Tips to Avoid Odour in Your Home

Home is where we feel fresh and relaxed. If that very place has any lingering bad odour, it can really disturb our lifestyle. Exhaust fans and windows can do only so much about a bad odour. Even with air circulation, if the odour source still remains in the house, it’s of no use.

For the smells that make you run out of the house holding your nose, try the following tricks:

Identify the source! It’s got to be something hidden somewhere in some corner you have never seen before. If the source is in a room, burning candles and spraying air fresheners will only temporarily solve the problem. Once you’ve located the source, get rid of it.

Pour a cup or two of vinegar at the bottom of the dishwasher and wash the foul smell away. Vinegar is an excellent smell remover. Be prepared to smell vinegar for an hour so. But hey, it solves the bigger problem! As for the other temporary kitchen odours, opening the windows and the exhaust fans can help to solve a majority of the problem. Follow up with a spray of the air freshener.

The door of the front loading washing machine seals so tightly that the air never circulates inside the washing machine causing mould to grow inside. Regularly clean the washing machine by running a washing cycle with only two cups of bleach and hot water.

Much like the washing machine, even the fridge has a tendency to smell when kept closed for a long period of time. The age-old solution to tame fridge odours is to open a box of baking soda and stick it on a shelf or along the back.

If you have pets look out for areas where they may have soiled the floor or carpet. Most of the smell is caused by bacteria. Vinegar being a highly acidic substance kills the bacteria and thus the foul smell disappears. Mixing one portion of vinegar with three portions of water and rubbing it on the carpet can be rid you of the smell after a wash. Followed by this, you should probably train your pet not to pee/soil on the carpet.

Pet odour can also be controlled using activated charcoal. Activated charcoal is activated carbon which is capable of absorbing a wide range of odours. The activated carbon specially designed to absorb pet odours can be bought and kept in the vicinity of pet litter to neutralize the smell to a great extent.


Cleaning on your own is not always recommended because the home remedies can often damage your goods at home. That is where we, Bio Cleanse Services come into the picture. We are expert odour removal professionals equipped to handle the trickiest and the worst kind of odour in your house.  Call 0427 411 789/0412 547 547 now or visit our website.

Things you need to know about standing water

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What is standing water?

Standing water can be defined as a pool of water, no matter what the size, it remains stagnant. Natural events like heavy rainfall, floods or storms often contribute to standing water. But it can also occur due to situations such as leaky pipe or bucket, pipe burst, leaky faucet, sewage backup, if not tackled on time. Standing water becomes hazardous over a period of time due to contaminants present in it, posing a severe risk to your health.

Where can standing water be found?

Standing water can occur in almost any area where the ground surface is not able to absorb the water resulting in water pooling. During excessive rains or storms, water gets accumulated on the ground if there is no outlet thus leading to water stagnation. The same applies to streets, where the drainage system is not sufficient to push out or sop up the water into the ground. In cities, standing water can occur when sewer systems suffer from inadequate infrastructure, thus unable to disperse heavy amounts of rainwater.

Which are the areas most prone to water stagnation?

Water stagnation is a common problem in properties that are not maintained or abandoned. There’s also a good chance of water getting accumulated when broken pipes are not repaired, flat roofs and lawns are not looked after. Homes that have swimming pools which are not in use, collect all the rainwater and eventually become a breeding ground for bacteria, algae, and insects.

What are the threats when it comes to health?

According to research, standing water eventually houses various bacteria and insects like mosquitoes, fleas, etc. It becomes a perfect environment for them to breed. The larvae after maturing carry and transmit deadly diseases. Mosquito breeding is quite common in standing water. It can be a source of diseases like malaria, dengue, etc.

Standing water is also conducive to mould and mildew growth. Mould could give rise to respiratory problems like sneezing, runny nose, cough, among others.

How can one avoid standing water in their home?

It is very important to prevent such a situation from occurring, to keep health issues at bay and protect your property from damage. Having regular checks for water buildup in lawns, on roofs, in the pools and around your home is a must. If you notice any stagnant water in these areas, get help immediately. Avoid cleaning any standing water on your own as this could have been stagnant for an undefined period of time, making it highly contaminated.

See also: Does your septic tank need emptying?

When an event contributes to the accumulation of water in unnecessary areas and causes substantial damage to property, turn to us for help. We provide water damage restoration as well as mould inspection and mould removal services to restore your home. Call us on 0427 411 789 to fix an appointment.

The After Effects of Smoke Damage

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Although the after-effects of a fire damage are obvious, the effects of smoke lingering around during the fire are something we do not take into consideration. It can be a serious factor that could affect the life and productivity of the machines and appliances in the house. The after effects of smoke can be far more serious and may take weeks to recover.

Here are some of the factors to consider while dealing with smoke damage:

Time

Smoke and other harmful off-gases during a fire can cause secondary damage, and the longer the surface is exposed to smoke, the worse the cleaning or etching process can be. Most electronics can conduct through the smoke. When the smoke sediments after the fire, it can cause short circuits on boards which can cause electronics to lead a pre-mature breakdown.

