Dangers of Water Damage

The effects of water damage can jeopardize your health as well as your home’s health, and the longer water damage goes untreated, the worse its results are likely to be. This article will touch on some of the common types of water damage and what can happen as a result of untreated water damage.

Water Damage from Flooding

Damage from floods can be considered the most drastic and hazardous to health. Floodwater can carry any number of contaminants into your home, including infectious microbes, chemical waste, and sewage.

Neglected water damage from a flood can lead to various forms of mold, which can aggravate asthma, allergies and other respiratory conditions and cause throat, nose, and eye irritation. Some mold spore varieties can also result in fungal infections that cause spores to multiply inside a person’s body. The worst type of mold to avoid is toxic mold (also called black mold), which at its worst can even cause death.

In order to thoroughly extract the dampness and disinfect the area, professionals with the proper equipment and protective gear are going to be the best solution. You’ll want to call them as soon as possible to avoid any of the dangerous aforementioned problems with mold spores.

Water Damage from Plumbing Problems

Your home can experience plumbing-related water damage from things like overflowing toilets, burst pipes, or malfunctioning sump pumps. Unfortunately, this water can be quite dirty and terrible-smelling.

When cleaning up water from a plumbing problem, it’s important to protect yourself by wearing goggles, a respirator mask, gloves, and other clothing that will keep your skin from coming in direct contact with the dirty water. It’s also vitally important to disinfect the area once it’s dry in order to get rid of any contaminants the water left behind.

Water Damage from Appliance Leaks

This type of water damage comes from appliances like your washing machine, refrigerator, dishwasher, water heater, etc., so the damage can typically be found in places like the bathroom, kitchen, and laundry room. The good news is that this water is “clean”, as opposed to dirty water that comes from a plumbing leak. The important thing is to act quickly because mold will start growing within one to two days:

1. Shut off the source of the water.
2. Wash the soaked area.
3. Dry the soaked area to the best of your ability to keep mold from growing.

In some cases, an extractor may need to be used to get the water completely out of the carpet so that the carpet pad won’t need to be replaced.

Water Damage from Humidity

Some water damage doesn’t even come from a leak--it can result from high indoor humidity levels, often found in areas like crawlspaces, basements, and bathrooms. The problems arise when that humid air condenses, especially where you can’t see it, such as above the ceiling or behind walls. This can result in structural damage to your home, as well as mold growth.

Your first clue that this kind of water damage is taking place might be a foul, musty odor, or you might literally see mold growth or water stains on walls, tile, underneath your sink, or on the back of your toilet. An appropriately sized dehumidifier can help prevent and combat problems with high humidity, but if you're already seeing or smelling the signs of water damage, it’s best to call a professional to keep the problem from persisting or worsening.

If you know or even suspect that you have water damage in your home or building, it’s a good idea to call a professional to make sure that no damage or health hazards are accumulating. Contact GreenPro Cleaning & Restoration for a non-destructive visual survey and indoor evaluation.

How Your Crawl Space Affects Your Home’s Air Quality

The old adage, “Out of sight, out of mind”, could apply quite well to many people’s crawl spaces. What they don’t imagine or realize is just how much of an impact a crawl space has on the air in their main living space.

What’s Happening Inside Too Many Crawl Spaces

What happens inside a crawl space is directly affected by the weather and temperatures outside of it. The most ventilation your crawl space receives probably comes from a conveniently-directed gust of wind or pressure changes. Even so, nearly all crawl spaces are not well-ventilated, and this causes stagnant air to gather inside.

Moisture is also drawn into the crawl space due to a few different factors:

• The dryness of the dirt inside it compared to the dirt around the foundation
• Your house drawing moisture up from the ground
• Warm, humid air on hot days entering the cooler environment of the crawl space through foundation vents, thereby increasing the humidity

When that moisture evaporates, the water vapor will rise and settle in various areas, such as the floor insulation or ductwork. In the warmer months, the increased humidity caused by warm air entering the crawl space results in condensation that can also settle on the ductwork and floor insulation, as well as the subfloor and floor joists.

What You Didn’t Want to Know About Your Crawl Space

If you have a crawl space, it’s probably not well-ventilated because most crawl spaces aren’t. This lack of ventilation results in stagnant air.

Now, remember that moisture and condensation we were just mentioning? Here’s the bad news: not only does the condensation lead to mold or even radon growth--the damp, musty environment being created down below along with all of that stagnant air becomes a habitat for unwanted pests, namely rodents and termites. In other words, your crawl space becomes an ideal environment for things far less than ideal.

