Tips for Minimizing Water Damage During Severe Storms

9/21/2023 (Permalink)

Minimize water damage by being aware and prepared to avoid damage to exterior of your property.

Severe storms have the potential to wreak havoc on homes and businesses, causing significant water damage. The key to mitigating the effects of water damage is preparation and quick action. In this blog post, we will discuss some essential tips for minimizing water damage during severe storms.

Maintain Gutters and Downspouts

Regularly clean and maintain your gutters and downspouts to ensure proper water flow. Clear any debris that may block the gutters and downspouts, allowing rainwater to drain effectively. This helps prevent water overflow and reduces the risk of water seeping into your home or business.

Consider installing a sump pump in your basement if you live in an area prone to flooding. A sump pump automatically removes water that collects in the basement, helping prevent extensive water damage. Make sure to test and maintain your sump pump regularly to ensure its proper functionality during a storm.

Seal Entry Points

Water can find its way into your home or business through even the smallest openings. Inspect your property for any cracks or gaps in windows, doors, and foundations, and seal them with weatherstripping, caulk, or other suitable methods. This will minimize the potential entry points for water during a storm and help protect your property.

In areas prone to flooding, it is wise to elevate your valuable belongings and important documents. Raise furniture, electronics, and appliances onto blocks or higher surfaces to keep them out of the path of potential floodwaters. Similarly, store important documents in waterproof containers, preferably at a higher level.

Install Backup Power Sources

During severe storms, power outages are common, which can hinder your ability to pump out water or address other emergency situations. Consider installing a backup power source, such as a generator, to ensure that crucial systems like sump pumps, dehumidifiers, and emergency lighting continue to operate.

If your property is situated on a slope, make sure you have proper drainage channels in place to direct water away from your home or business. This can include grading the landscape, installing French drains, or utilizing other drainage systems. Effective drainage will help minimize the pooling of water near your property, reducing the risk of water damage.

Secure Important Documents Digitally

In the event of severe water damage, important documents like insurance policies, birth certificates, and financial records can easily be destroyed. To safeguard these documents, consider creating digital copies stored securely in the cloud or on an external hard drive. This ensures that even if the physical copies get damaged, you have easy access to the digital versions.

Stay informed about severe weather conditions by monitoring local weather reports and alerts. Familiarize yourself with emergency plans and evacuation routes in your area. Create an emergency kit with essentials like non-perishable food, water, flashlights, and first aid supplies. Being prepared allows you to respond quickly and effectively during severe storms, minimizing potential water damage.

Minimizing water damage during severe storms requires proactive measures and preparedness. By maintaining gutters and downspouts, installing a sump pump, sealing entry points, you can greatly reduce the risk of water damage to your home or business. Remember, quick action during a storm can make a significant difference in mitigating water damage and preserving your property.

The Hidden Threat: Lingering Effects of Smoke Damage on Structural Integrity

8/13/2023 (Permalink)

Smoke damage can weaken structural components, such as wooden beams, support columns, or load-bearing walls.

When a fire strikes, the immediate damage caused by flames is evident, but the aftermath often brings another significant threat: smoke damage. Beyond the visible soot and odors, smoke damage can have long-lasting effects on the structural integrity of your home or property. In this article, we will delve into the hidden threat posed by smoke damage and its impact on the stability and safety of your building.

Understanding Smoke Damage

Smoke damage extends far beyond surface-level issues. Smoke particles, consisting of carbon, chemicals, and other substances, can infiltrate various building materials, compromising their integrity. The combination of heat, gases, and moisture during a fire creates complex chemical reactions that contribute to the damage.

Weakening of Structural Components

Smoke damage can weaken structural components, such as wooden beams, support columns, or load-bearing walls. The heat from the fire can cause these elements to expand, while the subsequent cooling process can lead to contraction and warping. Over time, this can result in structural instability and compromise the overall strength of the building.