Humidity

With a high amount of moisture content in the air, there is a great risk of corrosive reactions and more subsequent damage.

Temperature and Pressure

The air volume doubles every 10 degrees. Which means that greater the pressure, the more smoke is driven into the porous surfaces in the house. It should be noted that the curtains and all other fabrics that survived the fire need to be properly cleaned and treated before being used again. 

Type of Combustion Materials

House fires are rather complex since they are fuelled by a lot of synthetic materials rather than natural materials. Complex fires cause significant damage.

The first plan of action after a fire damage is to contact your insurance agency and get a professional cleaning job done. As mentioned above, the after-effects of smoke are not visible to the naked eye and need expert cleaning job done. Even though it appears like you can handle the job, its best to hand it over to the professionals.

See Also: 7 ways to fireproof your house

Fighting the Effects of Smoke Damage

• In order to prevent any sort of secondary damage, apply a surfactant agent (e.g. cooking oil) to materials metal, glass, tile/grout and marble. 
• Provide proper ventilation by keeping the doors and windows open for as long as possible so that air flows freely and prevents soot from settling in. 
• Pre-treat fabrics by soaking them overnight in warm water and one cup of dishwasher detergent. 
• Check all the electrical appliances before using them. As mentioned earlier, smoke may have damaged these and a simple spark could give rise to another catastrophe. 

Never ignore the after-effects of a fire damage. Lingering smoke can have many health hazards. At Bio Cleanse Services, we deal with all kinds of fire damages, including dealing with smoke removal. We can restore your home to perfection. Call us on 0427 411 789.

Different Types of Mould That Grow at Your Home

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Hopefully, you never have to face this problem but, a little damp area and humid climate can give rise to a variety of mould which can have serious health effects if left untreated. If such a problem ever occurs to you, be sure to consult a professional cleaning agency to eradicate your home of mould and have a healthy lifestyle.

Here are the different types of mould that usually grow at your home:

Alternaria

Found indoors and outdoors, Alternaria is the most common type of mould. Alternaria thrives in damp and dimly lit areas like shower, sink or a dark outdoor area. Alternaria can give rise to health problems like asthma attacks and allergic reactions.

Aspergillus

Another commonly found, minimally dangerous mould is aspergillus. It has over 85 species occurring in different colours. Although it is an allergic mould, subject to the species and environment, this mould can pose serious health issues.

Aureobasidium

Aureobasidium mould thrives on wooden furniture, surfaces, painted walls and wallpapers as well as round windows and in caulk. A pink and black spot in any of these areas is an indication of  Aureobasidium mould. As it is commonly found, many people have known to develop allergic reactions because of it and can cause more severe reaction as opposed to any other moulds.

Chaetomium

A drywall that has experienced water damage is the perfect breeding ground for Chaetomium mould. Typically you can identify this kind of mould by a musty or old odour in your home.

Fusarium

Colder, wetter areas usually facilitate the growth of Fusarium mould. Fusarium mould prefers carpeted areas and similar fabrics as their home. Being a mould, it causes the standard allergic reactions in addition to chronic infections and inflammations.

Penicillium

Penicillium is a quick spreading mould normally found indoors inside insulations and in water damaged areas with furniture and carpets. Like every other mould, Penicillium too can cause homeowner some serious sinus infections and also allergic reactions.

Stachybotrys Chartarum

Stachybotrys Chartarum or black mould also goes by the name of Toxic Mould owing to the toxic compound it creates. This compound (mycotoxins) can cause breathing issues, asthma attacks and many more health problems. This mould is normally found in areas that stay damp most of the times like air conditioning pipes and ducts.

Serpula Lacrymans

A commonly found outdoors mould, Serpula Lacrymans can also be found growing indoors on wooden surfaces. This mould feeds solely on wooden surfaces causing dry rot within the wood, gradually ruining the furniture. It has a yellow appearance.

See Also: How can you control mould growth in your home

May it be any type of mould, having it growing in your house can have serious respiratory issues to you and your family. And although some people seem immune to mould, children and elderly can have major problems. It's best to have a professional cleaning company do a mould test and get a thorough mould cleanup done. Contact Bio Cleanse Services on 0427 411 789 for mould remediation services.

Qualities of a Good Disinfectant

By cleaning your home or office regularly, are you really getting rid of germs and bacteria or are you just removing all the dirt and stains? By spraying and wiping surfaces, you may manage to restore the place to a clean and tidy state, but there could still be a wide range of viruses, bacteria, germs, etc. lingering on surfaces.

It is not ideal to use a single cleaner to clean every type of surface as each surface may demand a different formula for cleaning. To make the right choice it is important to know the qualities of a good disinfectant. Read on to find out what those features are.

