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Top Tips for Recovering From a Mold Infestation | SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle

1/22/2024 (Permalink)

Removing Mold From Internal Walls. Elimination of mold at home under the heating battery, Clouse-up. SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle is here for you when mold takes over your space.

No one wants to think about the possibility of mold growing behind their walls or under their floors. It can be dangerous and frankly, a little gross, to have mold lurking just out of sight. Unfortunately, mold can grow without much warning and take over entire sections of your house before it is discovered.

Thankfully, SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle can help! Our mold remediation team can come out to your home right away to identify the mold and tackle your cleanup quickly.

How Does Mold Grow in Homes? 

Mold spores can be found everywhere, both indoors and outdoors. These microscopic spores float through the air and can get into your home through open windows, vents and even through your AC unit.

Even though mold is found everywhere, it doesn’t grow everywhere. Mold needs the right conditions and space to settle in and start growing into a colony. 

Damp and dark spaces like your basement, crawl space or even your bathroom can be perfect breeding grounds for a mold infestation. Since some of these spaces aren’t used on a day-to-day basis, an entire infestation could

start growing before you are alerted to it. 

What to Do if You Find Mold 

Mold can sometimes exist in homes without any signs, but eventually you will see it or start to smell it. Mold can be any color of the rainbow, can look slimy, chalky or fuzzy, and smells musty or earthy. The best thing to do if you do find mold in your home is to leave it alone and call us right away. 

Mold can be a hazard and certain spores should not be inhaled. Our team has the proper safety gear and PPE to protect us from any dangers and hazards. We will arrive at your home quickly to identify the type of mold and then we can create your restoration plan based on the precautions that we need to take.

Our Restoration Process

We will start by containing the area, which includes sealing off the room and shutting vents to ensure the spores can’t travel further in your home. Then we will filter the air to remove any airborne particles. 

Next, it is time to tackle the visible mold. We clean up the affected area and sanitize the entire space to help ensure the mold cannot grow back. 

Depending on how long the mold was left to grow, you could be dealing with some significant structural problems to your home. Mold can degrade walls, beams and floors and even rust metal. We will help restore and repair any damage to ensure your home is safe to reenter. 


Always call a professional to clean up a mold infestation. Contact SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle today.

Helping to Keep Your Holiday Safe from Cooking Fires and Some Tips

11/20/2023 (Permalink)

well lit clean kitchen SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle is "Here to Help" 24/7, 365.

The holiday season is a time for joy, togetherness, and delicious feasts shared with loved ones. However, it's also a time when the risk of cooking fires can significantly increase due to the elaborate meals prepared during these festivities. To ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday season, it's essential to be aware of potential fire hazards and take preventive measures. In this blog, we'll share some valuable tips for keeping your holiday celebrations safe and enjoyable.

1. Stay in the Kitchen:

One of the leading causes of cooking fires is leaving the kitchen unattended while preparing a meal. Whether you're roasting a turkey, frying latkes, or baking cookies, it's essential to stay in the kitchen at all times while cooking. Assign someone the role of "kitchen monitor" to keep an eye on what's on the stove or in the oven.

2. Keep Flammable Items Away:

Ensure that flammable items such as kitchen towels, oven mitts, and wooden utensils are kept away from the stovetop and other hot surfaces. It's easy for these items to catch fire if they accidentally come into contact with a burner.

3. Have a Fire Extinguisher Handy:

Make sure you have a fire extinguisher rated for kitchen fires within easy reach. Familiarize yourself with how to use it and be ready to act quickly if a fire does break out.

4. Test Smoke Alarms:

Before the holiday season kicks into high gear, test your home's smoke alarms to make sure they're functioning correctly. Replace batteries if needed and ensure they can provide early warning in case of a fire.

5. Don't Overcrowd the Oven:

While preparing large holiday meals, it can be tempting to maximize oven space. However, overcrowding the oven can lead to uneven cooking and potential fire hazards. Follow your recipe's guidelines for oven spacing and temperature.

