Do you work with my insurance?

Yes, we work with insurance companies- we are trained in their specialized claim process. Typically, when a homeowner decides to put in a claim for a covered loss you sign our contract and a Direction to Pay and from there we deal with your insurance adjuster. We offer 24 Hour Emergency services for water damage, sink overflow, dishwasher leaks, hot water tank let go, pipe bursts, tub overflow, sewer backup, puff backs, kitchen fires, and soot damage.

Do you offer hazardous waste clean up?

Yes, we offer sewer back up clean up, blood and toxic fluids clean up.

What hours are you avaiable?

We are available 24/7 for emergency services and operate every day of the week. Our emergency contact number is (888) 585-9838.

Mold: Separating Myth from Fact - South Shore Restoration

The Truth About Mold: Separating Myth from Fact

Mold. The name itself brings images of a sinister, lurking threat in our homes. News stories often paint a picture of mold as an omnipresent public health hazard. But is this reputation entirely deserved? Or it can be not as bad as we think of it? Let’s try to separate myth from fact when it comes to mold.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), around 50% of all homes in the United States have had at least one mold problem.

Myth #1: Black Mold is the Only Dangerous Mold

Busted: Black mold, often referred to as Stachybotrys chartarum, certainly gets a lot of bad press. While some strains can produce toxins that irritate the respiratory system, it’s important to understand that not all black mold is equally dangerous. Many other types of mold can appear black, and some may be relatively harmless. The key takeaway? While black mold shouldn’t be ignored, its presence doesn’t automatically mean a full-blown health hazard.

Myth #2: The Color of Mold Tells You Everything About Its Toxicity

Busted: Mold comes in a rainbow of colors – green, white, yellow, brown, and even red – and the color itself is not a definitive indicator of its toxicity. While some generalizations can be made, it’s not foolproof. For example, green mold is often associated with common allergy triggers, but some green mold varieties pose minimal health risks. Similarly, while some strains of black or yellow mold can be dangerous, others may not be. There are labs that do testing for the type of mold, because it is hard to tell the type of mold present in your home just by looking at it.

Myth #3: You Can Easily Identify Mold by Color Alone

Busted: Unfortunately, identifying mold solely based on color can be tricky. Many types of mold share similar color spectrums, and some harmless molds can even mimic the appearance of more dangerous varieties. Relying solely on visual inspection is not recommended. If you suspect mold growth, especially if it covers a large area, professional testing is the best course of action for accurate identification and potential health risks.

Myth #4: Any Mold Color Requires Immediate Evacuation

Busted: While mold growth in your home warrants attention, it doesn’t necessarily mean you need to pack your bags and flee. For small mold patches (less than 10 square feet), especially if you can identify it as a non-toxic variety, you might be able to tackle it yourself with proper precautions (gloves, mask, ventilation) using a solution of diluted bleach or vinegar. However, for larger areas or any mold suspected to be hazardous, professional remediation becomes crucial.

Living with Black Mold: Taking Precautions

While black mold may not be the ultimate health nightmare it’s often portrayed as, it’s still wise to take steps to prevent its growth and minimize exposure. Here are some key strategies:

Maintain a Low Humidity Level: This is the most crucial step. Aim to keep the humidity level in your home between 30% and 50%. Use dehumidifiers in damp areas like basements and bathrooms.
Fix Leaks Promptly: Address any plumbing leaks or roof leaks as soon as possible to prevent moisture buildup. Leaks can lead to humidity and then it becomes perfect environment for mold.
Increase Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation in your bathroom and kitchen to remove excess moisture. Consider installing fans or just open your windows often (unless it’s very humid outside)
Clean Up Spills Immediately: Don’t let water sit for extended periods. Clean up spills and damp areas promptly.
Monitor Mold Growth: Regularly inspect areas prone to moisture buildup, like around sinks, bathtubs, and behind appliances.

Be Aware, Not Scared

Understanding the different types of mold and their potential health risks is essential. However, focusing solely on color or simply presence of mold can lead to unnecessary panic. If you discover mold growth in your home, the key is to act promptly and don’t just walk away from it. For small areas, consider DIY removal with proper precautions. For larger areas or any suspected hazardous mold, consult us, a professional mold remediation company, for safe and effective removal. Most importantly, remember that prevention is key. Maintaining low humidity levels, addressing moisture issues promptly, and ensuring proper ventilation can significantly reduce the risk of any unwanted mold guests taking up residence in your home.