How to Mitigate Water Damage

Water Damage Zone and Restoration Inc. is SERVING ALL Los Angeles County. Orange County and Ventura County within 45 min or less. We are a family-owned and operated business; we strive to provide each customer with the highest customer satisfaction and care that we would show our family. We maintain a reputation for getting the job done promptly and efficiently. Our technicians are certified and trained with the IICRC* in water damage, fire/smoke damage, mold remediation, mold removal, sewage cleanup, restoration and repairs, and content manipulation. We also work directly with the insurance companies, so you do not have to. We offer free inspections and 24/7 Emergency Services. Call today to schedule your free in-home assessment. (877) 520-1923, our operators are standing by to assist you. For all your water damage needs, call Water Damage Zone Inc.

Call Water Damage Zone today at (877) 520-1923. Your future bills may be a lot smaller if you follow these simple tips. You can also visit our sister company for further information on restoration services at Best American Builders.

We specialize in the following services:

• 24/7 Emergency Response, Water Extraction, and Water Damage
• Direct Billing to Insurance, Locally Owned and Operated
• Water Cleanup, Water Dry outs, Visual Mold Inspections, Sewage Damage Cleanup
• Sterilizing & Odor Removal, Licensed & Bonded #963976, Reputable Los Angeles based company

• Image from deposit photos, ID 15892692

• Shutterstock Sequence Number: US-041C159DA-1

Water Damage Zone, Inc.
Corporate Office
15115 Califa St. Ste. C
Van Nuys, CA 91411

Why is Mold not Safe?

Television and Social Media websites are spreading awareness about the hazards one can face due to exposure to mold. Mold is a type of fungi that grows in the presence of moisture and some nutrients, however, the main constituent that supports the growth of fungi is moisture and its growth can only be prevented by the eradication of moisture in the area.

Health issues related to Mold

Mold spores are extremely tiny and very light, they can easily flow around in the air. Once, they mix into the air, they can be inhaled by the people exposed which is highly unhealthy. The fungi inhaled into the oxygen flow can make breathing harder and cause sore throats, coughing, sneezing, watery eyes, and discomfort in the whole body.
However, the effects might not be felt by everyone who is exposed to mold. Some people might be more sensitive than others based on their physical characteristics and age. People who face respiratory problems or asthma are at a higher risk of being affected by mold and they need to take proper care in order to keep themselves from getting sick.
Moreover, emotional disorders can be another factor that is caused by exposure to mold. People tend to be more depressed when they are directly under exposure to mold, body fatigue may add up to the problems caused by depression.

Treating Health problems caused by Mold

If you have started suffering from any of the above mentioned problems, then you should see your doctor as soon as possible. The problems caused by mold are mainly allergies which might stay for a longer period of time. Doctors usually prescribe antibiotics and antihistamines to fight the allergies, if exposure is severe, the doctors normally recommend the patient not return home.
The next step to ensure your health is to immediately remediation of mold from your home, the best way of doing this is to avail the services of professionals, so that, you can avoid any further exposure to mold and minimize the problems caused by it.

Call Water Damage Zone today at (877) 520-1923  your future bills may be a lot smaller if you follow these simple tips. You can also visit our sister company for further information on restoration services at Best American Builders.

We specialize in the following services:

• 24/7 Emergency Response, Water Extraction, and Water Damage Zone
• Direct Billing to Insurance, Locally Owned and Operated
• Water Cleanup, Water Dry outs, Visual Mold Inspections, Sewage Damage Cleanup
• Sterilizing & Odor Removal, Licensed & Bonded #963976, Reputable Los Angeles based company
• Image from deposit photos, ID 15892692
• Shutterstock Sequence Number: US-041C159DA-1

Water Damage Zone, Inc.
Corporate Office
15115 Califa St. Ste. C
Van Nuys, CA 91411

Your Allergies may not be Allergies you made be exposed to Mold

Most people are ready to make peace with the idea of having an allergy if a problem persists over a period of time or if it happens every year at a certain climate change. The reality might contradict the thoughts of the person. The problem usually persists in things that we usually ignore or forget to check for. The growth of mold is supported in the presence of moisture, therefore, the allergy might just be due to the mold that is growing within the home. Mold has several symptoms that may look like allergies and these symptoms are mentioned and discussed as follows.

