How Big Of A Health Problem Can Mold Be

8/5/2024 (Permalink)

Mold, a layman term used to identify a variety of fungi, which can easily be classified as unappealing and disliked. Mold can exist both indoors as well as outdoors in the form of variously colored, smelly, and unsightly fuzzy patches. However, the sight and smell of mold are the least of your worries as the effect on your health has been far worse. 

How Does Mold Spread Health Problems

While mold exists on surfaces, it does produce a variety of spores, which then spread throughout the air in your property. In fact, if a patch of mold exists on your property, there isn't much that you can do that will prevent it from spreading these spores, which will only allow for the health issues to persist. Certain types of molds are even known to digest the surface that they are growing on. This is why you need to remove the mold itself. 

Health Issues Caused By Molds

There are a variety of health issues inflicted on people who are exposed to mold. In fact, mold can affect different people with different health issues. So to show you how big of an issue mold can be on your health, here is a list of health issues caused by exposure to mold. 

Respiratory Issues

The spores from mold that float in the air can produce a variety of irritants, mycotoxins, and allergens. Some of them have toxic nature and can greatly affect those who might be sensitive to them. So these toxic elements can then cause irritation within your throat, nose, and even lungs, which can cause you to become asthmatic or develop a chronic lung problem.

Allergies

Mold can also cause you to develop symptoms that overlap with different types of allergies, which can include seasonal allergies and even hay fever. So, symptoms, such as an itchy, blocked, or runny nose, excessive sneezing, and even watery eyes could persist as it affects your upper respiratory tract. People who are already asthmatic could begin to have asthma attacks due to the mold. 

Aspergillosis

Aspergillosis is a variation of mold that can cause a variety of different types of health issues in different types of people. The health issues can include issues with lung function, headaches, coughing so severe that it could cause you to cough up blood, respiratory issues, and weight loss. 

Other Health-Related Issues

Apart from toxins and irritants, mold also can produce bacteria and microbes. If one is exposed to such productions, then it could trigger their body to have an inflammatory response. It can also cause infections, such as a fungal or bronchial infection. In fact, for some, mold can even cause issues, such as hypersensitivity pneumonitis, bronchitis, and insomnia. 

All in all, the growth of any variation of mold can and should be treated like the plague as it is quite a significant threat to your health. This means that all of the necessary precautions should be taken in order to ensure that it does not damage you or your loved one's health.

5 Health Insurance Myths Debunked

8/5/2024 (Permalink)

The world of health insurance is tricky and challenging to navigate. Many myths are surrounding it, but not all of them are true. If you are thinking of getting health insurance, you must have heard a few myths about it.

Don’t worry. Our guide will debunk the five most common myths that revolve around health insurance. Here is what they state.

Myth #1. Healthy And Young Individuals Don’t Need Health Insurance

Young individuals in their early or mid-20s are at the peak of their health. That is why they think they don't need to buy health insurance. However, you can get sick anytime at any age.

Many times we don’t even know we have an ailment until the symptoms slowly start showing. That is why it is important to take precautions and opt for a health insurance policy to cover your costs if the need arises.

Myth #2. Benefits Of Health Insurance Will Be Enjoyed From Day One

People think that as soon they purchase the policy, they will be able to reap the benefits. This couldn't be more further from the truth. Many policies have a one month waiting period where you can't claim within a month of the insurance policy.

Besides that, many policies will require you to wait a year or two before you make any claim if you have a pre-existing illness. That is why you need to buy health insurance so that all these waiting periods are over if you ever get sick.

Myth #3. Pre-Existing Conditions Don’t Need To Be Declared

When it comes to any insurance, honesty is the best policy. If you have a pre-existing condition, you will have to specify it on your application. If you don't specify and you need coverage, then your claim may be rejected.

That is because many insurance companies have waiting periods for these conditions, and they look at your medical records to look for undisclosed causes. So, being honest is the best course of action.

Myth #4. The Cheapest Policy Is The Best Policy

Just because a health insurance policy is cheap doesn't mean it's good.  Many low-cost policies only cover the basics. If you have an illness or a condition, then the cheapest policy may not cover it.

Premiums exist for a reason. It is because they cover advanced versions so that many health problems can be covered. So, you should get a policy you think is right for you even if it’s not cheap.

Myth #5. You Don’t Need A Separate Health Insurance Plan If You Are Covered Under A Corporate Health Plan

Just because your employer has provided you with a health insurance plan, it doesn’t mean you don’t need a separate one. However, you can’t entirely depend on your employer’s insurance plan.

If you lose your job, then your health insurance will also come to a halt. That is why it is always good to have a separate health insurance policy to cover all your medical costs and fill the gaps in your corporate health insurance policy.

