Recent Posts
Rash Reality: The Link Between Mold and Skin Conditions
5/18/2023 (Permalink)
Babies and the elderly are particularly sensitive to the negative health impacts of mold.
When we think of mold, we often associate it with respiratory issues and allergies. However, the impact of mold extends beyond just respiratory health. Surprisingly, mold can also cause skin problems, including rashes and eczema.
Understanding Mold's Effect on Skin
Mold releases spores into the air, which can trigger allergic reactions in some individuals. When these spores come into contact with the skin, they can cause various skin problems, including:
Allergic Contact Dermatitis: Mold spores can act as allergens, leading to allergic contact dermatitis. This condition manifests as redness, itching, and inflammation of the skin upon exposure to mold.
Irritant Contact Dermatitis: Mold can also release substances that act as irritants, causing irritant contact dermatitis. This condition results in skin redness, dryness, and peeling, often resembling a rash.
Fungal Infections: Certain types of mold, such as dermatophytes, can directly infect the skin, leading to fungal skin infections. These infections may cause symptoms like itching, redness, scaling, and even blisters.
Eczema Aggravation: For individuals already living with eczema, mold exposure can trigger or worsen flare-ups. The presence of mold spores can irritate the skin and lead to increased inflammation and itching in eczema-prone individuals.
How Mold Affects Infants
Mold can have a significant negative impact on babies and toddlers, who are more vulnerable to its harmful effects. The presence of mold in a baby's environment can lead to various health issues and discomfort. Babies have developing immune systems and respiratory systems, making them more susceptible to respiratory and dermatological problems caused by mold spores. Exposure to mold can trigger or exacerbate respiratory conditions, eczema, or allergies.
How Mold Affects The Elderly
Mold can significantly impact the health of the elderly, who are often more susceptible to its adverse effects. The presence of mold in their living environment can exacerbate existing health conditions and contribute to the development of new ones. Mold spores can trigger respiratory problems such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and aggravated asthma symptoms in older individuals with compromised lung function. Moreover, mold exposure can weaken the immune system of the elderly, making them more susceptible to respiratory infections and other illnesses. Mold toxins can also cause neurological symptoms like confusion, memory loss, and mood disorders in the elderly.
Prevention and Remediation
To protect your skin from mold-related issues, it is crucial to prevent and address mold problems promptly. Here are some preventive measures and steps for effective mold remediation:
Moisture Control: Since mold thrives in damp environments, it is essential to address any sources of moisture in your home. Repair leaks, ensure proper ventilation, and promptly dry any areas affected by water damage.
Regular Cleaning: Regularly clean and inspect areas prone to mold growth, such as bathrooms, basements, and attics. This way, if mold is beginning to grow in your home, you'll ideally catch it during the early stages.
Professional Mold Remediation: If you suspect mold growth in your home, it is wise to seek professional mold remediation services. Certified experts like SERVPRO of Central Seattle have the knowledge, equipment, and techniques to safely remove mold and prevent its recurrence.
Mold is not just an eyesore or a respiratory hazard; it can also affect our skin health. By understanding the link between mold and skin problems, we can take necessary precautions to prevent mold growth and promptly address any mold-related issues. If you or a loved one is experiencing persistent skin problems or suspect mold in your environment, consult a healthcare professional and contact us right away for mold remediation services to create a safe and healthy living space for you and your family.
Honoring the Sacrifice: Memorial Day and Our Gratitude to Fallen Heroes
5/16/2023 (Permalink)
Memorial Day is a time for gratitude, remembrance, and honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the United States.
As Memorial Day approaches, it is important to understand the significance of this solemn holiday and the profound gratitude we owe to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the United States. Beyond the barbecues and festivities, Memorial Day holds deep meaning as a day of remembrance and honor. In this blog post, we will explore the essence of Memorial Day, why it is significant, and express our heartfelt appreciation on behalf of SERVPRO of Central Seattle for those who died while serving our nation.
Understanding Memorial Day: Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday of May, is a day dedicated to honoring and remembering the men and women who lost their lives while serving in the United States Armed Forces. Originally known as Decoration Day, it emerged after the American Civil War to commemorate fallen soldiers. Over time, it evolved into a national holiday, encompassing all military personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice in defending our freedom and preserving our way of life.
