Archived Mold Remediation Blog Posts
Winter Mold Prevention in the Boyceville Area | SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties
1/9/2025 (Permalink)
Mold Prevention Tips: Stop mold growth in your home this winter with proven cleaning and prevention strategies!
As winter approaches in western Wisconsin, the colder temperatures and increased snowfall can bring a unique set of challenges for homeowners. While many focus on staying warm and cozy, it’s also important to keep your home free from the hidden dangers of mold.
The cold and wet conditions typical of our region, combined with the use of heating systems, can create the perfect environment for mold growth if proper precautions aren’t taken. SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties has some simple but effective tips to help you prevent mold damage in your home this winter season.
1. Manage Humidity in Your HomeOne of the biggest contributors to mold growth during the winter months is excess moisture in the air. When temperatures drop, it’s natural to seal your home tightly to keep warmth inside, but this can also trap moisture from cooking, showering, and even snowmelt entering your home. High humidity can lead to mold growth in areas such as basements, bathrooms, and kitchens.
To prevent mold, it’s essential to keep indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50%. You can use a hygrometer to monitor the humidity in your home, and if levels are too high, consider using a dehumidifier. Be sure to run exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens to remove excess moisture and reduce the humidity inside. On drier days, open windows briefly to allow fresh air to circulate and keep humidity levels in check.
2. Insulate Pipes and Prevent Water IntrusionWinter in Wisconcin often brings freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall, both of which can increase the risk of water damage and mold. When temperatures fall, condensation can form on cold surfaces like pipes, windows, and walls, creating the ideal conditions for mold to grow. Insulating pipes, especially those in unheated areas such as basements or crawl spaces, can help prevent condensation from forming.
Insulating your windows and doors with weather stripping or thermal curtains can also help maintain a stable indoor temperature and reduce the chances of condensation. Additionally, with snow and ice accumulation being common in our area, it’s important to ensure that your gutters are clear and downspouts direct water away from the foundation of your home. Snowmelt and water intrusion can lead to damp basements or crawl spaces, where mold can develop if left unchecked.
3. Maintain Heating and Ventilation SystemsIn Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties, heating systems are essential for staying comfortable during the cold winter months. However, an improperly maintained heating system can also contribute to mold growth. If your HVAC system is clogged with dust, dirt, or moisture, it can create an ideal environment for mold to thrive. Before the winter season sets in, have your HVAC system professionally cleaned and inspected to ensure that it is functioning properly.
Replace furnace filters regularly to maintain good airflow and reduce moisture buildup. In areas where moisture tends to accumulate, such as bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements, make sure your ventilation systems are working well. Proper ventilation will help remove excess humidity and prevent mold growth. If your home has areas with poor airflow, such as an attic or basement, consider installing additional vents or using a small fan to improve air circulation.
By staying on top of humidity control, insulating vulnerable areas, and maintaining your heating and ventilation systems, you can greatly reduce the risk of mold in your home this winter. However, if you do discover mold or suspect water damage, it’s important to act quickly to prevent further problems. SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties is here to provide professional mold remediation services to ensure your home stays safe and healthy all season long.
Contact SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties today for expert advice on mold prevention and remediation services to protect your home this winter!
Limiting Mold Growth in your Chetek home
2/13/2019 (Permalink)
Some of our crew at WRT training with the IICRC!
"Moisture control is the key to mold control. When water leaks or spills occur indoors-act promptly, a prompt response(within 24-48 hours) and thorough cleanup , drying, and removal of water damaged materials will prevent or limit mold growth."
At SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties we can identify whether a mold is harmful to you or if it is something that you can take care of yourself. Give us a call at 715-643-7171.
We are certified and trained in IICRC approved schools and our training includes:
-Water Damage Restoration Technician-WRT
-Carpet Cleaning Technician-CCT
-Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration Technician-FSRT
-Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning Technician-UFT
-Applied Structural Drying Technician-ASD
To learn more about our certifications click here
quoted from:OSHA-A Brief Guide to Mold in the Workplace
Managing Mold in your Colfax home!
