Recent Mold Remediation Posts

Company That Does Cleanup and Restoration

3/19/2020 (Permalink)

When your home or business is hit with fire damage, water damage, storm damage, or mold damage, it can leave a huge mess on your hands. If it does, you need a company that specializes in cleanup and restoration and can make the damage "Like it never even happened."® SERVPRO® of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties is the company that does cleanup and restoration. In fact, our heroes specialize in it.  

There’s never a convenient time for flooding or storm damage to strike your home or business. Storms and inclement weather can be devastating to your property. Wind damage, heavy rain, and flooding can occur suddenly and cause substantial damage in a matter of minutes. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. But our experienced cleanup and restoration specialists at SERVPRO® of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties can help you gain back that time. 

Our cleanup and restoration process is unparalleled. SERVPRO® is a Franchise System with over 50 years of leadership in fire and water cleanup and restoration. That’s half a century of experience. Our track record of results has earned us the trust of the insurance industry, countless homeowners, commercial property managers and in one unforgettable instance -- the Pentagon. 

Don’t let fire damage, water damage, storm damage or mold damage get you down in a slump. Because there is a company that can come to your rescue.  

7 reasons why you should choose SERVPRO®:  

  1. Helps you save time and money.
  2. Responds faster to any size disaster. 
  3. Uses advanced technology to get your property back to its preloss condition.
  4. Communicates the processes to the customer so he or she is in-the-know. 
  5. Handles the job efficiently and effectively from start to finish. 
  6. Utilizes our national resources to better serve you and get you back in business or your home quicker.
  7. Makes the damage "Like it never even happened."® 

When your home or business is hit with damage, you need a company that does cleanup and restoration. You need SERVPRO® of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties. For your commercial restoration needs in Cape Girardeau, Sikeston, Scott City, Charleston, Marble Hill, Jackson, Perryville, Chaffee, East Prairie or Benton, Missouri, you can rely on the experts at SERVPRO® of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties. Will you contact us for your next cleanup and/or restoration job? We’re just a phone call away. Call 573-339-1948.

3 Facts About Mold

2/20/2020 (Permalink)

When there’s water damage, another issue can arise: mold damage. And that can affect your residential and/or commercial property in a big way. If this happens, SERVPRO® of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties can make the damage “Like it never even happened.” It’s good to learn about mold. Here are three facts about mold.  

3 facts about mold damage 

  1. Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
  2. 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.
  3. Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.

There are many other things you should know about mold. In fact, we encourage you to test your knowledge when it comes to mold damage. Take this quiz now to see just how much you know.  

Confusion and misunderstanding surround the topic of mold and mold remediation. Some restoration businesses even make claims to remove all mold from a building. This is a fallacy. Mold spores occur naturally almost everywhere, both indoors and outdoors.


When there’s mold damage at your home or business, count on the company that fits the “mold!” SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties is your professional local mold remediation and restoration company. Our heroes specialize in mold remediation. Contact us if you have a mold problem. Call 573-339-1948 for your solution.

Difference in Mold Damage and Mildew Damage

8/15/2019 (Permalink)

Have you ever wondered, “What is the difference in mold damage and mildew damage?” Both can have similar characteristics, but they are far from being the same. Don’t confuse mold with mildew. SERVPRO® of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties can help educate you on this topic. 

Here are some similarities and differences in mold and mildew: 

Similarities:

  • Keen on moisture
  • Can grow on surfaces (food, shower, walls, etc.)
  • Both are a fungi 

Differences:

  • Size
  • Color
  • Texture 

According to HGTV, “mildew is a surface fungi that can easily be identified as a patch of gray or even white fungus that is lying on the surface of a moist area. Mildew is easily treated with a store-bought cleaner and a scrubbing brush.”

“Mold, on the other hand, can be black or green and is often the result of a much larger infestation. This type of fungus can appear almost "fuzzy" — especially when it is found on food — or even slimy in nature.”

Speaking of mold, a common misconception that many people have is that bleach can kill mold. This is a myth. 

Something else we’d like to educate you on is mold removal and mold remediation. There are clear differences. If you spot signs of mold, you’ll want to get a professional out to your home or business as quickly as possible. Because mold growth can start in as little as 48 hours. 


