Summer comes with lots of activities. Kids are out of school, and there is nothing keeping them from swimming, running, biking, travelling, camping, climbing trees, scraping their knees, etc. However, when schools are left empty for an entire summer, something else may become quite active: mold.
As parents are preparing their kids to go back to school, schools also need to be prepped for their return. ServiceMaster by Simons professionals are trained in mold inspection and remediation and can help your Chicago school (whether in Bucktown, Magnificent Mile, or even the River North neighborhoods) make the grade…an A grade that is.
Where can you find mold?
Different kinds of molds can be found almost anywhere, and all they need is moisture, oxygen, and a food source to thrive. The best mold environment is dark and damp, which usually tends to include basements and anywhere there’s a sink or toilet.
Mold is sneaky, so if you see it on one part of your wall, chances are that it is part of a larger colony that is also behind that wall. Many molds grow in humid places on wood, paper, carpet, foods, and insulation.
How does mold spread?
Mold reproduction is similar to how plants use seeds to grow. Mold produces seeds on a smaller scale, called spores. Spores are constantly floating through the air, both indoors and outdoors. Since we can’t control the wafting of spores, we have to examine a different way to control mold.
How do we control the spread of mold?
Mold spores grow when they are able to land on areas with lots of moisture. When they find the perfect spot, they digest whatever they are growing on. Since where they grow becomes their food, molds tend to destroy spaces where they grow.
To control mold, you control its ability to feed. The best form of mold prevention is to control areas that collect problem moisture, such as areas damaged by leaks.
What kinds of mold should I be concerned about?
No one knows how many species of mold exist because only a fraction have been identified. It has been estimated that there are likely over 300,000 types of mold, and each one has the potential to cause negative health effects.
Molds are known for triggering allergic reactions and asthma attacks to those already allergic to mold. They tend to cause general eye and nose irritation and even respiratory problems to most who encounter them. Some molds even produce potent toxins that can cause more serious health problems.
How do I get rid of mold?
Some people try to use store brand cleaners or a mixture of bleach and water to clean up mold. While this may work to get rid of the mold you can see on the surface, it does not resolve your mold problem. Chances are there is still a larger colony of growth that you haven’t seen. Plus, you’ve now uprooted some of the mold spores and set them free to roam your home or business and settle in a new location. Not good.
Trying to remove mold yourself poses a huge risk to your respiratory health. Unless you are a professional certified in mold remediation and have the proper safety equipment and respirator, we suggest this be taken off your DIY list.
Ok, so how can anyone get rid of mold?
Mold removal is just the tip of the iceberg. You need someone with a professional mold remediation plan to effectively take care of mold.
ServiceMaster Restoration by Simons has certified professionals trained to remediate mold problems. Our technicians will effectively:
- Inspect all areas vulnerable to mold
- Remove mold colonies
- Remove spores
- Repair damaged structures
- Repair any potential future causes of mold
If your Chicago, IL home smells musty, or if your school has not yet been inspected for mold, call us today to schedule our mold remediation services. We also provide a variety of restoration services, so make sure you ask us about what services are right for you.