How to Handle a Storm in the Winter

8/5/2024 (Permalink)

Winter storms are common in the US. They have intense winds and even heavy snowfall at times. During such times of crisis, staying safe can become a huge challenge especially for families who live in low-lying coastal areas. Since winter storms bring extreme temperatures and roads full of ice with them, it is necessary to prepare yourself accordingly in case a winter storm is expected to hit your area. Apart from extreme cold, winter storms can also cause power outrages – resulting in cold homes and no source of heat for you or your loved ones. A time of crisis like this requires a clear disaster plan to ensure the safety of your family.

Below are a few steps that you can take to prepare for a winter storm:

1. Weatherproofing the House

Since cold weather is extremely dangerous when there is a power failure, it is necessary to weatherproof your home to ensure that the heat remains inside the house and the cold winds from the outside do not enter through the windows. You can weatherproof your home by installing caulk or strips to the edges of doors and windows to prevent any air or snow from coming inside your home. Another great way to keep the house warm is to insulate all of your walls and especially the attic. It is also beneficial to insulate your water pipes to ensure that your water supply remains warm even during the storm. Since storms are dangerous, you should repair any roof leakages before the winter season arrives.

2. Chimney Inspections

Most houses in the US have a fireplace that they plan to use in case of an emergency. To ensure that your fireplace is safe to use, it is necessary to have it inspected each year by a professional fireplace company. This lessens the risk of a fire in your home in case the chimney had been blocked.

3. Install Smoke Detectors

Lighting up a fire in the fireplace in your home can lead to collection of carbon monoxide in the air. To avoid gas poisoning during extreme temperatures caused by a winter storm, it is necessary to have a smoke detector or a carbon monoxide detector inside the house, near the fireplace. Other precautionary measures relating to a fire emergency include having a working fire extinguisher available at home and keeping all burning equipment such as coal or oil outside the house.

4. Have an Emergency Kit

In case you need to evacuate your house during a heavy winter storm, it is necessary for you to have a pre-prepared emergency kit that you can keep in the car. This kit should include a spare cell phone that is charged, a portable charger, and a battery-powered radio to keep you up to date on the news. Equipment to stay warm such as coats, blankets, and gloves must also be kept in the kit. Since you may have to evacuate your home for quite some time, it is beneficial to have dry snacks inside the kit such as chips or biscuits that do not turn bad. Since your car GPS or phone may shut down during a heavy storm, it is important to include a detailed road map in the kit in order to guide you accordingly. You can also keep a shovel and a windshield scraper in order to cope with the heavy snowfall.

Why Commercial Cleaning is Important for Your Business

8/2/2023 (Permalink)

Commercial cleaning services allow you to outsource all of your cleaning requirements and let the experts handle it. These services have trained, professional cleaners who are sure to leave your entire building looking spotless.

By hiring a cleaning service, you will not only be free of the worry of cleaning your office but will also be able to provide a pleasant and comfortable working environment to all the employees. A neat and clean office is likely to motivate employees into working better.

In contrast, if a workplace has not been cleaned thoroughly, there can be a huge spread of bacteria in the building. This is harmful because it can spread illnesses, thus creating a negative impression about the hygiene and cleanliness of the office.

If you are still unsure about hiring a commercial cleaning service for your office, here are 5 reasons why it is absolutely essential to hire one:

1. Make a Good First Impression

First impressions can go a long way. When a client enters your building with a business proposal, it is important to welcome them into a clean and safe environment. The first thing that a client will judge your company on is the state of the building. If the floors are dirty and the walls are full of debris, the client is likely to become demotivated about working with you. Contrastingly, if the entire building looks clean and smells good, the client will automatically know that you are serious in your business ethic.

2. Outsourcing is Cost Effective

Instead of hiring a cleaning professional in-house, you can gain access to more cleaning services if you choose to outsource the job. You can simply search for a cleaning company that fits your schedule and requirements and hire them accordingly. This allows you to focus on more important things instead of always being worried about having the office cleaned.

3. Boost Office Morale

When you run a business, it is important to keep your employees motivated. Employees are unlikely to be productive when they enter a dirty workplace that has stains on the floor and mold on the walls. If you provide a clean and hygienic work environment instead, employees are likely to be motivated enough to be more productive in their work practices.

4. Prevent Sick Leaves

If you hire a professional cleaning service to thoroughly disinfect your building regularly, there will be no germs passed around the office. This means that your employees are unlikely to fall sick and take any sick leaves. By reducing the number of days that your subordinates do not come to work, you can ensure that they are able to complete more tasks efficiently and on-time.

