Worried About Mold? Get Inspected

One of the wonderful things about living in Prescott is the grand amount of historic and charming older homes that we have in the area.  However, sometimes these come with hidden issues. Have you noticed a new odd or musty smell in your home or office lately?  Or maybe you have seen some dark or black spots showing up in cracks or crevices of your tile or walls.  It may be time to think about scheduling a mold inspection.

Mold can go a lot deeper than the surface of your paint.  That is probably just the beginning.  ServiceMaster of Prescott brings you a few good things to know when it comes to your mold inspection:

• Mold inspections need to be performed by a qualified mold inspector, one with formal training and experience.
• Your mold inspector should look for evidence of past or current mold growth.  This may mean looking deeper into the walls and floors of your home as mold growth, past or present may indicate a water problem which will come back when certain conditions return such as a recurring leak.
• Some mold growth in buildings may be perfectly normal. For example, Ceratosystis and Ophiostoma are two molds that grow on lumber. These molds grow on the sap of wood and stop growing once the wood has dried.
• The mold inspector looks for sources of moisture. Without water or moisture you will not have a mold problem.
• Mold inspections are a subset of investigations called "Indoor Air Quality" (IAQ) investigations.  The question is "What irritants are present in the air causing discomfort to the occupants?" If you are having a mold inspection because you feel ill when you are in a certain building or room, it could be other irritants that may be causing the discomfort; these tests should be included in the investigation.

Some of the common signs of mold may be present already and you just don’t know it.  Here are some things to look for and reason you may need an inspection.

• Itchy eyes, sneezing, runny nose when you walk into a room or building.
• You can verify that a past water problem is no longer an issue.
• To confirm that there is not an existing moisture or mold problem associated with a new building or home that you plan to rent or purchase.

If these are some things that you may be worried about, or if you need to make an appointment for a mold inspection, contact ServiceMaster Prescott today 928-445-9205 or visit: http://www.servicemasterofprescott.com

More Information:
Mold Inspection in Prescott
Prescott Mold Removal
Help Mold Articles

Hidden Water Damage Information from ServiceMaster of Prescott

Prescott Arizona has a lot to offer, including wonderful seasons that come with some hidden costs. One of these costs can include water damage. Once given a chance due to a freeze, extreme heat or an old broken pipe, water flows anywhere it wants to. This includes the walls and floors of your house. Once it’s loose inside your house, it’s important to be aware of signs of water damage in hidden places. 

ServiceMaster of Prescott brings you these signs of water damage to be aware of:

Distasteful odors. Hidden residual water stagnates and fosters mold and bacterial growth. This will produces a musty, earthy smell that’s a red flag indicating undetected water damage.

Visual signs of mold growth. Airborne mold spores are microscopic and find their way into hidden nooks and crannies in the structure of the home. So does water. When moisture contacts dormant spores, active mold growth begins. If you notice fuzzy discolorations in out-of-the-way spaces, have them evaluated by a ServiceMaster of Prescott technician.

Seeping Stains on walls and ceilings. Water that seeps into wall voids and the space between levels often manifests as a stain or blotch as it slowly saturates the adjacent wall board or ceiling.

Flaking paint. Another symptom of loose water inside wall spaces is peeling paint on the exterior of the wall.  Drywall saturates and causes paint to lose adhesion.

Drooping walls and ceilings. Saturated drywall or ceiling materials become very heavy with the added water weight. Eventually, they begin to deform and buckle. Water-soaked walls and ceilings present a safety hazard if they collapse.

Damaged Floors. Water always seeks the lowest level and seeps under floor coverings like carpet, tile, and vinyl, soaking into the sub floor. Removal of some floor coverings, particularly carpet and padding, may be necessary to effectively dry the area.

For a free visual inspection of water damage or mold growth, contact ServiceMaster of Prescott at (928) 445-9205 and (928) 634-5402 or visit us online at http://www.servicematerprescott.com for more information on water damage you may have.

More Information:
Water damage in Prescott
Prescott Water Restoration
Types of Water Damage

Monsoons are finally here... So is water damage!