Now that you know the difference in mold damage and mildew damage, if you happen to have mold damage at your residential or commercial property, count on the heroes of SERVPRO® of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties, who are your local mold remediation and restoration specialists. When you’re ready for us to make that damage Like it never even happened,® just contact us. Or give us a call at 573-339-1948.

A Common Misconception: Bleach + Mold

6/5/2019 (Permalink)

Have you ever wondered or Googled, “Does bleach kill mold?” Contrary to popular belief and your findings, bleach does NOT kill mold. Bleach can actually contribute to mold growth. The trusted and experienced mold remediation and restoration company, SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties, is here to educate you on this topic: a common misconception: bleach + mold.

As stated above, bleach can contribute to mold growth. If you suspect mold at your residential or commercial property, please know that bleach is not the solution. It may seem like an inexpensive way to remediate your mold problem, but, with the use of bleach, you could be causing more harm than good. Besides, bleach loses its effectiveness over a period of time.    

Here are some other frequently asked questions (FAQ) surrounded around mold:

  • Where are molds found?
  • How do I test for mold?
  • What are some common indoor molds?

And the list of questions goes on. Get those answers to the aforementioned questions and more here.

Confusion and misunderstanding surround the topic of mold and mold remediation. Some restoration businesses even make claims to remove all mold from a building. This is a fallacy. Here at SERVPRO® of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties, our heroes are trained mold damage specialists who get started quickly to get your home or business back to normal, with specific training and certifications to handle your restoration needs. Our advanced equipment helps to detect and stop the source of water feeding the mold. We then isolate the affected area using a negative air pressure chamber.

The best way to combat a common misconception is to educate yourself, immerse yourself in that subject.

10 facts about mold:

  • Mold infestation can quickly arise and spread throughout a home in 48-72 hours.
  • Mold is present almost everywhere -- both indoors and outdoors.
  • Mold spores are microscopic.
  • 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 to possible mold problem areas.
  • Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.
  • Microscopic spores serve as a conduit, which allow those spores to float along in the air and enter a home or business through windows and HVAC systems. They can even hitch a ride from your pets and travel indoors.
  • Mold comes in many colors and shapes.
  • “The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Institute of Medicine of the U.S. National Academy of Sciences, the World Health Organization and Health Canada all agree that living or working in a building with mold damage results in increased risk of respiratory disease.” Learn more here.

Mold can produce allergens and irritants. You will want a professional who has training and experience to properly resolve the mold infestation. If you suspect that your residential or commercial property has a mold problem, SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties fits the mold and can inspect, assess and remediate your property.

Now that you’ve been educated on this topic: a common misconception: bleach + mold, will you give us your next mold restoration job? Call the mold specialists at 573-339-1948. We’ll make that mold damage at your home or business "Like it never even happened."

How Do I Know If I Have Mold Damage In My Home Or Business

5/8/2019 (Permalink)

Sore throat? Stuffy nose? Coughing? Asthma attacks? Do you currently have any of these symptoms? Have you ever wondered, “How do I know if I have mold damage in my home or business?” Well, those are just a few signs that could be signs of mold damage. SERVPRO® of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties is your experienced mold remediation and restoration specialists.  

Mold damage isn’t always visible to the eye. And, contrary to popular belief, it’s not always green. Test your mold damage knowledge.

If your residential or commercial property has been affected by floodwaters, there’s a high probability of mold damage, especially if you didn’t act quickly. Once water comes in contact with your furniture, carpets, etc., mold can set in. Excess moisture and standing water are the culprits of mold damage. Mold damage can occur in as little as 48-72 hours. And not only is mold bad for your belongings, but it can also cause health effects. It’s vital you address the issue quickly and have highly trained professional mold remediation technicians on-site immediately to remediate the problem.    

Did you know mold is omnipresent? Mold is everywhere. And did you realize when it’s a gorgeous day outside, and you decide to open the windows to bring the outdoors indoors, you are inviting mold into your home or business? And it can attach to yourself, your clothing or your shoes. Once mold has made its way inside, it can grow in your walls, carpeting, upholstery and more.

Here are 3 signs to help you answer the question: How do I know if I have mold damage in my home or business:

Symptoms

If you’ve had a sore throat, stuffy nose, a coughing attack, wheezing, red eyes, itchy skin, nosebleeds, or an asthma attack in the past -- or if you currently have these symptoms -- that could be a sign of potential mold damage. If you’ve had these symptoms, your first order of business may have been to visit the doctor to be prescribed medication to get better. If these symptoms persist, that could be a sign of mold damage. While we don’t test for mold, we do remediate it.

