Recent Posts

Mold: What is the difference between its colors?

7/16/2018 (Permalink)

When many people think of mold, they think of it as being black in color. But mold actually comes in a variety of different colors including white, green, yellow and even pink!

While many fear that black mold is toxic, white mold does not usually cause the same concerns. It can be found on about any type of surface. Attics, basement walls and exposed dirt in crawlspaces are all common areas where white mold can be found. It also can appear on food as it is going bad.

Green mold is very common and prefers cool to moderate environments. Due to this, it is commonly found on rotting refrigerated foods and breads.

Yellow mold can be very bright in color and is usually easy to spot. According to, this variety of mold can be dangerous. It should not be touched or inhaled and it should be removed as soon as possible.

Pink mold often develops on shower floors and the bottom of shower curtains because it thrives in moisture-rich environments. It is difficult to completely prevent pink mold in the bathroom and usually requires continual maintenance to control the issue.

Although mold comes in a variety of colors, all thrive in similar, moist environments. To control or prevent mold, be sure to ventilate damp areas and monitor pipes and other areas susceptible to leaking! If you suspect a mold issue at your property, call SERVPRO of Northwest Cincinnati. We are experts in mold testing and remediation! CLICK HERE to learn more or call (513) 541-3200!

Have a Safe July 4th Celebration!

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

This time of year everyone talks about the risk of fires from the careless use of fireworks. What some fireworks fans fail to take into consideration is how the weather can affect fireworks and create a potentially dangerous situation.

For example, if a storm is approaching or it is just an unusually windy day, an unexpected wind gust can affect the direction of the smoke, sparks and fallout while setting off fireworks or using sparklers. Hot embers or smoke can be blown into spectators or other areas, increasing the risk of fires or fire-related injuries. So it is very important to be aware of the direction of the wind and use extreme caution when lighting and using fireworks.

Another weather related situation to be aware of is whether or not the area has been experiencing a drought. A drought leaves the ground dry and more susceptible to fire and burning. So it is important to know the condition of the fallout area in order to lessen the risk of a fire igniting.

So this year, when planning your fireworks celebrations, make sure to take the weather into consideration! Listen to weather reports and plan ahead if storms or high winds are predicted in your area. Be aware of the ground conditions where fallout occurs and be prepared to react quickly in the event of a mishap. And always remember that SERVPRO of Northwest Cincinnati is always available for emergency service after fire damage…We are only a phone call away! (513) 541-3200 CLICK HERE to learn more. Happy 4th of July from SERVPRO of Northwest Cincinnati!

Need OH or KY Credits? Here is an upcoming opportunity!

6/18/2018 (Permalink)

We are hosting an upcoming Greater Cincinnati Insurance Board Continuing Education course on July 10th, 2018. The class will be held from 8:30am to 11:30am at our office located in Covington, Kentucky. (1001 Madison Avenue, Covington, Kentucky 41011) The title of the course is “Analyzing Commercial Property Rates with George Best, CSP, ARM. The presentation is designed to provide agents, brokers, and company representatives a detailed explanation of the Insurance Services Office (ISO) Commercial Fire ratings using the Specific Commercial Property Evaluation Schedule (SCOPES) of the ISO. Upon completion of the course, attendees should be able to review and analyze a rating survey in order to suggest rate improvement. This course is approved for 3 credit hours in Kentucky and Ohio. CLICK HERE for more information and to register!

The SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team

6/4/2018 (Permalink)

In the past, Hurricane Matthew hit the Southeast coast of the U.S., and Hurricanes Harvey and Irma also hit the U.S., leaving trails of devastation and destruction. According to, Hurricane Matthew alone caused severe flooding from Florida to North Carolina and inflicted damage in the U.S. estimated by analysts at a minimum of $10 billion. Many homes and businesses were left without power and sustained severe damage due to the high winds and flooding.

SERVPRO of Northwest Cincinnati is proud to be part of the national SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team. This team provides help during events like tornadoes, hurricanes, blizzards or floods. The national SERVPRO System has a network of strategically positioned storm teams on standby should a disaster strike. Available 24 hours a day and 365 days a year, the SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team is always prepared for the unpredictable. With the ability to mobilize local command centers, along with the resources of more than 1,700 Franchises nationwide, no disaster is too big.

During events like Hurricanes Matthew, Harvey, and Irma, our local SERVPRO of Northwest Cincinnati crews are ready to quickly mobilize and help provide disaster relief to affected families and businesses in the area of the disaster.

MOLD: The Do's and Don'ts

5/21/2018 (Permalink)



  • DO stay out of the affected areas!
  • DO turn off the HVAC system and fans!
  • DON’T touch or disturb the mold!
  • DON’T spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold!


SERVPRO of Northwest Cincinnati Strives for a Positive Community Presence

5/7/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Northwest Cincinnati believes in giving back to the community whenever possible. We are always looking for ways to help out local schools, neighborhoods and charities by offering our time and talents.

For example, we were honored to help a local school district by donating labor and materials when one of the school buildings suffered water damage and needed dry out services. The school board was very grateful for the donation because it allowed them to use funds elsewhere to better serve the students in the district.