Asthma or Breathlessness

One of the most common complaints from people in winter or after heavy rain is that they are unable to breathe properly for which they have to take inhalers and even start thinking that they have a problem with asthma. This is not usually the case, the exposure to mold makes breathing difficult once it makes its way into the respiratory system of the human being.

One should properly diagnose the problem before making up their mind about having some kind of a problem.

Eyes Burning

Another problem that is most commonly faced by people is when they have eye burns or if they get red eyes. It must be kept in mind that most of the problems that are related to the burning or irritation in the eyes are either due to exposure of the person to mold or due to the pollution in the air. Most of the time we ignore the fact that the problem might be caused due to mold and we tend to ignore taking necessary steps against it.

Skin Rashes

The problem with skin diseases is that they are not easily diagnosed because there are hundreds of factors that go into the thinking process before making up the mind about a single disease. Our skin is directly exposed to the air and therefore, we must know that mold has the ability to cause skin rashes. So if you are having problems with your skin, you must make sure that the problem is not caused due to mold. The patient might not feel normal immediately after keeping away from exposure to mold, it is therefore important to see a doctor as soon as possible.

Call Water Damage Zone today at (877) 520-1923  your future bills may be a lot smaller if you follow these simple tips. You can also visit our sister company for further information on restoration services at Best American Builders.

We specialize in the following services:

• 24/7 Emergency Response, Water Extraction, and Water Damage
• Direct Billing to Insurance, Locally Owned and Operated
• Water Cleanup, Water Dry outs, Visual Mold Inspections, Sewage Damage Cleanup
• Sterilizing & Odor Removal, Licensed & Bonded #963976, Reputable Los Angeles based company
• Image from deposit photos, ID 15892692
• Shutterstock Sequence Number: US-041C159DA-1

Water Damage Zone, Inc.

Corporate Office

7111 Reseda Blvd

Reseda, CA 91355

Cleaning and Preventing Mold on Children’s Bath Toys

Most kids play with toys in the bathtub. These toys end up in all sorts of places, especially in their mouths. The problem here is that a lot of bath toys begin to develop mold after only a few uses if they aren’t clean. One of the most notorious of these toys is the rubber ducky. The hole allows for water to go inside and sit in the toy. As the water sits inside, mold is allowed to begin growing. Here are a few tips for keeping your children’s bath toys clean.

Seal Any Holes

If there are any holes where water can enter the toys, you can count on the fact that they will begin to develop mold. The best way to deal with this problem is to somehow seal the hole so that water can no longer enter and exit the toy. The best way to do this is with a little hot glue right on top of the hole.

Bleach Them

Just fill a bucket with bleach and water mixed together and then place the toys into the bucket. After they have soaked for several hours you can take them out and rinse them with water. Then sit them somewhere warm and allow to air dry. They should be clean and mold free now.

Boil Them

If your toys have holes in them that may have allowed some mold inside the best thing to do is boil them. By boiling them in hot water you will kill any mold that is present. When they begin to cool off you can squeeze out any mold that may have been lurking inside.

Use the Dishwasher

Putting bath toys in the dishwasher will do the same thing as the above tips. It will sanitize the toys and help you remove any mold that could be growing inside of the toy.

By following these tips, you will prevent your children from coming into contact with dangerous mold. If you notice a toy that is particularly hard to clean or if it has lots of mold growing in it, you should just toss it. It’s better to protect your children from mold then save a few dollars on some bath toys.

 

Call Water Damage Zone today (877) 520.1923  your future bills may be a lot smaller, if you follow these simple tips. You can also visit our sister company for further information on restoration services at Best American Builders.