Musty Smell

Do you have a damp, musty smell in your home or business? A smell that’s just off and doesn’t seem quite right? The smell can be comparable to the whiff you get when you open an old book. Guess what that could be another sign of? Mold damage. Depending on the type of mold damage, and other factors, it can have a different smell. Furthermore, some people can’t even smell it.

Discoloration On Your Walls, Belongings

Do you notice discoloration on your walls or belongings? Maybe a circular, oblong or elongated shape that wasn’t originally there? Again, a sign of potential mold damage. Perhaps, do you notice spots on your walls like this? Or moldy spots on your furniture like this? Or maybe you have something on your instruments like this? Or, if you’re in a commercial space, does your signage or structure have spots like this? All of those are signs of mold damage. But, our heroes at SERVPRO® of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties effectively remediated the mold problem, and we can do the same for you.


If you have mold damage at your residential or commercial property, understanding the mold remediation process can provide you great insight. SERVPRO® of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties is your professional local mold remediation and restoration company. Our team of heroes specializes in mold remediation. When your Cape Girardeau, Sikeston, Scott City, Charleston, Marble Hill, Jackson, Perryville, Chaffee, East Prairie or Benton, Missouri, home or business suffers a water damage event, we’ll be there to make it Like it never even happened.® No need to continue to wonder, “How do I know if I have mold damage in my home or business?!” Just call the mold remediation and restoration professionals at 573-339-1948.  

Mold Damage Emergency Tips

3/19/2019 (Permalink)

Forty-eight hours. In just two short days, mold can quickly spread throughout your residential or commercial property. If you have a mold problem at your home or business, follow these mold damage emergency tips. SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties fits the “mold” when it comes to mold remediation.

Test your knowledge to see just how much -- or how little -- you know about mold.

MYTH 1

Mold is harmless.

MYTH 2

Bleach kills mold.

FACT 1

Mold is nearly omnipresent -- both indoors and outdoors.

FACT 2

Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed; otherwise, the mold may return.

It’s important to distinguish myths from facts, especially when it relates to mold damage.

We want to provide you these valuable mold damage emergency tips just in case your home or business has a mold problem. If it does, we’ll be your solution.

What to do:

  • Stay out of affected areas.
  • Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
  • Contact SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties 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.

Mold infestation can quickly arise and spread throughout a home in 48-72 hours. Because mold can produce allergens and irritants, you will want a professional who has training and experience to properly resolve the mold infestation.

SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties is your professional local mold remediation and restoration company. Our team of heroes specializes in mold remediation. When your Cape Girardeau, Sikeston, Scott City, Charleston, Marble Hill, Jackson, Perryville, Chaffee, East Prairie or Benton, Missouri, home or business suffers a water damage event, that results in mold, give the mold pros a call at 573-339-1948.

Mold Remediation

2/21/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties' mold remediation specialists can remediate that mold problem at your home and business.

What is mold remediation? According to Google, mold remediation is defined as “the removal, cleaning, sanitizing, demolition, or other treatment, including preventive activities, of mold or mold-contaminated matter that was not purposely grown at that location.” When mold is present in your home or business, it poses an insidious issue, but with the SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties’ mold remediation specialists, we effectively remediate the mold and mold spores at your residential and commercial properties.

If you suffer from asthma attacks, allergic reactions, or chronic sinus problems, we advise you to be extremely careful and cognizant. Mold spores can trigger any of those. Furthermore, fatigue and depression can be another problem that mold can affect.

Mold occurs in damp areas. When there is a torrential downpour, you want to be on the lookout for not just water damage, but also for mold damage. Mold is omnipresent; however, there are dangerous levels of mold. If there is copious amounts of mold in your home or business, that can pose serious health issues for you, your family, loved ones, and even your pets. Moreover, mold can affect your possessions and the structure of your home or business -- your investment -- what you’ve worked so hard for over the years, perhaps decades.       

When your Cape Girardeau, Sikeston, Scott City, Charleston, Marble Hill, Jackson, Perryville, Chaffee, East Prairie or Benton, Missouri, home or business suffers a water damage event, a mold infestation can quickly arise and spread throughout a home in 48-72 hours. Because mold can produce allergens and irritants, you will want a professional, like our heroes here at SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties, who has training and experience to properly resolve the mold infestation.

SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties is your professional local mold remediation and restoration company. Our team of heroes specializes in mold remediation. If you suspect that your residential or commercial property has a mold problem, contact us anytime. SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties can inspect, assess and remediate your property. We fit the “mold!” Just give us a call at 573-339-1948.

3 Common Types of Mold in Homes

10/24/2018 (Permalink)

If your home or business has a mold problem, SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties has an effective mold remediation and restoration solution.

Do you know the 3 most common types of mold in homes? They are Aspergillus, Cladosporium and Stachybotrys Atra -- more commonly known as Black Mold.

Mold can come in a variety of colors, such as black, white, green, and orange. SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties is well aware of the different types of molds, and we want to educate you on each so you can easily identify them.

Aside from specializing in fire & water damage, SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties also specializes in mold remediation and restoration. Our team of heroes are highly trained and qualified mold remediation technicians.  

Beware of the 3 most common types of mold in homes:

Aspergillus

Have you ever noticed mold on your food or in your home air conditioning system? If so, this is referred to as Aspergillus. This is a fairly allergenic mold. Aspergillus resides in the environment. It can be both indoors and outdoors. And, believe it or not, a majority of people breathe in fungal spores on a daily basis. Reference this resource to learn more about this type of mold.

Cladosporium

If you’ve spotted a black or green pepper-like substance on the back of your toilets, painted surfaces or fiberglass air ducts, etc., this type of mold is called Cladosporium. Although non-toxic to human beings, this type of mold can trigger a myriad of common allergy symptoms (i.e. red and watery eyes, rashes and even a sore throat). Find out the identification of this type of mold, places it can be found in your home and more by reading here.

Stachybotrys Atra (Black Mold)

Stachybotrys Atra, also known as Black Mold, can be highly dangerous, sometimes fatal. This causes a concern for people and can cause fear. It’s pertinent you learn how to properly identify this type of mold. Learn about the facts of this type of mold and more here.

Every homeowner or business owner should be aware of the 3 common types of mold in homes. As a result of water damage, your home or business can also have mold damage. A lot of times, a long period of time can lapse before you even realize there’s mold present. That’s where SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties steps in. We have specialized mold remediation equipment to help resolve this issue. Next time you’re hit with a water damage, call us, for good measure, to also check for mold damage. Because if it’s not addressed immediately, you can have an even bigger -- and more expensive -- issue on your hands. We fit the “mold” when it comes to mold remediation and restoration. Call us today: 573-339-1948.

How to Manage Mold at Your Residential or Commercial Property

8/16/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPROs highly trained mold remediation technicians get to the bottom of your mold problem.

Did you know molds are omnipresent? It’s true. They are found in every environment. It’s important to keep yourself safe from the 100,000 kinds of fungi that have been identified. Mold can be a big issue -- and harmful -- to any residential and/or commercial property. Mold spores reproduce swiftly when moisture is present. A result of high humidity and excessive dampness indoors can result in the production of molds and other organisms. That’s why it is crucial you keep your indoor contents as dry as possible. At the first sign of mold, you want to take immediate action to prevent the spread of it. And that’s where we step in to help you. SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties helps your residential or commercial property with mold prevention, mold remediation and mold mitigation.

If dampness indoors isn’t address immediately, it could potentially cause a public health issue. Some possible health effects include:

- Runny nose

- Sneezing

- Coughing

- Aggravation of asthma

- Sore throat

- Inflammation of the sinuses

Aside from the aforementioned, there are other mold symptoms and health effects as a result of mold. It’s important you know the signs and to know when to seek professional help.  

Sure, there are ordinary molds out there that can benefit you; however, there are molds out there that can be extremely harmful to you, your health, your family and family’s health. And the intrusion of water in your home or business can yield in mold growth, which is an unhealthy mold. Anytime your home or business is hit with a storm, you certainly want to check for any signs of mold, get the issue addressed immediately by professionals, as mold can multiply rapidly. Immediacy is key here, because if you prolong the issue, you can foresee more problems on your hand, causing more costly repairs down the road. Addressing it immediately is a much more cost-effective option.