Commemorating the Sacrifice: Memorial Day holds immense significance as a time to reflect upon and pay tribute to the brave individuals who selflessly gave their lives for our country. It serves as a reminder of the tremendous sacrifices made by servicemen and women, highlighting their unwavering dedication, courage, and love for their fellow citizens. It is a day to express gratitude for their willingness to lay down their lives to protect our cherished values and liberties.
Honoring Fallen Heroes: SERVPRO of Central Seattle joins the nation in expressing deep appreciation and reverence for the fallen heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice. We recognize the immense debt of gratitude owed to those who sacrificed their own lives to ensure our safety and security. Their valor and commitment inspire us to cherish the freedoms they fought to preserve and to remember the sacrifices made by military families who have lost loved ones in service.
Memorial Day Traditions: Memorial Day is observed with various traditions that help commemorate the fallen. Many people visit cemeteries and memorials to honor the gravesites of fallen soldiers, adorning them with flowers and flags. Parades, patriotic ceremonies, and memorial services are held across the country to pay homage to those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Observing a moment of silence at 3:00 p.m. local time for one minute is a common practice to reflect upon the sacrifices made by our fallen heroes.
Carrying Their Legacy Forward: While Memorial Day serves as a poignant moment to remember and honor our fallen heroes, it is essential to carry their legacy forward every day. We can do this by supporting and caring for the veterans who returned from their service, ensuring they receive the respect, resources, and assistance they deserve. Moreover, by actively participating in our communities and upholding the values our fallen heroes fought to defend, we can honor their memory and honor the meaning of their sacrifice.
As Memorial Day approaches, let us pause and reflect on the true meaning of this solemn occasion. SERVPRO of Central Seattle expresses heartfelt gratitude to the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to the United States. May their sacrifice be forever etched in our hearts, and may we strive to honor their memory by embracing the freedoms they fought to protect. This Memorial Day, let us come together as a nation to remember, appreciate, and pay tribute to our fallen heroes.
10 Ideas For Mom On Mother's Day
5/9/2023 (Permalink)
Flowers are a wonderful gift on Mother's Day.
We believe in the power of family and community. And what better time to celebrate family than on Mother's Day! As we honor the special women in our lives, we want to share some fun and creative ways to spend this special day with mom.
Brunch or Dinner: Treat your mom to a delicious meal at her favorite restaurant, or cook her a special meal at home.
Spa Day: Book a spa day for your mom, complete with a massage, facial, and other pampering treatments.
Picnic in the Park: Pack a picnic basket with mom's favorite snacks and enjoy a beautiful day in the park.
Movie Night: Curl up on the couch with your mom and watch her favorite movie or binge-watch her favorite TV show.
Take a Hike: Explore the great outdoors and enjoy some quality time with your mom on a scenic hike.
Game Night: Dust off the board games and challenge your mom to a game of her choice.
Wine Tasting: Take your mom to a local winery for a day of wine tasting and relaxation.
DIY or Craft Project: Get creative with your mom and work on a DIY project together, such as painting a room or building a piece of furniture.
Baking Day: Spend the day in the kitchen with your mom and whip up some of her favorite desserts.
Virtual Gathering: If you can't be with your mom in person, set up a virtual gathering to spend time together from afar.
No matter how you choose to celebrate Mother's Day, the most important thing is to let your mom know how much you love and appreciate her. We wish all the moms out there a very happy Mother's Day!
We're Attending NAWIC!
5/5/2023 (Permalink)
Did you know that women make up 9.9% of the construction industry, and 61.3% of those women work in offices?
We're thrilled to announce that we'll be attending the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) conference in Alaska this year! This is a fantastic opportunity for us to connect with industry partners and professionals, as well as to meet new people and learn from their experiences. We're excited to share our expertise, and to explore new ideas and opportunities to support women in the construction industry. We can't wait to make new connections, and to strengthen existing ones at the conference. Let's build something great together!
Discover the Charm and Excitement of Seattle: A Guide to the Best Landmarks, Arts, and Activities
5/3/2023 (Permalink)
An iconic view of the Space Needle and Mt. Rainier
Seattle, also known as the Emerald City, is a vibrant and exciting place to live. Whether you're a long-time resident or a newcomer, there's always something new and exciting to discover in this city. From iconic landmarks to world-class museums, Seattle has something for everyone. Here are just a sampling of what the city has to offer.