5. Access to Different Cleaning Services

Outsourcing your cleaning requirements to a professional company means that they will be able to provide more services than an in-house cleaner. This means that apart from regular day-to-day cleaning, you can further contract the company for any repair or remediation services that you may require. This helps you avoid any major damage to the office building.

Ways To Prevent Flood Damage In Your Home

8/2/2023 (Permalink)

No homeowner wants to watch their belongings washed away in one single day. This is why many of them take preventative measures to protect their home from flooding. As a homeowner, you should take these precautions as well.

In the long run, it will protect your property from being prone to water damage and flooding. Here are a few steps you can take to prevent flood damage in your home.

#1. Landscaping

Many people underestimate the power of a landscaping job well done. This is perhaps the best solution for keeping your home safe from flood damage. Keep your landscaping groomed by always keeping your gutters and splash pads clean.

This will ensure that no debris is blocking the flow of water going away from your home. Apart from that, you can utilize a rain barrel to collect the rainwater runoff.

It will protect the rainwater from pooling too much and you can use it for watering plants in your yard and garden.

#2. Monitor The Foundation Of Your Home

This is the most basic maintenance you need to do for your home. Foundations of homes can develop cracks over time. These cracks can let water seep in and this can widen the cracks further.

If the cracks get too wide then your house will be damaged by flooding. So, to protect your home from this you need to monitor your foundation and fill up any cracks with mortar or masonry caulk if they appear.

However, if your foundation continues to have cracks with time then you will need to call a professional to fix this issue as this is the biggest reason for flood damage.

#3. Seal Open Areas Of Your Home

Even if you monitor the foundation and fill the cracks, you still need to seal other areas in your home. These include walls, windows, and doorways.

Give them an extra coat of protection by applying a sealant. This will prevent rainwater from coming into your home. It is the biggest protector of homes from harsh weather conditions.

#4. Install Drain Plugs

This is the most overlooked measure but it is also just as important as any other. That is because your home can be prone to flood damage because of your sewage. If it backs up then it can get clogged which will eventually lead to flood damage.

This is why you should install drain plugs inside the floor drains in your basement. Doing so will ensure that your home doesn't get flooded through the toilet or sinks. Installing drain plugs is an integral component of keeping your home safe from flood damage.

Final Words

These are the top four ways you can utilize to protect your home from extensive flood damage. Taking these preventative measures early on will keep you from having an extensive problem in the future.

If there is any damage in your home and you need restoration then call our experts at SERVPRO. We will be happy to assist you and make sure your home is safe from all sorts of damage. Get in touch with us now.

Ways to Diagnose Water Damage in a Property

8/2/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage is a collective term that is coined to refer multiple impairments that have occurred due to persistent water attacks on a system thus destroying the material through various destructive processes, for instance, decaying of wood, corrosion of steel, mould or bacterial growth and so forth. Thus water damage can be problematic if not diagnosed immediately in its early destructive stages but property owners usually tend to neglect the issue as they reckon it as a consequence of either defective plumbing or may be due to structural defects.

Water damage that we notice is nothing as compared to the internal damage that it has caused the foundations of your property since most water damage begins deep in the walls leading to structural loss hence this can only be repaired by the aid of a trained professional who will not only analyze the issue but will also repair it.

So, here is how we can diagnose if the property has been damaged by water or not:

Dark or Wet Water Blotches:

The first and foremost sign that you should be looking while detecting the water damage is the wet stains of water that are usually found on the walls or ceilings. These yellowish water circlets are very easy to identify as they are quite obvious.

Inflated Drywalls:

At times the dry walls of the house, building or any other property tend to absorb moisture that is present within the walls, due to which they get swollen or simply puff out, therefore, it is imperative to check every wall to inspect for the inflated walls. These inflated walls are another sign indicating severe water damage.

Crumbling Wooden Items:

The most vulnerable material to water damage is wood as the wood fibres tend to swell and shrink. They shrink when discharge water and swell when absorb it. Swollen wood is more liable to crack and crumble down if not fixed instantly, so if you are suddenly observing your wooden furniture or any other wood-based item fractured and swollen thus you need to get it fixed promptly before this water leakage is successful in dilapidating it.

Tattered Walls:

Tattered or run-down walls are another clue for water damage. Excessive moisture within the walls makes the paint clammy and damp thus slowly and gradually, the paint starts peeling off or in some areas, it bubbles out. So if you notice patched walls or discoloured and bumping paint do not hesitate in calling water damage control department.

Mould and Bacterial Growth:

One major signal that screams "water damage" is the growth of moulds, bacteria and other minute viable organisms on your property. Apart from damaging your stuff, they are also a threat to your life since they may pose some fatal health issues. Mould and bacterial growth simply tell you that the water damage is severe and needs to be examined properly.

