Telltale Signs and Symptoms of Hidden Mold Damage in Chicago Ridge?

10/7/2024 (Permalink)

We restore mold damage in Cook County.

Our Oak Lawn team is a leader in mold damage remediation in Chicago Ridge. Here are some of the signs and symptoms of mold damage:

1. Visible Mold Growth: Mold can appear as black, green, white, or even orange spots or patches on walls, ceilings, floors, and other surfaces.

1. Musty Odor: A persistent, unpleasant, musty smell is often a strong indicator of mold, especially if the odor is most pungent in specific areas of the home.

1. Water Stains or Discoloration: Yellow, brown, or dark stains on walls, ceilings, or floors can indicate moisture problems, which can often lead to mold growth.

1. Warping or Buckling: Warped walls, floors, or ceilings can indicate that moisture has penetrated the structure, potentially leading to mold.

1. Peeling or Bubbling Paint or Wallpaper: Excess moisture behind walls can cause paint or wallpaper to peel or bubble, often associated with mold growth.

1. Increased Humidity or Condensation: Excessive humidity, condensation on windows, or moisture buildup in certain areas can create the perfect mold environment.

1. Previous Water Damage: If your home has experienced flooding, leaks, or any other water damage, there's a higher chance of mold growth in those areas.

1. Rusting Metal: Metal objects in humid areas of the home might start to rust, which can indicate an environment conducive to mold growth.

Call Us Today!

When your Chicago Ridge home or commercial business has a mold problem, our local Oak Lawn team is Here to Help. ® Contact us today at 708-239-1444.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Attic Mold In Your Oak Lawn Home

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

Call us anytime 24/7 we are ready to help you take care of the mold damage in your home.

Attic mold can happen in your home any time throughout the year. The majority of our attic mold phone calls are from people who are currently selling their home and a home inspector has found mold.  So many homeowners never use or check their attic space regularly. 

There are various reasons that you can end up with mold in your attic these may be:

• Improper ventilation from either a bathroom or kitchen vent. 
• Not having enough insulation can allow hot spots to occur on your roof and melt snow when the temperatures are still well below freezing. 
• If your roof has a small leak, this can also lead to mold.

If you happen to do an inspection of your attic or other areas of your home and do find what you suspect is mold, give us a call today (708) 239-1444 and we can resolve it for you. 

Mold Prevention Tips

10/10/2018 (Permalink)

If you have seen mold in your bathroom, this may cause you to worry.  Showers and baths can create lingering moisture. Without the proper ventilation, excess moisture can cause mold to grow. Also, if you have a leak in your pipes behind the walls that you can't see, this can contribute to mold growth.  

A few simple steps to prevent mold in your bathroom: 

1. Properly ventilate your bathroom. If you have a fan, make sure it is on or open a window while you shower or take a bath. 
2. After you are finished, allow the fan to run for at least 30 minutes to allow air to circulate. 
3. Use mildew-resistant shower and window curtains. 
4. Wipe down your shower after use to remove any lingering moisture. 
5. Once a month, wash your shower curtain.
6. Damp laundry should not be left on the floor. 
7. If you notice any leaks, try to get them repaired ASAP.

If you suspect mold, we can come inspect it for you. Call us today 708-239-1444

Mold Removal In Oak Lawn IL

10/10/2018 (Permalink)

Information on Mold Remediation in Oak Lawn

Mold growth can begin anywhere from 2-3 days after a storm causes water damage.  The mold is a harmful issue, and it can negatively affect your health, house, and the contents within your home.  As the length of exposure to storm water damage increases, the chance for air spores that spread mold also escalates. Mold remediation becomes more challenging as the signs of mold growth that include musty odors, and discolored surfaces, become more apparent.

Act Fast

Our highly trained mold removal technicians use the latest technology and tools to quickly address your mold problem in a manner that effectively removes mold colonies. Unlike DIY techniques, our SERVPRO professional service does not carry the risk of improperly removing mold, in this way, expediting a more rapid return to a healthy home environment.  We are also trained and licensed to handle lead, asbestos and other dangerous materials that may show up during the mold removal process.

We are available 24 per day. Before your appointment, be sure to:

• Inventory damaged and missing goods for your insurance claim.
• Throw away all sealed and unsealed food and beverage contacted by storm flood waters. 
• Open windows and doors.
• Refrain from using electrical devices until it is safe.
• Remove standing water when possible.
• Use dehumidifiers and fans to ventilate your home; SERVPRO can perform this task upon arrival.

Our mold remediation technician will also determine if any contents in your home are salvageable.  Porous items that are wet for over 48 hours and cannot be completely dried and cleaned must be disposed of.