Wide usage

Instead of storing several bottles in your cabinet, opt for a disinfectant that claims to effectively kill a major variety of germs and bacteria. A solution with good cleaning properties helps to avoid the need for a separate cleaner. But don’t forget to bear in mind the type of surface while selecting a cleaner.

Stable and Effective

Ensure the disinfectant is stable in concentrated as well as in diluted states. Check for compatibility and select a cleaner that can be used in combination with other solutions. The effectiveness of the disinfectant should not be compromised even after being combined with other formulas during use.

No health risks

Pay extra importance when it comes to safety. Make sure neither the disinfectant nor its residue has an adverse effect on you, your family and your pets. This is a crucial step especially if someone in your home suffers from allergies and other health problems.

Environmental friendly

Many times, disinfectants end up going down the drains of sinks bathrooms, toilets, etc. and are quite hazardous to the environment. It is best to choose disinfectants that are bio-friendly. Beware of products that make false claims of being environmentally safe. Read product labels carefully to find out if they are truly safe or not.

Damage and odour free

You don't want your surfaces to look discoloured or start to erode after using a disinfectant. Keep in mind all cleaners are not always suitable for all surfaces, so choose wisely. Also if you notice any strong or unusual odours before buying, look for other options.

Affordable

Since eliminating germs and bacteria is of utmost importance when it comes to regular cleaning, you need to look out for a disinfectant that is not highly priced rather cost-effective. 

Clear instructions

For a disinfectant to work effectively, you need to follow the cleaning procedure mentioned on the product label. Proper instructions related to how to use the solution, how long it must be left on a surface to kill germs/bacteria. Instructions related to storage and disposal should also be covered.

If your property has become severely contaminated after a biohazardous event, leave the cleaning and disinfecting process entirely to Bio Cleanse Services. Reach us on 0427 411 789.

How Does Dry Ice Blasting Work?

Dry ice blasting is an improvement over sandblasting cleaning method. In this, dry ice is blasted on the surface at high speeds and pressure. Instead of using hard abrasive media to do the blasting (and damaging the surface in the process), dry ice blasting uses comparatively soft dry ice, accelerated at supersonic speeds. Upon contact, the ice creates mini-explosions on the surface which cause the dirt or the undesirable substance to lift off the underlying substrate. The frigid temperature of dry ice causes the undesirable substrate to shrink and lose adhesion. Since the surface to be cleaned is at a higher temperature than the dry ice, it immediately converts back to its gaseous form after hitting the surface and the only residue left is the undesirable substance to be disposed.

Dry ice blasting is highly superior to sandblasting cleaning method because, in the case of dry ice blasting, the surface does not get damaged at all. Whereas the same cannot be said about sandblasting. It avoids equipment damage in two ways. Firstly, dry ice does not erode or damage the surface to be cleaned in any way. Secondly, since dry ice blasting can be done on site, the machinery need not be transported to a separate cleaning facility which exposes it to potential damages like drops and bumps.

Here are some of the benefits of dry ice blasting:

• It is a non-abrasive, non-flammable and non-conductive, efficient cleaning method.
• It is environmentally stable and does not involve any harmful chemicals.
• It has been approved to be used in the food industry.
• It allows cleaning of most equipment without the need of time-consuming disassembly.
• It does not have the chance of causing a fire hazard and can carry out the cleaning process with the existing electrical and mechanical structure of the machine.
• It is used to remove production residue, release agents, contaminants, paints, oils, and biofilms.
• It can serve both extremes. It can be used to blow the dust of books as well as to remove weld slag from tooling.
• Apart from the above mentioned, it can be used in several other applications.

We at Bio Cleanse offer efficient cleaning services in dry ice blasting. Call us now on  0427 411 789 or email us at info@primerestorations.com.au to know more.

Sewage Spill - A Health Hazard

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A sewage spill is one of the most unpleasant situations that can occur in your home, not to mention one that can damage your property and cause serious sanitation problems. A septic tank backup, a toilet overflow, a clogged drain, or area flooding due to a natural calamity, all classify as water damage and can create a hazardous environment for your family. Also of paramount concern is the health risk of being exposed, especially to a sewage spill. If the spill is small, you can choose to clean it up yourself with specialized cleaning products to disinfect the area. But if the spill is massive, it’s best to call in the professionals. Even just being in the vicinity of the spill can put your family’s health at risk, because the contaminants contained in sewage and septic tank spills can cause serious illness or disease.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when a sewage spill occurs:

Evacuate

It is important to act quickly and evacuate all people with compromised immune systems, or problems like asthma. These would include young children, the infirm and the elderly, and even your pets. Ensure that nobody eats or drinks in the location of the spill.

Act quickly

The longer you are exposed to the sewage, the worse it gets, because bacteria spread quickly. Parasites, fungi and viruses are also among the agents found in raw sewage responsible for causing diseases like Hepatitis A. Allowing time to pass before clean-up may also create foul doors that will later be difficult to remove. Therefore, spills must be dealt with promptly.