Corrosion and Deterioration

Smoke residue contains corrosive substances that can react with metal components, including electrical wiring, HVAC systems, and plumbing. Corrosion weakens these vital systems, posing safety risks and potentially leading to malfunctions, leaks, or electrical hazards. Regular inspections and maintenance are crucial to identify and address hidden damage.

Impact on Insulation and Fireproofing

Smoke can permeate insulation materials and fireproofing coatings, reducing their effectiveness. Insulation loses its thermal efficiency, leading to energy loss and higher utility bills. Fireproofing materials may become compromised, reducing their ability to withstand flames and slow down the spread of fire in future incidents.

Hazards and Indoor Air Quality

Smoke damage not only affects structural integrity but also impacts indoor air quality. Lingering smoke particles and toxins can be trapped in carpets, upholstery, and ventilation systems, leading to respiratory issues and other hazards. Professional cleaning and restoration, including thorough HVAC system cleaning, are essential to address these risks.

Professional Smoke Damage Assessment

Following a fire, it is crucial to engage a professional smoke damage restoration specialist, such as our SERVPRO of Oakville/Mehlville team. They will conduct a thorough assessment of the property, identifying hidden smoke damage and developing a comprehensive restoration plan. Prompt action is vital to mitigate further deterioration and ensure the safety and stability of the building.

Restoration and Rebuilding

Effective restoration after smoke damage requires a combination of cleaning, deodorizing, and repair techniques tailored to specific materials and surfaces. Professionals will employ specialized equipment, such as air scrubbers and thermal fogging, to remove odors and cleanse affected areas. Rebuilding compromised structural components may be necessary to restore the building's integrity fully.

Smoke damage from a fire can have long-lasting effects on the structural integrity of your home or property. Understanding the hidden threat posed by smoke damage is crucial for homeowners and property owners. Prompt professional assessment and restoration are essential to address structural weaknesses, prevent further deterioration, and ensure the safety and stability of the building. By taking proactive steps and working with experts, you can navigate the challenges of smoke damage and restore your property to its preloss condition.

Understanding the Most Common Causes of Water Damage and How to Prevent Them

7/14/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage can wreak havoc on your property, leading to costly repairs and potential health hazards. Understanding the most common causes of water damage is crucial in order to take preventive measures and protect your home or business. In this blog, we will explore the primary culprits behind water damage incidents and provide you with valuable tips on how to prevent them. By being proactive, you can save yourself the stress, inconvenience, and expense of dealing with water damage.

Plumbing Issues

Plumbing problems are one of the leading causes of water damage. Burst pipes, leaking faucets, and faulty plumbing fixtures can result in significant water leakage. Regularly inspect your plumbing system for any signs of leaks, corrosion, or damage. Be sure to address minor issues promptly to prevent them from escalating into major water damage incidents.

Appliance Failures

Faulty or aging appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers, and water heaters can cause water damage if they malfunction or experience leaks. Inspect these appliances regularly, paying attention to hoses, connections, and seals. Replace any worn-out parts or damaged components to prevent potential leaks or water-related accidents.

Roof Leaks

A compromised roof can allow water to seep into your property, causing extensive damage. Inspect your roof regularly for missing shingles, damaged flashing, or cracked tiles. Address any issues promptly and consider professional roof maintenance to prevent leaks during heavy rains or storms.

Weather-Related Events

Natural disasters like hurricanes, storms, and heavy rainfall can result in severe water damage. Ensure your property is prepared by maintaining a functional drainage system, including gutters and downspouts. Regularly clean and clear these systems to allow proper water flow away from your property. Consider installing storm shutters or reinforcing windows to protect against strong winds and prevent water infiltration.

Basement Flooding

Basements are particularly vulnerable to water damage due to their below-ground level. Common causes of basement flooding include inadequate waterproofing, poor drainage, or foundation issues. Maintain proper grading around your home's foundation, install a sump pump, and consider waterproofing solutions to keep your basement dry and protected.