If you are experiencing any of the aforementioned health effects, as a result of mold, seek professional help immediately. Go with the mold professionals who can get your property back to “Like it never even happened.” Protect your investment. Protect yourself. Protect your health. Protect your family. Protect your family’s health. We can help you protect all of that and more. You can feel confident that we fit the “mold” as a trusted leader in the mold and water restoration industry. Call SERVPRO today: 573-339-1948.

Defense Against Mold Growth

7/31/2018 (Permalink)

Prompt Mitigation is vital to avoid mold growth, which can be visible in as little as 24 to 48 hours under certain conditions.

What Can You Do to Fight Mold Growth?

  • Keep the humidity between 30 to 60 percent.
  • Provide for proper drainage away from building foundations.
  • Regularly inspect plumbing and appliances for leaks.
  • Keep gutters and drains clear of debris.
  • Inspect the roof, windows and other areas where water might enter the building and perform necessary maintenance.
  • Respond to all water intrusions immediately.
  • Contact SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties Professionals for assistance after a water damage or if you discover mold.

The Professionals at SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties are trained in mold mitigation and remediation. We will help make it "Like it never even happened."

You might have a mold problem if...

6/20/2018 (Permalink)

Have a mold problem in Scott City or Benton? We can take care of that.

SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties handles water damages every day. We know that prompt action is required to prevent mold growth. Water damages are not the only red flags for opportunity for mold growth, though.

When to Suspect Mold Growth

If there is an ongoing moisture problem in the building, be alert for:

  • The presence of visible mold.
  • Strong musty odors, which may indicate mold is present.
  • Any evidence of past moisture problems that might have caused undetected mold growth.
  • Excessive humidity.

That’s me, now what?

These conditions may require the expertise of a qualified Indoor Air Quality/Environmental Professional to inspect the building for mold growth and water damage problems. When you’re ready for action, call SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties at 573-339-1948, and we will remediate your mold and help give you peace of mind.

Realtors: Dealing with Mold

5/8/2018 (Permalink)

As a realtor, you work hard at finding people a place they can call home. You also work hard at presenting less-than-desirable houses in a way that suddenly appears like home to someone else. In doing so, sometimes mold is one of the battles you pursue. At SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties, we want to help you.

Be an Informed Resource

Molds are found in every environment, and mold spores reduce rapidly when moisture is present. An Institute of Medicine study found excessive dampness indoors encourages the growth of molds and other organisms, causing a public health problem. The EPA advised that the potential health concerns from molds are an important reason to prevent moisture problems leading to mold growth. It is especially important to clean up existing indoor mold growth to increase property appeal and retain its value. If a property has experienced a water intrusion, SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties can inspect the damage to see whether moisture has penetrated materials or is allowing mold growth.

Control Moisture - Reduce Mold

Prior to listing a property, the following steps can be taken to reduce the potential for moisture buildup or mold growth. Should a damage event occur, timely response is the key to preventing further damage--act within the first 24 to 48 hours.

  • Correct any water leaks or standing water
  • Remove standing water under cooling coils or air handling units
  • Properly maintain humidifiers, if used
  • Replace wet or visibly moldy insulation materials
  • Steam cleaning and other methods involving moisture should not be used on any kind of duct work
  • Install a ventialation system

Moldy March Madness

3/20/2018 (Permalink)

We know your bracket is probably busted, but has your water pipe ever been busted? Have you ever had a leak? Was it properly restored and dried out? If not, you might have a mold issue. As Spring arrives and warmer weather returns, it’s the perfect opportunity for mold to harvest and grow.

The good news, is that there is a professional mold remediation company near you: SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties.

Mold is no issue for SERVPRO®. We are trained in how to take care of mold on your property.

As if the pollen that comes with spring isn’t bad enough for allergies, mold can also be a contributor. Don’t have a moldy March that leads to April allergies. Give us a call at 573-339-1948, and we will help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Is There Mold Lurking in your Ducts?

2/22/2018 (Permalink)

Is there a musty smell when you turn on your HVAC system? If so, listen up.

Mold can easily spread through your ducts, vents, and HVAC system, leaving a nasty haze of mold that you can smell all over the house. If you're running a business, your customers could smell it too- which is why you should always call our service professionals to deal with the problem as soon as possible.  

How Does Mold Get in The HVAC System? 

