will readily feed off sheetrock, carpeting, wood, roof tiles, and flooring materials as well as furniture and personal belongings. Mold growth in a home is most commonly found in bathrooms, on roofs, in attics and basements and around bathrooms, kitchens and laundry areas. When Does Homeowner’s Insurance Cover Water and Mold Damage? In most cases, sudden unexpected water damage is covered under your regular homeowner’s insurance policy. This should include both water damage repair and mold remediation. However, there are two caveats to this. If the home floods from rain and is located in a flood plain, it usually will not be covered unless there is a flood insurance policy in place. Without flood insurance, most storm flooding costs for mold remediation fall on the homeowner. If a home has mold growth because of neglect from the homeowner, the claim will probably be denied as well. Each causal factor plays a significant role in whether a home is covered for mold remediation. Homes that suffer from flooding damage caused by neglect from a town or builder may be covered for water damage and mold remediation depending on the circumstances. People who have unexpected burst pipes or a burst hot water tank that causes flooding and mold will likely be covered by a typical homeowner’s insurance policy. Buying flood insurance is the best way to insure for mold remediation from storms. However, many homeowners do not buy flood insurance unless they live near major waterways. With flash flooding from severe storm systems across the country on the rise, it is probably wise for homeowners to invest in flood insurance. While storm damage may be covered under a traditional homeowner’s policy, flood damage insurance is what usually includes mold remediation from storm systems. Flood coverage is separate insurance that is not part of standard home insurance. Types of Scenarios Where Mold Remediation Is Usually Covered by Homeowners Insurance Your hot water heater bursts, flooding your basement, which results in black mold growth on the surrounding walls. You have a home fire, and firefighters use extensive water to extinguish the flames and mold grows in the rooms they hosed down with water. Your dishwasher or washing machine malfunctions and floods your kitchen or washroom, which results in mold growing along the wall. Types of Scenarios Where Mold Remediation Is Often Not Covered by Homeowners Insurance Your bathtub has had a leak in the fixture piping for a long time which you knew about and failed to fix causing a mold infestation. Your basement often has high humidity, and you didn’t purchase a dehumidifier for your basement, so black mold grew on the walls and flooring. A storm causes flooding in your attic from deteriorated roof shingles, and subsequently, mold growth occurs in your home. When a home suffers mold damage caused by a slow water leak, this is usually not part of standard homeowners’ insurance unless it was unknown. Since mold usually takes a day or two to appear, water damage that seeps into a home should always be a priority to remediate. Some of the common causes of slow-growing mold can include, leaky pipes, a cracked seal around a toilet or bathtub, roof tile damage, or a water heater leak. These types of slow leaks may go undetected and cause water to go into hidden pockets of building materials. If this occurs and water remediation is not done immediately, mold will begin to grow. This type of mold growth may be difficult to detect until it has significantly spread behind walls and under flooring. Getting
Mold vs. Mildew
First and foremost, if you have a mold concern in your home, we highly recommend contacting a licensed professional to identify the fungus. Although mold and mildew can look the same to an untrained eye, there are differences. The risk of having mold in your home could be harmful to you and your family’s health. This blog will inform you of the simple characteristics of mold and mildew, to know for sure if what you see in your home must be tested by a licensed professional. Mildew Mildew is typically white, gray or yellow and grows on the surface of moist, warm areas. Mildew also tends to be green or black, and usually grows underneath the surface of anything that has gotten wet. Mildew starts in a shady and moist area. For example, in your home, you could find it, in the bathroom or shower, behind the dishwasher. It is a surface fungus, so it grows on top of surfaces and has a gray or white color, but can later change to yellow, brown or even black. Mildew is not toxic and it can be easily removed by cleaning the infected area. Mold Mold also grows in damp areas, but it is often the result of a more significant infestation that spreads from the surface and begins to grow inside and behind the material, like walls. Mold is usually fuzzy, although it can sometimes be slimy, and could grow in many colors including; black, white, brown, green, blue, yellow, and gray. Mold is usually responsible for many health problems, especially in children. Mold cannot be easily removed like mildew, because it will naturally grow back. This is way, mold should be removed by a licensed trained professional. What’s worse: Mold or Mildew? Mildew is not as troublesome as mold. Mold can create allergies, irritated eyes, asthma, headaches, and in some cases, lung issues could be the result of toxic mold that is breeding within your home. Is mold common in NYC? We have found countless mold problems in pre-war buildings in the Manhattan area, not to say it doesn’t exist in a newer building because it very well can. Remember the cause of mold is moister, that can come from a source. There are many misconceptions about mold; there are those that take it too lightly and others too seriously. Because of these misconceptions, it’s important to get the facts and let licensed professionals test the concerned area to know for sure, then make the proper action. Tips on mold preventions Fixing all leaks Drying damp areas Removing humidity from the air. (For example, using a dehumidifier, cracking a window while taking a shower in bathrooms with no exhaust ventilation; or opening a window in the kitchen while cooking.) If you have any questions or concerns of mold in your home we encourage you to call and schedule a free, no-obligation consultation to look at your problem area.