Pike Place Market: This historic market is one of Seattle's most popular attractions. Here you can find fresh produce, artisanal crafts, and some of the best seafood in the city. Be sure to see the famous fish-throwing!
Space Needle: No trip to Seattle is complete without a visit to the Space Needle. This iconic landmark offers stunning views of the city and is a must-see for anyone living or visiting Seattle.
Museum of Pop Culture: This museum celebrates all things pop culture, from music to movies and video games. It's a great place to learn about the history of some of your favorite bands, movies, and TV shows.
Chihuly Garden and Glass: This beautiful museum showcases the stunning glass art of Dale Chihuly. The exhibit features colorful, intricate glass sculptures that are truly breathtaking.
Seattle Art Museum: The Seattle Art Museum features a vast collection of art from around the world, including works from famous artists like Pablo Picasso and Georgia O'Keeffe.
Music Scene: Seattle is known for its vibrant music scene, with a rich history of grunge music and famous musicians like Jimi Hendrix and Nirvana. You can catch live music at one of the many venues throughout the city.
Outdoor Activities: Seattle's beautiful natural surroundings make it a great place for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking. With easy access to mountains, lakes, and the ocean, there's always something new to explore.
Neighborhoods: Seattle is made up of many unique neighborhoods, each with its own character and charm. From the trendy boutiques and cafes of Capitol Hill to the historic architecture of Pioneer Square, there's a neighborhood to suit every taste.
Food and Drink: Seattle's food and drink scene is second to none, with a wide variety of cuisines and craft breweries. Be sure to try the city's famous seafood, including salmon and Dungeness crab.
At SERVPRO of Central Seattle, we are proud to serve the people of Seattle. We offer a wide range of restoration services to help our clients recover from disasters like water damage and fire damage. Our trained professionals have the expertise and experience to handle any project, no matter how big or small. We understand the unique challenges of restoring homes and businesses in Seattle, and we are committed to providing high-quality services that are backed by our commitment to excellence.
Our water damage restoration services include water extraction, drying and dehumidification, and mold remediation. We use advanced equipment and techniques to ensure that your property is restored to its pre-disaster condition. We also offer fire damage restoration services, including smoke and soot removal, odor removal, and content cleaning. Our goal is to get you back to your normal life as quickly as possible.
Seattle is an amazing city to live in, with endless opportunities for fun and adventure. Whether you're a fan of art, music, or outdoor activities, there's something for everyone in this city. At SERVPRO of Central Seattle, we are proud to serve the people of Seattle and help them recover from disasters.
When Storms Strike, SERVPRO of Seattle Central and South & Mercer Island is Here to Help
4/26/2023 (Permalink)
Experiencing storm damage to your home or business can be an incredibly stressful and overwhelming experience.
According to seattle.gov, the Puget Sound region is known for its unpredictable weather patterns, with strong windstorms being a common occurrence. These windstorms, including mid-latitude cyclones and Pineapple Express storms, can cause significant damage to homes and businesses, often leaving people in need of storm damage restoration services. This is where SERVPRO of Seattle Central and South & Mercer Island comes in - a trusted provider of storm cleanup and restoration services in the Greater Seattle area.
The Greater Seattle area is no stranger to powerful windstorms, with sustained winds of up to 70 mph and gusts up to 90 mph being a regular occurrence. In 2006, a windstorm caused widespread power outages, with almost 50% of Seattle City Light's customers losing power. While power outages are a common issue during windstorms, they are not the only problem. Falling trees and branches can cause structural damage to homes, and in some cases, even lead to fatalities. Additionally, the cold temperatures during winter months can exacerbate health problems for those without access to electricity for heating.
When a windstorm damages your home or business, it's essential to act quickly to mitigate the damage and prevent further harm. This is where SERVPRO of Seattle Central and South & Mercer Island's storm damage restoration services come in. Our highly-trained professionals have the experience and equipment needed to quickly clean up and restore your home or business to its pre-storm condition.