How Crawl Space Air Gets into Your Home

You’ve probably experienced how upstairs rooms during summertime are a lot hotter than the rooms downstairs. This is because cooler air is drawn up from below as the warm air in your house rises. This is how that cooler air from your crawl space enters your house, which can be quite problematic if that air is smelly or of poor quality.

Using the exhaust fans in your bathroom or kitchen might worsen the problem. Running those fans creates negative pressure in your house, which will then pull in air from the outdoors and from your crawl space. If your HVAC system is located in the crawl space, even more of that dirty air might be finding its way into your house. Dank air can creep into leaks in your ductwork or air filter and then be circulated by your HVAC throughout the entire house.

In Need of a Clean Crawl Space?

If you’re noticing poor air quality, moisture issues, or bad odors in your home, a dirty crawl space might be the culprit. GreenPro offers professional, bio-friendly cleaning services, including an EPA-registered, non-toxic, chemical-free, botanical fungistat/disinfectant that kills 99.99% of harmful odor-causing bacteria.

Schedule your free inspection today!

You Might Need an Air Duct Cleaning If…

If you own a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, at some point it’s going to need a thorough cleaning. It’s important to know what factors might be increasing your need for a professional cleaning sooner rather than later, and the information below can help!

You might need an air duct cleaning if...

…You Have Pets

If you have pets, they are most likely spending a lot of time indoors, especially during the colder months of the year. What you might not know is that your pet is continuously dropping off pet dander that can travel all over your house, wherever your pet goes, wherever you go, and wherever there’s an air vent--basically everywhere.

Dander itself is skin flakes that all animals produce, and dander--not hair--is what causes people with animal-related allergies to have an allergic reaction. Over time, your pet’s dander will find its way into your air ducts, where it will collect and be released by your HVAC throughout each room of your house. As a result, your home air quality will start to diminish.

...You Have Allergies or Even Asthma

Literally millions of Americans suffer from allergies and asthma. On an annual basis, 50 million Americans are suffering from allergies, and 24 million are affected by asthma. So what does this have to do with air ducts?

As you can probably guess, components of your HVAC system can become coated with dust, allergens, spores, and other irritants that then get pushed out into your home, affecting its air quality. If you suffer from allergies and asthma, having clean air ducts may help lessen the volume of air particles triggering your symptoms.

...Children or Elderly Individuals Live in Your House

Children and the elderly can be especially susceptible to the harmful effects of poor air quality. While many people may know this, research from the American Lung Association has revealed that 87% of Americans don’t know that the indoor air in most American homes is actually more polluted than the air outdoors. Keeping this in mind, it’s also important to remember that children and the elderly--especially those with respiratory or cardiovascular diseases--are probably spending more time indoors than anyone else.

Before welcoming a newborn baby or an elderly parent into your home, you may want to inspect the cleanliness of your HVAC system to help ensure a cleaner living space and prevent allergic reactions and illness.

...Someone in Your Household Smokes Indoors

While smoking can be detrimental to your health, it can also increase your need for an air duct cleaning. Unfortunately, when someone smokes indoors, the smoke doesn’t have many places to go. It’s almost a certainty that it will be pulled through your air ducts and that the smell will start to saturate your home. Even if you are not particularly bothered by the smell, the smoke particles are also going to be forced back into the home by the HVAC system, which could cause guests to become ill or suffer an allergic reaction or asthma attack.

It’s perfectly normal for your air ducts to need a professional cleaning from time to time. At GreenPro Cleaning & Restoration, we provide comprehensive air duct cleaning services, including inspections, cleaning of entire HVAC systems and their components, and anti-microbial treatments registered with EPA. If you have any of the four factors listed above, contact us to schedule an inspection.

Winter Cleaning Tips

 

Winter is approaching and it's important for homeowners to ensure they're taking the necessary steps to ensure they have everything clean and ready to endure the harsh weather on the way. 

There are a number of different things that you can do to keep your home ready for winter and cleaning is probably one of the most important steps. Here are some of the things that you can do while it still falls so you can have a worry-free winter. 

Check and Replace Your Air Filters 
The air filters in your home are often very important; however, they are not looked at as often as they should be and it can be problematic. Air filters are responsible for keeping certain allergens and particles out of your indoor air. If they become too full, your heater may not work as it should. 