We specialize in the following services:

• 24/7 Emergency Response, Water Extraction, Water Damage
• Direct Billing to Insurance, Locally Owned and Operated
• Water Cleanup, Water Dry outs, Visual Mold Inspections, Sewage Damage Cleanup
• Sterilizing & Odor Removal, Licensed & Bonded #963976, Reputable Los Angeles based company
• Image from depositphotos, ID 15892692
• Shutterstock Sequence Number: US-041C159DA-1

Water Damage Zone, Inc.

Corporate Office

15115 Califa St. Ste. C

Van Nuys, CA 91411

Is Mold Toxic

When we hear the word “mold” we have initial fears of our well-being and that of our families as well.  It is necessary to take these fears seriously, but is mold really toxic?  It seems that due to recent studies that they potentially are not.

According to the CDC, molds themselves are not inherently toxic.  Certain molds can produce toxic substances called mycotoxins, yet many molds are neither toxic nor poisonous.  However this doesn’t mean that mold is not a serious issue.

Mold is always present.  It exists inside home and office buildings alike.  It can be found in the air we breath and on the surfaces of items we are consistently in contact with, yet there are few reports to say that mold is responsible for rare health issues such as memory loss.

The effects of mold that most commonly found in people are in the infections and complications in the upper respiratory tract systems.  These issues can be presented in the form of a cough, wheezing in light cases, and move up towards asthma in the more extreme cases.  People who have a sensitivity to allergies find that they have the most issues with the presence of mold.

Just because there are no links to toxicity for mold it does not mean that mold should be taken lightly.  For people who are sensitive to mold, it can be a very unbearable existence as nasal issues, irritation, wheezing and skin irritation can all be manifest with the issues of mold.  In more extreme cases, there may be fever and shortness of breath.  At the worst, people can routinely develop fungal infections in the lungs that will require medical attention.

If you find mold in your home, then you should take every precaution and step to clean up the mold in order to limit your personal exposure to the effects, but also your family as well.  In many cases, the mold can be a simple clean up using water and bleach.  Under no circumstances, never mix bleach with ammonia as this creates toxic fumes more harmful than the mold.

If you find that the potential issue is extensive or you just want to be sure you are finished with the situation, it would be best to bring in a reputable mold remediation company to assess your situation.  This company would be able to identify and suggest a course of action that could limit and eliminate the effects of mold in your home.

Call Water Damage Zone today (877) 520-1923  your future bills may be a lot smaller, if you follow these simple tips. You can also visit our sister company for further information on restoration services at Best American Builders.

We specialize in the following services:

• 24/7 Emergency Response, Water Extraction, Water Damage
• Direct Billing to Insurance, Locally Owned and Operated
• Water Cleanup, Water Dry outs, Visual Mold Inspections, Sewage Damage Cleanup
• Sterilizing & Odor Removal, Licensed & Bonded #963976, Reputable Los Angeles based company
• Image from depositphotos, ID 15892692
• Shutterstock Sequence Number: US-041C159DA-1

Water Damage Zone, Inc.
Corporate Office
15115 Califa St. Ste. C
Van Nuys, CA 91411

 

Bathroom Remodel

One of the best ways to improve the value of your home is to complete a bathroom remodel.  It is one of the simplest remodels that can be done in a new home that potentially had the same presentation since the house was built.  Plus, a new bathroom remodel can simply be an excellent way to pamper yourself with luxurious additions that can make your bathroom an everyday spa day retreat.

 

 Utilize The Space

The best place to start when considering a bathroom remodel is to consider the room that is available.  You can have a better understanding of your bathroom if you understand the layout and measurements of the room.  The potential that a bathroom remodel can present is extra counter space, larger cabinets, places for laundry hampers, etc.  Let your imagination go with the potential that you have in deciding how you want your bathroom to look.  Your bathroom should reflect your personality as it becomes your refuge.