Stay protected

Spills must also be dealt with in a safe manner, wearing protective gear, considering that one is handling infectious waste. Wear waterproof boots and gloves, a face mask, safety goggles or similar protective eyewear, and thick clothing which is best to throw away after the cleanup. If one already has any wounds, cuts or bruises on the body, they must be covered up so that they do not get exposed to sewage.

How long has it been there?

If the spill or overflow has happen when no one is around, it’s likely that it has been sitting around for some hours. It is probably too late to stop bacteria from spreading. Safety gear is essential in such a situation and breathing apparatuses are highly advised.

Mould growth

It is also necessary to protect other areas and your property such as furniture from the overflow. Water damage creates an environment conducive to the growth of mould or fungi. This can play havoc with your family’s health in the long run.

After the cleanup, the property must be thoroughly decontaminated, to create a safe and healthy environment in your home.

See Also: Proper sewage cleanup is necessary

Call in the pros

Getting professional help is necessary in case of a large spill. We at Bio Cleanse Services handle sewage cleanup in a professional manner. Apart from cleaning up the disgusting mess, we also clean carpet and upholstery, decontaminate and restore your property. Speed is our forte, and this would not only mean damage control but would also help you get back to normal life quickly. Call us on 0427 411 789.

Safety with Flammable Liquids at Home

If you are an average homeowner with regular household items like hair sprays, rubbing alcohol, paint thinner, linseed oil under your roof, then you must also be aware of the risks these have to offer. While they may not seem like a serious threat in most cases, they sure can increase your risk during a fire accident. Here are a few handy tips to keep in mind while housing these liquids.

1. Hand sanitizers

 A true fact but hand sanitizers are flammable because of the high alcohol content in them. Whether gel or liquid, all alcohol-based hand sanitizers pose a great risk in case your house gets caught in a fire. A safety measure to follow here would be to keep sanitizers away from heat or direct sunlight. Avoid keeping them near stoves, heaters or in areas directly exposed to sunlight or areas that tend to get warm.

2. Gasoline, paint thinner and turpentine

Paint thinners are a common household liquid used to lighten oil-based paints or clean up after their use. Being widely used, they are also the reason for top residential fire accidents. In most homes, these liquids are carelessly stored in garages and often with negligence, a spillover is capable of causing sparks. To avoid accidents, these flammable solvents should be stored in tightly sealed containers away from sources of heat.

3. Nail polish remover

Because of the acetone content in this liquid, this is considered one of the most common flammable household liquids. The vapours it produces are also flammable as they are able to travel through the air, igniting any nearby flames. If you are using a candle, make sure to blow it out and keep it at a safe distance before you apply or remove any nail polish.

4. Linseed oil

Linseed oil a common household liquid used for staining and finishing work and dried upon exposure to heat. It generates heat as it dries, which can cause the spontaneous combustion of materials. Rags, waste, and other oily materials having residues of linseed oil can cause spontaneous combustion fires if not handled properly. This liquid is to be handled with great caution and stored in an appropriate place away from sunlight.

5. Aerosol cans/sprays

Over half of the household products stored in residential homes are contained in aerosol cans. Aerosol sprays are no surprise in catching fires when sprayed in close proximity of a flame or a fireplace. As much as possible store these cans away from heat-related appliances and warm areas and do not spray them near candle flames and kitchen stoves.

See Also: Fire damage and the Need for Restoration  

Safeguard your homes with these simple tips. In case of fire accidents, fret not! Our team of fire damage restoration experts at Bio Cleanse Services is always there to help. Call – 0427 411 789 in case of an emergency. You may also email us at – info@primerestorations.com.au

5 common causes of water damage

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Water damage is a result of excess water accumulating for long periods in damage-prone areas. Several factors can cause water to pool leading to water damage. It is important to know what these factors are and take precautionary measures to help protect your home from avoidable disasters. Below outlined are common undetected causes that contribute massively to water damage.

Pipe bursts or leaks

Pipes that burst or leak are one of the most common factors that lead to water damage. These often happen as a result of pressure in pipes caused by a blockage or back up in the toilets and drains. Pipes that are old and worn out can also contribute to leakages.

Plumbing issues/failures

While some plumbing problems are hard to identify as they occur within the walls, many issues arise when hoses and pipe joints are not attached properly. Regular inspections under the sink can help keep plumbing problems in check.

Household appliances

Over a period of time, washing machines, dishwashers, water heaters, and refrigerators start to deteriorate. As a result, pipes develop a rust build up and tend to crack, while the hoses become weak. Of all the appliances, the most common ones that contribute to water damage are hot water tanks and washing machines. It is important to perform timely checks for any possible hazard.

HVACs

Heating, ventilating and air conditioning units are likely culprits that could cause considerable water damage. Air conditioners in particular need to be serviced regularly, drained and maintained well to avoid any moisture build up within them. If not done, once the moisture cools, it can come in contact with mould spores in ducts and promote mould growth.

