Effective containment is a critical first step before any structure restoration can take place. The specific problem must be determined and measures taken for containment to prevent damage from spreading to other areas. Depending on the type of disaster that’s befallen a home or business, restoration professionals can encounter a number of toxins and pathogens.

Restoration experts can encounter pathogens that include mold, bacteria, asbestos and lead. The particles are very small, easily moved around by even the smallest of air currents, and can spread to contaminate other areas. There are specific protocols for effective containment depending on the type of contaminants that are present. Effective containment includes identifying the exact source of the contamination and eliminating it.

Containment shortens the restoration time and reduces the amount of damage to homes and businesses. It also provides a cleaner and healthier environment for restoration workers, families and employees. Containment reduces liability for the property owner, aids in maintaining property value, and provides documentation for insurance companies.

Just because property owners can’t see the damage doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist. There are a variety of specialized tools, techniques and methods that restoration professionals can use to contain contaminates, remove them safety, and dispose of them in a prescribed manner. It’s an essential protocol that restoration specialists follow to prevent exposure to potentially dangerous toxins.

Restoration experts are specially trained in containment and removal protocols that adhere to state and federal regulations. It’s one of the many reasons why the services of a restoration company are important. Building contractors aren’t trained in contaminant identification, containment and eradication.

Without containment measures after a fire, flood or other disaster, contaminants will spread throughout a structure and stay there indefinitely. Smoke from fires spread soot that contain carcinogens, while water damage often leads to mold growth that’s especially detrimental to those with respiratory problems.

Headquartered in Boca Raton, Florida Rapid Restoration is South Florida’s #1 restoration company in the disaster relief industry. With 24/7 emergency services we have provided thousands of clients with emergency restoration services throughout Boca Raton, Palm Beach, Miami Dade, Broward,  and Port St. Lucie Counties. We offer property restoration, mediation and, repair for water damage, mold removal, fire, smoke and biohazard removal services throughout the entire South Florida area.

We are a Licensed Commercial and Residential Emergency Restoration Contractor.

Whether it’s your home or office that’s been affected by water damage, fire, smoke damage, or mold, contact Rapid Restoration Recovery, Inc.

TODAY at: 561-344-5070

Mold can most certainly grow in air conditioning units, whether it’s a room air conditioner or a HVAC unit for central air. To understand how, it’s important to know something about mold and its growth habits.

Mold spores exist outdoors and inside structures. Under normal circumstances, they don’t cause much of a problem. However, the warm and humid conditions prevalent in South Florida changes the dynamic. All mold needs to grow is a warm, moist environment and an organic food source. That can include fabric and even dust, along wood and wallboard which are common building materials.

There are many different types of molds, but only about a dozen are likely to inhabit homes. Cleaning mold isn’t really a job for the average homeowner. It’s a messy job and without the proper precautions, efforts to eradicate it only end up spreading the spores to other locations. Surface cleaning removes the visible signs of mold, but it doesn’t reach the roots that embed themselves in materials.

There are multiple measures that individuals can take to combat the growth of mold. It’s important to regularly change filters to prevent contaminants from entering and ensuring homes have good ventilation. Air conditioning units that are well-maintained can also help prevent mold from growing in the home by keeping air temperatures between 68 and 74 degrees. Keep humidity levels between 30 and 60 percent.

Drain pans should be drained and cleaned regularly and air intakes should be clear of debris. There are also mold inhibitors that can be applied to HVAC units that are approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). However, before applying a mold inhibitor, the unit will need to be disinfected.

The best solution if mold is suspected is to call a professional remediation company. Samples will be taken and identified in a lab to ascertain exactly what type of mold is present. An appropriate remediation method will be utilized and expert precautions taken to prevent mold from spreading to other locations.

Headquartered in Boca Raton, Florida Rapid Restoration is South Florida’s #1 restoration company in the disaster relief industry. With 24/7 emergency services we have provided thousands of clients with emergency restoration services throughout Boca Raton, Palm Beach, Miami Dade, Broward,  and Port St. Lucie Counties. We offer property restoration, mediation and, repair for water damage, mold removal, fire, smoke and biohazard removal services throughout the entire South Florida area.

We are a Licensed Commercial and Residential Emergency Restoration Contractor.

Whether it’s your home or office that’s been affected by water damage, fire, smoke damage, or mold, contact Rapid Restoration Recovery, Inc.

TODAY at: 561-344-5070

The simple answer is no, but much will depend on the amount of water involved in the incident, the type of water, and how quickly the water is eliminated. Drywall that’s been wet for 48 hours or more should be removed and replaced, along with any insulation. In addition to ruining the drywall, within 24 hours the growth of mold begins.