6. Keep Kids and Pets Safe:

Ensure that children and pets are kept a safe distance from the cooking area. Hot pots and pans, sharp utensils, and open flames can pose dangers to curious youngsters and pets.

7. SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle Can Help:

In the unfortunate event of a cooking fire or any other fire-related incident during the holidays, you can count on the professional fire damage restoration services provided by SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle. Their experienced team is available 24/7 to help with fire damage cleanup and restoration, ensuring that your home is quickly and effectively restored to its pre-fire condition.

Remember, a little caution and preparedness can go a long way in preventing cooking fires and ensuring a safe, enjoyable holiday season. By following these tips, you can help keep your holiday celebrations filled with warmth and happiness, rather than the heat of a cooking fire.

Wishing you a safe and joyful holiday season from SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle!

Protecting Your Property in Bear, DE

11/20/2023 (Permalink)

holiday decoration outside of a home in fall Protect your home against vandalism with these helpful tips from SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle!

October is National Crime Prevention Month, and Halloween often brings more mischief than treats, resulting in property damage claims in Bear, DE. Vandalism and theft incidents are prevalent, making it crucial to safeguard your home.

Follow these steps to lower your risk of becoming a target:

  1. Illuminate Your Property

Keep your property well-lit, inside and out. Many crimes occur in darkness, so ensure your home is well-illuminated even if you don't participate in trick-or-treating.

  1. Secure Your Car

Park your car in the garage and away from potential vandals. A well-protected car is less likely to be egged.

  1. Lock All Doors and Windows

Keep all doors and windows securely locked, front and back, to prevent potential burglaries.

  1. Hand Out Candy Wisely

Distribute candy from the end of your driveway rather than your front door to maintain control and deter focus on your home.

  1. Keep Your Lights On

Even after Halloween festivities, leave your lights on to discourage late-night vandalism. A well-lit property is less appealing to vandals and burglars.

  1. Bring in Your Jack O’ Lantern

To avoid pumpkin smashing, bring your jack-o'-lanterns inside before closing up for the night.

  1. Swiftly Address Vandalism

If your property is vandalized, act promptly to discourage future incidents. Removing damage quickly can deter vandals.

In case of vandalism or property damage, contact SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle, DE. Our Restoration Professionals will swiftly restore your property and make Halloween vandalism "Like it never even happened."

About SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle, DE offers Halloween safety tips for a secure and enjoyable celebration. If your property faces vandalism, water damage, fire damage, or storm-related issues during the holiday season, reach out to us for cleanup and restoration. We're available 24/7, including weekends and holidays.

SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle, DE is Faster to Any Size Disaster, assisting residential and commercial property owners during natural disasters, water damage, fires, floods, mold infestations, and other events.

Halloween 2023 Safety Tips

11/1/2023 (Permalink)

marshmellows with halloween images on them above a roaring bonfire Our team at SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle wishes you a scary good time this Halloween!

Halloween is a time for spooky fun and creative costumes, but it's also important to keep safety in mind. Over the past few years, Halloween has become more popular, and with that comes a heightened need for safety awareness. Here are some crucial Halloween safety tips for 2023 to ensure a festive and secure celebration:

1. Keep Decorations Safe

Each year, Halloween decorations near heat sources and open flames can pose a significant risk. In recent times, there has been an increase in fire-related incidents during the Halloween period. Keep your decorations well away from open flames, lights, and heaters. Ensure that your home's exits are free of obstructions so that everyone can escape in case of an emergency.

2. Illuminating Jack-o'-Lanterns

Consider using battery-operated candles or glow sticks in your jack-o'-lanterns. If you prefer real candles, exercise extreme caution. Use long, fireplace-style matches or a utility lighter to light them inside the pumpkins. If children are around, keep a close eye on them when candles are lit, and place the lit pumpkins far from flammable objects and high-traffic areas.

3. Safe Lighting Choices

Instead of open flames, opt for flashlights to illuminate your walkways and yards. They are a safer alternative, especially for trick-or-treaters whose costumes might brush against the lighting as they approach your door.