Mold Allergy Symptoms
Have you recently come down with what you think is a really bad cold? If your cold symptoms persist for longer than a few days, what you have may not be a cold at all. Was there recently a heavy rainstorm or flood in your area? If so, your home or work area may have been flooded out, requiring emergency responders to drain it. As effective as the response may have been, it may not have been sufficient to remove every trace of mold and bacteria. If you have also noticed some suspicious looking stains on your walls or floors, you may have located the source of your illness. What you are suffering from may well be black mold allergy symptoms. What Are Mold and Bacteria? Mold and bacteria are microscopic organisms that have existed for hundreds of millions of years. Because they are so adaptable to their environment, they are almost impossible to trace until they are in full bloom. And because they are so tiny, they can penetrate into your body with ease. Once inside you, they can cause all manner of irritation and even serious physical harm. Where Can You Find Mold and Bacteria? Mold and bacteria can be found everywhere. You can encounter them outside on fallen leaves or on the side of your home. You can accidentally bring them inside via your clothing or shoes. And you can find plenty of mold inside your home as well. This is particularly true after a heavy rain that may have resulted in flooding. If you are suffering from mold allergy symptoms, chances are good that you already know the cause. Now it’s time for you to take prompt and effective action. The first thing you need to do is identify the precise causes of the mold allergy symptoms you are experiencing. What Are the Symptoms of Mold Allergy? As an answer to the question of what are the symptoms of mold allergy, it may help to have a look at the following list. These are some, but by no means all, of the most common toxic mold allergy symptoms: Nasal Congestion & Runny NoseConstant stuffiness or a dripping nose that doesn’t improve with normal cold remedies. Frequent Sneezing FitsRepeated sneezing, often triggered when entering a damp room or basement. Itchy, Watery EyesRed, burning, or watery eyes that feel similar to seasonal hay fever. Sore or Scratchy ThroatThroat irritation or dryness that persists, especially at home. Coughing & WheezingCoughs that linger and occasional wheezing, especially in people with asthma. Sudden Snoring or Sleep DisturbanceBlocked airways from mold allergies can cause new snoring issues. Skin IrritationItchy patches or mild rashes when exposed to moldy areas. What Are the Most Common Risk Factors Associated with Mold? You should also be aware that there are many risk factors that are associated with mold and bacteria. There are over 1,000 different species of bacteria and mold, including some that cause seriously harmful effects. For example, some of the most common black mold allergy symptoms include severe nausea, fainting, dizzy spells, and other neurological symptoms. If accidentally ingested, mold and bacteria can cause serious breathing problems. But these toxic mold allergy symptoms are not only the causes of internal problems. Mold can also penetrate into the skin. Once it does so it can cause serious epidermal issues, such as bleeding, flaking, swelling, and severe rashes. If you can’t stop scratching no matter how much lotion you put on your skin, you need to see a mold allergy specialist immediately. How Can You Be Sure You Are Suffering from a Mold Allergy? If you believe you are suffering from mold allergy symptoms, you will need to get treatment right away. Your best bet is to consult an allergist who can give you a mold allergy test. The purpose of this mold allergy test is to identify which species of mold or bacteria is causing the problem. Once you have named the culprit, you can proceed to eradicate it. An allergist is a medical professional who has been specially trained to identify the symptoms of bacteria and mold allergies. They can give you a battery of special skin and blood tests that can identify the problem, after which they can prescribe a course of effective eradication. You can start by retracing your steps to where you have been over the past few weeks. Most mold and bacteria allergies can be traced back to the home or to your place of work. If you have been to visit a place that has been recently affected by flooding or is chronically damp all year round, this may well have been the place where you first began to notice the symptoms of a mold allergy. What is the Treatment for Mold Allergy Symptoms? Make sure to quickly mop up any spills or leaks in your home. Remove all areas of standing water, no matter how small they may be. Clean your garbage cans