If drywall has exceeded the 48-hour limit, call in a professional restoration company. The job of removing the materials and performing the new installation will be far more extensive than most people anticipate. It requires an elevated level of training and experience.

The type of water that caused the damage is also a critical factor. Water from a broken or leaky water pipe, or a malfunctioning appliance such as washer, water heater or dishwasher, is relatively “clean.” Water flow should be shut off to prevent further damage and any visible water can be mopped up. Drywall can typically be dried out without replacement.

Flooding from strong storms, hurricanes and sewer backups are another matter entirely and no one should ever attempt to deal with them on their own. Always call in a professional remediation company. Flooding from storms and hurricanes contain contaminants ranging from sewage and chemicals to dead animals and parasites. Drywall will need to be immediately removed and surrounding materials replaced.

Sewage backups release physical and airborne contaminants. Sewage can contain pathogens encompassing E-coli, salmonella and botulism. Vapors are released that can result in vomiting and cramping, along with fever, gastroenteritis and even death with prolonged exposure. Drywall and surrounding materials will need to be completely replaced and the area sanitized.

Restoration companies have the specialized training and industrial tools required to remove and replace contaminated materials safely. They also have the experience to know when drywall must be replaced and when it can be left in place.

Headquartered in Boca Raton, Florida Rapid Restoration is South Florida’s #1 restoration company in the disaster relief industry. With 24/7 emergency services we have provided thousands of clients with emergency restoration services throughout Boca Raton, Palm Beach, Miami Dade, Broward,  and Port St. Lucie Counties. We offer property restoration, mediation and, repair for water damage, mold removal, fire, smoke and biohazard removal services throughout the entire South Florida area.

We are a Licensed Commercial and Residential Emergency Restoration Contractor.

Whether it’s your home or office that’s been affected by water damage, fire, smoke damage, or mold, contact Rapid Restoration Recovery, Inc.

TODAY at: 561-344-5070

There are multiple reasons why individuals may need to check the moisture level of the wood in their home or for woodworking projects. There may have been flooding, extreme humidity, or the air conditioner may have broken down. Wood that contains an excess amount of moisture is subject to shrinking and warping as it dries, which can affect the structural integrity of a home or custom furnishings.

Moisture Meter

The simplest, fastest and easiest way to test moisture levels in wood is with a moisture meter. There are two types of handheld devices. One has two “pins” on one end that are inserted into the wood. The meter measures the electrical resistance in the wood. Unfortunately, it will leave two small holes in the wood.

There are also pin less meters. They’re typically more expensive, but don’t leave marks in the wood. They have a scanning plate that’s simply pressed against the wood to obtain a reading. Water conducts electricity, so the more moisture in the wood, the greater the reading on the meter, no matter which type is utilized.

Wood absorbs moisture from the air around it. Even a 1 percent variance can cause significant problems, especially for those that install wood flooring or create custom woodworking projects.

Oven Drying

The oldest method of measuring moisture content in wood is by drying it in a specialized oven or kiln, then measuring how much it weighs. Before the invention of modern moisture meters, this was the accepted method for determining water content in lumber and it was highly accurate when performed correctly.

The disadvantage to oven/kiln drying is that it’s time-consuming, renders the wood unusable, and a special oven or kiln is required to perform the testing. It was used to measure moisture in the wood before a structure was built, or a custom woodworking project was launched, to ensure it didn’t exceed an 8 to 25 percent moisture level.

Logs, siding and lumber used to build storage sheds, barns and even boats are often still kiln-dried to ensure the wood won’t shrink or pull apart during the construction process. Posts and beams aren’t usually tested for moisture content prior to construction.

Headquartered in Boca Raton, Florida Rapid Restoration is South Florida’s #1 restoration company in the disaster relief industry. With 24/7 emergency services we have provided thousands of clients with emergency restoration services throughout Boca Raton, Palm Beach, Miami Dade, Broward,  and Port St. Lucie Counties. We offer property restoration, mediation and, repair for water damage, mold removal, fire, smoke and biohazard removal services throughout the entire South Florida area.

We are a Licensed Commercial and Residential Emergency Restoration Contractor.

Whether it’s your home or office that’s been affected by water damage, fire, smoke damage, or mold, contact Rapid Restoration Recovery, Inc.