This list includes carpet, carpet padding, ceiling tiles, clothing, drywall, floor tiles, insulation, leather goods, paper, upholstery, wallpaper and wood items.

When our mold remediation expert arrives, he will:

• Apply biocides.
• Decide whether or not you can stay in your house during the mold remediation process.
• Determine if additional ventilation and containment is needed.
• Look for mold in the HVAC system and biological hazards in the home.
• Test for any additional mold after the mold remediation process.
• Use quick structural drying techniques.

If you suspect you have mold in your home or business call us today (708) 239-1444

Mold Damage Remediation in Alsip, IL

8/3/2018 (Permalink)

A small amount of visible mold can be hiding larger mold issues behind the wall.

Water damaged ceilings and walls provide an ideal home for mold colonies to flourish.  Most damage can be easily seen when it occurs after a flood or as a result of the water used to put out a fire, but some water damage can lie concealed behind walls.  Mold that forms in these areas may also remain undetected by most people, but not to trained professionals.  

Call SERVPRO of Oak Lawn today (708) 239-1444 if you suspect you have mold. We provide complete mold remediation in Oak Lawn and the surrounding suburbs.

Mold Cleanup In Worth, IL

7/27/2018 (Permalink)

Act Fast

Our highly trained mold removal technicians use the latest technology and tools to quickly address your mold problem in a manner that effectively removes mold colonies. Unlike DIY techniques, our SERVPRO professional service does not carry the risk of improperly removing mold, in this way, expediting a more rapid return to a healthy home environment.  We are also trained and licensed to handle lead, asbestos and other dangerous materials that may show up during the mold removal process.

We are available 24 per day. Before your appointment, be sure to:

• Inventory damaged and missing goods for your insurance claim.
• Throw away all sealed and unsealed food and beverage contacted by storm flood waters. 
• Open windows and doors.
• Refrain from using electrical devices until it is safe.
• Remove standing water when possible.
• Use dehumidifiers and fans to ventilate your home; SERVPRO can perform this task upon arrival.

Our mold remediation technician will also determine if any contents in your home are salvageable.  Porous items that are wet for over 48 hours and cannot be completely dried and cleaned must be disposed of.

This list includes carpet, carpet padding, ceiling tiles, clothing, drywall, floor tiles, insulation, leather goods, paper, upholstery, wallpaper and wood items.

When our mold remediation expert arrives, he will:

• Apply biocides.
• Decide whether or not you can stay in your house during the mold remediation process.
• Determine if additional ventilation and containment is needed.
• Look for mold in the HVAC system and biological hazards in the home.
• Test for any additional mold after the mold remediation process.
• Use quick structural drying techniques.

Here are some more helpful links on mold:

EPA Mold Guide

IICRC 5 Principles to Mold Remediation

Does Your Alsip Home Have A Mold Problem?

6/16/2018 (Permalink)

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere both outdoors and indoors.  This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business.  Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level.  Some restoration businesses advertise "mold removal" and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy.  Consider the following mold facts: 

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.  
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hits a ride indoors on your clothing or 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 be addressed.  Otherwise, the mold may return. 
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas. 
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth.  Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If you have visible mold in your home or business, we can inspect and assess your property and remediate your mold infestation. 

Mold On The Outside of Your Home

5/30/2018 (Permalink)

When you think of places where mold may grow, what is the first thing that comes to your mind? Perhaps a damp, dark basement or crawlspace?  While this may be one of the most common places, your home's exterior siding may also be susceptible to mold growth.  

Causes of Mold on Siding

Excessive humidity and moisture can create an attractive environment for mold growth on several kinds of siding, including low-maintenance vinyl.  Siding is designed to allow rainwater and other types of moisture to run off the exterior of your home, but sometimes otherwise durable siding can have mold growth under certain conditions.  Since some moldy types may need humidity to grow, warm and humid weather conditions can cause a mold outbreak on your siding.  

Mold likes darkness which can also play a role.  This means that the shady sides of your house maybe at risk.  These areas will tend to be the slowest to dry out after heavy rains so moisture levels will remain higher.  

Vinyl Siding Mold Removal and Prevention

First, keep your siding clean of dirt and grime. You can use a simple garden hose or pressure washer to do this.  

Second, try to target the trees and shrubs that are located around your house.   Check to make sure they do not have any contact with your siding.  Regularly trim your trees and shrubs to minimize shaded areas that can encourage mold growth.  

Finally, take steps to reduce the amount of moisture that comes into contact with your siding.  If you regularly water your lawn, be sure to adjust sprinklers so the water does not hit your house.  Check gutters in the spring and fall and make sure they are clean and in working order.  Clogged gutters can cause the rainwater to run down the side of the home and this can increase the moisture level. 

