Call 1300 654 253

Request A Quote

The Impact of Mould on Your Home and Why It Must Be Removed

Request Quote Now Your local franchisee will contact you!

Top Franchise 2017

Tag: mould

The Impact of Mould on Your Home and Why It Must Be Removed

Posted on by Phillip Valencour

Rain, humidity, roof leakages, damp walls, or stagnant water are like a welcome mat for mould to settle in and around your home. And regardless of how the mould gets in, it spreads fast and is known to wreak havoc on your home.

Apart from being an eyesore, mould can damage not only your home but also your health. 

If you’ve been postponing mould removal, these reasons will convince you to get it done today!

  1. May Lead to Structural Damage

While homes are built to resist damage from the elements, problems like mould can still creep up and weaken their integrity.

If you’ve already got poorly insulated walls and leaking ceilings, a mould infestation will only make it worse. Left unchecked, mould can grow through the walls of your house and slowly weaken it. A weakened house structure is at risk of falling apart anytime, putting your family at risk.

Even without this danger, there is still the cost of maintenance and repair associated with a weakened house structure.

  1. Damage to Personal Property

Your personal possessions aren’t immune to mould. Once you spot mould in your home, there’s a higher chance of it spreading to every surface and object inside the home.

Whether it is your vintage furniture or your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, they’re at risk of mould infestation and damage. Mould overgrowth may also cause discolouration and staining on your possessions.

Having to replace your damaged possessions will be expensive and time-consuming. A better option is to deal with the mould at first signs to avoid further damage. 

  1. Reduced Visual Appeal of Your House

Leaving a mould infestation unchecked even for a short time can cause damage to your property. And one of the most obvious damages is the discolouration that comes with it.

Adding to the aesthetic damage is also the cost of repainting your entire house.

  1. Can Cause Your Home to Smell

Nobody wants to walk into a smelly house. A foul smell will not only drive away your guests but also your family members. 

A strange musty odour is one of the common results of letting mould grow in and around the house.

  1. Affects Property Value

Mould issues negatively affect the property value. This is partly due to the damage caused by the mould and partly because it signals a water leakage issue with the property.

  1. Increases the Risk of Accidents

Mould overgrowth can prove to be a major health hazard. From slippery driveways and bathrooms to allergic reactions, mould can impact your home and the occupants living in it.

And since mould spores can become airborne quickly, the danger is even higher for pregnant women and individuals with respiratory issues or compromised immune systems.

Hire a Specialist to Take Care of Your Mould Problem! 

The tricky bit about removing mould is you can never be sure you’ve done a thorough job. That’s why it is better to leave the task to professionals.

And depending on the places affected by mould, different removal strategies may be required. At Gutter-Vac, we provide all kinds of mould removal services regardless of where the mould has lodged itself. Contact us today to protect your home from the impact of mould overgrowth!

Damage to Eaves From Sealing the Overflow Pipes

Posted on by Chris Dobson

We attended a job for a real estate who had mould and dampness issues.

The real estate manager let us know they were having issues on their work order, therefore we were expecting to find very full gutters.

We could not work out why the eaves had so much mould and mildew on the underside of them.

While vacuuming the little debris in the gutters, we found that the overflow pipes had been sealed shut. Someone had silicone the flaps closed to stop the water from escaping. We concluded, the constant water from this pipe must have annoyed a previous tenant as it was over the bedroom window.

The roof was quite large and therefore filled the gutter quickly. In times of heavier rain, the overflow pipe is there to allow the water to escape. It is important for the water to flow down the pipes fast enough.

In sealing this overflow, the water has had nowhere else to go, other than the eaves and inside the cavity and down the inside walls, as it could not drain to the down pipe fast enough.

We cleaned the gutters and removed the silicone from the flap of the overflow pipe. 

The damage to the eaves needs to be repaired. First you would need to kill the mould and then you could repaint. But it can be hard to remove mould and staining may show through the new paint.

What’s that growing on your roof?

Posted on by Warren Ballantyne

So when was the last time you looked up at your roof?  Do you have some mould or lichen growing up there?

This is not uncommon in Australia due to our weather and mould and lichen can be unsightly, but it is also not something you want on your home for a healthy home.

This is NOT a DIY job.  You should never try and get up on your own roof and try and clean off mould and lichen.  Just being on a roof can be potentially unsafe, but add to that the slippery surface of mould and lichen and you could be in real trouble before you even begin.

We work in two ways for customers to remove this mould and lichen.

  1.  Apply and wait

This of course is the cheaper of the two options as we simply apply our product ‘EnviroClean’ to the surface.  Over time, the ‘EnviroClean’ goes to work on the spores and kills them off.  Every time it rains, the EnviroClean is re-activated to kill off more spores and wash away the mould and lichen that has in effect died.  This can take up to 12 months to see a result.

2. Instant Clean

Our second option is to pressure clean the surface to remove as much mould and lichen as we can instantly.  We then apply the EnviroClean to kill off the spores left behind so that they don’t reform and regrow more mould and lichen.  Obviously a great investment as it is a two-step process, but if you want an instant result, this is what we do.

