Types of Mold that Can Grow Indoors!

Mold can appear in many different colors and forms, and it has the ability to grow in almost every area of your home.

Here are the common types you may encounter:

Acremonium
Acremonium is a toxigenic mold that changes in appearance as it matures. It usually begins as a moist growth and eventually transforms into a fine, powdery texture. Common colors include pink, gray, orange, or white. Acremonium is often found in household systems such as humidifiers, cooling coils, drain pans, and window sealants.

Aspergillus
Aspergillus typically looks like black or green specks resembling ground pepper. It often develops around toilets, painted surfaces, or inside air ducts. When inhaled, it can trigger allergic reactions such as asthma attacks, fever, and persistent coughing with mucus. 

Aureobasidium
Aureobasidium is an allergenic mold that can sometimes grow behind wallpaper, on wooden surfaces, or on painted areas. It usually appears pink, brown, or black and darkens to a deeper brown as it ages. This mold can cause eye, skin, and nail infections, and because it may lead to dermatitis (skin rashes), it should never be touched with bare skin.

FIND MORE MOLD TYPES

How to Prevent Mold Growth Indoors

• Control humidity
• Ventilate properly
• Fix leaks quickly
• Dry wet areas fast
• Use mold-resistant materials 
• Maintain HVAC systems
• Watch for condensation

Always check for mold in your bathrooms, cellars, and other moist places, and make sure your home is well-ventilated with controlled humidity levels.

If you think you already have mold damage Greenville SC, it may be time to contact a mold remediation expert from ServiceMaster of the Upstate at (864) 310-7891. You may also complete our online contact form. You can also contact us for mold remediation Rutherford County NC, mold remediation Fletcher NC, and nearby areas.

How Does a Flooded Basement Affect Your Foundation?

Homeowners in Greenville, SC, face serious risks during storm season, including heavy rainfall, flash flooding, and hurricanes. One of the most damaging outcomes of these weather events is basement flooding. Unfortunately, water intrusion into your basement can do more than just damage your belongings; it can seriously impact the structural integrity of your home.

How Basement Flooding Impacts Your Foundation

Basement flooding affects more than just your flooring and furniture. It can lead to long-term structural problems by compromising the foundation of your home. Here's what you need to know:

• Hydrostatic Pressure
  When water accumulates around your foundation, it creates hydrostatic pressure. This pressure pushes against basement walls, which may cause them to crack, bow, or collapse. Over time, this ongoing force weakens concrete and masonry materials, threatening the safety of your structure.
  
  
• Soil Erosion
  Floodwaters can erode the soil surrounding your home, which destabilizes the foundation and may cause it to shift, sink, or settle unevenly. Homes with poor grading or pre-existing foundation issues are particularly vulnerable.
  
  
• Concrete Degradation
  Extended exposure to water causes a process called leaching, where minerals are drawn out of the concrete. This results in surface breakdown and weakens the overall structure, often requiring significant repairs to restore stability.
  

Your Local Water Damage Restoration Experts in Greenville, SC

If your property has suffered Greenville water damage due to storms, plumbing issues, or flooding, trust ServiceMaster of the Upstate for expert restoration services. Based in Roebuck, SC, we proudly serve homeowners and businesses across Greenville and the surrounding areas with rapid, effective solutions.

Our water damage restoration services include:

• 24/7 Emergency Response
• Professional Water Extraction
• Structural Drying and Dehumidification
• Comprehensive Mold Remediation
• Greenville Water Damage Repair
  

With our experienced team and state-of-the-art equipment, we act quickly to reduce damage, protect your property, and restore your peace of mind.

Contact ServiceMaster of the Upstate today at (864) 310-7891 or online for trusted water damage restoration service Greenville SC. We’re here when you need us most.

Professional Hoarder Cleanup Services in Newberry, SC

Living in a cluttered or disorganized space can cause significant stress and emotional strain. At ServiceMaster of the Upstate, we understand the delicate nature of hoarding situations and are committed to offering respectful and thorough cleanup services in Newberry, SC. Our team is specially trained to handle even the most difficult hoarding cases with compassion, professionalism, and care, making the entire process as smooth and supportive as possible.

Types of Hoarding We Address

Hoarding is more than just collecting clutter. Each case is unique and can deeply affect the individual and their loved ones. Common types of hoarding include:

• Animal Hoarding
  Involves keeping more pets than can be safely cared for, often resulting in unsanitary living conditions for both animals and humans.
  