Mold damage in Scott City is no laughing matter. Mold, fungus, and other bacteria are in their perfect environment when they're trapped in your HVAC system. It's dark, warm, moist, closed in, and humid, meaning that spores can grow practically unabated. You'll notice more and more scent as heat and humidity is generated from outside and pulled through your ducts. 

When this moist air gets in your air system, it collects within and above your HVAC units. At this point, the spores of mold and other fungi easily rise through the air, setting up colonies as your condenser forces them up through the duct system. These aren't the only cases of mold that we've seen at SERVPRO; we've seen mold stick to people's clothes or shoes, and it's all brought inside by excess humidity caused by rainfall. 

Tips on How to Remove Mold From Your HVAC System 

1. Continue to clean and maintain your HVAC system, even when you aren't using it. Check the ducts for wet spots, and regularly check and maintain your HVAC filter. 

2. Double check the drainage systems on your HVAC for mold. Allow for "dry-out" areas where the drainage comes out to prevent excess moisture. 

3. Get dehumidifiers for your home. They are ideal for collecting excess humidity, and they help with the temperature inside your house, too. 

4. Always insulate your pipes, walls, and ceilings. Use caulking for cracks to control cracks and leaks. 

5. Contrary to common beliefs, keep your windows closed when it's hot outside. Humidity, dust, and dampness easily travel inside. 

Don't hesitate to call SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties. We are the nearest SERVPRO® to your Scott City home and can take care of your mold remediation.

Moldy Contents

10/23/2017 (Permalink)

Are your belongings covered with mold?

Moldy contents are more common than you might think. Especially if your belongings have been stored in a storage unit that does not have regulated temperature. This could even include a basement.

Here to Help

At SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties, we clean and remediate more than just moldy structures, we can restore your contents, too.  We can clean contents onsite or perform a move-out/pack-out.

How We Remediate Mold

Our goal is to restore your property so that you don’t have to replace it. We have multiple techniques that we can use to clean your contents:

  • Dry Cleaning
  • Wet Cleaning
  • Spray and Wipe
  • Foam Cleaning
  • Abrasive Cleaning
  • Immersion Cleaning

Call Now

Call our office at 573-339-1948 today for a free estimate. We primarily service Cape Girardeau County, Scott County, Bollinger County, Mississippi County, and Perry County.

Mold Problem in East Prairie?

9/20/2017 (Permalink)

We service all of Mississippi County. Call 573-339-1948.

SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties will service your East Prairie property that is suffering from mold damage. Mold is present almost everywhere all the time. However, there are times that mold grows to be too much to handle. That’s when you call us.

Mold thrives in moist areas. When mold grows too much, it can cause allergy and other irritant problems. So if you are starting to develop allergy problems in your East Prairie home or office, maybe it’s time to call SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties.

If you have a high indoor humidity, maybe you need to get your HVAC system inspected. It’s recommended that you keep your indoor humidity at 45% or less.

Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties to remediate your mold problem in East Prairie.

What’s that Musty Smell?

8/11/2017 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties to get rid of your musty odor.

It’s August. In Missouri, that means it’s HOT. What makes our Missouri heat so miserable? The humidity. What loves humidity?

Mold.

Yep. Maybe your AC unit has been cranked up and accidentally causing extra condensation. Or maybe you were affected by the spring floods and the structure wasn’t dried properly. These two culprits are just a few of what may be causing that musty smell in your home or business. The heat combined with the high humidity means optimal conditions for mold to grow.

If you start smelling a musty odor, you may have mold. Give SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties a call. Our professionals will come out and remediate your mold so you can breathe fresh air again. Call our office at 573-339-1948 for a free estimate!

Moving? What About Mold in the Home?

7/13/2017 (Permalink)

No one wants mold in their home. If you think you have a mold problem in your heartland home, give us a call.

Are you buying or selling a house with mold in it? If so, SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties can help you remediate that mold.

Selling a Home with Mold

In Missouri, the only required disclosures an owner is required to make about their home is about its criminal history. However, trying to sell a home with mold lessens the value of your home and can make it more difficult to sell. Therefore, remediating the mold prior to selling may be a better option. That’s where SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties comes into play. We have a procedure and the right chemicals to cleanup mold issues and better prepare your home for the market. Many homeowners decide to fill out the Missouri Association of Realtor’s Seller’s Disclosure Statement for Residential Property that reveals whether the house has had any mold issues. This upfront honesty with the buyer can be valuable, even if the professionals at SERVPRO® have already remediated the mold.