Some numerous signs and indications may signal for water damage, some can be easily identified like the dampness of the walls, fractured ceilings while some require a professional's expertise to resolve the matter for instance terrible exterior etc. whatever the cause is, water damage is an alarming issue that must not be left unnoticed. 

Water Damage Restoration Tips And Tricks

8/2/2023 (Permalink)

Has your home or office experienced any water damage? Taking immediate action will only minimize the damage further. This is why you need to take action as soon as possible. Even though you need the services of experts in water damage remediation, there are many things that you can do yourself to minimize the loss. So, if your property has been damaged by water you need to follow some tricks and tips. Following these tips will ensure that the damage is minimized and will also ensure the safety of people present on the site. Want to know what these tips and tricks are? Keep reading then.

Dry Out The Affected Area

To minimize the damage, you must dry out the affected area as soon as possible. The presence of moisture in the affected area will only damage it further. This is why you need to be as thorough as possible. In smaller spaces, you can use fans to dry out the area affected by water. But, fans will not be effective in large spaces. So, if you need to dry out the larger space you can rent a large capacity dehumidifier.

Disinfect The Area

Once the area has been dried out and the damaged components have been removed, you need to disinfect the whole area before you start using it. Disinfecting the area is important so that the mold does not grow there. There are many ways through which you can disinfect the area but mostly bleach is used by the people. If you are not comfortable with using bleach, there are many other options that you can use instead.

Repair The Ceiling First

The ceilings that are damaged with water are riskier than other areas. This is why you need to repair them first or else they will collapse. If the damage is beyond control, you will need to remove the affected ceiling or boards. If it is repairable, then you can repair it as well. To repair the leaking ceiling, you must find the source of the leak first. Meanwhile, you need to make sure that the water does not cause any structural damage to your property.

Replace Damaged Wood

The wood that has been damaged by water will rot and develop mold on it. This is why it needs to be replaced as soon as possible. But, before replacing the damaged woods, you need to thoroughly clean the area beneath the wood. Also, you need to be careful about the placement as well and make sure that the structure has the right support.

Contact Professionals

The professionals can take of your damaged property in ways that you cannot do it yourself. So, if your property has been damaged by water, it is advisable that you avail the services of a professional company that can restore the place to its original form.

If your property has been damaged by water, you should take immediate action to restore the place back to its original form. It is an extremely important job that needs expert supervision. So, if you are looking for a team of professionals that would take care of your property, you must contact SERVPRO and avail the professional services.

Top 5 Causes Of Commercial Water Damage

8/2/2023 (Permalink)

Commercial water damage in your business can cause extensive damage. It can cause you to close your business for a while to restore the damage and this can end up causing you a lot of revenue. This is why it is important to understand what causes commercial water damage in the first place.

Once you understand these causes you can take steps to ensure that it doesn’t happen on your property because of these reasons.

#1. Damaged Pipes

This is the biggest cause of commercial water damage. Many factors contribute to the damage of pipes over time. This can include regular changes in pressure and freezing temperatures.

However, you can tell if there is pipe damage as there are signs. If you see water stains on your floor or ceilings or notice a musty smell in an area then this may be a sign that the pipes in your property are damaged.

It is important to call a professional if you see these signs so they can assess and give you an expert opinion.

#2. Roof Damage

Maintaining your roof is an essential part of maintaining your property. Damage on the roof can be caused by many factors such as harsh weather, rain, snow, and destructive winds.

This can cause structural damage and result in leaking water. If this is not detected early on then it can even lead to mold damage and other consequences that come with water damage.

You must regularly keep a check on your roof so that you can maintain it easily.

#3. Fault In Sprinkler Systems

These sprinkler systems have pipes as well that can be damaged which can result in a leak. Extensive leaks can cause water damage to commercial property. Some signs of such water damage include:

• Musty smell
• Wet walls
• Wet carpets
• Standing water
• Mold

These signs indicate that you may have a damaged sprinkler system. Call a professional and address it right away.

#4. Damaged Windows

Regular window maintenance should also be part of your maintenance routine. If the windows don’t have a proper seal or are damaged then water can come inside the commercial property.

Long-term exposure to this can lead to problems such as mold in the building. You have to ensure that all the windows in the property are sealed properly.

#5. Damaged HVAC System

As a business, it is important to provide your employees with a safe and thriving work environment. Part of that responsibility is to maintain clean HVAC systems. If that is not done then they can become damaged which will lead to water damage on the premises.