Ensuring You Have a Clean Furnace 
Your furnace is going to be the hero of your winter because once the weather gets colder, you need to stay as comfortable as possible and your furnace goes a long way to helping that. If your furnace is dirty, it not only works inefficiently, but it can also be a fire hazard. 

Clean Behind Your Refrigerator and the Coils 
Your refrigerator coils and the area behind the refrigerator should be cleared of any potential debris using a vacuum and then wiping away the rest of the unwanted dirt. Make sure you first unplug the fridge and use any attachments that can help you scrub them away. 

Dryer Vent Cleaning 
In the dry winter months, the dryer vent can become a big problem as lint begins to build up in the lint trap and the vent. If the lint is not removed, the heated pipe can become too hot and the excess lint can catch fire. Be sure to use a dryer vent snake to remove the excess lint and debris. 

Get In the Deep Spots 
During the winter, you may want to get down to the nitty-gritty and perform a deep clean throughout your home. Start with your kitchen. Take everything out of your cabinets and drawers to clean inside, remove any unwanted items, and replace liners in the drawers. This may also be a good time for you to check so you can get the cleanest possible kitchen. 

As a homeowner in Suffolk County or Nassau County, you need to have professionals who can come out and help you get the job done right. Ensuring you have a clean home for the winter should be a top priority for you and it's important you know exactly what to do. 

If you're unsure of all the things you need to do, know that our cleaning experts at GreenPro are here for you. Trust that we'll come out, provide you with an accurate estimate and help you get the deep cleaning you need. We're the professionals you want and need to get the job done right the first time.

Are Vapor Barriers Worth It?

Vapor Barriers - The Pros and the Cons

What Do Vapor Barriers Do?

If you are building a home or other structure on your property you will be faced with whether or not to add a vapor barrier during the construction. Another name for a vapor barrier is 'moisture barrier' and this name might make more sense to some people. We all understand that moisture in a home is bad, right? These barriers protect against moisture, but where are they applied and how do they work exactly?

When and Where A Vapor Barrier Is Necessary

Barriers work in crawl spaces generally. There are specialized moisture barriers that wrap the exterior walls of homes as well. If your home is two story or has very high vaulted ceilings that allow warm air to rise, you should strongly consider using a vapor barrier. Some area building codes require them.

As warm air is drawn upwards in your home, cooler air is pulled from below. The air flow in your home will be drawing in mold, bacteria, and spores. These are drawn into your house through crawl spaces or basement walls that are not airtight.

Mold spores can be drawn indoors. Not only can these spores be problematic for those with allergies, but they can also be very bad and cause illnesses in otherwise healthy people.

What Does a Vapor Barrier Look Like?

A typical barrier is placed on the inside walls of your basement before they are finished off with drywall or paneling. If you have a crawl space below your floor. The barrier is placed all around this space underneath your home. The barrier itself is a sheet of specialized plastic that is designed to last many years.

The reality is that everyone should want to have a moisture barrier because the pros far outweigh the cons. The only real con is that it will be more upfront cost to constructing your home. The costs are minimal and will quickly pay for themselves in the saved heating and cooling. There is no way to gauge how much healthier your family will stay, but your allergy sufferers will definitely thank you.

What are the Dangers of Dryer Lint?

There are a number of potential dangers when it comes to dryer lint, both for your internal health and for your home in general. Here are the two most common dangers that dryer lint presents.

Inhalation

Respiratory distress is a very real danger. Dryer lint can easily get up in the air. The particles can be inhaled causing a number of medical conditions, and making breathing worse in people with COPD, asthma, hay fever. It can also cause bacterial infections, and worsening a host of other complications.

Should you be afraid of dryer lint? We think you should.

Fire

Dryer lint is highly flammable. So much so that at people have used it to make little burners (for camping, and wilderness survival packs) out of lint and paraffin. Your dryer has heating coils in it to generate the heat required to dry your clothing. Most dryers have a directive in the door, sometimes on the lint trap, that tells you to clean out after every use.

Even if you follow that directive, you are still at risk for a fire. Your lint trap is not catching all of the lint. Some of it gets past and lodges in the sides of the housing od the lint trap, and all along the dryer vent, especially the aluminum coil that most people use to vent the dryer outside. The ribbing catches the lint where it can build up and become a hazard.

One of the symptoms that might notice that your dryer duct has become clogged with lint is that your clothes are not getting fully dry. Another symptom is smelling something burning.