Don’t put up with mould and lichen on your roof.  Give us a call today to get a quote and just let your local franchisee know if you are wanting an instant result or if you are happy to wait for a result.

Exciting News… Gutter-Vac named Wet & Forget Stockists

Posted on by Warren Ballantyne

We are pleased to let you know that not only are we now fully restocked with all of our products (including Gutter-Flow), Gutter-Vac has been named a stockist for Wet & Forget which is perfect for mould and lichen removal. 

Mould and lichen is not only unsightly, it can also potentially be harmful to your property and if on surfaces where there is ‘foot traffic’, it can also be a major slip hazard.

At Gutter-Vac we use a number of different products to maintain your home and one of the products we like to use is Wet & Forget.  Becoming a stockist for the product now means the Gutter-Vac franchisees have access to the product in large concentrated quantities so can carry out any work – large or small.  Click here to request a quote.

Gutter-Flow is now fully restocked so if you have been considering a gutter guard, we highly recommend Gutter-Flow.  There is a reason for this…. Even if you have a gutter guard, your gutters will still need to be cleaned.  Maybe less frequently, but they will still need to be cleaned because dirt, seeds, mud and sludge will continue to build up under a gutter guard. 

This is why we use Gutter-Flow because not only does it keep the large leafy matter out of your gutters, but it also allows water flow PLUS it is easy to remove, clean the gutters and then replace to continue guarding your gutters without any damage to your gutters.  Not sure if Gutter-Flow is right for you or not?  Click here to request a quote and to discuss with your local Gutter-Vac franchisee.

NEW PRODUCT:

Gutter-Vac uses and recommends Miss Muffet’s Revenge which is a great spider repellent product as it helps guard your home from creepy crawlies.  Spiders are good for the environment to help control unwanted insects, however we don’t always want them in or around our homes.  The way Miss Muffet’s Revenge works is by creating an impassable barrier to stop spiders in their tracks! Click here to request a quote and to discuss with your local Gutter-Vac franchisee.

In 2021, we are going to be delivering more valuable products to all franchisees to be able to help you maintain your property further. 

Got mould ?

Posted on by Warren Ballantyne

When you stand on the curb side in front of  your property, can you see mould growing on your property?  On the roof?  On the walls?  On the pathways?

Mould can not only be unhealthy to have growing on your home, it is often unsightly as well.  Mould, moss, lichen – they all love to grow on your property, but the question is not how does it grow, but how do we get rid of it, right?

We have a solution for you… in fact we have two!

It all depends on how fast you want a result and how much you are willing to invest.

If you are happy to wait for a result and invest less, then having your local Gutter-Vac franchisee apply our environmentally friendly product ‘EnviroClean’ to your property is the best solution.  EnviroClean will kill off the mould, moss and lichen and the spores so not only does it clean the surface, it will also prevent further growth. 

This solution can take up to 12 months to be fully effective because as each time it rains, the EnviroClean – that will remain on your property – will be ‘reactivated’ to continue to kill off the spores that grow the mould, moss and lichen.

See this video that explains EnviroClean:

Now if you are looking for an ‘instant’ result, we recommend that we firstly pressure clean the surface.  This will remove the mould, moss or lichen, but not the spores that allow it to ‘regrow’.  After we have pressure cleaned the surface, we then apply the EnviroClean, that just as it does above, will continue to work and reactivate with every rain fall to continue to kill off the spores to prevent the mould, moss or lichen from regrowing.  Off course this is an additional investment, but if you want an instant result, it will require this additional step.

So the choice is yours.  If you are unsure which is the best option for you, then contact your local Gutter-Vac franchisees on 1300 654 253 or request a quote online and they can assess your property, give you a free, no obligation quote and then you can make the decision that is best for your property…. And for you!

Got Mould?

Posted on by Warren Ballantyne

It is that time of year again when there is lots of moisture, rain and damp around that we begin to see mould to appear or rapidly grow.

At Gutter-Vac, we not only want to help you with your mould issue, but also do it in a way that is environmentally friendly.

We use a product called EnviroClean which uses special technology to kill off the mould spores so not only will it remove the mould, it will also protect your surface from the mould returning.

Now when we use EnviroClean on its own, it is of course the most budget friendly (as well as environmentally friendly) way to get rid of the mould, but it is a process that will take around 12 months to see the full transformation.  Some of our customers want a faster result so this is when we combine a pressure clean first and then an application of EnviroClean.

So here it is:

Got mould, but want an instant result?

  • We pressure clean the area to remove the visible mould and then apply EnviroClean to kill the mould spores and prevent further mould growth.

Got mould and are happy to wait for the final result?

  • We simply apply EnviroClean and wait over time for the result as the EnviroClean kills off the visible mould as well as the spores.

Different surfaces require different applications and particularly porous surfaces may require a follow up treatment of EnviroClean but that is why we quote every job as the type and amount of mould and the surface to be treated plus if you want an instant result or happy to wait for the result will all affect what the investment will be.