Final Words

These are the top 5 causes of commercial water damage. Make sure to conduct regular maintenance so these problems can be prevented on your premises.

If there is any such damage then call SERVPRO now. Our experts will ensure professional and skilled restoration of your premises. For more information, feel free to get in touch with us now

Tips To Secure An Affordable Life Insurance Policy

8/2/2023 (Permalink)

Everyone wants to get the best value on their life insurance policy. However, looking for one can be an overwhelming and intimidating process. Of course, it is not impossible as you can make an affordable life insurance policy a reality.

You need to know where to look. Here are a few tips to help you secure an affordable life insurance policy.

#1. Start Young And Healthy

Did you know that the lowest life insurance rates go to applicants that are young and healthy? As your age increases, the rates of the life insurance policy will increase simultaneously. That is because insurance companies give the lowest rates to healthy people as there is less chance of them dying early.

So, for them, young and healthy people are safe customers. That is why you should buy your life insurance policy when you are in your 20s. You will enjoy the lowest rates.

#2. Know The Amount Of Coverage You Need

Many experts say that individuals often underestimate the amount of life insurance they require. They think only about the most important thing that will need to be paid, such as a mortgage or a major debt. However, it would help if you also considered other factors.

If you have a family, your spouse will need help with paying bills, and your children will need support. That is why you should first assess your financial situation and then opt for good coverage. It will help you find an affordable policy that is within your budget.

#3. Never Pay For Unnecessary Riders

Everyone can customize their life insurance policy. That is done with the use of riders, which are add-ons for specific situations. For example, you can add a provision where the policyholder can withdraw some amount from the policy if they become terminally ill.

Just like this, you can add many other riders, such as the option to convert your term life insurance policy to a whole life policy. They can cover all kinds of hypothetical situations. That is why to keep your life insurance policy affordable, you should not add unnecessary riders that you will never need.

#4. Look Around To Get The Best Rates

Thorough research is incredibly important in getting the best life insurance policy rates. Look for all the top insurance companies in your area and compare their policies and rates. The best part is that many insurers now offer quotes online that you can easily get.

So, once you have those, you can go through their policies to understand the best coverage for you at an affordable price. Also, keep an eye out for discounts offered as many insurance companies offer them to their clients from time to time.

Final Words 

Getting an affordable life insurance policy may be challenging, but it is not impossible. Follow this guide for getting the best life insurance rates. If you are looking for a great policy with a fair premium, please get in touch with us now. We will be more than happy to assist you.

Tips To Prevent Basement Flooding

8/2/2023 (Permalink)

Flooding damage is expensive to repair. To save yourself from this cost you must take preventative measures so you don’t end up putting a dent in your pocket.

The main causes of flooding are overflowing gutters, cracks in the foundation, leaky windows, and water seeping into the walls. To make sure that all of this doesn't happen to your home, here are a few measures you can take.

Clean Your Gutters

An inefficient drainage system is the biggest cause of flooding. This is why you must clean your gutters and drainage system and get rid of any debris that may cause a blockage.

This will ensure the water to flow freely and drain efficiently without causing any damage to your home.

Maintain Proper Landscaping

You may be wondering what landscaping has got to do with basement flooding. However, if your hard grades towards your house then you are at a higher risk of basement flooding.

Your home grade needs to be directed away from the house. This is why your lawn should be properly sloped. To fix this problem you can opt for many landscaping solutions that can direct the water away if need be.

Inspect And Repair Any Cracks In Foundation

A small crack in the foundation or a window can cause the entire basement to flood. This is why you must have a routine foundation inspection so that such cracks can be filled and taken care of.

You can inspect it yourself and fill the crack with epoxy. However, if there is still leaking from somewhere then you should call a professional as soon as possible.

Get Window Well Covers Installed

If your basement has windows and they are protected by a well cover then they should be. This is a great way of letting some light into your basement while protecting it from water.

You can get a clear acrylic window well cover to get the most out of them. They will keep any water and pests out from your basement ensuring cleanliness.

Maintain Your Sump Pump 

Failure of sump pump maintenance is also one of the major causes of flooding. This is because a sump pump defends your home against many things such as flooding, mold, other water damage, etc.

However, for it to fulfill all these functions you need to maintain it too. Before any harsh weather conditions or storms, you should always get your sump pump checked.

If there are any problems then they should be quickly fixed so that your home can be prevented from flooding damage.

Final Words

Your home is your investment and your safe place. This is why maintaining it should be your topmost priority. However, if for any reason there is basement flooding or other water damage then you should immediately call a professional.

We offer all kinds of cleaning services and our expertise in this industry is unparalleled. For more information on what we offer, feel free to get in touch with us now!