Natural disasters

When it comes to natural catastrophes, all you can do is take precautionary measures to mitigate their impact on your home. Floods, hurricanes and other natural disasters can all lead to a dangerous accumulation of contaminated water. In such cases, it is important to contact a water damage restoration company immediately to have the property remediated before the situation worsens.

If your home is in a bad state due to the above or any other reasons, call our expert team for effective water damage restoration services on 0427411789.

How an unattended death clean-up is handled by professionals

When a deceased person is discovered after a period of time, the whole situation can be intense and overwhelming. But what's challenging is the cleaning up after the unattended death. Apart from the biohazard dangers that arise from a situation like this, there is considerable damage done to the premises as a result of the decomposition process. For times like this, the cleanup and remediation of property should be handled by an expert biohazard cleaning team. Always reach out to a professional that will ensure extensive cleaning and remediation to rid your property of all biohazard dangers.

Below are the steps followed by a biohazard cleaning company to ensure the clean-up is done well.

Site examination:
Firstly, the cleaning crew will investigate and analyse the scene/area to determine the extent of the damage. A number of factors could influence the extent of contamination, from the kind of death to the time period since the death occurred. This study helps the cleanup team to design a plan of action that is best suited to eliminate all odours and decontaminate the area and materials present.

Cleaning up the area affected:
Next comes the cleaning of the decontaminated area. In this step, the cleaners will clean, decontaminate, sanitise and deodorise the area including surfaces, and carpeting. They follow strict procedures to ensure all contaminants are removed entirely from the site. In certain cases, the carpeting and subflooring will also be removed. This is to ensure no contaminants that could give rise to health dangers remain. The whole affected area is treated with advanced odour removal techniques to get rid of unpleasant odours completely.

Removal of contaminated materials:
At times, there are items that are highly contaminated making them difficult to salvage. It becomes necessary for the cleaners to remove and discard such materials. Cleaners follow strict protocols while discarding these. This is to ensure that the community surrounding the site are free from the risk of biohazard contamination.

Are you are facing a traumatic situation like an unattended death in your family or property? Don’t let the clean-up stress you out. At Bio Cleanse Services, we are always ready to help you in times like this. Contact us or call us on 0427 411 789 for any unattended death cleanup requirements.

How can you control mould growth in your home

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Mould has been there on the surface of the earth since the beginning of time. It is always present in the air and needs only some humidity and moisture to thrive. Although it is a part and parcel of nature, you obviously do not want it growing in your home and ruining your pretty walls. Below outlined are ways on how you can control mould in your home.

1. Since mould thrives in humid and damp areas, keeping a watch on the humidity level can be a good preventive measure to avoid mould growth.

2. Promptly fixing any leaks in the roof or any pipe can prevent mould from growing since you eliminate the possibility of a damp environment that mould requires to grow.

3. An area must be thoroughly cleaned and dried up after a flood. By not getting a complete or a professional cleanup done, the area might still have traces of water from the flooding which will eventually give rise to mould.

4. Since showers, laundry area, and kitchen deal with water the most, keeping them properly ventilated will allow most of the water vapours to escape thus reducing the chances of mould growth in these commonly affected areas.

Most of the times, if the mould problem is small then the cleanup can be done by yourself. If you decide to use bleach to do the cleanup, then there are a few things to keep in mind.

• Mixing bleach with ammonia or other household cleaning solutions is a big no-no. 
• Keep the windows and doors open to allow fresh air to enter. Make sure there is proper ventilation in the area being cleaned. 
• Don’t forget to wear protective gloves and eyewear. Remember, safety comes first. 
• Follow the instructions given by the manufacturer when using bleach or any other cleaning product.

See Also: Different Types of Mould that Grow at Your Home

Mould can become a serious problem if not tackled in time. It is advised to get a professional mould cleanup as soon as you spot mould in your home. We at Bio Cleanse Services provide expert mould testing and mould cleanup services. Call now on 0427 411 789 or visit our website to know more.

Understanding Dry Ice Blasting and its benefits over other cleaning methods

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Dry Ice Blasting, also known as CO2 Blasting, is a non-invasive method of cleaning. Dry Ice Blasting is an efficient and cost-effective way for industries to maximise production capability and quality.

Much similar to sand blasting, plastic bead blasting, or soda blasting, in Dry Ice Blasting, a solid media is accelerated under high-pressure air stream and made to hit the surface with a velocity causing the extra layer of dirt to fall off with the extra force.

Dry Ice Blasting is a shortened precision based cleaning procedure which leaves no residue except for the material to be disposed of. Upon hitting the surface, due to the heat present on the surface of the body, the ice evaporates, leaving no residue to be separately cleaned. CO2 is a non-poisonous gas which is both, inexpensive and easy to store in the worksite. Paint, oil, grease, asphalt, tar, decals, soot, dirt, ink, resins, and adhesives are some of the materials removed by this procedure.