If you smell something burning, get out of the building, and call Emergency Services or 911. If you can smell it, it may already be on fire. As flammable as lint is, you could wind losing your house. It tends to burn hot and fast.

Ideally, you should get this checked out right away, and head off these problems become costly issues. The best tactic is to get it checked now by professionals in this field and take any preventable steps recommended. Then get it checked every year when you do your spring cleaning and your fall cleaning.

We believe in prevention versus restoration. We can help you on your way to make your home more secure. Our staff is helpful and knowledgeable and standing by for your call.

What Are Common Allergens Trapped in Air Ducts?

When most people think about their HVAC systems, they are most commonly concerned about the heating and the air conditioning. However, they often forget about the "V" in HVAC: ventilation. This is an extremely important component to consider as it often one the barrier from many different pollutants and your indoor air quality.

Far too often, the indoor air quality is so overlooked, but it is crucial in ensuring your family's health. Understanding some of the common allergens that are trapped in the air ducts can help you realize the reasons you should focus on your air ducts and your air filters.

Some of the most common allergens you may find in your air ducts include:

• Dust: This is a common problem as it can begin to build up in the air ducts. When it pushes through and into the indoor air, it can create a problem for all those in the home. 
• Bacteria: As bacteria travels through the air, it can result in individuals getting sick in the home. This builds up in the air ducts and is one of the common problems for those with allergies. 
• Mold: In many cases, the moisture in the air duct can begin to create mold that is harmful to individuals, especially when respiratory issues already exist. 

These allergens and other pollutants put homeowners and all others in the home at risk of serious harm. If not remedied as quickly as possible, not only will you experience more expensive bills due to the inability for the heater to work properly, but you will also run the risk of potential dangers including asthma problems worsening or serious coughs.

How to Fix the Issue

It is extremely important for you to do a few different things in order to prevent getting sick from dirty air ducts. These actions can keep your home free of pollutants, as well as help your HVAC system work more efficiently, saving you money on utilities.

The steps you can take include:

• Be sure that you're cleaning or repairing the air filters often. This may mean replacing the filter every three months to ensure there are no problem areas on the filter. 
• Take the time to clean the air ducts and look for any potential allergens that can cause you and your family harm. 

At GreenPro, we have a firm understanding of how serious and dangerous allergens can exist in a homeowner's HVAC system. Your ducts and filters are overlooked far too often and you should take the time to make them a priority so you're not left behind when you need the service the most.

If you need air duct cleaning, trust that our team can help you and provide you with the highest quality services every step of the way. Your home and family are important to us. Let us show you a better way to having healthy and safe indoor air quality today.

Why Should My Air Ducts Be Cleaned Out?

Owning a home or property comes with a wide range of responsibilities and maintenance requirements. One of these requirements is the basic upkeep of the HVAC unit. You may be wondering why you should have the duct work cleaned out if the unit is working properly. There are quite a few reasons why the air ducts should be cleaned out. Some of these reasons include:

• Dust and dust mites
• Pet dander and hair
• Allergies
• Mold
• Efficiency for running the HVAC unit

Dust and Dust Mites

Air ductwork is an ideal place for dust and dust mites to gather. Every time you turn your system on the dust and dust mites are being filtered out and through the vents in your home. If you live in an area with a lot of new build construction and enjoy having your windows open you may experience quite a bit of dust and dust mite build up in your air ducts.

Pet Dander and Hair

It does not matter if you have a dog or a cat, the dander and hair can drift into the air duct work. If you have floor vents and your pet enjoys lying near these vents the hair can slip through the slots of the vent. A professional yearly ductwork cleaning by GreenPro Cleaning or your local cleaning company is recommended every 1-2 years if you do have pets. This will remove pet hair and dander from the vent into your home.

Allergies

If you or a family member suffer from allergies you will greatly benefit from having your air ductwork professionally cleaned by GreenPro Cleaning every 1-2 years. It only takes a few hours to have the duct work cleaned and all potential allergens are removed.

Mold

Mold can actually grow inside of the air duct work. Many houses have ductwork in the basement. Some basements are susceptible to seepage, leaking and even flooding. If water becomes trapped in the air ductwork a mold can begin to grow.

Efficiency

Cleaning an HVAC system's air ducts will prevent clogs. This general maintenance will keep the system running smoothly. Cleaned air vents can prevent damage to the HVAC unit.