For any serious mold problems, don't hesitate to call in the professionals at SERVPRO of Oak Lawn.  (708) 239-1444

Mold Remediation-After The Storm Is Over

10/10/2017 (Permalink)

Information on Mold Remediation in Alsip

Mold growth can begin anywhere from 2-3 days after a storm causes water damage.  The mold is a harmful issue, and it can negatively affect your health, house, and the contents within your home.  As the length of exposure to storm water damage increases, the chance for air spores that spread mold also escalates. Mold remediation becomes more challenging as the signs of mold growth that include musty odors, and discolored surfaces, become more apparent.

Act Fast

Our highly trained mold removal technicians use the latest technology and tools to quickly address your mold problem in a manner that effectively removes mold colonies. Unlike DIY techniques, our SERVPRO professional service does not carry the risk of improperly removing mold, in this way, expediting a more rapid return to a healthy home environment.  We are also trained and licensed to handle lead, asbestos and other dangerous materials that may show up during the mold removal process.

We are available 24 per day. Before your appointment, be sure to:

• Inventory damaged and missing goods for your insurance claim.
• Throw away all sealed and unsealed food and beverage contacted by storm flood waters. 
• Open windows and doors.
• Refrain from using electrical devices until it is safe.
• Remove standing water when possible.
• Use dehumidifiers and fans to ventilate your home; SERVPRO can perform this task upon arrival.

Our mold remediation technician will also determine if any contents in your home are salvageable.  Porous items that are wet for over 48 hours and cannot be completely dried and cleaned must be disposed of.

This list includes carpet, carpet padding, ceiling tiles, clothing, drywall, floor tiles, insulation, leather goods, paper, upholstery, wallpaper and wood items.

When our mold remediation expert arrives, he will:

• Apply biocides.
• Decide whether or not you can stay in your house during the mold remediation process.
• Determine if additional ventilation and containment is needed.
• Look for mold in the HVAC system and biological hazards in the home.
• Test for any additional mold after the mold remediation process.
• Use quick structural drying techniques.

Here are some more helpful links on mold:

EPA Mold Guide

IICRC 5 Principles to Mold Remediation

Mold In Your Bathroom

10/10/2017 (Permalink)

If you have seen mold in your bathroom, this may cause you to worry.  Showers and baths can create lingering moisture. Without the proper ventilation, excess moisture can cause mold to grow. Also, if you have a leak in your pipes behind the walls that you can't see, this can contribute to mold growth.  

A few simple steps to prevent mold in your bathroom: 

1. Properly ventilate your bathroom. If you have a fan, make sure it is on or open a window while you shower or take a bath. 
2. After you are finished, allow the fan to run for at least 30 minutes to allow air to circulate. 
3. Use mildew-resistant shower and window curtains. 
4. Wipe down your shower after use to remove any lingering moisture. 
5. Once a month, wash your shower curtain.
6. Damp laundry should not be left on the floor. 
7. If you notice any leaks, try to get them repaired ASAP.

If you suspect mold, we can come inspect it for you. Call us today 708-239-1444.

Leaky Roofs and Mold

8/3/2017 (Permalink)

A small leak in your roof can go unnoticed for some time. This can allow moisture to seep into your home resulting in the development of mold.  Now, not only will you need your roof repaired, you will need to address any damage the leak has caused to the inside of your home. The first step is to determine the cause of the leak and have it repaired.  

Causes of Roof Leaks

The actual cause of a roof leak may vary, but the most common include:

• Broken or missing shingles
• Damaged flashing
• Ice dams

Sometimes, during a strong wind storm, shingles may become damaged or blown off. If you check your roof regularly after a storm, this will be obvious.  However, it is not always easy to see if a shingle was damaged unless you climb up on your roof and inspect it thoroughly.  Realistically though, it is not always possible to do this so you may not be able to detect any damage until you see water on the interior of your home. 

Damaged flashing can allow water and moisture into the home which can cause mold to develop. This is also the case with the metal installed around your chimney, dormer windows, skylights and any vent pipes you may have. 

Ice dams are very common in the winter. These are ridges of ice that form at the edge of a roof and prevent melting snow from draining off the roof.  The water then will back up behind the dam and can leak into your home and cause damage to ceilings, walls, insulation and other areas. 

Signs to Look For

• Water marks on ceilings and/or walls
• Discolored areas on ceilings and/or walls
• Peeling paint around skylights or dormer windows
• Peeling, cracked, bubbled plaster
• Mold around the chimney
• Wood that is rotting in the attic, around skylights or dormer windows
• Musty or mildew smell in attic

The Mold Remediation Process

Every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same. Learn more about our mold remediation process.