Dry Ice Blasting has several benefits over other cleaning methods:

• Pellets are FDA, EPA, and USDA approved. 
• It is a non-flammable, non-abrasive and non-conductive cleaning method. 
• No secondary contaminants/solvents/grit media. 
• Environmentally friendly & safe as the ice sublimes into the atmosphere. 
• No harmful solvents – increases employee safety and longevity of equipment. 
• Faster & more productive than manual cleaning. 
• Allows cleaning in place without disassembly. 
• Reduced labour & other extra costs. 
• Can be as gentle as dusting smoke damage from books or as aggressive as removing weld slag from tooling.

At Bio-Cleanse Services, we provide exceptional customer service for Dry Ice Blasting to all of our valued clients in Sydney, Canberra, Goulburn, Batemans Bay and surrounding NSW. You can count on the quality cleaning and service. Call 0427 411 789 or email us at info@primerestorations.com.au

7 Ways to fireproof your house

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We are all no strangers to fire damages. Accidental fires can devastate large amounts of valuable property leaving behind not only ash and debris but also toxic gases. Often a lot can be done beforehand to prevent everything from going down in flames. Simple changes like using more non-combustible materials and being a little bit more cautious could make your home less vulnerable to fire damages. Here are a few ways you can fireproof your home.

1) Use fire-resistant/redundant materials

Although there is a fine line between fire resistant and fire redundant materials, replacing your homes with either of these materials can reduce fire-risks by half. Fire resistant materials are designed to resist burning and withstand heat while fire redundant materials slow down the burning process. Such materials may include glass, asbestos, brick, and perlite. Replace roofs made of wood with tiles or concrete.

2) Build a fireproof barrier around your house

Having a house that is fireproof wouldn’t suffice alone. Surround your houses with less inflammable materials like gravel and concrete ground. All vegetation can be a good fuel for a fire. Get rid of excess. Have branches and twigs trimmed from time to time. Create a fireproof barrier around your house by using fire-resistant vegetation. Rockrose, ice-plant, aloe, cherry trees, pine, maple and bush honeysuckles are to name a few.

3) Install fire alarms

Have smoke alarms installed at every level of your house including the basement. Have them checked by a recognized testing laboratory. Make sure everyone at home has a basic understanding of handling a fire extinguisher. It might come in handy.

4) Declutter your surrounding

Get your homes and workplaces decluttered of all the things you don’t necessarily need. It’s easy for fires to spread through superfluous junk. Household items like disinfectant sprays and aerosol sprays are highly inflammable, and so are food items like dry powders. Take extra precaution especially in the kitchen.

5) Check for electrical wiring

Make sure the wiring of your home is safe and properly insulated. Repair faulty wires. Avoid plugging in too many devices/appliances at one point, it may cause an overload and lead to a short circuit breakout.

6) Have many exit doors

Design your homes to handle accidental fire breakouts. Have a good exit strategy planned to ease getting out in case of a fire breakout. This could include multiple exit doors and hallway.

7) Don't be careless

Often fire at homes can be caused by straight up carelessness. Be responsible when you smoke. Do not smoke when you are tired. It's easy to fall asleep while your cigarette is still burning only to wake up to the smell of burning fumes. So also, keep curtains and dish towels a safe distance away from stoves. Avoid wearing loose fitting and dangling clothes while near the stove.

Fire prevention isn't that complicated. It just involves a few easy but smart precautionary steps to avert a great disaster.

At Bio Cleanse Services, we deal with all kinds of fire damages. We can restore your home to perfection. Call us on 0427 411 789.

Fire Damage and the Need for Restoration

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Fire can lead to significant damage to the property and a number of significant other problems which can cost you a lot of money until you get everything restored. Many people still fail to realize the amount of damage fire can do. And most people do not know of the vast number of services offered by fire damage restoration experts.

In case of a fire, the damage is most evident on the walls, furniture, and other upholstery. Fire damage restoration companies will most certainly address this. The best fire damage restoration companies will offer a full restoration of the area and help you redecorate your house including your furniture and upholstery so that your rooms look better than what they did earlier.

Fire damage just doesn’t only cause burn damages. It can also cause odour and stains which won’t go away with conventional cleaning methods. Fire damage restoration services are fully equipped to take care of this as well, making sure no trace of the fire is left lingering in the house. Also, fire can cause short circuits on various electronic machine boards. Fire damage restoration technicians will make sure these are properly cleaned before starting them up. Thus avoiding any additional damage to your property.

Although water damage and fire damage are two edges of a very long pole, they can actually occur together more often than not. In case of a fire, the heat could break burst a pipe or cause a leak in the overhead tank, causing flooding in the house. Fire damage restoration companies are equipped for this hurdle as well since they are trained to handle fire as well as water damage.