Water damage can have devastating effects on your property, but by understanding and addressing the most common causes, you can significantly reduce the risk. Regular inspections, timely repairs, and proactive maintenance are essential in preventing water damage incidents. Remember to consult with professional restoration experts, such as our SERVPRO of Oakville/Mehlville team, for any concerns or to mitigate water damage effectively. By taking preventive measures, you can safeguard your property, avoid costly repairs, and enjoy peace of mind knowing that you are prepared for potential water-related challenges.

Battling the Elements: Weathering the Storm with Resilience and Resolve

6/29/2023 (Permalink)

After a flood, SERVPRO can help restore your content and living environment.

One of the distressing consequences of flooding is the lingering odor it leaves behind. The combination of moisture, organic matter, and stagnant water can create a musty and unpleasant smell that permeates your home. To restore a fresh and clean environment after a flood, it's important to address odor removal effectively. In this blog, we will explore proven methods and techniques to eliminate odors caused by flooding and reclaim a pleasant living space.

Safety First

Before starting any odor removal process, prioritize safety by wearing protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and a mask to avoid exposure to potentially harmful substances or contaminants present in floodwater.

Remove Water and Moisture

Extract Standing Water. Use pumps, wet/dry vacuums, or professional water removal services to remove standing water from your home promptly.

Dry Out the Area. Utilize fans, dehumidifiers, and open windows to facilitate air circulation and promote faster drying. Aim for relative humidity levels below 50% to inhibit the growth of mold and mildew, which can contribute to unpleasant odors.

Clean and Disinfect

Clean Flooded Areas: Thoroughly clean all affected surfaces, including walls, floors, and furniture, using a mild detergent or specialized cleaning solutions. Pay extra attention to areas with visible mold or mildew growth.

Disinfect Surfaces: Use a disinfectant solution recommended for flood cleanup to kill bacteria and remove any remaining contaminants that contribute to foul odors.

Treat and Remove Mold and Mildew

Identify Mold and Mildew: Inspect your home for signs of mold or mildew growth, which can produce strong odors. If present, engage in mold remediation efforts following proper guidelines or seek professional assistance.

Remove Moldy Materials: Discard porous materials that have been extensively affected by mold or mildew, such as carpeting, upholstered furniture, and insulation. Replace them with new, uncontaminated materials.

Odor Elimination Techniques

1. Vinegar Solution: Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spritz the solution on affected surfaces and let it air dry. Vinegar is known for its natural deodorizing properties.
2. Baking Soda: Place bowls of baking soda in different areas of your home to absorb and neutralize unpleasant odors. Leave them for several days before discarding and replacing with fresh ones.
3. Activated Charcoal: Utilize activated charcoal or charcoal briquettes in mesh bags or containers placed strategically around the house. Charcoal absorbs odors effectively.
4. Odor Neutralizers: Consider using commercial odor neutralizers or deodorizing products specifically designed for flood-related odors. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer for best results.

Ventilation and Fresh Air

Maximize ventilation by opening windows and using fans to circulate fresh air throughout your home. This helps remove trapped odors and promotes faster drying.

Professional Assistance

If your efforts to remove the odor are unsuccessful or if you encounter extensive mold growth, consider seeking professional help from experienced restoration specialists who can provide advanced odor removal techniques and ensure thorough restoration.

Effective odor removal from flooding requires a systematic approach that includes removing water and moisture, cleaning and disinfecting, addressing mold and mildew, utilizing odor elimination techniques, and promoting ventilation. By following these steps and exercising caution, you can eliminate unpleasant odors and restore a fresh, clean, and healthy living environment in your home.

How to Tell if You Have Mold in Your Home

5/14/2023 (Permalink)

Identifying mold in your home is an important first step in addressing the problem.

Mold is a common problem in many homes, and it can cause a variety of issues if left untreated. While it's important to address mold growth for health reasons, it's also important to identify it early so that it can be removed before it causes serious damage to your home. Here are some ways to tell if you have mold in your home.