With over 2,000 locations across the United States and Canada, SERVPRO is always ready to respond to storm damage emergencies. Our team of elite large-loss specialists can handle any size disaster, from minor storm damage to major flood disasters.
Seattle's building code requires new structures to withstand wind speeds of 85 mph for three seconds, but many older buildings were constructed before these requirements were put in place. This means that older buildings may be more susceptible to wind damage during storms. With almost 90,000 homes in Seattle built before 1939, there is a significant need for storm damage restoration services in the area.
While windstorms can be regional events, suburban areas with heavier forestation can often be hit harder than Seattle proper. This can make resources to aid in recovery hard to find. That's why it's important to have a trusted storm damage restoration partner like SERVPRO of Seattle Central and South & Mercer Island.
Windstorms are a common occurrence in the Greater Seattle area, and they can cause significant damage to homes and businesses. SERVPRO of Seattle Central and South & Mercer Island is a trusted provider of storm damage restoration services, with the experience and equipment needed to quickly clean up and restore your property. When a windstorm damages your home or business, don't wait - contact us to help get your life back to normal.
Storms in Seattle
4/19/2023 (Permalink)
A lightning storm.
Seattle, located in the Pacific Northwest, is known for its beautiful scenery, diverse culture, and mild weather. However, the city is also susceptible to storms that can cause severe damage to homes. These storms, including windstorms, rainstorms, and snowstorms, can result in significant property damage and costly repairs.
Windstorms
Windstorms are somewhat common in the Greater Seattle Area, and they can cause severe damage to homes. High winds can uproot trees, break branches, and cause flying debris, all of which can damage homes. The most common type of damage caused by windstorms is roof damage. The strong winds can lift shingles and tear them off, leaving the roof exposed to the elements. In severe cases, the wind can even tear off entire sections of the roof, which can be very dangerous for homeowners.
Rainstorms
Rainstorms are most common in Seattle, and they can cause significant damage to homes. Heavy rain can result in flooding, which can damage the foundation, walls, and floors of a home. Water can seep into the walls, leading to mold and mildew growth, which can cause health problems for residents. In addition, rainstorms can cause water damage to electrical systems and appliances, leading to costly repairs.
Snowstorms
While snowstorms are less common in Seattle, they can still cause significant damage to homes. Heavy snow can cause roofs to collapse, especially if the roof is old or poorly maintained. The weight of the snow can also damage gutters and downspouts, leading to water damage and leaks.
How to Protect Your Home
While storms can cause significant damage to homes, there are several steps that homeowners can take to protect their properties. Here are a few tips to help prevent storm damage:
Trim Trees: Trim any trees or branches that are close to your home. This will help prevent them from falling and causing damage during a windstorm.
Maintain Your Roof: Regularly inspect your roof for damage, and repair any issues as soon as possible. This will help prevent wind and water damage during a storm.
Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Clean gutters and downspouts regularly to prevent water damage during heavy rainstorms.
Install Storm Windows and Doors: Install storm windows and doors to help prevent wind and water damage during a storm.
Consider Flood Insurance: If you live in a flood-prone area, consider purchasing flood insurance to protect your home and belongings.
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Storms can cause significant damage to homes in Seattle. Windstorms can cause roof damage, rainstorms can result in flooding and water damage, and snowstorms can lead to roof collapse. However, homeowners can take steps to protect their properties, including trimming trees, maintaining their roof, cleaning gutters and downspouts, installing storm windows and doors, and purchasing flood insurance. By taking these steps, homeowners can help prevent storm damage and protect their homes and belongings.
Should any storm damage your home, we are here to help with emergency tarping services and water damage restoration and mitigation.
Commercial Buildings and Water Damage
4/19/2023 (Permalink)
Commercial and professional spaces need water damage restoration.
Water damage is one of the most significant issues that commercial businesses can face. Whether it's due to a burst pipe, a natural disaster, or a malfunctioning appliance, water damage can quickly cause extensive damage to your business. The best way to minimize the damage is to get professional water damage restoration services as soon as possible. Contacting SERVPRO of Seattle Central and South & Mercer Island for water damage restoration and mitigation can:
Prevent Structural Damage
One of the primary reasons why commercial businesses need water damage restoration services is to prevent structural damage. Water can seep into walls, ceilings, and floors, weakening the structural integrity of your building. If left untreated, this can lead to costly repairs and potentially dangerous conditions for employees and customers. We can quickly identify the areas that are most vulnerable to damage and take the necessary steps to prevent further damage and restore your belongings as closely to their original state as possible.