It’s finally that time of year again in Arizona when the heat is unbearable and we all think that there will be no end.  Finally the first rolling clouds appear and then with much anticipation we feel the first drops of rain and know that the Monsoons are here.  It is what most Arizonans look forward to each summer.  What we tend to forget is what comes with the heavy rains.

Monsoons bring much needed moisture to very dry and intense summer weather.  However, they also bring with them the potential for floods and flood damage. These much desired and yet potentially dangerous storms can cause untold property damage and destruction. Torrential down pours, roof damage, flash flooding, uprooted trees, and water damage is just some of the residual effects these unpredictable monsoon storms leave behind.

If you are a long time resident of Arizona or are new to the Prescott area, then you know or will soon find out how important it can be to have a qualified restoration professional on hand.  If you are a property or business owner you want to be prepared when flood damage or water damage strikes.  Every moments delay in a flood situation can lead to more costly damage occurring.  Water removal and getting your property dry is the most important move.  Don’t wait to call us at Service Master Prescott.

Our staff of storm damage experts has been helping property owners throughout the Prescott area deal with the aftermath of monsoon property damage for years.  Monsoon storms are unpredictable and can develop at the drop of a hat and there is no way of telling what kind of property damage they may cause. Whether it’s a leaking roof, plumbing failure, or act of nature, our restoration professionals not only have all the resources and skills to get your property back to its normal pre-damaged state, they also have a wealth of knowledge and experience.

With years of experience helping to negotiate client losses we can help you with your insurance company and filing your claim. We can also bill your insurance company directly. We work closely with you and your claim adjuster to make sure that your loss has been handled in accordance to industry standards.  Service Master of Prescott will make sure your property is back in tip top shape in no time.

You need a restoration company you can trust and depend on when disaster rears its ugly head.  Our immediate response, attention to detail, and comprehensive services has made us one of the leading restoration contractors and emergency service specialist in Prescott, AZ.  Whether you need help with water removal, mold remediation, or structural drying and clean up, one call is all it takes to get you back on your feel.

Call ServiceMaster of Prescott, the AZ monsoon specialists. We can cleanup the damage and reduce the chances of additional water damage. Open 24/7 365 days a year serving all of Yavapai county, Call ServiceMaster at (928) 445-9205 or (928) 634-5402 or visit us online at http://www.servicemasterprescott.com.

More Information:
Water Damage in Prescott
Prescott Flood Cleanup
Helpful water damage articles

It's that time of the year, the Monsoons will be delivering rains once again! Water Damage Prevention from ServiceMaster of Prescott

Arizona receives up to half of their annual rainfall during the summer monsoon bring with it many flashes of lightning and fanfare looking forward to it.

The monsoon season suppresses much of the hot summer temperatures, replenishes water resources, and nourishes the vegetation. With its trademark thunderstorms and flooded streets in southwestern cities, monsoon rainfall events tend to be short and spotty, with intense, local storms drenching some neighborhoods but not others.

The water the storms bring quickly flows off the landscape into streets and rivers, with much of the remnant moisture evaporating in the summer sun, however sometimes the water finds its way into our homes and businesses. ServiceMaster of Prescott would like to take a moment to remind you of things to check before the monsoon water damage is in full swing.

1. Fix leaks immediately. Leaky roofs and foundation cracks allow water to get into your home, which can weaken the structure and provide a perfect habitat for mold. When you see wet spots on the ceiling or cracks in the foundation, fix them as soon as it’s safe to get up on the roof or the material is dry enough to repair. Check that roofing shingles are secure.

2. Close foundation cracks with mortar and masonry caulk or hydraulic cement, which expands and fills gaps completely and costs only a few dollars. Don’t patch solely with mortar or cement, which may crack again. If water is a recurring problem, be sure to investigate other solutions for issues like wet basements.

3. Clear gutters and drains. Keep gutters and drainage systems clear to carry water away from your home. Check storm drains on your street, as leaves and debris can block them, causing water to collect.