4. Costume Safety

Choose costumes that don't have long, trailing fabric that could pose a tripping hazard. If your child is wearing a mask, ensure that the eye holes are large enough for clear visibility to prevent accidents near flammable objects.

5. Educate Your Children

Talk to your children about the importance of staying away from open flames, including jack-o'-lanterns with candles inside. Provide them with flashlights or glow sticks as part of their costume to help keep them visible and safe during the festivities.

These Halloween safety tips for 2023 are essential to ensure that you have a fun and worry-free celebration. While we hope you won't encounter any issues during this holiday season, remember that SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle, DE is here to assist if your home experiences water damage, fire damage, or damage from unexpected weather events. Our team is available 24/7, even on weekends and holidays, to help with the cleanup process and get your home back to its best.

Source: National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)

The Top Threats for Water Damage | SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle

11/1/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage due a broken pipe. Moisture problem and wet floor. Have water damage you need fixed? SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle for a fast response!

How often do you sit and think about your water pipes or your roof and gutter system on a daily basis? We would bet you don’t give much thought to them at all as you watch the rain fall outside or turn on your faucet to clean some dishes. 

However, water is flowing in and around your home every day and that can lead to disaster in an instant if something goes awry. Burst pipes, malfunctioning gutters or that old dishwasher that you know is on its last leg can all cause a watery mess all over your home.

By knowing where water leaks are most common, you can check these spaces often for signs of water damage or water spots and stop a problem in its tracks. Our SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle team is here to help, so read on to learn more. 


The Threat of Appliances 

Most of us have at least one appliance in our homes that relies on water to function. Dishwashers, washing machines and even water heaters use significant amounts of water on a daily basis. 

Run your hand along the outside of these appliances before using them to check for drips or lingering moisture. If you do notice water where it shouldn’t be, unplug or turn off the appliance and do a little investigating.

The pipes in your home are also vulnerable to issues from time to time. Older pipes or deteriorating caulk lines can spring a leak at any time, or a seal could burst and lead to water spewing out of your water lines and all over your floor. Check the fittings and seals around your sinks, faucets and tubs regularly for signs of wear and tear.

The Threat of Nature 

When it rains, it pours in the New Castle area. In addition to regular thunderstorms, coastal storms and hurricanes can bring significant amounts of rain to the area in a short amount of time. 

Overwhelmed gutters can spill over or back up onto your roof, leaving your home with a serious roof leak or water that is soaking through into your foundation. The best way to avoid water damage in this way is to prepare your home ahead of the storm. Clean out your gutters, check your roof for leaks and ensure your downspouts are connected and pointed away from your house.

Floods can also happen unexpectedly in our community. Investing in a sump pump or grading your property can help keep flooding concerns to a minimum when the rain starts to fall. 

How SERVPRO Can Help
Even if you prepare as best you can, water damage will find a way if the situation is unexpected or the storm is strong enough. Call us right away so we can handle your recovery! Our trusted team will arrive quickly and start removing the excess water while also addressing any necessary repairs. 

We have the tools to ensure all of the lingering moisture is removed and we have the training to repair walls, floors and ceilings from the damage caused by moisture or standing water. Our team will help you recover no matter what type of water disaster occurred.


Water damage should always be cleaned up quickly. Contact SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle right away when disaster strikes.

Mold Remediation in Bear, New Castle: Protecting Your Home and Health

10/30/2023 (Permalink)

mold covered row of sinks in a restroom Experienced mold in your Delaware home? Call SERVPRO of Bear, New Castle to restore your space today!

Mold is a persistent issue that many homeowners in Bear, New Castle have to confront sooner or later. Whether it's the result of a hidden leak, excessive moisture, or inadequate ventilation, mold can quickly become a significant problem. Not only can it damage your property, but it can also pose health risks to you and your family. Fortunately, SERVPRO of Bear, New Castle is here to provide professional mold remediation services to help safeguard your home and your health.

Understanding Mold

Mold is a type of fungus that thrives in damp and humid conditions. It reproduces by releasing tiny spores into the air, which can settle on various surfaces and start growing. Common signs of mold infestation include a musty odor, visible mold growth, or health issues like allergies, respiratory problems, and skin irritation.