• Compulsive Shopping
  The ongoing purchase of unneeded items, which leads to excessive accumulation and hazardous living environments.
  
• Object Hoarding
  May involve the collection of specific items like books or clothing or a wide variety of items such as old newspapers, food waste, or recyclables.

At ServiceMaster of the Upstate, we approach each situation with discretion and respect. We work alongside families to help restore safety, cleanliness, and order while ensuring the individual is treated with dignity.

Why a Clean, Organized Home Matters in Newberry, SC

• Better mental and physical well-being
• A safer environment with fewer risks of falls or injury
• A more comfortable and peaceful living space
  

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Not Sure What to Do Next? We Do.

ServiceMaster of the Upstate is available 24/7 to help when you need it most. If you or a loved one is facing a hoarding situation or needs mold damage restoration in Newberry, SC, call our emergency line at (864) 310-7891. We are here to support you with expert cleanup services and restore your home to a safe and livable condition.

What to Know About Burst Pipes and Home Insurance in South Carolina

This winter, handling burst pipes in South Carolina can be a stressful and expensive ordeal for homeowners. Knowing whether your home insurance covers the damages is crucial for managing repairs and reducing out-of-pocket costs.

Does Insurance Cover Burst Pipes?

In South Carolina, homeowners' insurance generally covers damage from burst pipes if the incident is sudden and unforeseen. However, if the damage results from negligence—like failing to maintain pipes or adequately heat your home during cold periods—coverage may not apply. It’s essential to check the specifics of your policy or consult with your insurance provider to understand the limits and exclusions of your coverage.

How to Prevent Burst Pipes

• Insulate Pipes. Wrap pipes in unheated or vulnerable areas like attics, garages, and basements with foam padding sleeves or special insulating tape.
• Maintain Heat. Keep your indoor temperature consistent, even if the property is temporarily unoccupied.
• Allow Faucet Drips. Letting faucets drip slightly during freezing temperatures can prevent pressure buildup from ice formations.
• Seal Exterior Gaps. Close up any cracks or openings on your home’s exterior to stop cold air from reaching indoor pipes.

If you encounter a burst pipe in your home, act quickly to prevent further damage. Contact ServiceMaster of the Upstate right away for professional water damage restoration services in Spartanburg, SC, and other Upstate South Carolina areas. Our skilled team is ready to manage all aspects of burst pipe cleanup to swiftly and effectively restore your home.

Contact ServiceMaster of the Upstate at (864) 310-7891 or message us online to learn more about our services or request an estimate. Our emergency response team is available 24/7 to assist you.

7 Steps to Handling a Broken Water Heater in Hendersonville, SC

 

Understanding how to manage a broken water heater effectively is crucial for any homeowner in Hendersonville, NC. This guide outlines seven (7) practical steps to minimize damage.

1. Turn Off the Power
   For electric water heaters, shut off the electricity at your circuit breaker. If you have a gas water heater, turn off the gas valve to prevent gas leaks.
2. Shut Off the Water Supply
   To stop water from flooding your area, locate and turn off the main water supply to the water heater. This will help minimize further water damage until repairs can be made.
3. Drain the Water Heater
   Attach a hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank, and lead the water to a safe area outside your home. Draining the tank prevents further leakage and reduces the risk of water damage.
4. Assess the Damage
   Check the surrounding area for water damage. Water can seep into subfloors, walls, and adjacent rooms, creating the perfect environment for mold growth.
5. Remove Standing Water
   If water has pooled in the area around your water heater, remove it as quickly as possible using a wet-dry vacuum or mop. Fast removal helps prevent the spread of moisture into construction materials.
6. Dry Out the Affected Area
   Use fans, dehumidifiers, and open windows (weather permitting) to aid in drying the area thoroughly. This step is crucial to prevent the growth of mold, which can start to develop in as little as 24 to 48 hours after water damage.
7. Inspect for Mold
   Look for signs of mold in areas that were water-damaged. Early detection and remediation are key to preventing long-term issues.

For any water damage restoration or mold remediation needs in Hendersonville, NC, ServiceMaster of the Upstate is here to help. Call us at (864) 310–7891 for fast, reliable water damage restoration and mold remediation in Hendersonville, NC. For non-emergency situations, message us online.