4. Prevent sewer backup. Install (or have a plumber install) sewer or septic line check valves, which allow waste to flow only one way. Plan to spend $100 or more per valve to have a pro install them, or do it yourself for $10-$15 each to ensure sewage can’t back up into the standing water in your home. Install at a point in the pipe that’s easy to access for repair.

5. Install French drains if you live on a slope and have a persistently wet basement or soggy lawn. A French drain collects water in your yard and diverts it safely away from your house.

Monsoon floods are a common challenge that many home owners will face at one time or another. However, by keeping your home in good repair and creating good drainage around your home, you can stop or reduce potential flood damage.

If you find that your home has suffered from any type of water damage, don’t wait! Call ServiceMaster of Prescott, the AZ monsoon specialists. We can cleanup the damage and reduce the chances of additional water damage. Open 24/7 365 days a year serving all of Yavapai county, Call ServiceMaster at (928) 445-9205 or (928) 634-5402 or visit us online at http://www.servicemasterprescott.com.

More Information:

Water Damage Cleanup in Prescott
Prescott Flood Cleanup
Helpful water damage articles

Improve the Health in Your Home - Tile cleaning by ServiceMaster of Prescott

One of the nicest touches to the basic architectural components of a home is ceramic or stone tile in kitchens, bathrooms, entryways and even outdoors. It’s hard to go wrong with tile. It’s durable, long-wearing, and looks great. A stone tile floor in the entryway immediately adds an air of class in a home, and there’s nothing quite like a stone patio in the backyard to host a barbecue for family and friends.

Unfortunately, tile and stone are not immune to the unhealthy elements that are in and around your home. Over time, dirt and grime build up in the porous surfaces of your stone, tile and grout flooring, turning them into a breeding ground for disease-causing bacteria. Especially in areas like the bathroom and kitchen, where germs can run rampant, it’s important to do everything you can to cut down on the spread of bacteria. While regular sweeping and mopping are helpful at keeping excessive build-up at bay, those don’t deliver the deep cleaning that your floors really need.

Some people try to take matters into their own hands and scrub between the tiles with a toothbrush to get at that gunky build-up that mops and brooms can’t reach. Unfortunately, that’s a lot easier said than done. After potentially hours of scrubbing, you often have nothing substantial to show for it but several aching joints and a filthy toothbrush. So what’s going to save your back and deliver a deep, safe, healthy cleaning?
The answer: professional stone, tile and grout cleaning from ServiceMaster in Prescott. We are known for our carpet cleaning services but we offer more than that including:

• Tile and grout cleaning
• Mold inspection
• Mold removal
• Water damage restoration
• Fire damage cleanup
• Bio Hazardous waste cleanup
• Hoarding clean up

Professional cleaning is important, not only because it protects and preserves your investment in the premium building materials in your home; it also helps maintain the health of your home. Homes are supposed to be a safe haven that protect us from exposure to unhealthy elements like allergens, germs and pollutants. However, a buildup of bacteria, dust and pet dander on flooring surfaces can contribute to all kinds of chronic illnesses including allergies and asthma.

One worry that many homeowners have when having their homes cleaned is whether the products and process that the cleaner uses is even more unhealthy than what they are removing. That is not an issue with ServiceMaster of Prescott. All of the ingredients in our primary cleaner are safe and approved for your home and family, so you can know that your family is being well taken care of.

Our stone, tile and grout cleaning and sealing services penetrate deep inside the porous surfaces to remove the bacteria that can spread germs, eliminate grime and seal out dirt. And the result? You’re able to restore the appearance of your floors, while also extending the life of your stone and tile surfaces.

We service a Variety of stone and tile surfaces. Contact us today to find out if we can help you! Let ServiceMaster of Prescott do the hard work for you. Call 445-9205 or visit our website http://www.ServiceMasterPrescott.com

More information:
Tile Cleaning in Prescott
Prescott Tile Restoration
More Helpful Tile Cleaning Articles

Is your hotel really clean?

Do you own or operate hotel? How often do you have your carpet professionally cleaned? What about your mattresses? It has been proven more people will pay to stay in a clean hotel. Your Online Ratings and reviews can do a lot for your business, if they state that your facilities are clean, friendly, and accommodating, people will want to stay with you over the "other guys" 
ServiceMaster of Prescott brings you these great ways to increase your hotel occupancy.