Unique Things to Do with a Crawl Space

With the price you're paying for your home, making sure you get the most out of your square footage is essential. Many people have crawlspaces that are simply unused when there are many creative ways they can repurposed. Instead of just letting your crawlspace be wasted space, here are some ideas of what you can do instead: 

• More Storage Space 

Renovating your crawlspace into a basement is the perfect solution when you need extra space in your home. This opens up a wide variety of possibilities, from using it as simple storage to converting it into a family living space. In fact, a crawlspace isn't much different than a basement already, as it is just shorter and lacking a finished floor. To successfully convert your crawlspace into a basement, excavation, insulation, and a vapor barrier will be required. 

• Extra Bedroom 

Having an extra bedroom in your home is always a great idea. However, unlike converting your crawlspace into basement storage, a bedroom will require more renovation. First of all, you need to make sure your furnace is up for the task so it doesn't get too cold. Also, you need to be especially careful of moisture, which can lead to mold. This calls for having a professional contractor you can rely on for quality service. 

• Playspace For Kids 

If you have kids, you know they sometimes need extra space to play and make a mess. Converting your crawlspace into a kid's playroom is the perfect solution. This way your kids can have the space they need to explore without getting in your way and making a mess in your living space. 

• Art Studio Or Workshop 

Converting your crawlspace into an art studio or other kind of workshop is also a great idea. In this instance, you may not need to renovate as fully as you would for a bedroom as you won't have the same requirements. This is something which you might have difficulty making space for in the rest of your home, so this is an ideal choice. 

Whatever you decide to do with your crawlspace, calling GreenPro Cleaning & Restoration should be your first move. We're capable of addressing the most common issues you'll find with your crawlspaces, which includes moisture, debris removal, and lack of insulation. 

We can even provide service to crawlspaces that have odors from bacteria. If you're ready to make the most of your space, don't hesitate to contact the experts at GreenPro Cleaning & Restoration.

Four Tips for Fall Cleaning

Autumn can signal a time for us to get our homes ready for the long winter ahead. Pulling out sweaters and flannel sheets and putting away summer items for the winter sleep can be quite the task. Many people feel they often forget to do something before the cold weather hits, however, by following these tips you can be sure you and your home will be ready for the cold streak ahead. Let's take a look at four tips that can help you prepare for winter.

Clean the Gutters

Since the days are now getting shorter and the nights cooler. Leaves are beginning to fall at a rapid rate. Now makes the perfect time to get your roof gutters cleaned out. Autumn rain will soon mix with leaves and you will want to ensure your homes does not accumulate water damage from overfilled or faulty gutters.

Furnace Filter

Your furnace has sat all summer long, unused. Dust and dander have collected upon it and this includes the filter. Always be sure to replace your filter before starting it up in the coming weeks.

For those who suffer from allergies or asthma, cleaning the filter is a necessary process for the health of their lungs. If you are unsure about what type of filter your furnace requires, be sure to employ the help of a profession. Places such as GreenPro Cleaning can help you obtain information on how to correctly replace your furnace filter.

Clean your Furnace Vents

Cleaning your vents can be a large project. Many of us often overlook the importance of cleaning the HVAC system in our homes. However, to keep dust, dander, and debris from floating around your home at a minimum, and to ensure proper heat flow, it is vital that you get your vents cleaned before the cold hits. A professional company can aid in the proper cleaning of your HVAC system. Many places like GreenPro Cleaning can give you an estimate of cleaning cost and finish the job in minimal time.

Clean the Attic and Garage

Dust tends to gather in the attic and garage. Cleaning these areas before the holidays can ensure the cozy comfort of your home all winter long. Not only will cleaning these areas reduce dust and make the air more breathable, but you can also go ahead and drag out the holiday decorations beforehand.

If you are interested in a professional cleaning of your attic, crawlspace, and duct system. Be sure to Contact Us! 

What Mold Type is Most Common Indoors?

 When we purchase or rent the places we call our homes, we do not often immediately think about mold. Oddly, even that many people think that mold is the direct result of a home, but it is not. Look at how quickly food molds, whether wet or dry. This can happen to your home as well.

  

A home that is built, regardless of its age, is susceptible to mold problems.

Please be aware that mold that is left untreated can be a hazard and deadly, but not all mold is harmful in the household.

  

Below is a list of the most common types of mold that appear in homes, what to look for and what to do next.

  

• Alternaria- an indoor and outdoor mold that appears near damp areas such as sinks, showers, and lightly lit areas outside the home.

• Aspergillus- a very common indoor mold that affects the respiratory system.