 

 Relaxation Is Key

As mentioned before, think of your bathroom as a spa retreat as you decide on a remodel.  Remember that the bathroom, for many of us, is the lone retreat in the house from family so why not make it as relaxing as possible?  A feeling of relaxation can be achieved in any remodel through multiple setting showerheads, quieter fans, lighting, music speakers, and also the use of materials like bamboo and stone give a natural and clean feeling to the overall room.  If you want to go modern and implement technology, the bathroom can also accommodate wall-mounted televisions, heated floors and the Jacuzzi.  Remodeled bathrooms can also become a good way to save money on your monthly expenses by introducing green technology in lighting and LED lights.

 

 In Conclusion

The best reason to remodel the bathroom is that it increases the value of your home.  Even if you are the only person who sees the improvements, when it comes time to sell your home, the improvements you made in the bathroom can add up to $3000 to your home’s value.  This increase in market price can be the result of doing a simple remodel of cabinets, sinks and a new mirror with lighting.  A bathroom remodel is not only an investment in yourself, but in your home as well.

 

 

Call Water Damage Zone today (877) 520-1923  your future bills may be a lot smaller, if you follow these simple tips. You can also visit our sister company for further information on restoration services at Best American Builders.

We specialize in the following services:

• 24/7 Emergency Response, Water Extraction, Water Damage
• Direct Billing to Insurance, Locally Owned and Operated
• Water Cleanup, Water Dry outs, Visual Mold Inspections, Sewage Damage Cleanup
• Sterilizing & Odor Removal, Licensed & Bonded #963976, Reputable Los Angeles based company
• Image from depositphotos, ID 15892692
• Shutterstock Sequence Number: US-041C159DA-1

Water Damage Zone, Inc.

Corporate Office

15115 Califa St. Ste. C

Van Nuys, CA 91411

 

Black Mold- Health Risks

There are several kinds and types of mold that can be divided into several categories and sub-categories. Black mold, also known as Stachybotrys chartarum, is one of the most common species. It is not only toxic, but also causes several problems related to skin and the respiratory system. However, not all mold that is black by appearance is Stachybotrys chartarum. Here are some of the symptoms you may experience if your home has black mold.

Respiratory Problems

The respiratory system is usually one of the first things that will be effected due to breathing in the area of the black mold. The toxic fumes are breathed in and then enter the respiratory system, which immediately leads to difficulty breathing. Major symptoms may include breathlessness, wheezing, coughing, swelling of the lungs, sore throat, bleeding in the lungs, runny nose, itchy nose and nose bleeds.
These symptoms may vary based on the age, and the immune system of the person.

Circulatory Problems

The irritation doesn’t stop at the respiratory system, encountering black mold can also effect the circulatory system if it’s absorbed through breathing or the skin. The toxins in the black mold can find their way into the bloodstream and cause complications such as, heart damage, blood clotting and external or internal hemorrhaging.
If you or someone you know has been in direct contact with black mold, see a doctor if they have any of the following symptoms: irregular heartbeat, heart inflammation, low blood pressure, vomiting of blood, bone marrow disruption and bleeding tendency.
The severity of the symptoms may vary from one person to another, but immediate care should be taken in order to eradicate the chances of further damage to other organs. To ensure safety contact a doctor immediately following the presence of any of the above symptoms in order to minimize damage. The person having these symptoms should be moved to a mold free area, in order for them to be safe from any more damage or difficulties.

Skin Problems

One of the several ways through which mold makes it into the human body is by getting absorbed into the skin. Skin can be highly damaged due to mold. Areas that can get sweaty, like armpits or creases in the skin, have a higher tendency to be effected by black mold.
Symptoms may include, crawling of the skin, dermatitis and jaundice.

Call Water Damage Zone today (877) 520-1923  your future bills may be a lot smaller, if you follow these simple tips. You can also visit our sister company for further information on restoration services at Best American Builders.