A Clean Hotel Will Lead to More Business 
What is the “Curb Appeal”  to your potential guests?

Each month high occupancies are reported in all regions of the United States and in all hotel segments. Now is the time for you to maximize your occupancy by filling these vacant rooms with happy guests.

Through the Guests' Eyes

Stop and look at your hotel through your guests' eyes. Is the hotel clean? Do you provide good services?

Don't Tell the Guest "NO"
An owner will spend thousands of dollars in franchise fees, marketing, advertising, and will furnish great rooms--all to have the guest come to his hotel so that he can tell the guest "NO."

NO PETS. Why? Why not? With our professional carpet cleaning and restoration services we can keep rooms looking fresh and clean.

Clean you mattresses!
We recommend cleaning mattresses 4 times a year or more if needed. This will:

1. Extend the life of your bedding, saving you money.
2. Provide your guests with a more comfortable bed, and thus increase your repeat business, making you money.

We hear hotel owners say,
"I need more business; I must fill the vacant rooms.”

You will get more business and fill the vacant rooms if your hotel and the vacant rooms are properly cleaned! A clean hotel will lead to more business. Now is the time for you to maximize your occupancy by filling these vacant rooms with happy guests. Contact ServiceMaster of Prescott today! 928-445-9205 or visit our website http://www.ServiceMasterPrescott.com

 

More Information:
Commercial Carpet Cleaning in Prescott
Prescott Hotel Restoration
More Helpful Articles

It might be time to have your home inspected for mold if...

If you are having a problem with allergies then there's a good chance there could be mold growing somewhere in your home. Common allergic reactions to mold include sneezing, sore eyes and a runny nose or nasal congestion. These tips are brought to you by ServiceMaster of Prescott, AZ

Do you notice your allergic reactions are worse when you're at home but you feel better when you go out? If so then it's especially likely you could have mold. It may be time to call a professional to do a mold inspection

Seeing Signs of Mold Growth
Visible mold growth might seem like an obvious sign of mold. However many people don't notice small amounts of mold growth or they think it's just soot or dirt. If you can see mold growth, even if it's only small, you should take action immediately. Small mold patches can spread and the fact that there is any mold shows that the conditions in your home are right for mold to grow. Visible mold growth could also be a sign that there is a much larger mold colony growing hidden. Some mold growth looks white and thread-like. Other mold appears as clusters of small black spots. Mold can be black, gray-brown, gray-green or white in color. Mold growing behind wallpaper made of vinyl can even appear orange, pink or purple.

Water Leaks
Water problems in homes are usually created by leaks. However if you already know that you have had a water leak (such as leaking pipes or a leaking ceiling) then just that knowledge by itself, even if you don't see signs of water damage, is a good sign that you might have mold growing in your house around the area where the leak was. Mold growth from leaks can often be hidden. If the leak was behind a wall or other surface then any mold will probably be hidden behind the surface too. Even if the leak was not behind a surface there could still be mold hidden out of view behind a wall or other surface from water which seeped through.

Condensation
If you see a lot of condensation in your home then it's a sign that you have a high amount of moisture, this can cause a mold problem. Condensation will occur on surfaces such as glass windows or metal pipes. Mold could be growing where the condensation builds up and collects. Rusting indoor pipes are a sign that you could have a lot of condensation in your house.

Toxic Symptoms from Mold
If you suffer neurological symptoms such as headaches, trouble concentrating, shortened attention span, memory loss and dizziness it could be a sign that there is toxic mold growing in your house which is poisoning your, if toxic symptoms increase when you are in your home or in a certain building then it's very likely that mold is growing there.

If your are experiencing these symptoms Call ServiceMaster of Prescott! We are happy to come to you home and do a FREE mold inspection. We will also advise you on how to get rid of your mold issues safely and efficiently. Don’t wait call us today! 928-445-9205 or visit our website http://www.ServiceMasterPrescott.com

More information:
Mold Removal in Prescott
Prescott Mold Inspections
More Helpful Articles