1. Emergency Contact - (708) 239-1444
2. Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
3. Mold Containment
4. Air Filtration
5. Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
6. Cleaning Contents and Belongings

After The Storm is Over Mold in Chicago Ridge

7/13/2017 (Permalink)

Mold is a harmful issue and it can negatively affect your home.

Information on Mold Remediation in Orland Park

Mold growth begins anywhere from 2-3 days after a storm causes water damage in Orland Park. Mold is a harmful issue, and it can negatively affect your health, house, and the contents within your home.  As the length of exposure to storm water damage increases, the chance for air spores that spread mold also escalates. Mold remediation becomes more challenging as the signs of mold growth that include musty odors, and discolored surfaces, become more apparent.

Act Fast

Our highly trained mold removal technicians use the latest technology and tools to quickly address your mold problem in a manner that effectively removes mold colonies. Unlike DIY techniques, our SERVPRO professional service does not carry the risk of improperly removing mold, in this way, expediting a more rapid return to a healthy home environment.  We are also trained and licensed to handle lead, asbestos and other dangerous materials that may show up during the mold removal process.

We are available 24 per day. Before your appointment, be sure to:

• Inventory damaged and missing goods for your insurance claim.
• Throw away all sealed and unsealed food and beverage contacted by storm flood waters. 
• Open windows and doors.
• Refrain from using electrical devices until it is safe.
• Remove standing water when possible.
• Use dehumidifiers and fans to ventilate your home; SERVPRO can perform this task upon arrival.

Our mold remediation technician will also determine if any contents in your home are salvageable.  Porous items that are wet for over 48 hours and cannot be completely dried and cleaned must be disposed of.

This list includes carpet, carpet padding, ceiling tiles, clothing, drywall, floor tiles, insulation, leather goods, paper, upholstery, wallpaper and wood items.

When our mold remediation expert arrives, he will:

• Apply biocides.
• Decide whether or not you can stay in your house during the mold remediation process.
• Determine if additional ventilation and containment is needed.
• Look for mold in the HVAC system and biological hazards in the home.
• Test for any additional mold after the mold remediation process.
• Use quick structural drying techniques.

Here are some more helpful links on mold:

EPA Mold Guide

IICRC 5 Principles to Mold Remediation

Mold in Oak Lawn

6/19/2017 (Permalink)

If you see mold, do not disturb it!

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Oak Lawn 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.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Oak Lawn 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.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today –(708) 239-1444

Mold Removal

5/19/2017 (Permalink)

Mold spores thrive on moisture

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or 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 be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (708) 239-1444

Mold Removal in Chicago Ridge IL

9/22/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Oak Lawn has experience with mold removal

Mold can be a scary word for home owners.  No one wants to find out that their home is subject to mold and mildew but it unfortunately does happen.  It is common for mold or mildew to be present in the home due to factors such as water damage from pipes that are leaking or have leaked in the past. Another factor could be from heavy rains in your area.

Whichever your case, it is good to know that SERVPRO of Oak Lawn can assist you with mold removal services. 

Understanding Mold

Some restoration companies advertise “mold removal” and may even guarantee to remove all mold. This is a fallacy because removing all mold from a house or business is impossible; microscopic mold spores exist almost everywhere, both indoors and outdoors. Here are the facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or 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 be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

Equipment

Our initial focus is to stop the source of water feeding the mold. We then isolate the affected area using a negative air pressure chamber. We invest in ongoing mold remediation training and the latest equipment to serve you better

Learn More

The Mold Remediation Process

Every mold damage scenario is different, and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our “typical” process:

1. Emergency Contact - (708) 239-1444
2. Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
3. Mold Containment
4. Air Filtration
5. Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
6. Cleaning Contents and Belongings
7. Restoration

Common Mold Misconceptions

With sensational news stories and misleading advertising, you can easily understand why so many people are misinformed about indoor mold. Learn the facts about mold and the mold remediation process.

What is “Black Mold”?
“Mold Removal” versus Mold Remediation

Got Mold? Call SERVPRO of Oak Lawn Today!

8/12/2016 (Permalink)

This is mold you can see, but there may also be mold behind these walls.

If you suspect you have mold, you should first consult an environmental specialist to determine what types of mold you are dealing with and where it is coming from.  Once that is done, SERVPRO can take the proper steps to properly remediate the mold.

Water damaged ceilings and walls provide an ideal home for mold colonies to flourish.  Most damage can be easily seen when it occurs after a flood or as a result of the water used to put out a fire, but some water damage can lie concealed behind walls.  Mold that forms in these areas may also remain undetected by most people, but not to trained professionals.  

Call SERVPRO of Oak Lawn today (708) 239-1444 if you suspect you have mold. We provide complete mold remediation in Oak Lawn and the surrounding suburbs.