The Dangers of Mold

Mold can wreak havoc on your home and health in several ways:

1. Structural Damage

Mold can gradually break down building materials such as wood, drywall, and insulation. This can weaken the structure of your home and lead to costly repairs.

2. Health Risks

Exposure to mold spores can trigger allergic reactions, respiratory issues, and other health problems. Infants, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems are particularly vulnerable.

3. Reduced Property Value

Mold infestations can lower the value of your property, making it harder to sell in the future.

Mold Remediation: The SERVPRO Solution

When mold becomes a problem in your home, it's crucial to act quickly and decisively. SERVPRO of Bear, New Castle is here to provide professional mold remediation services tailored to your needs:

1. Inspection and Assessment

Our certified technicians will thoroughly inspect your property to identify the source of moisture and the extent of the mold infestation. This step is crucial in creating an effective remediation plan.

2. Containment

To prevent the spread of mold spores to unaffected areas, we use specialized containment procedures, including physical barriers and negative air pressure.

3. Mold Removal

We employ advanced techniques and equipment to safely remove and dispose of mold-infested materials. Our team is trained to handle mold removal while minimizing the risk of cross-contamination.

4. Cleaning and Sanitization

After mold removal, we clean and sanitize the affected areas to ensure that mold does not return. We use professional-grade antimicrobial treatments to prevent future growth.

5. Restoration

SERVPRO of Bear, New Castle offers complete restoration services to repair and rebuild any damaged structures or materials. We'll leave your home in pre-mold condition, "Like it never even happened."

Preventing Future Mold Issues

Once the mold remediation process is complete, it's essential to take steps to prevent mold from returning. Here are some tips:

  • Address any water leaks or moisture issues promptly.
  • Maintain proper ventilation in your home, especially in areas prone to humidity.
  • Keep indoor humidity levels below 50%.
  • Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens to reduce moisture.
  • Regularly clean and maintain your

Don't let mold take over your Bear, New Castle home. If you suspect mold or need professional mold remediation services, don't hesitate to contact SERVPRO of Bear, New Castle. We're here to help protect your property and your family's health.

For expert mold remediation and restoration services, reach out to SERVPRO of Bear, New Castle today!

Safe Grilling Tips for a Flavorful Labor Day Weekend – SERVPRO of Bear, New Castle

9/26/2023 (Permalink)

veggie skewers on the barbecue SERVPRO of Bear, New Castle is "Here to Help" after your holiday barbecue if you need us.

Labor Day weekend is just around the corner, and for many of us, that means firing up the grill for a delicious outdoor feast. As you prepare to celebrate the end of summer with family and friends, it's essential to prioritize safety while enjoying your favorite grilled dishes. Here are some valuable tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable grilling experience this Labor Day weekend, brought to you by SERVPRO of Bear, New Castle:

Inspect Your Grill: Before you start grilling, take a moment to inspect your grill for any signs of wear and tear. Ensure that all the parts are in good condition, the gas lines are secure, and there are no leaks. A well-maintained grill is a safe grill.

Choose the Right Location: Set up your grill in a well-ventilated outdoor area, away from structures, overhanging branches, or anything flammable. Keep a safe distance from your home, garage, and other outdoor equipment.

Keep Children and Pets Away: Create a safe zone around the grill and make sure children and pets are aware of it. They should be kept at least three feet away to avoid accidents and burns.

Use Proper Grilling Tools: Invest in high-quality grilling utensils, including long-handled tongs and spatulas, to keep your hands safe from the heat. Avoid using makeshift tools that might not provide the necessary control.

Practice Food Safety: Always marinate and store meat in the refrigerator, not at room temperature. Ensure that meat is cooked to the recommended internal temperature to kill harmful bacteria. Use a food thermometer for accuracy.

Keep a Fire Extinguisher Handy: It's better to be prepared for emergencies. Have a fire extinguisher nearby, and make sure you and your guests know how to use it.

Don't Leave the Grill Unattended: Stay by the grill while cooking, especially if you're grilling with an open flame. Fires can spread quickly, so it's crucial to be vigilant.