Visible Mold

The most obvious sign of mold is seeing it. It can appear black, green, white, or even pinkish in color, and it can grow on any surface that is damp or has high humidity. Check areas like walls, ceilings, floors, and even furniture for signs of mold growth.

Musty Odor

Mold has a distinct musty odor that is difficult to miss. If you notice a strong, musty smell in your home, it's likely that there is mold growing somewhere. This odor is caused by the mycotoxins that mold produces, and it can be an indication that there is a significant mold problem.

Water Damage

Mold thrives in damp environments, so if you've had any recent water damage in your home, it's important to inspect the area for signs of mold growth. Water damage can occur from leaks, floods, or even high humidity levels.

Discoloration

Mold can cause discoloration on surfaces such as walls, ceilings, and floors. This can appear as yellow, brown, or even greenish stains, and it's a sign that there may be mold growing behind the surface.

Remediation and Prevention

If you suspect that you have mold in your home, it's important to address it as soon as possible. While there are DIY methods to remove small amounts of mold, it's best to contact a professional, such as SERVPRO of Oakville/Mehlville for larger infestations or for mold growth in hard-to-reach areas. A professional mold remediation company can assess the extent of the problem, remove the mold safely and efficiently, and take steps to prevent future mold growth.

In addition to removing mold, it's important to take steps to prevent it from growing in the first place. This can include reducing humidity levels in your home by using a dehumidifier or improving ventilation, fixing any leaks or water damage as soon as possible, and cleaning up spills or standing water immediately.

Taking Action Against Mold

Identifying mold in your home is an important first step in addressing the problem. By being vigilant and taking action as soon as possible, you can keep your home safe and healthy for you and your family.

Protecting Your Property After a Fire: How SERVPRO's Emergency Board Up Services Can Help

4/16/2023 (Permalink)

Emergency board-up services are essential after a fire or other disaster.

After a fire, one of the most crucial steps in the restoration process is emergency board-up services. Emergency board-up is the process of securing and protecting a property after a fire, flood, or other disasters. It involves boarding up windows, doors, and other openings to prevent further damage to the property and protect it from potential theft or vandalism.

SERVPRO of Oakville/Mehlville, a leading provider of fire and water damage restoration services, offers emergency board-up services to homeowners and businesses affected by disasters. Here's what you need to know about emergency board up and how SERVPRO of Oakville/Mehlville can help.

Why is Emergency Board Up Important?

Emergency board-up is important for several reasons. First, it helps protect the property from further damage. After a fire, water, and smoke damage can continue to spread and cause additional harm to the structure and contents of the property. By boarding up windows and doors, SERVPRO can prevent these elements from entering the property and causing further damage.

Second, emergency board up helps deter theft and vandalism. When a property is left unsecured after a fire, it is vulnerable to looting and vandalism. By boarding up the property, SERVPRO can discourage potential thieves and vandals from entering and causing further damage.

Finally, emergency board-up is important for safety reasons. After a fire, the structural integrity of a property can be compromised. Boarding up the property helps prevent anyone from entering and getting injured due to unstable structures or debris.

How SERVPRO Offers Emergency Board-Up Services

SERVPRO of Oakville/Mehlville offers emergency board-up services as part of its comprehensive fire damage restoration services. Their team of trained and certified professionals is available 24/7 to respond to emergencies and provide immediate assistance.

When you call SERVPRO for emergency board-up services, they will send a team to your property to assess the damage and begin the board-up process. They will start by securing the property and identifying any potential hazards. Then, they will board up all windows, doors, and other openings to prevent further damage and protect the property. With SERVPRO of Oakville/Mehlville’s expertise and experience in emergency board-up services, you can trust that your property is in good hands. 

In addition to emergency board-up services, SERVPRO of Oakville/Mehlville also offers other fire damage restoration services, including smoke and soot damage cleanup, water damage restoration, and content cleaning and restoration. Their goal is to restore your property to its preloss condition as quickly and efficiently as possible.