If you have experienced a fire, you should get a restoration done as quickly as possible. Always have the contact details of a good fire damage restoration company close by. Make sure the company provides 24-hour services, having a quick response team on its toes all the time. Also, ensure that the company has a good track record with other customers. Check for reviews on various websites on the internet which can give more credibility to the company.

Having said all this, take all the necessary precautions required to avoid fire damage altogether. This includes following safe cooking methods as well as taking extra precautions with other fires and open electric plugs. Regularly checking the fire alarm can greatly reduce the chances of having fire damage.

Bio Cleanse Services is available 24x7 to solve your Fire damage problems. You can reach us on 0427 411 789 or visit our website.

How is Hoarding a Mental Illness?

Pic credit: flickr.com

Hoarding is the persistent reluctance in discarding or parting with possessions, regardless of their value. This behavior usually has harmful effects - emotional, physical, social, financial, and several times even legal - for a hoarder and family members. Commonly hoarded items can be newspapers, furniture, clothes, household supplies and even food items. There are cases when a house is filled with so many pets that they’re often left uncleaned and uncared for and subsequently, they fall ill.

Hoarding is considered to be a derivative of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). It is reckoned that about one in four people with OCD are also compulsive hoarders. In future, hoarding might be in a league of its own. In the meantime, it is a serious issue and people are opening up about the difficulty and problems hoarding causes them in their lives. It can be difficult to determine if someone is a hoarder or if they just like to hang on to things. One of the main determining factors to identify if it becomes a disorder is to know, whether or not, and to what extent, 
the behavior has started negatively affecting daily functioning.

Here are some of the recognized symptoms of hoarding:

• Cluttered living spaces
• Unable to discard items, regardless of their value
• Keeping stacks of newspapers, magazines, boxes or junk mail
• Shifting items from one pile to another without essentially discarding anything, even the things that need to be thrown out
• Acquiring unnecessary or useless items, including trash
• Difficulty in doing the daily activities, procrastinating and having a hard time making decisions
• Difficulty organizing items
• Perfectionism - Expecting everything to be flawless
• Over-attachment to possessions and experiencing discomfort when someone else touches or borrows belongings
• Limited or no social interactions

Reasons for hoarding:

People tend to hoard because they believe that the item will come in use in the future and hold it dear to themselves with a unique sentimental value to them. Sometimes they also consider the item as a memory of a person or an event, thinking that they will not remember the event without the item. Hoarding often causes anger, resentment, and depression among family members, and it can have a great effect on the social development of children. Unliveable conditions may lead to separation between couples or divorce, eviction from the property, even loss of child custody, and can give rise to some serious financial problems.

If you are in need of a hoarding clean-up, Bio Cleanse services is who you should contact. Our years of experience, coupled with the high-tech equipment used, will most definitely give you the best customer satisfaction. Head over to our website or call us on 0427411789.

Is your home infested with black mould?

Black mould or Stachybotrys chartarum is a fungus which is considered to be one of the most dangerous of its kind. It grows in dark, moist/damp places in the house like on the walls, tiles, ceilings and wooden cabinets. It not only gives your house an unkempt appearance but also poses a risk of several health problems to the inhabitants. Below are signs that will help you detect the presence of black mould in your house before it’s too late.

1. Musty odour

Mould has a musty, earthy and stale smell. Even if you do not see any mould but notice a peculiar smell when you enter an area in the house, it is a telltale sign of mould's presence. It is important to have the whole house inspected as mould could be hiding and growing underneath moist wallpapers, carpets, or in washing machines, air conditioning, etc.

In many cases, the occupants get accustomed to this musty, damp smell. Hence, it is advisable to have a friend to come over and detect if there are any odd smells.

2. Visible dark spots

Another sign that tells you black mould could be growing in your house is the appearance of black or dark green spots on the ceilings or walls. Black mould appears in clusters and often looks slimy. Even if you feel these spots are anything but mould, they could be due to water damage or standing water, which could lead to mould growth.

When you notice these spots are a result of water damage, call a water damage restoration specialist to clean and remediate the site as well as to check if there are any other areas that have suffered damages to avoid mould problems.

3. Effects on health

The most common health effects of black mould are allergic reactions. The symptoms include watery eyes, runny nose, coughing, wheezing, itchy eyes, headaches, fatigue, and skin irritation. If anyone in your house has been experiencing these symptoms for a while, it is best to have the entire house checked for mould by a professional.

4. Visible mould growth

At times, the growth of black mould in your house may be easily visible. While it is usually black in colour, furry and slimy, its colour may differ. In some cases, it may have hints of dark brown, greenish-black, or even orange or white.

No matter what the colour, every kind of mould needs to be removed thoroughly and the affected area should be disinfected properly.

If you suspect you may have a mould problem, call us on 0427 411 789 and we’ll take care of the rest.