regularly. Never let water pool in them. Give the drip pan in your refrigerator a regular cleaning. Clean out your gutters on a regular basis. Make sure that they drain in a direction that leads well away from your home. Keep moisture out of your bathroom as well as the other rooms in your home. Use dehumidifiers or exhaust fans for the best results. Keep your windows open to let the room dry naturally if you have no recourse to these items. If you have already detected mold or bacteria in your home, call in a professional mold remediation service immediately. What is the Safest Course of Mold Allergy Prevention? The safest course of mold allergy prevention is to follow the advice of your physician. They will normally prescribe a course of antihistamines and decongestants in order to help relieve your symptoms. If you know that you are soon going to be in a high risk area for mold and bacteria, it’s a good idea to plan evasive action in advance. For example, while
How to prevent mold growth after water damage?
Preventing Mold Growth After Water Damage While preventing floods and certain water damages can be hard due to the uncertainty in calamities, mold can be kept at bay. Mold is a particular type of fungi that grows in damp surfaces especially if the surface provides cellulose base to support its growth. The fungi start to grow within 24 to 48 hours as long as moisture is present. If you fail to dry the moisture, you might begin to notice mold growth on walls, the floor, insulation, ceiling, carpet, and wood. To secure the aesthetic integrity of your home and also your loved one’s health you may want to act quickly and prevent the growth of mold after flood. How to prevent mold after water damage After water damage, it is essential that you act rapidly to discourage mold growth. Before calling in the insurer and any professional cleaners, you may want to browse through your home and save any sensitive documents or gadgets. Once you have separated the most critical items from the rest, you could go ahead and call professional water damage restoration services. Professionals are better equipped and experienced to restore your home to sanity and also take the right measures into preventing mold growth. Here are the steps to take. Call the insurance company If you have been paying for flood insurance, let your insurer know of the happenings in your house. Take photos of the damage before moving any damaged property. This should help in filing for valid claims from the insurer. You will then separate the damaged and untouched items before deciding what to discard and what to restore. Your insurer may bring in professionals to take care of the restoration process depending on the policy terms. Drain all the water From a flood, you expect your home to be immersed in a sea, and simple tools won’t do the job. You could rent a specialized water vacuum or suction pump to remove the water from the house. You are better protected with some protective gear on, if the water is from a flood, a broken sewer, and other toxic sources. Contaminated water carrying chemicals and pathogens is harmful to your health. If you notice that the water is unclean, it would be logical to proceed with a professional cleaner by your side. Remove the damp rugs and carpets Wet rugs and carpets are a potential medium for mold growth. The rugs could take a longer time to dry off and could use some separate washing and draining to restore their conditions. It would be helpful to have the carpets steam cleaned to remove any contaminants soaked in the rugs and dry them in the sunlight to prevent mold infestations. If you decide to let the carpets stay in the house soaked in water, this may encourage mold growth that spreads underneath to the floor and other areas in the house. Remove the wet furniture Furniture can also serve as an excellent medium for mold infestation. Once all the water has been pumped out, also drag out all the furniture for some cleaning and drying. You could ask for manpower to help with the carrying of heavy and wet furniture. Let the furnishings dry completely before bringing them back into the house. Dry the wet areas in the house By now, almost every wet item is out in the sun drying, but your house still suffers from some wet spots. The draining step only draws the water out but doesn’t dry the surfaces. Even concrete soaks in moisture which later encourages mold growth. You could use dry towels and mops to soak in the water that the pump or vacuum couldn’t clear. Professional cleaners have industrial-sized fans that propel off all the excess moisture and creates an environment for the surfaces to dry quickly. The results should achieve drying walls and floors. Maintain the surfaces dry High humidity creates an excellent