Buying a Home with Mold

Are you looking for your dream home? A first home? A fixer upper? No matter what your motives, know that purchasing a house that contains mold can not only cause health problems, but can prove to be costly either upfront or down the road. If there is visible mold in the house, know that remediating mold can end up being expensive depending on the extent of the issue. So a “cheap find,” might not end up being so cheap after all. When you walk through a potential home, keep your eyes out for various signs and locations of mold:

  • Check for water stains on walls/ceilings
  • Check for standing water
  • Be mindful of a musty odor and/or high humidity
  • Check behind/underneath appliances that have water pipe connections
  • Carefully investigate basements and crawlspaces
  • Any other dark, damp places

Visit our Mold Page for more information to help you identify your situation.

I think I have mold, now what?

If you believe there is a mold problem, call SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties at 573-339-1948. We can send someone out and give you a free estimate of what it would take to remediate the suspicious growth. We do not perform tests, but we can still follow the standard mold procedures to clean it up. If you want the suspicious growth tested and identified, then you must also call an Industrial Hygienist to come perform a test.

It’s that time of year where the heat and humidity is strong in the Heartland—which means that musty smell may be strong, too! If you suffered from any storm damage from the Perryville Tornado this spring or live in areas like Scott City, Kelso, Benton, or other areas prone to flooding, mold may be an issue. Don’t panic, just give the professionals at SERVPRO® of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties a call because we are always here to help. Happy House Hunting!

Understanding Mold

8/29/2016 (Permalink)

In time, mold will appear on the outside of the wall as a stain or discoloration.

Mold can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any organic substance, as long as moisture and oxygen are present. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, foods, and insulation. Molds reproduce by making spores that usually cannot be seen without magnification. Mold spores waft through the indoor and outdoor air continually. When mold spores land on a damp spot indoors, they may begin growing and digesting whatever they are growing on in order to survive. Molds gradually destroy the things they grow on. Bacteria can start to grow within hours and mold can start to grow within days. Mold spores can lay dormant for years until an ideal growing condition develops, in which they start to flourish. Especially during the summer, the warm humid conditions are a perfect microenvironment for mold growth. When excessive moisture accumulates in buildings or on building materials, mold growth will often occur—particularly if the moisture problem remains undiscovered or unaddressed. It is impossible to eliminate all molds and mold spores in an indoor environment. However, mold growth can be controlled indoors by controlling the moisture.

Why Mold Remediation?

All molds have the potential to cause serious health effects. The purpose of mold remediation is to remove the mold to prevent human exposure and damage to building materials and furnishings. It is necessary to clean up mold contamination, not just kill it. Dead mold is still allergenic, and some dead molds are still potentially toxic! Applying the appropriate restoration procedures within the first few hours of a water loss can save thousands of dollars in secondary damage. Before the growth of mold becomes visible, there will be a faint musty or earthy smell. In time, mold will appear on the outside of the wall as a stain or discoloration.

What can SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties do for you?

In a standard situation, SERVPRO® Professionals examine the structure for any visible signs of mold and remove the mold growth and excess spores returning the area back to normal levels. Some situations require the assistance of an Indoor Air Quality/Environmental Professional (IEP) with specialized equipment and services needed to assess and/or repair the structure. IEPs can test and clear a structure for mold by collecting air and surface samples. Then they can determine whether the mold has been successfully decontaminated.

If you suspect they have a mold problem in their home or business, call SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties. We handle mold remediation work on a daily basis and know when prompt action is required to prevent further mold growth. In the event mold is found on a property, the homeowner or business owner will be asked to approve and sign a work authorization form prior to remediation and cleanup work beginning. If extensive mold growth is present, it may be recommended that occupants leave the affected area until the containment process is safely and successfully completed.

SERVPRO® Professionals are trained to control microbial problems in structures by promptly drying wet or damp materials according to the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) standards and removing or replacing wet or damp porous materials, like drywall, that have visible mold growth.

Don’t let mold take over your home or business and control your life. Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties at (573) 339-1948 today.

Does Your Southeast Missouri Home Have A Mold Problem

7/25/2016 (Permalink)

In Southeast Missouri, mold can spread through a home in as little as 48 hours.

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 – (573) 339-1948