Clean Your Grill: After your Labor Day barbecue, take the time to clean your grill thoroughly. Grease buildup can lead to flare-ups and potential accidents.

Properly Store Propane Tanks: If you use a propane grill, store the tank in an upright position, and never store it indoors. Check for any leaks before use.

Enjoy Responsibly: Remember that alcohol and grilling can be a dangerous combination. If you're drinking, do so responsibly, and avoid becoming distracted from your grill duties.

Now that you're armed with these safety tips, you can focus on what really matters this Labor Day weekend—enjoying delicious grilled food and quality time with loved ones. If, despite your best efforts, you encounter any grilling mishaps or emergencies, don't hesitate to contact SERVPRO of Bear, New Castle for professional help. Your safety is our priority, and we're here to assist 24/7.

Here's to a safe, flavorful, and memorable Labor Day weekend!

Cleaning Your Grill: A Crucial Step in Preventing Fires – SERVPRO of Bear, New Castle

9/26/2023 (Permalink)

steak on grill with flames As grilling season comes to an end, SERVPRO of Bear, New Castle is "Here to Help" with any disaster that strikes.

Grilling season is in full swing, and there's nothing quite like the sizzle of burgers or the aroma of barbecue filling the air. But before you fire up that grill for your next cookout, let's talk about a critical aspect of grilling safety: grill maintenance and cleaning. Regularly cleaning your grill not only ensures better-tasting food but also plays a vital role in preventing dangerous fires. Here's why it's crucial and how to do it effectively, brought to you by SERVPRO of Bear, New Castle:

The Importance of Grill Cleaning:

Reducing Fire Risk: Over time, grease and food residue accumulate on the grates, burners, and inside the grill. This buildup becomes a significant fire hazard, as it can ignite during cooking and lead to uncontrolled flames.

Enhancing Food Quality: A dirty grill can impart unpleasant flavors to your food and hinder proper cooking. Cleaning the grill grates ensures that your dishes retain their delicious taste.

Extending Grill Life: Regular cleaning can prolong the life of your grill. Grease and residue can corrode the grill's components, leading to costly repairs or replacements.

Effective Grill Cleaning Steps

Safety First: Before you begin, make sure the grill is cool and disconnected from the gas source (if applicable). Always wear protective gloves and eye protection.

Scrape the Grates: Start by scraping the grill grates with a grill brush or scraper. This removes any loose debris and residue. For stubborn, stuck-on grime, use a grill stone or a ball of aluminum foil.

Remove Grates and Burners: If possible, remove the grates and burners for a thorough cleaning. Scrub them with warm, soapy water and a brush. Rinse and dry thoroughly before reassembling.

Clean the Inside: Wipe down the interior of the grill with a mixture of warm, soapy water. Pay attention to corners and crevices where grease can accumulate. Rinse and dry.

Empty the Drip Tray: The drip tray can collect a significant amount of grease. Empty and clean it regularly to prevent flare-ups.

Check for Gas Leaks: If you have a gas grill, inspect the gas lines and connections for leaks. A soapy water solution can help identify any bubbles forming, indicating a leak. Address any issues immediately.

Regular Maintenance: Make grill cleaning part of your regular routine, either before or after each use. This will prevent grease buildup and potential fire hazards.

Remember that a clean grill is a safe grill. By taking the time to clean and maintain your grill, you not only reduce the risk of fires but also ensure that your outdoor cooking experiences are enjoyable and trouble-free. If you ever need assistance with fire damage cleanup or restoration services, don't hesitate to contact SERVPRO of Bear, New Castle. We're here to help keep your home safe and your grilling adventures worry-free.

Enjoy your grilling season and stay safe!

Restore, Renew, Rebuild with SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle's Restoration Expertise!

8/17/2023 (Permalink)

Workers are installing plasterboard (drywall) for gypsum walls in apartment is under construction, remodeling, renovation, ex Is your home or business in need of restoration? Call SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle today!

At SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle, we're not just about restoring properties – we're about restoring your peace of mind. Here's why you should choose us for all your restoration needs:

? 24/7 Emergency Response: We're always prepared to take action when disaster strikes. Our rapid response team is available around the clock to handle any emergency, ensuring that your property is on the path to recovery without delay.

? Proven Expertise: With years of experience and a history of successful restoration projects, SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle brings unparalleled expertise to every job. Our skilled professionals know how to effectively address fire, water, and mold damage.

? Cutting-Edge Technology: We stay ahead of the curve with the latest restoration technology and equipment. This enables us to provide accurate assessments, efficient solutions, and superior results for your property.

? Comprehensive Solutions: From assessment and mitigation to cleanup and rebuilding, SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle offers a full range of restoration services under one roof. You can trust us to manage every aspect of your property's recovery journey.

? Minimal Disruption: We understand the stress that comes with property damage. Our goal is to minimize disruptions to your life as we work tirelessly to restore your space, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.

? Customer-Centric Approach: Our commitment to customer satisfaction is unwavering. We listen to your needs, communicate transparently, and keep you informed every step of the way, so you can make informed decisions with confidence.

When the unexpected occurs, rely on SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle for restoration excellence that goes beyond just bricks and mortar. Contact us today for a dependable partner you can trust in times of crisis.

The Most Common Fire Threats in the Home | SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle

7/28/2023 (Permalink)

Fire and smoke billowing out of the roof of a brick two story home SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle is here for your family and business if you have a fire disaster occurs.

House fires are certainly scary experiences no matter how large or destructive they get. Watching your home and possessions go up in flames is not only overwhelming, but it can also create a dangerous situation for you in a matter of minutes. Did you know that over 350,000 homes suffer some degree of fire damage every year in the United States?

House fires can start for all kinds of reasons, but there are definitely some reasons that are more common than others. By learning about the different fire threats around your home, you can help change up some of your lifestyle choices to reduce your risk of experiencing a house fire. Read on as our SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle team explains more!

Kitchen Mishaps

The majority of house fires start somewhere in the kitchen. Since we often use fire or heat to cook our meals, that might seem obvious! Whenever heat, grease or flammable material come together, it can lead to a single spark that grows to a large flame in seconds.

The main fire prevention strategy in the kitchen is to stay in the kitchen whenever you are cooking. Don’t even pop out quickly to grab something in another room. A single second is all it takes for a grease bubble to pop and catch fire.

While you are standing close by monitoring your soon-to-be meal, keep a pot lid nearby just in case you need to quickly extinguish a flame. Remember that grease fires and water do not mix, so having something close by to smother the flames is always a good idea.

Electrical Malfunctions and Cigarettes

Electrical fires are another leading cause of house fire damage. If you have an older home or wiggly outlets, chances are that your electrical work is outdated or worn behind your walls. An outlet could heat up or arc and cause a fire to start at any point. Do your best to address any electrical issues quickly and don’t overload your outlets.

You should be plugging in a single electronic to each outlet, and do not daisy-chain extension cords, which is when you plug one cord into another cord. A single electrical surge could damage any electronics plugged into the affected outlet box and a fire could start that way.

Another common reason for house fires is smoldering cigarettes. Fires caused by cigarette butts can be fatal and lead to devastating consequences and damage. Try to only smoke and dispose of your cigarettes outside in a fire-safe container, and certainly do not smoke while you are in bed or tired. Falling asleep with a lit cigarette anywhere near flammable blankets or bedding could be dangerous to everyone in your house.

Recovering After a Fire

No matter how a fire starts in a home, it can lead to extensive damage before the fire department arrives. After the flames are out and you have been given the all-clear to re-enter your home, pick up the phone and call SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle. We will walk you through the entire restoration process and work hard to ensure every bit of damage is reversed and your home is restored to its pre-fire condition as quickly as possible.

We will clean, sanitize and restore your walls, floors and ceilings, and we won’t stop until every evidence of your fire has been removed from your house. We are here for you 247!

Fires can start in a multitude of ways. Let SERVPRO of Bear/New Castle help you recover faster.