environment for mold growth. Your house’s humidity should be maintained at low levels to discourage mold growth. A dehumidifier can help maintain these conditions. If the weather is temperate and sunny, you could open all the windows and entrances to allow in adequate air that should support the right humidity levels. All these stipulations ensure that your home remains dry after draining the water. Disinfect all surfaces Be sure not to bring the wet conditions into the house when disinfecting the areas. You could use mold growth preventing cleaning solutions, bleach and detergent to make a solution that will clear any bacteria or possible mold growth. It could take a few days or weeks to get back things back to normal and ensure that mold won’t grow. Monitor Even in the event of all the preventive measures that you might have undertaken, mold can still grow. Here’s where the monitoring process comes in. Mold is evident through odor; a musty odor like that of dirty socks. Some types of mold are visible while some stay hidden behind walls, beneath sinks and may take sometime before a homeowner notices mold growth. There could be black or green streaks that appear along walls and ceilings that could indicate mold growth. The homeowner should be on the constant lookout for mold growth signs. Some manifest through unexplained health complications such as coughing, a runny nose, itchy skin, and watery eyes. If you start noticing these clear signs of mold growth, you may want to call in a professional mold remediation expert to help with the inspection and address the issue. After an inspection, if mold presence is positive, the expert should embark on mold removal thoroughly to prevent re-infestation. Can you dry the water damage yourself? Depending on the amount of water in your house, drying the house can prove to be a daunting task if the flood caused huge damages. Huge masses of water may cause detrimental damages that require the help of professionals to restore the home to order. If the water damage isn’t
How Do You Know If Mold Is Making You Sick?
How Do You Know If Mold Is Making You Sick? Getting sick is awful, and if you’re like most people, you do everything in your power to heal yourself when you’re ill. Eliminating the cause of your illness is the best cure, but unfortunately, it’s not always obvious what’s making you feel under the weather. Fungal infestations cause serious health problems and make existing ailments worse — Mold remediation could prove critical to your efforts to get better. Here’s why. Mold Basics Mold is a type of fungus that grows in colonies, or groups comprising thousands or millions of individual organisms. Like mushrooms and other fungi, mold reproduces by releasing spores. These tiny particles are light enough to float on a gentle breeze, and when they land in favorable conditions, the mold growth cycle starts all over again. Common Mold Health Risk Issues Most health problems related to mold growths have to do with inhalation. In addition to filling your house, apartment or office with a foul, sour smell, spores can enter your respiratory tract. Once there, they can cause various mold exposure symptoms, such as Breathing difficulties Asthma and other lasting illnesses Increased problems with existing respiratory ailments Irritated, inflamed eye, nose, lung or throat tissue Persistent allergies Skin irritation Coughs and colds that don’t seem to clear up An increased likelihood of opportunistic infections, especially if your immune system is already compromised. Children and the elderly often prove more susceptible to these hazards. This makes mold removal imperative for families. How Do I Know If Mold in My Apartment Is Making Me Sick? Mold isn’t always easy to spot. Since all it needs to thrive is a surface and a small amount of moisture, it can crop up on walls, furniture, clothing and everything else that you own. It’s commonly encountered in crawl spaces, basements, bathrooms, and other damp areas. Further confusing the issue, visible mold colonies may take on a variety of visual characteristics. Some growths look like black or white spots, while others produce rusty appearances and discoloration. Lots of mold infestations follow closely on the heels of floods and other water damage events that might make it even harder to tell what’s going on. The only sure way to tell is to perform a thorough mold inspection that relies on advanced technology to sample moisture, air quality, and other factors. What Can I Do About Mold in Manhattan? If you care about your well-being, then living in mold-filled conditions isn’t an option. Mold remediation is vital to getting healthy again, so be proactive. Talk to an expert about dealing with mold in your home or workplace soon.