Mould is not something you want hanging around on any surface.  Not only unsightly, but it can also be a health danger so if you have mould, give us a call on 1300 654 253 and we can inspect your property and give you the best solution for the surface, type and amount of mould and what sort of timeframe you would like to see a result in….. and do it all in an  environmentally friendly way.  

EnviroClean Works!

Posted on by Warren Ballantyne

Have you heard about our new product EnviroClean yet?

EnviroClean is a specialised product to clean off moss, mould and lichen from your roof, exterior walls and any exterior surface.

It is ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY ! 

It doesn’t contain any chlorine bleach chemicals and is non-dangerous to use.

So not only is it environmentally friendly – because when you apply a product to your property (roof, walls or any exterior surface), it will be washed down your drains out to our waterways, potentially harmfully polluting the environment – but EnviroClean works!

Our franchisees have been using the product now for a couple of years (prior to its official release) on all sorts of properties and surfaces and it is getting amazing results.

EnviroClean has a little bit of magic to it.  Not only does it work straight away on your surface, it has special ingredients (that we like to call the magic) that will not only continue to remove mould, moss and lichen, it will also protect your property from more forming.

Each time it rains, the particles within the EnviroClean are ‘reactivated’ which means they get back to work removing moss, mould and lichen.  In fact, after your property has been cleaned, you might find that it looks even better in a few months when EnviroClean has had some extra time to work on those stubborn sections.

We recommend re-applying the product to your property every 12 months to continue to do this ‘behind the scenes’ work every time it rains. 

Such an easy way to keep unsightly mould and lichen at bay.

Our franchisees are more than happy to apply the product for you (which we highly recommend if you would like your roof treated as it is simply unsafe for you to be on your roof without the correct safety training and equipment) or you can purchase EnviroClean from our website – www.guttervac.com.au – if you have surfaces that you could easily DIY.

If you would like a free quote from a Gutter-Vac franchisee in your local area, simply call 1300 654 253 or visit our website – www.guttervac.com.au – to request a quote.

How mould in your home can be a health risk

Posted on by Phillip Valencour

It is no secret mould thrives in damp environments, and Queensland has been experiencing a high level of rainfall in the last couple of months. However, did you know hidden mould may be posing a potential health threat to you and your family?

There are a number of ways this unsightly, unwanted visitor can creep its way into your home, and it all starts with damp, ill-ventilated areas.

If your house has insufficient roof drainage, it is quite common to find a coating of mould on roof tiles.  This can then weaken the structure, and may make your roof more vulnerable to leaks.

Also, left untreated, mould on the roof has the potential to spread to other areas in your home. Mould spores produced outside can easily transpire into the home through the air.

Walls and ceilings are prone to mould growth due to poor insulation or rainwater leaking through the roof.

Mould in your home has associated health problems such as asthma, even if you do not have a pre-existing allergy. Pregnant women, children, and those with pre-existing allergies, respiratory conditions, or immune disorders are most susceptible.

The Australian Allergy Centre recommends cleaning your gutters on a regular basis to minimise mould risk.  They highlight the importance of keeping your house structures dry by ensuring adequate roof drainage. 

Symptoms of mould allergy include:

  • Sneezing, coughing
  • Eye irritation
  • Itchy eyes, nose and throat
  • In some cases, fatigue
  • Asthma
  • Eczema
  • Dry skin

You can identify mould by tell tale splotches, spots, streaks, or ‘fuzz’. It can be a variety of colours such as grey, black, brown, green or white. It is also often accompanied by a musty odour.

It should be removed as soon as it is noticed to prevent further structural damage and minimise potential health risks.

It is recommended to get your roof inspected and gutters cleaned at least once a year to stop the problem before it starts. Mould feeds on organic matter such as decaying leaves, and dust. Damp matter lying around in the gutter is a smorgasbord for mould.

Other ways to prevent interior mould include making sure damp areas such as the kitchen and bathroom are well ventilated by opening windows regularly and maintaining general cleanliness. Repair leaking plumbing as soon as the problem presents. Also, make use of exhaust fans if applicable. A natural vinegar solution works quite well to clean areas inside. Pop some vinegar in a spray bottle and spray onto mouldy areas. Wipe off with warm water after an hour. Exercise caution when using commercial bleaching solutions as this may cause tiles to become more porous, which in turn can make them more prone to mould.  Also, sometimes bleach just changes the colour of the mould, without eradicating it.

Externally, if the mould problem is covering a large area, or if members of the household are sensitive to mould, it is best to call in the professionals.

Mould overgrowth on your driveway or other concreted areas can be a serious slip hazard. However, this is easily resolved through pressure cleaning, which is a service we also offer.

Get in touch if you would also like to learn more about EnviroClean, which is a safe and environmentally friendly strategy for exterior surfaces.  It is fantastic for roofs, paths, driveways and walls. Best of all, it reactivates every time it rains so you can keep mould off your mind.

Call 1300 654 253

Customer Satisfaction Survey

Liked our service? Please fill out our survey.

Quick Links
Gutter-Vac Services
For Franchisees
Instagram Facebook-f Linkedin-in Youtube

Gutter-Vac © 2021 | Privacy Policy
Web Design by Mediamojo.