SERVPRO of Northwest Cincinnati strives to have a positive presence in the community and is happy when an opportunity arises to help the students, residents and employees of our community. We value our community and are proud to support in any way we can!

Stress Balls or Fidget Spinners? How Do You Relieve Stress At The Office?

4/23/2018 (Permalink)

A fidget spinner is a small gadget with ball-bearings that the user can rotate or spin between his finger and thumb. They are being marketed as the modern version of the stress ball, used to relieve anxiety and promote productivity.

How Are They Believed To Work?

Some believe that using the fidget spinner occupies parts of the brain that otherwise would distract the rest of the brain with random thoughts interfering with decision making and productivity. Others believe that body movements are actually part of the thinking process much like doodling or tapping a pen.

The Must-Have Office Toy

According to Forbes, fidget spinners were the must-have office toy of 2017. So for you or that co-worker or cubicle neighbor that constantly pen-clicks, desk-drums or nail bites, maybe pitch the stress ball and try upgrading to a fidget spinner!

What Do You Think? Would a fidget spinner increase productivity at your office?

After Water Damage...What Determines if the Carpet Can be Saved?

4/9/2018 (Permalink)

When a homeowner is faced with a water damage situation in his home, he often wonders if the carpet and padding can be saved. When SERVPRO of Northwest Cincinnati is called for water restoration services, there are factors that the water technicians consider to help determine if the carpet and padding is salvageable.

Upon arriving to the site, the technicians will identify the category and classification of the water damage to ensure that the property is restored following industry guidelines. The level of contamination of the water helps determine whether or not the carpeting and padding can be saved.

There are three categories or classifications for floodwaters: Category 1, Category 2, and Category 3.

Category 1 is considered to be clean, non-contaminated water. It may come from overflowing tubs, leaky faucets, or broken pipes. In most instances of category 1 floodwater, the carpets and padding can be dried and restored.

Category 2 floodwater is classified as gray water. It is considered dirty water and it may result from malfunctioning washing machines or dishwashers for example. If the carpet has been wet for less than 48 hours, it can sometimes be restored. However, for category 2 floodwater, the padding is usually replaced.

Category 3 floodwater or black water is considered hazardous because it contains dangerous contaminants. Black water can come from instances like sewage backups and toilet overflows. In cases of black water floods, the carpeting and padding should be removed, disposed of and replaced.

The SERVPRO of Northwest Cincinnati technicians are experts in water restoration. They have the knowledge and expertise to inspect any situation and make professional decisions as to the appropriate restoration process to use.

If you are facing water damage in your home, call us today! (513)541-3200!

Signs of Hidden Mold

3/26/2018 (Permalink)

Mold in a home isn’t always clearly visible to the eye or easy to find. But there are some warning signs to look out for that may indicate there is mold growth present.

Musty Odor

A musty smell that is constantly present is an indicator that mold may be growing somewhere in the home. Mold can grow behind walls and under flooring and it is important to locate the source of the odor in order to prevent further spreading.

Water and Moisture Issues

Mold thrives in moist areas. If you have ever had any issues with water damage like flooding basements, leaky pipes, or condensation, it is possible that mold has started to develop. Discoloration or water stains on ceilings, walls, and floors are all signs of water issues and potential mold growth.

Allergy Symptoms

Some people have allergies to mold. If you are allergic to mold and notice that your allergies flare up when you are home and you feel better when you are away, this may be a sign that there is hidden mold in your home.

It is very important to address mold issues quickly because if not resolved, it can spread throughout a property very fast. If you suspect that your home has a mold problem, SERVPRO of Northwest Cincinnati can inspect, assess and remediate your property.

Manmade vs Natural Flooding - Ways to Prepare

3/12/2018 (Permalink)

According to, there are two types of flooding, natural flooding and manmade flooding. Natural flooding occurs as a result of weather. Heavy rains, flash floods and snow melts are all examples of natural occurrences that can cause water damage. Man-made flooding results due to the malfunction of a man made object. Burst pipes, plumbing issues and faulty water heaters are examples of times when man made flooding can occur and cause water damage.

There are ways to prepare for and help lessen the risk for flooding. For natural disasters, it is important to have a plan in place to communicate with family, especially if evacuation is necessary. Putting together an emergency kit is also a good idea. If possible, preventing water from entering the building at all is always best. Waterproofing basements and sealing walls are both methods that can help keep the water out. For man-made disasters, first of all it is important to check the home insurance policy. Flood detection equipment can be installed to detect water and stop it from flowing into the home. Pipes, water heaters, plumbing, foundations, and drainage systems should all be checked routinely to ensure that they are functioning properly.

Of course, not all flooding can be foreseen and prevented and it can happen when least expected. SERVPRO of Northwest Cincinnati is available 24 hours a day and can respond immediately to a water damage situation. Our highly trained water technicians have the training, expertise, and advanced equipment to restore the property back to preloss condition. So if you have water damage and need help, call us today! (513) 541-3200.