We specialize in the following services:

• 24/7 Emergency Response, Water Extraction, Water Damage
• Direct Billing to Insurance, Locally Owned and Operated
• Water Cleanup, Water Dry outs, Visual Mold Inspections, Sewage Damage Cleanup
• Sterilizing & Odor Removal, Licensed & Bonded #963976, Reputable Los Angeles based company
• Image from depositphotos, ID 15892692
• Shutterstock Sequence Number: US-041C159DA-1

Water Damage Zone, Inc.
Corporate Office
15115 Califa St. Ste. C
Van Nuys, CA 91411

Airborne Mold is More Common Than You Think

Most people cringe when they hear the word mold and immediately picture disgusting scenes in bathrooms and basements. Mold has long been known to produce uncomfortable symptoms in people who become exposed to it. They may begin to cough and wheeze, have itchy eyes, sore throat, headaches, nausea, or fatigue. You should be aware that mold spores are easily airborne and probably one of the allergens that are causing your allergy symptoms already.

Airborne Mold

Mold that becomes airborne can create a variety of adverse health effects that vary in intensity from mild to deadly. The EPA and FEMA both have guidelines and restrictions for the level of mold spores that are present in indoor areas. Airborne mold can be just as deadly as mold you find growing in walls and that is why it must be treated with the same caution. If you are in the vicinity of visible mold, then chances are that you’re also inhaling it.

Mold and How It Spreads

Mold must become airborne in order to spread and reproduce. This is why when you see a mold colony you can already assume that spores are being created and flying off into the air to look for other surfaces to begin growing on. They grow best on damp surfaces with organic matter on them to feed on. Mold feeds on dead and decaying materials in nature. This is why it grows best in bathrooms where there is usually organic material laying on counters and floors.

Mycotoxins

The most dangerous substances found in mold spores are mycotoxins. These mycotoxins are dangerous and can be found in mold growing on food as well as in the environment. This is why it is important to be aware of mold in your surroundings and eliminate it as quickly possibly. Certain molds are more dangerous than others.

Keeping Areas Ventilated and Dehumidified

All rooms in your home should be ventilated so that air can easily enter and exit them. This will allow the mold spores to flow out of your rooms. Make sure that the air is also dry and not humid. Purchasing a dehumidifier will help to prevent humidity from lingering in your home. You can also purchase an air filter that will suck the air through it and absorb mold spores and other allergens so that they won’t bother you.

 

Call Water Damage Zone today (877) 520-1923  your future bills may be a lot smaller, if you follow these simple tips. You can also visit our sister company for further information on restoration services at Best American Builders.

We specialize in the following services:

• 24/7 Emergency Response, Water Extraction, Water Damage
• Direct Billing to Insurance, Locally Owned and Operated
• Water Cleanup, Water Dry outs, Visual Mold Inspections, Sewage Damage Cleanup
• Sterilizing & Odor Removal, Licensed & Bonded #963976, Reputable Los Angeles based company
• Image from depositphotos, ID 15892692
• Shutterstock Sequence Number: US-041C159DA-1

Water Damage Zone, Inc.

Corporate Office

15115 Califa St. Ste. C

Van Nuys, CA 91411

 

How Does Steam Cause Mold in Your Bathroom?

Mold often begins in the bathroom because of a buildup of moisture. This moisture usually comes from steam that accumulates on tiles and grout over time when you use the shower. If you notice mold in your bathroom you are probably wondering how it got there. Let’s go over how steam causes mold to quickly grow in the bathroom.

Wetness

The bathroom is usually the room in the house that contains the most fixtures that use water. All of these water fixtures allow the bathroom to accumulate large amounts of moisture if not properly maintained. Don’t depend on vents in the bathroom to keep it dry, eventually the dampness in the room will lead the way to mold if not properly cared for. By taking the time to clean the bathroom thoroughly with detergent and a scrub brush, you can prevent mold from spreading quickly. In addition to this, keep your floors dry with towels and mats so that water can’t sit on them for long periods of time.