In conclusion, emergency board-up services are essential after a fire or other disaster. They help protect the property from further damage, deter theft and vandalism, and promote safety. If you've experienced a fire or other disaster, contact SERVPRO of Oakville/Mehlville to learn more about their emergency board-up and restoration services.

Most Common Reasons Your Washing Machine Is Leaking Water

3/16/2023 (Permalink)

Noticing an usual sound with the washer could be a sign of malfunction.

An improperly functioning washing machine can be a major inconvenience. If you're noticing an unusual amount of water leaking from your washing machine, it may be time to have it repaired by a technician. There are many reasons why this could happen, but fortunately, they're most often easily fixed by a qualified technician who can inspect your machine and make any necessary repairs. Here are some common causes of washing machine leaks:

The Hose Clamp Needs Tightening or Replacement

If you're experiencing a leak from your washing machine, the first thing to check is whether or not the hose clamp needs tightening or replacement. A hose clamp is a metal band that wraps around the hose to prevent it from leaking. If your washing machine hoses are loose and leaking water, tighten them with pliers before replacing them completely if they continue to leak after being tightened.

Tub Seal is Damaged

The tub seal is the rubber seal that separates the outer drum of your washing machine from its inner spin basket. This is one of the most common reasons for leaks in a washer, as it can become damaged over time or even break completely if you're not careful when loading laundry into your machine.

If your tub seal becomes damaged, water will leak from around the rim of your washing machine during spin cycles and can cause damage to walls and floors underneath it. Fortunately, this part is easy to replace.

Faulty Water Pump

The water pump is the motor that pumps water through the system, and it's usually located in the back of your machine. The most common type of water pump is a belt-driven motor that uses rubber belts to transfer power from its shaft to other components like pumps or motors within the unit. If any one of these parts fails, you'll start seeing leaks around where they're located--usually at joints or seams where two pieces meet up together. If you suspect damage from this cause and want help identifying what needs replacing before buying new parts, call us today!

A leak from the Drain Hose

If you notice water leaking from the washing machine, it could be coming from the drain hose. This is a tube that connects your washing machine to your home's drain pipe and carries away any excess water during use.

In some cases, damage or wear-and-tear can cause the hose to leak; in others, corrosion may have built up on its interior walls over time, this is especially common when using harsh detergents.

The Washing Machine is Unleveled

If your washing machine is leaking water and you've checked the hoses and pipes, it's likely that your laundry room floor is uneven. The most common cause of this issue is when a washing machine has been moved from one place to another, but it can also happen during installation.

Call A Professional For Assistance

If you're noticing an unusual amount of water leaking from your washing machine, it may be time to have it repaired by a technician. If your washing machine has been leaking water for an extended period of time, or if a sudden burst of water leaked out of your washing machine and damaged your laundry room, call SERVPRO Oakville/Mehlville for all your water damage cleanup and restoration needs!

What to do when your toilet overflows

2/5/2023 (Permalink)

Toilets overflow causing serious issues and water damages

If your toilet overflows, it doesn't mean that you're going to have to buy a new one. There are ways to deal with this common plumbing problem, and they're easier than you might think.

Shut off the Water

At the first sign of water damage, shut off the water supply to the toilet. Turn off the main water valve that feeds your home, which can be found in your basement or crawl space. Shut off the water supply to the toilet at either its valve or tank, depending on which you find more convenient (if there's a valve for both).

If there's no way to shut off your toilet's water tank (or if turning it feels too dangerous), turn off a faucet nearby and fill up as many buckets as you need with clean water. Now use these for flushing purposes only. If possible, have someone do this so that both of you don't have to deal with any messes from overflowing toilets.

Turn off the feed valve to the overflow pipe

An overflow is one of the more common plumbing problems that you’re likely to encounter. While it may seem like a serious issue, you can usually handle a toilet overflow quickly and easily.

Once the water is turned off, next you want to turn off the water supply to the toilet. Turn off the feed valve to the overflow pipe and use a bucket or plunger to suck up all the water from the bowl, then empty it when you're done. This will help prevent water from overflowing into the floor causing more water damage.