• Aureobasidium- an indoor and outdoor mold that affects wooden furniture, surfaces, wallpaper, and walls that have been painted. This mold is identifiable by its pink and black color.

• Chaetomium- an indoor mold that is found within drywall that has been damaged by water. This mold will produce a musty odor within homes.

• Cladosporium- an indoor and outdoor mold that grows within warm and cool areas such as wooden floors, carpet, cabinets, and worn fabrics.

• Fusarium- an indoor home that mainly affects carpeted homes that are in cold and wet conditions.

• Penicillium- an indoor mold that affects insulations, furniture that has water damage, and carpeting. This type of mold is known to spread very quickly.

• Stachybotrys Chartarum- an indoor mold known as Black mold that is toxic. This mold is normally located in damp pipes and air ducts while accompanied by a musty smell.

• Serpula Lacrymans- an outdoor mold that is found on wooden surfaces.

• Trichoderma- an indoor mold that affects damp carpets and wallpaper.

• Ulocladium- an indoor and outdoor mold that comes about after something similar to a flood.

  

What You Can Do?

  

After noticing and attempting to identify a mold growing within your home or apartment, the problem can be treated relatively quickly, and it is a simple process. A renter or homeowner can typically take care of common indoor molds, but it is best to work with a professional because of the health risks that are imposed.

  

Allow a professional service company such as Green Pro Cleaning & Restoration to search for any wet or damp surfaces or pipes. When it comes to mold, Green Pro Cleaning & Restoration are prepared and specialize in air duct cleaning, attic & crawlspace cleaning, and water damage. When we fear mold in our homes, we must act fast in order to cause health risks to ourselves or family members and to make sure we can retain our home.

Signs of Mold Indoors

Identifying and Removing Indoor Mold

Indoor mold is a common but frustrating phenomenon that can stem from a variety of moisture issues including but not limited to leaks typically inside walls or hidden in parts of the home that go unnoticed. 

Because mold can often be found in non-common areas such as basements and can stem from condensation, or issues with a home’s foundation it’s important to familiarity oneself with the signs of indoor mold.  Although mold will not always leave warning signs these are a few things to keep in mind to keep your home mold free. 

Respiratory and Pulmonary Distress: 

One of the most common symptoms of household or other indoor mold issues is that people will begin having an array of respiratory issues to include asthma and allergy issues. Some complaints include chronic cold symptoms, compromised lungs or airways, itchy throat, eyes, or rash and other allergy symptoms. 

Must or Mold Smell: 

Often but not always, a dwelling with a mold or moisture issue will have a damp smell or moldy smell that some people describe as similar to the smell of old or moist paper. Even when a smell is not present or cannot be identified by people visiting or living in the building will sometimes report nausea and shortness of breath. 

The appearance of Fungus: 

Although often mold does not present in well-trafficked areas which can make it tricky to spot, when fungus appears it’s a good indicator that mold is present. Fungus on walls, pipes, floors and in carpets can take on a dark, cloudy or bumpy appearance. 

Testing for and Getting Rid of Mold: 

If you believe that there is mold in your home, office or other building it’s important to seek the help of professionals. GreenPro Cleaning and Restoration have years of experience handling water damage including mold. 

GreenPro Cleaning staff will take the time to walk you through what you should do and how they can help. Call to make your appointment today.

Getting Rid of Carpet Odor Post Water Damage

When your carpets get damaged by a flood or leaking pipes in the home, you worry your flooring is at a loss. Carpets are difficult to clean because the fibers in the carpet — carpet is often made of wool, nylon, olefin, polyester, cotton, or blends — can be damaged with traditional household cleaners.

Carpeting is also a challenge to clean because of the padding underneath the flooring surface. When moisture gets underneath carpeting and into the padding, the risk for mold, mildew, and carpet odors increases. Here are ways the professionals at GreenPro Cleaning will restore your carpet to new condition again.

Quality Steam Cleaning 

One of the best ways to remove odors from carpet is to use a steam cleaning approach. With GreenPro Cleaning, you gain access to commercial and high-quality grade cleaning machines that remove deep-set odors from all types and styles of carpet.

Professional Cleaning 

Never attempt to remove carpet stains and odors from your water damaged floor on your own. The reason for this is simple: water can contain chemicals or pollutants that are dangerous if touched or accidentally ingested. If your home's water damage is a result of a leaking sewer system or standing flood waters, you need to call a carpet cleaning restoration specialist right away.