Ventilation in the Bathroom

Bathrooms need to be properly ventilated in order to stay as dry as possible. By closing bathroom doors while you are using the shower, you trap moisture inside of the room instead of letting it escape. While this moisture is sitting on the floor and walls, it allows mold to slowly start growing. By simply leaving the bathroom door open while you shower, you can prevent moisture from accumulating. Also, putting a fan on to blow air out of the bathroom can help get rid of excess steam as well. If you don’t have a vent fan in the ceiling, you may want to try putting one in a window or by the doorway to blow the steam out.

Damaged Grout

Grout needs to be replaced twice a year in the bathroom in order to prevent it from deteriorating. It’s time to replace your grout if it has begun to chip. Once grout is damaged, all it takes is for moisture to find its way into cracks and crevices so that hidden mold can start growing. This mold is hard to remove because it’s difficult to get into a tight space like a crack in a tile. Besides preventing mold, replacing the grout in your tiles will keep your bathroom looking clean and fresh.

 

Call Water Damage Zone today (877) 520.1923  your future bills may be a lot smaller, if you follow these simple tips. You can also visit our sister company for further information on restoration services at Best American Builders.

We specialize in the following services:

• 24/7 Emergency Response, Water Extraction, Water Damage
• Direct Billing to Insurance, Locally Owned and Operated
• Water Cleanup, Water Dry outs, Visual Mold Inspections, Sewage Damage Cleanup
• Sterilizing & Odor Removal, Licensed & Bonded #963976, Reputable Los Angeles based company
• Image from depositphotos, ID 15892692
• Shutterstock Sequence Number: US-041C159DA-1

Water Damage Zone, Inc.

Corporate Office

15115 Califa St. Ste. C

Van Nuys, CA 91411

Humidifiers are a Breeding Ground for Mold

If you regularly use a humidifier you should know that if it’s not properly cared for it can be a breeding ground for mold. By following a few steps on a regular basis you can keep your humidifier clean and remove any existing mold spores from it. Even if you do not suffer from severe mold or dust mite allergies, you may want to know that anybody can develop a lung condition from dirty humidifiers. This condition is known as humidifier lung or hypersensitivity pneumonitis. Keep your humidifier clean at all times to avoid developing health problems.

Empty and Clean

Every day you should empty out the water reservoir of your humidifier in the sink. Then, you should rinse it out with hot, soapy water. Don’t allow any water to get into the motor of the humidifier. Also, ensure that you’re not overfilling the reservoir when filling it up for use. Humidifiers can be a great tool for those who are suffering from breathing problems, but if they’re not cleaned routinely they become dirty and bacteria filled.

Clean with Vinegar

Every week you can follow the cleaning routine above but, instead of stopping there you will clean with some vinegar. Add 2 cups of white vinegar and water to fill the reservoir to a normal level. Run the humidifier with the vinegar mixture for 30 minutes in an open area. This will help the humidifier to remain clean and mold-free for longer.

Properly Maintain

Keep the area around your humidifier dry. Remember that it will raise the humidity in your home, which allows mold to grow quickly and aggressively. If you start to notice mold developing in areas of your home, cease use of the humidifier and clean the mold. If you find that the mold has spread to a large area or may be hidden, call professionals like Water Damage Zone to inspect and treat the area.

Do you have any tips for cleaning your humidifier? Let us know in the comments below.

Call Water Damage Zone today (877) 520.1923  your future bills may be a lot smaller, if you follow these simple tips. You can also visit our sister company for further information on restoration services at Best American Builders.

We specialize in the following services:

• 24/7 Emergency Response, Water Extraction, Water Damage
• Direct Billing to Insurance, Locally Owned and Operated
• Water Cleanup, Water Dry outs, Visual Mold Inspections, Sewage Damage Cleanup
• Sterilizing & Odor Removal, Licensed & Bonded #963976, Reputable Los Angeles based company
• Image from depositphotos, ID 15892692
• Shutterstock Sequence Number: US-041C159DA-1

Water Damage Zone, Inc.

Corporate Office

15115 Califa St. Ste. C

Van Nuys, CA 91411