TODAY at: 561-344-5070

Mold growth is a common problem with South Florida heat and humidity. All mold needs to grow is warmth and moisture. The fungi sink its roots into organic, porous materials where it proliferates. Floors are vulnerable to mold growth, whether it’s hardwood or carpeting. It can be difficult for individuals to distinguish a moldy surface from one that’s dirty.

Floors can develop mold and depending on how long it’s been multiplying, it may have resulted in damage that can compromise the structural integrity of the building. Mold can appear under floorboards and carpeting. That’s where the services of a professional remediation company are invaluable.

It’s important to understand that home remedies are ineffective. They remove mold on surfaces, but they’re unable to reach the roots. The roots must be killed or the fungi will return. A professional remediation and restoration service will take a sample and have it analyzed in a laboratory to ascertain exactly what type of mold is present.

The experts will create a treatment plan and all affected areas will be isolated to prevent contaminated materials from infecting other locations. The company will treat and reclaim any affected materials whenever possible.

Carpeting will need to be removed, replaced, and the mold eliminated. When mold is present under floorboards, there may be no other option than to replace the flooring. If the mold has spread to underfloor supports, it can cause significant damage to the entire structure.

A restoration company works with professionals in other industries that can make needed repairs and they’ll oversee the entire project from start to finish. Mold can affect any structure. All the fungi require is moisture and warmth to begin the process and it can grow unnoticed for an extended amount of time. Anytime a musty smell is detected, it’s a signal that mold is present and a professional remediation company should be consulted.

Headquartered in Boca Raton, Florida Rapid Restoration is South Florida’s #1 restoration company in the disaster relief industry. With 24/7 emergency services we have provided thousands of clients with emergency restoration services throughout Boca Raton, Palm Beach, Miami Dade, Broward,  and Port St. Lucie Counties. We offer property restoration, mediation and, repair for water damage, mold removal, fire, smoke and biohazard removal services throughout the entire South Florida area.

We are a Licensed Commercial and Residential Emergency Restoration Contractor.

Whether it’s your home or office that’s been affected by water damage, fire, smoke damage, or mold, contact Rapid Restoration Recovery, Inc.

TODAY at: 561-344-5070

People have multiple ways of diagnosing dampness issues in homes and businesses. A simple sniff test can detect a musty smell that can indicate mold, but individuals don’t have to wait until their ceilings are sagging or the wallpaper is peeling. There are other ways to detect moisture and do it before the situation becomes dire. The best way of detecting dampness depends on if the individual is doing it or a professional.

Individuals don’t have to undergo flooding or have their premises saturated with water due to a fire to develop dampness. Excess moisture can manifest as liquid, humidity and vapor. Even with optimally performing air conditioning that extracts moisture from the air, dampness can occur from sources that includes drippy pipes, malfunctioning appliances, condensation, and roof leaks.

Temperature & Humidity Readings

Anyone can perform a dampness test at home with a humidity gauge and thermometer. It requires individuals to record the humidity and temperature in different rooms of the home or business, and outdoors, every half hour. Elevated levels inside the structure compared with the outdoor measurements provides insight into the potential for dampness.

Moisture Meter

Professionals use a moisture meter to take readings in different areas of a building. In the hands of a professional, an accurate assessment can be made. Professionals take into consideration multiple factors including the complexity of the structure, the construction materials, current condition and maintenance history, along with the meter readings. It’s not a good method for home or business owners, however, since recalibration of the meter is required.

Sight & Smell

Most people first detect a musty smell in a building. It comes from mold growth that accompanies dampness. They may also see evidence of mold growth on ceilings, walls, floors or near appliances. Water droplets on walls, dark or discolored areas, peeling wallpaper, excessive condensation and sagging may be evident.

Dampness in a building also contributes to a sensation of coldness. By the time the dampness has become obvious, it may have compromised the structural integrity of the building. It can also be affecting the health of everyone that enters.

Headquartered in Boca Raton, Florida Rapid Restoration is South Florida’s #1 restoration company in the disaster relief industry. With 24/7 emergency services we have provided thousands of clients with emergency restoration services throughout Boca Raton, Palm Beach, Miami Dade, Broward,  and Port St. Lucie Counties. We offer property restoration, mediation and, repair for water damage, mold removal, fire, smoke and biohazard removal services throughout the entire South Florida area.

We are a Licensed Commercial and Residential Emergency Restoration Contractor.

Whether it’s your home or office that’s been affected by water damage, fire, smoke damage, or mold, contact Rapid Restoration Recovery, Inc.

TODAY at: 561-344-5070

It’s common for people to use the terms mold and mildew interchangeably. However, each has distinctive differences, even though they’re both types of fungi. Don’t attempt to address mildew without using gloves and protective goggles. Individuals shouldn’t try to remove mold on their own. It can be a serious health hazard and is easily spread to other areas.