To avoid contaminating your home and other surfaces, or making your carpets worse, hire a cleaning professional that specializes in flood damage restoration. The right cleaning specialist will inspect your carpets after cleaning them to ensure all moisture-related damage is gone.

It's wise to have your carpets professionally cleaned a few times a year, or as instructed by your cleaning specialist. The professional experts in the carpet at GreenPro Cleaning will restore your carpets to like-new condition and make them safe to walk on again. Make an appointment for carpet cleaning as soon as you notice water damage in your home.

Common Causes of Water Leaks

Imagine sitting in your living room or playing a game on a mobile device and all of a sudden you notice a stain on your ceiling or wall. This means you have a serious problem such as a water leak. Water leaks cause tremendous damage that is expensive to fix if you don't catch it in time. 

There can be many reasons as to why water unexpectedly drips from the ceiling or comes through your baseboards. They can happen either in the kitchen, bathroom or even a basement, either way, there are many causes of water leaks that are ultimately very destructive. Here are some common causes of water leaks to consider: 

Broken seals 

When your appliances were installed it was the contractor who put the seals around all of your water connectors. However, over a period of time or even years, your appliances tend to break or wear down. It's more than likely you have a broken seal that needs replacement when you see poodles. GreenPro Cleaning can assist you with these issues. 

Clogged lines 

A clogged drain can always be an inconvenience. However, when you experience a clogged drain they have a tendency to burst pipes or simply overflow. Best thing to do is keep your gutters and HVAC systems clean to avoid any clogs down the road. 

Corrosion 

Plumbing systems collect rust and can have corrosion that eats away at your pipes. You probably will notice discoloration and warping around your pipes indicating there's damage. 

What Not To Do 

If you believe that you have water damage in your home or even in your building consider these steps of action as per GreenPro Cleaning suggestions. 

Call a certified technician that understands water damage 

Never touch damaged or wet items with open hands 

Avoid breathing in odorous or damp air. 

Call at trained expert who can deal with your water damage right away and catch it in the early stages. Act now and stop water damage from destroying your home. GreenPro Cleaning & Restoration has technicians available to conduct on-site inspections or you can call directly.

Why Do Homes Have Crawl Spaces?

Purpose of Crawl Spaces

We live in a city that was built on a swamp, therefore, most of the houses don't have basements. Most of the homes have crawl spaces instead. The purpose of the crawl space it to allow air circulation throughout the home as well as access to electrical and plumbing ducts for necessary repairs.


Over time, moisture can build up in the crawl space and cause odor. All crawl spaces need to be cleaned and maintained. GreenPro Cleaning offers a variety of services which also includes crawl space cleaning. If you start to notice a musty odor and despite your home is clean, you may need to have the crawl space cleaned. We needed to get ours cleaned and it made a world of difference.


During heavy rains, moisture can build up in the crawl space as it did ours. Most people don't think about having space cleaned that they don't use, but this couldn't be further from the truth. At some point, every space in your home whether it's a room that you use on a daily basis or a room or space that you may have never seen, all parts of the home will need maintenance and cleaning.


GreenPro Cleaning can remove the moisture. unpleasant odors, bugs, debris and water that can be in your crawl space. I personally didn't want to go in my crawl space and I find them kind of scary so I will leave that to the professionals who know exactly what they are looking for and solve the problem.


If you have noticed the air quality in your home is not what it used to be, I suggest that you give GreenPro Cleaning a call. They will come out and let you know exactly what is going on and let you know what they need to do to correct it.

Why Do My Wooden Floors Warp from Water Damage?

Sometimes, during periods of inclement weather, you may have seen some situations where water damage may have occurred to your wooden floors.

Perhaps it is from a leak in the roof, maybe it is as a result of flooding, or even a window or door left open for an extended period of time. Either way, we here at GreenPro Cleaning can remedy your home's wooden floor damage issues.

If you are seeing water damage to your wooden floors, there are a couple of steps you should take in order to ensure your own safety. First of all, water damaged wood contains a plethora of bacteria and touching it can only cause you to get sick. Don't touch the water damaged areas.

Secondly, if there is extensive water damage in a room, you should seal the room and not go in there. Breathing the fumes from water damaged areas can cause you to get sick as well. So don't breathe the air and get out of the water damaged room. Most importantly, you should call a professional cleaning service. GreenPro Cleaning can assist with all types of water damage cleaning and restoration.