2/13/2019 (Permalink)
Mold can be ordinary to unhealthy, let SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties be the one to determine that. We are trained professionals that handle water damages every day and know prompt action is required to prevent mold growth. If there is an ongoing moisture problem in your home be alert for the presence of visible mold or strong musty odors.
The ordinary mold can occur naturally in the environment, some can be fine as some can become unhealthy. If the humidity level and moisture levels in a water-damaged environment are not promptly returned to normal, mold spores may grow and multiply. Give us a call at 715-643-7171 to let us identify whether or not you have a mold issue that you need the trained professionals to handle or if it is something you can clean yourself.
Do not disturb mold in your Rice Lake Home!
12/20/2018 (Permalink)
If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.
What to Do:
- Stay out of affected areas.
- Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
- Contact SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk 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.
About Our Mold Remediation Services
SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties specialize in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business. Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.
Does your Chetek Home have a mold Problem
11/25/2018 (Permalink)
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 – 715-643-7171
We understand mold
11/6/2018 (Permalink)
Be careful trying to "clean" mold sometimes can cause it to spread throughout the home.
If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.
What to Do:
- Stay out of affected areas.
- Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
- Contact SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk 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.
About Our Mold Remediation Services
SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties specialize in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business. Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.
If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 715-643-7171
Does Your Menomonie Home Have A Mold Problem?
10/30/2018 (Permalink)
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 –715-643-7171
Conditions In your Rice Lake Home Might Be Right For Mold
2/1/2018 (Permalink)
It’s estimated that more than 1 million types of mold exist, yet less than 10 percent have actually been named. This means mold is very common in both indoor and outdoor environments. While mold and humans can sometimes co-exist without issue, there are certain species of mold that can cause health effects for some people.
If the right conditions exist, mold will grow. Those conditions include:
- Water - Different mold types require varying amounts of liquid before growth begins.
- Temperature - Normal indoor temperatures will promote mold growth.
- Time - Initial mold colonizers can take hold within one day after being exposed to an adequate water supply.
Mold growth can occur in any home, so it’s important to keep an eye out for situations that might promote mold activity. Roof/chimney leaks, wet basements, or condensation from ducts that dampen surrounding insulation are just a few examples of issues that make a house a prime target for mold growth.
If you suspect mold in your home, call SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties to assess the situation. We have the knowledge, tools and track record to effectively remediate mold in your home or business.
If you suspect mold, call us today at 715-643-7171.
What to Do:
- Stay out of affected areas.
- Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
- Contact SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties for mold remediation services.
Menomonie Residents: Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold
2/1/2018 (Permalink)
Be careful! Without proper training, you could be spreading mold throughout your home.
If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.
What to Do:
- Stay out of affected areas.
- Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
- Contact SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk 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.
About Our Mold Remediation Services
SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties specialize in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business. Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.
If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today –715-643-7171.
DO NOT DISTURB MOLD in your Chetek Home
12/19/2017 (Permalink)
Mold on Door
If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.
What to Do:
- Stay out of affected areas.
- Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
- Contact SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk 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.
About Our Mold Remediation Services
SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties specialize in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business. Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.
If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 715-643-7171
Does Your Chetek Home Have A Mold Problem
11/22/2017 (Permalink)
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 – 715-643-7171
Menomonie Residents: Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold
11/9/2017 (Permalink)
Be careful! Without proper training, you could be spreading mold throughout your home.
If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.
What to Do:
- Stay out of affected areas.
- Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
- Contact SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk 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.
About Our Mold Remediation Services
SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn, and Rusk Counties specialize in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business. Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.
If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 715-643-7171
Does your Barron County Home Have a Mold Problem?
10/10/2017 (Permalink)
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 – (715)643-7169
Barron, Dunn & Rusk County Residents: Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold
10/3/2016 (Permalink)
If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.
What to Do:
- Stay out of affected areas.
- Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
- Contact SERVPRO of [[Franchise Name]] 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.
About Our Mold Remediation Services
SERVPRO of [[Franchise Name]] specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business. Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.
If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 715-643-7171
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