Mold

To the eye, mold can appear fuzzy or slimy. It’s raised, not flat, and appears in colors of red, green, blue or black, depending on the type. Mold has a strong musty and pungent odor that’s very disagreeable. As mold proliferates, it produces microbial volatile organic compounds (MVOCs) responsible for the smell. It grows best at temperatures between 77 ad 86 degrees.

One of the most significant differences is that mold has roots that sink in and infiltrate porous materials such as wood, wallboard, leather and paper. Mold is insidious in its growth. It’s why home remedies such as bleach don’t work. Bleach kills surface mold, but doesn’t reach the fungi’s roots.

Mold generates symptoms in people ranging from runny nose, cough, sore throat and sneezing to respiratory distress, particularly in individuals with asthmas and COPD. It can also cause more serious consequences that affect the nervous system. Mold can cause memory loss, mood changes and depression.

Removing mold is complicated and requires the services of a professional remediation service. The experts have the tools, knowledge and expertise to kill mold at the root level. They can also remove infested materials and contain the infestation so it won’t spread throughout the entirety of a structure.

Mildew

In comparison, mildew is flat, typically appears white or gray in color, and is often powdery. Mildew has a distinctive smell similar to mold, but it’s much lighter in nature. People can experience headaches, sore throat and mild respiratory symptoms when mildew is present.

Humidity levels between 62 and 93 percent present an ideal environment for mildew growth. Temperature is equally important. Mildew produces best in temperatures of 77 to 88 degrees. Mildew grows on surfaces, but doesn’t sink roots into materials. However, there are some types of mildew that are quite resistant and the services of a remediation professional will be required.

Headquartered in Boca Raton, Florida Rapid Restoration is South Florida’s #1 restoration company in the disaster relief industry. With 24/7 emergency services we have provided thousands of clients with emergency restoration services throughout Boca Raton, Palm Beach, Miami Dade, Broward,  and Port St. Lucie Counties. We offer property restoration, mediation and, repair for water damage, mold removal, fire, smoke and biohazard removal services throughout the entire South Florida area.

We are a Licensed Commercial and Residential Emergency Restoration Contractor.

Whether it’s your home or office that’s been affected by water damage, fire, smoke damage, or mold, contact Rapid Restoration Recovery, Inc.

TODAY at: 561-344-5070

The potential for mold is very real, particularly in warm climates with high humidity. It can occur even with the use of air conditioning to maintain a cool environment and reduce humidity levels. Mold infestations produce the same symptoms as allergies and is especially dangerous for anyone with respiratory conditions such as asthma and COPD.

Odors

As mold proliferates, it emits a distinctive odor that’s been described as musty, earthy and stale. No matter what the term used to describe it, the odor is extremely unpleasant. The smell will permeate the entire home or business.

Color

Conduct a visual inspection of the carpet for green, white or black growths. A magnifying glass may need to be needed. Wear a mask to prevent mold inhalation.

Beneath the Carpet

Mold is a type of fungi and will often begin growing underneath carpeting before signs are demonstrated on the surface. Carpeting below ground level and in bathrooms are at the highest risk of developing mold. Anti-microbial rubber carpet pads are available that help resist mold growth.

Allergies & Illness

Mold produces multiple symptoms in people that most individuals mistake for allergies, including runny nose, red eyes, sneezing, and difficulty breathing for people that have respiratory conditions. Anyone experiencing symptoms outside of typical allergy season, or if symptoms improve when they leave the structure, the problem could very well be mold.

Remediation

Anyone that suspects they have mold growing in the home or workplace should call a professional remediation service. The experts have the tools, experience and expertise to detect mold and handle it safely. Individuals shouldn’t try to remove or treat a moldy carpet themselves. The fungi’s spores easily spread and can contaminate even the smallest nooks and crannies.

Individuals that have experienced flooding from a broken pipe, defective appliance, or natural disaster should assume they have mold growth. In warm and damp conditions, the fungi can begin growing and spreading in as little as 24 hours. Call a mold remediation specialist immediately. If mold is present, the professionals have the training and experience required to contain the infestation and remove it.

Headquartered in Boca Raton, Florida Rapid Restoration is South Florida’s #1 restoration company in the disaster relief industry. With 24/7 emergency services we have provided thousands of clients with emergency restoration services throughout Boca Raton, Palm Beach, Miami Dade, Broward,  and Port St. Lucie Counties. We offer property restoration, mediation and, repair for water damage, mold removal, fire, smoke and biohazard removal services throughout the entire South Florida area.