Protect Your Assets
Another reason why commercial businesses need water damage restoration services is to protect their assets. Water can damage everything from equipment and inventory to furniture and documents. Depending on the severity of the damage, you could be facing significant financial losses if your assets are not protected. Water damage restoration professionals can help salvage as much of your assets as possible and prevent further damage. In addition, we offer an Emergency Readiness Plan (ERP) to commercial clients so that when water damage happens, there's a plan of action to address the damage ASAP.
Reduce Downtime
Water damage can also cause significant downtime for your business. If your office or building is unusable due to water damage, you may need to close your business temporarily, which can lead to lost revenue and unhappy customers. By getting water damage restoration services quickly, you can minimize the downtime and get your business up and running again as soon as possible.
Prevent Mold Growth
Mold is a significant concern when it comes to water damage. Mold can grow quickly in moist areas, and can cause health problems for your employees and customers. It can also damage your building's structure. We can identify areas of your building that are at risk for mold growth and take the necessary steps to prevent it from happening.
Commercial businesses need water damage restoration services to prevent structural damage, protect their assets, reduce downtime, prevent mold growth, and improve indoor air quality. Water damage can cause extensive damage to your building and assets, and it can also affect the health and safety of your employees and customers. By getting professional water damage restoration services as soon as possible, you can minimize the damage and get your business back up and running as soon as possible.
Got Water Damage? What You Should Do While Waiting For Help to Arrive
4/19/2023 (Permalink)
Flooding and water damage can be seriously dangerous. Prioritize you and your family's safety and do not attempt anything unsafe.
Water damage can be a stressful and overwhelming experience for homeowners. Whether it's due to a burst pipe, a leaking roof, or a natural disaster, water damage can cause extensive damage to your home and belongings. While waiting for professional help to arrive, there are a few things homeowners can do to minimize the damage and keep themselves safe.
Safety First
The first and most important thing to consider when dealing with water damage is safety. Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are common concerns in water-damaged homes. Before attempting any cleanup or restoration efforts, make sure it is safe to stay in the house. If there are any concerns about safety, it's best to evacuate the home and wait for professional help to arrive.
Be Selective About What You Do
It's crucial to be selective about the activities you perform in your water-damaged home. Only do activities that are safe for you to perform, and be aware that wet materials can be extremely heavy, so be careful. You can start by removing excess water by mopping and blotting. This will help prevent the water from spreading and causing further damage. If you have any wood furniture in the affected area, remove excess water and wipe it dry after removing lamps and tabletop items.
Upholstery and Cushions
Wet upholstery and cushions should be removed and propped up in a safe place to dry. You can also gather loose items from the floors and remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
What NOT to Do
It's equally important to know what NOT to do when dealing with water damage in your home. Do not leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods. Do not leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpet or floors. This will help prevent the color from bleeding and causing additional damage. It's also important not to use your household vacuum to remove water, as this can be dangerous and cause further damage to the vacuum.
Television and Appliances
Do not use televisions or other household appliances until a professional has inspected them. Additionally, do not turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.
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Water damage can be a stressful and overwhelming experience for homeowners. It's essential to prioritize safety and be selective about the activities you perform while waiting for professional help to arrive. Removing excess water, propping up wet upholstery and cushions, and removing art objects and loose items from floors are all safe activities you can perform. However, it's crucial to know what NOT to do to prevent further damage and keep yourself and your family safe. By following these guidelines, homeowners can minimize the damage and keep their homes and belongings safe until professional help arrives.
We're On Instagram - Come Get Social With Us
1/27/2023 (Permalink)
Here's a sneak peak of our Instagram content!
Being connected to our community is hugely important - and one step we are taking to stay connected is by joining Instagram as @SERVPRO_central_seattle!
If you're an industry partner, a homeowner, a property manager, or just curious about what we do, come give us a follow. We regularly publish fun, engaging content to inform people about fire damage, water damage, mold, and how we can assist with any of those needs - and more!
We also share the fun events we appear at with our industry partners
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