Water damage to wood is generally caused by moisture buildup due to faulty sealing within or around the house. Other times, water may seep up beneath concrete slabs beneath floors and cause damage over a longer period of time. If you smell something in the air, but can't see the water damage, it may be a good time to get a home inspection.

Our inspections are a comprehensive check on the quality of all walls, floors, ceilings, carpets, and wood flooring. We have the expertise to know where the leak is coming from in your house and tell you exactly what to do.

Many victims of flooding need an allover deep cleaning of their house in order to get it back into shape. This is a common issue we have helped many satisfied clients with over the years.

Getting your home free from harmful water damage is our top priority, so consider a professional cleaning service. GreenPro Cleaning is offering professionalism along with a hassle-free service ever time. Contact us today!

Ways We Improve Air Quality in Your Home

Is your home safe for your loved ones and from unwanted guests?

We spend so much time with our loved ones and pets inside our home creating beautiful memories. Home sweet home is considered a safe and healthy place for many Americans.

If you are a homeowner, you want to ensure your home is free from contamination of water, bad odors, bacteria, cigarette smoke, dust, dirt, or bugs. Such contamination can cause poor air quality for those inside the home and may be attributed to allergies and asthma for young and elderly.

If you find yourself in this situation and have worries, there is a good news for you. Professional cleaning companies are in your community to serve you and your family. Their service includes the following:

*Inspecting and cleaning your air ducts
*Clean all components of HVAC system to avoid re-contamination
*Anti-microbial treatment which includes sanitizers, disinfectants, and deodorizers
*Check for Moisture level and Remove Attic and Crawl Space Odors
*Removal of debris
*Correctly reinstall insulation if necessary

If you realize you have water damage to your home, consider these steps and call your professional cleaning companies immediately:

*Do not touch wet or damaged items with your bare hands
*Do not breath in the damp or odorous air
*Contact certified water damage repair expert

Since you are making the best decision for your family, why not consider a healthy alternative method to be performed by the professional instead of using toxic chemicals in your home? Choose healthy living, earth-friendly options by asking the cleaning company if they use bio-safe and bio-friendly solutions.

Now, if you are ready to call a professional cleaning company, there are many companies to choose from, but we are the ones you need.  We here at GreenPro are able to help! Visit our site or give us a call today.

What Happens If Mold Goes Untreated?

Mold is a common problem found in apartments and houses. When one finds mold in there home what should they do? What happens if mold goes untreated?

Act Fast When You Discover You Have Mold 

When you find mold you must remove it as quick as possible. If you want to try to do it yourself make sure you purchase the proper tools including: 
*Protective Gloves 
*Protective Glasses/Goggles 
*Mold Spray (Not bleach) 
*Disposable Cloths 


Can I Use Bleach To Remove Mold? 

No, bleach is only a temporary fix. It will remove the mold, but in a couple of days, the mold will be back because bleach isn’t strong enough to get rid of it. 


Once you’re done make sure to dispose of everything that comes in contact with the mold. Do not attempt to reuse the cloths/rags that you used to clean up the mold. Once you clean up all the mold give it a few days and come back. Analyze if it is truly gone and if not attack it again. When repainting a wall or ceiling use mold resistant paint. 

Should I Hire a Professional? 

When you detect the presence of mold in your home, the best course of action is to contact a professional to help eliminate your problem. You can attempt to do it yourself, but professional help is always best when dealing with the removal of mold spores. A lot of cleaning agents are toxic and emit dangerous fumes in the air. If you don’t clean the mold up properly the mold can come back. An experience removal company can make sure your mold problem is handled correctly. Mold can cause numerous health issues so don’t take it lightly. 


Health Issues Associated With Mold 

What are some of the symptoms in connection with mold illnesses? These can range from the following signs: 
*Headaches 
*Cramps 
*Loss Of Memory 
*Nerve Aches 
*Vertigo 
*Stomach Pain 
*Diarrhea 
*Fatigue 
*Excess Thirst/Urination 


Enter GreenPro Cleaning & Restoration 

This is the company I would choose when dealing with Mold removal. They specialize in bio-friendly solutions in the areas of: 
*Residential Services 
*Commercial Services 
*Water Damage Repair 


What Does That Mean? 

All of their products and methods are centered around being 100% safe and non-toxic. They protect you and mother earth while focusing on premium cleaning methods. So, what are you waiting for? If you have a mold problem contact GreenPro Cleaning & Restoration today."