We are a Licensed Commercial and Residential Emergency Restoration Contractor.

Whether it’s your home or office that’s been affected by water damage, fire, smoke damage, or mold, contact Rapid Restoration Recovery, Inc.

TODAY at: 561-344-5070

People often live with a mold infestation for months or even years without even knowing about it, even though their nose is telling them its there. The first sign of an infestation by the fungi is a musty odor. Some also characterize it as a stale or earthy smell. No matter what you call it, the result is the same – mold growth.

The smell of mold has also been described by some as a damp, sour or rotting odor. There are approximately 12 types of naturally occurring fungi that may be found in homes. It lives outdoors and is brought into homes on hair, clothing, shoes and even pets.

Mold only needs moisture and warmth to begin multiplying. It sinks roots into any porous material, such as drywall, wood or fabric, and begins the process of expansion. Fungi releases what scientists call microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs), which are a type of gas, as they grow. It’s the mVOCs that are responsible for the odor.

Each type of fungi releases a slightly different smell, and identifying the source of mold can be difficult. If the infestation is expansive enough to cause odors, it’s typically large enough to see. Tracking it down can present problems due to where it’s located and the color often blends with its surroundings.

Once mold has become a problem your nose can detect, it’s well enough advanced to have an impact on your health. It can exacerbate allergies and respiratory conditions. You may experience a runny nose, sneezing and nasal congestion that improves when you leave the home.

Bleach and similar home remedies don’t work since they don’t penetrate down to kill mold at its roots. Call in professionals for a mold problem. They’ll use lab analysis to identify the type of mold, isolate the area to prevent it from spreading to other locations, and use appropriate methods to eradicate it.

Headquartered in Boca Raton, Florida Rapid Restoration is South Florida’s #1 restoration company in the disaster relief industry. With 24/7 emergency services we have provided thousands of clients with emergency restoration services throughout Boca Raton, Palm Beach, Miami Dade, Broward,  and Port St. Lucie Counties. We offer property restoration, mediation and, repair for water damage, mold removal, fire, smoke and biohazard removal services throughout the entire South Florida area.

We are a Licensed Commercial and Residential Emergency Restoration Contractor.

Whether it’s your home or office that’s been affected by water damage, fire, smoke damage, or mold, contact Rapid Restoration Recovery, Inc.

TODAY at: 561-344-5070

The majority of modern home construction utilizes drywall for walls and ceilings. The material adds fire resistance to homes to help contain the spread of fire, allowing people time to evacuate should a blaze occur. However, drywall is a porous material that can become a sponge for moisture resulting from a broken or leaky pipe or appliance, roof leak, or even excess humidity in the air.

Wet Drywall

Signs of Water Damage

Discoloration is one of the signs of wet drywall. There may also be streaking resulting from moisture running down walls or across ceilings. Paint or the outer surface of drywall may begin to bubble, peel, crack and soften. Blotches may also appear with discoloration ranging from dark yellow to brown. When sagging of walls or ceilings occur, the damage is extensive.

Behind the Scenes

You may think that the area you’ve identified is the end of the problem, but nothing could be further from the truth. There’s no way for you to know what’s going on behind the scenes. Damage can be far more severe than you think and even has the potential to affect the structural integrity of your entire home, depending upon how long the problem has existed.

Find the Source

It’s critical that the source of the moisture be identified and eliminated. That’s when the expertise of a professional remediation company is indispensable. The experts will be able to locate where the moisture is originating and repair it.

The Solution

A professional remediation company has the tools, skill and resources to dry out the premises and eliminate mold that will almost certainly be present. Remediation companies work with a network of highly-trained professionals in diverse fields to remove affected materials and restore homes to their previous condition. Remediation experts also have on-site adjusters that will work directly with your insurance company throughout the entire restoration process.

Headquartered in Boca Raton, Florida Rapid Restoration is South Florida’s #1 restoration company in the disaster relief industry. With 24/7 emergency services we have provided thousands of clients with emergency restoration services throughout Boca Raton, Palm Beach, Miami Dade, Broward,  and Port St. Lucie Counties. We offer property restoration, mediation and, repair for water damage, mold removal, fire, smoke and biohazard removal services throughout the entire South Florida area.

We are a Licensed Commercial and Residential Emergency Restoration Contractor.

Whether it’s your home or office that’s been affected by water damage, fire, smoke damage, or mold, contact Rapid Restoration Recovery, Inc.

TODAY at: 561-344-5070