Use towels on the floor to absorb water and prevent damage

If there is water puddles on the floor use old towels to absorb water and prevent damage. Use enough towels to soak up the excess water and protect your flooring. Don't leave the wet towels on the floor as it could cause more problems down the road. Keep the area free of debris to prevent slip and fall.

If you have a bathroom with tile floors, place the towels on top of each other, overlapping them slightly along their edges so that there are still gaps between them where water can drain through. Put them in a pattern around the overflow hole in your toilet bowl so that fluids that seep through can be caught by one of the layers of towels. This will help keep your floors dry even if there is still more water coming out of your pipes after you flush.

Bucket or plunger to suck up all the water from the bowl

Once the water is off the floor, use a bucket or plunger to suck up all the water from the bowl. This is probably your best option if you don't want to deal with a full toilet. Remove all the water from the bowl incase the toilet has to be replaced.

If your toilet has been overused or if there's been an increase in household traffic (such as company staying over), then try flushing less often until things return to normal. This will help prevent future overflows due to excessive use of your water supply system's capacity during peak times.

Use a Professional

If you're unsure about the problem, or if it seems like a more serious issue than your average clog, consider calling a plumber. A plumber can visit your home and assess the situation to determine whether it's something you can fix yourself (and what caused it in the first place). If so, they'll be able to teach you how to prevent future problems with your toilet.

When you are in need of a restoration company for your water damage, give SERVPRO of Oakville/Mehlville a call at the first sign of damage.

Office Fire Safety 101: Tips for Fire Prevention in the Workplace

1/10/2023 (Permalink)

It's always a good idea to have an evacuation plan in place for your workplace.

Tips for Fire Prevention in the Workplace

Fire safety is an important aspect of any business, especially one that deals with large amounts of electrical equipment. However, many firms do not think about fire protection until they have experienced a dangerous situation. By following these tips you can prevent fires and limit damage to your business property if one ever occurs.

Designate a point of contact for emergencies

The most important thing to do is designate a point of contact for all emergencies. This can be anyone in the office, but it's best if they're someone who is familiar with the building and/or has experience dealing with fire safety issues. If you have multiple floors in your office building, try to have someone designated on each floor as well.

Ensure exits are always clear

You should ensure that all exit doors open in the direction of travel, and that they are not blocked by furniture or other items. Exit signs should be clearly visible and illuminated as well. When it comes to ensuring safety in your workplace, there are many things you can do to help keep everyone safe.

Don’t panic when evacuating

If a fire is burning, how do you get out of the building? It's always a good idea to have an evacuation plan in place for your workplace. Be sure everyone knows where the exits are and how far away they are from their workstations. If there's no way out, it may be necessary to break a window so people can escape. But don't assume that just because there's smoke coming into your office that it won't spread quickly; that smoke could actually be blocking another exit route and preventing it from being used by all who need it!

Another important thing to remember: Do not use elevators during an evacuation—they take too long and could become stuck between floors or even stop working altogether due to electrical problems or lack of power (as well as possibly trapping people inside). Instead, take stairs if possible—it'll help speed up the process by keeping people moving at the same rate instead of waiting on an elevator line while they're trying to get back down safely without hurting themselves in any way possible."

Count heads and call 911 once evacuated.

Once you've safely evacuated the premises and called 911, it's important to give the dispatcher all of the information they need. This includes:

• Your name, address, and telephone number.
• The nature of the emergency (for example, fire).
• The location of the fire (house number, street name).
• Any injuries or casualties involved in this incident.

If possible, provide details about how far away from your property any injured people are located so that firefighters can get there as soon as possible!

Keep important documents and other valuables in a safe place.

If you have valuable documents that you don't want damaged during a fire or water damage, store them in a fireproof safe. You can either purchase one of your own or ask your employer if they have one available for use.

Always keep copies of your most important documents on hand. This way if the originals are lost or destroyed during an emergency, you will still have access to them through the copies.

Make sure everyone who works at the office knows where these items are kept so they can be accessed quickly in case of an emergency situation requiring evacuation or relocation indoors (which happens more often than people think).

A fire safety plan is crucial.

Fire safety is a priority for everyone. It's up to you and your employees to ensure that your workplace has the necessary fire protection measures in place, and that those measures are working properly. Fire prevention is everyone’s responsibility, so it's important that you take steps to prevent fires from starting and spreading in your business.

Keep an eye out for any potential fire hazards in your building or office space (e.g., faulty wiring or overloaded electrical outlets). If you notice anything suspicious or out of place, alert someone immediately so they can take action before disaster strikes!

It’s clear that there are many things you can do to keep your workplace prepared for a fire. As we mentioned at the start of this post, fires can be extremely dangerous and destructive. But with proper planning and maintenance, you can minimize the risk of those events occurring in your workplace.

Mold and Appliances

12/14/2022 (Permalink)

Mold growth in appliances is a serious issue and should be taken very seriously.

Mold, the fungus that grows on damp surfaces in your home, can be difficult to remove. It thrives in warm, humid environments and spreads without proper ventilation. The most common places for mold to grow are in bathrooms and kitchens. Appliances are another culprit for carrying mold into your kitchen—especially when they're not cleaned regularly or have been exposed to moisture from flooding or water damage. To prevent these appliances from becoming prime breeding grounds for mold, it's important to clean them regularly with a disinfectant spray or other method of sanitization.

Washing Machine

Mold is a common problem in washing machines. If you don't keep your washer clean, mold will grow on the rubber gasket and other parts of your machine, causing it to smell bad. Mold can also lead to your clothes smelling bad if they come in contact with it!

To keep mold from growing inside of your washing machine:

• Use vinegar to help clean out any buildup around the rim where water collects when you run a load of laundry.
• Look into replacing the seal around the door of your washer if it looks cracked or torn (this is especially important when trying to prevent mold growth).

Refrigerator

Mold growth in refrigerators is common. In fact, it's so common that you may not even be aware of the mold growing on your refrigerator until it's too late. Like most mold growth in homes, it can be prevented by keeping a clean refrigerator and storing food properly. Mold also thrives in high humidity environments. To prevent mold from forming on your fridge, follow these steps:

• Clean out your fridge regularly! If you don't remember if something was inside the last time you cleaned it out (and who does?), put an empty box with a note inside for future reference.
• Don't store foods at room temperature for long periods of time; instead, keep them chilled in the fridge or freezer as needed to preserve freshness and quality.

Freezer

The freezer is the best place to keep food, as it's the coldest spot in your refrigerator. But before you start stocking up on frozen foods, make sure that your freezer is clean and hasn't been used to store anything other than ice cubes or frozen foods. You should also keep an eye out for excess frost—if there’s too much ice buildup in your freezer and/or if it's starting to look like a snow globe inside, you need to defrost it!

Dehumidification

Dehumidification is a way of removing moisture from the air. You can use a dehumidifier to do it, but you can also do it with other devices. A dehumidifier is an appliance that removes moisture from the air in your home and helps prevent mold growth. It's helpful for drying out wet carpets, floors, walls and furniture after flooding or leaks occur. These appliances are available in different sizes and models for small or large rooms. 

Dehumidifiers also come with settings for optimal humidity levels for different temperatures, so you'll always stay comfortable at home regardless of how much time you spend indoors during winter months when heating costs are higher than summer ones when cooling costs are more expensive than average year-round temperatures require less energy usage overall.

Act Quickly

Mold growth in appliances is a serious issue and should be taken very seriously. If so, it's important to act quickly before the problem gets out of hand and leads to major property damage in your Lemay, MO home.

Mold can be expensive and time-consuming, and that’s why SERVPRO of Oakville/ Mehlville is here to help! We want everyone who uses our services to know that they can trust us with any appliance-related mold issues whether they're small or large.