The long-term effects of Water Damage

Whether caused by a flooding or a simple leak in the roof, water damage can have catastrophic consequences on your home. While destroying your property, your furniture, electronics, it goes so far as to put your health at serious risk. Not to mention the damage it does to the resale value of your home.

Heavy rain, quick melting of snow, flash floods increase the possibility of water damage, made worse if your home lacks adequate waterproofing. Causes for water damage can range from a flood to a broken pipe, a sewer backup, broken fixtures, plumbing leaks, foundation cracks, clogged toilets, 
overflowing washing machines, 
faulty drainage systems, etc.

Water damage tends to start out unseen. The first and most critical step to fixing it is detecting it. It is important to have it remediated as soon as possible to prevent it from causing problems some of which are listed below.

Discoloration and Sagging

The unmistakable sign of a leak is discoloration of the ceiling, the beams roofing underlayment or of the walls. This can be considered the most minimal long-term water damage. When water accumulates in one spot resulting in a sudden bulge or change in the ceiling or walls, it causes the structure to ‘sag’.

Structural Damage

When a leak occurs, water seeps into drywall and gets absorbed. It causes the material to warp, chip or swell. If not treated quickly enough, it poses danger to the home’s structure.

• Constant exposure to water can result in the growth of fungi or mould, which then rots the structural wood. A worst case scenario is when the area at risk is an important structure of the house, like a support beam. It is of paramount importance to fix the leak and repair the damage. If ignored, it might just bring your roof down. 

• Concrete is more durable than wood. But, in cases such as flood damage, the accumulation of moisture in cracks and crevices can cause a host of problems including corrosion of steel inside the concrete structure.
• Water damage can also affect electrical wiring, the electrical circuit box, and electrical equipment in the house. This could risk the occurrence of power breakdowns at the least, and in worse situations, electrical burns and electrocution. 

Mildew and Mould 

One of the most common consequences of water damage is the growth and spread of mould in the house. Moisture trapped in a confined space quickly invites these microscopic fungi which destroy everything they touch and then continue to spread to other areas. Mould can potentially weaken the framework where a leak is located, thereby weakening the foundation of your home.

Health Risks

Mould produces spores, which when come into contact with water, proliferate, and begin to pollute the air. This poses a serious health risk. From aggravating allergy and asthma symptoms, from causing breathing difficulties, to respiratory diseases, mould affects children, the elderly and people whose immune systems have already been compromised.

As soon as a residence or any structure has been compromised by water damage, immediate cleanup and remediation is very important. If it is extensive, and you attempt to treat it yourself, you may not manage 100% damage control. In time, the lingering effects of the damage may come back to haunt your home and family. Your safest move would be to call in the professionals. Bio Cleanse Services is all equipped to help you in your toughest times. Call us on 0412 547 547 or visit our website to know more.

What should one do if a pipe bursts

A pipe burst can happen any moment and cause severe water damage to your home. If you find yourself in a situation where a pipe has burst it is important to take the following steps to minimise the water damage and cost of repair.

Shut off the water Supply:

First and foremost, turn off the main water supply to stop the water flow. Next, turn on all the cold faucets to drain out all the water. This will help to ease the existing pressure in the pipes. Then switch off the heating system and turn on all the hot taps to release all the remaining water. Don't forget to flush all the toilets. Once all the water has been drained, there will be no leakages.

Locate the break:

It is important to find out which pipe and where exactly it burst to avoid further damages. Once you've identified that, you will get an idea of what should be your next step. For example, if the burst occurred due to a tiny crack, you can fix the issue by patching it up. If the break or crack is in the main water pipe, it should be handled and repaired cautiously.

Reach out to professionals:

If there are any water damages, immediately switch off the main electricity supply and do not touch any wet appliances. In situations where cleaning and repair is beyond your capacity, it is important to call a professional water damage restoration company to clean, dry and restore your home. Simultaneously, hire a professional plumber to repair or replace the burst pipes. And if the house has suffered any electrical damages, for instance, if the wiring has been damaged, call a reliable electrician to repair it. Do not attempt to clean and repair on your own as this could be dangerous or further worsen the damage.

Contact your Insurance company:

In an event like this, it is best to file an insurance claim by approaching your insurance company. The insurance agent will advise you what steps need to be taken to process your insurance claim. The insurance agent will come and assess the extent of water damage in your home. Documentation of the damage is a must and this can be done using a digital/video camera.

Preventive measures:

No doubt, it is easy to call some professionals to repair a damaged pipe and restore a water-damaged home. Yet, it is important to take precautionary steps to avoid such damages in the first place. Taking preventive measures is much simpler than fixing burst pipes and restoring a home and doesn't even burn a hole in one's pocket.

For expert water damage restoration services, turn to Bio Cleanse Services. Our restoration efforts will ensure that your home is returned to you damage free. To know more, call us on 0412 547 547.

9 Questions To Help You Declutter

Contact Us for an effective 'Hoarding Cleanup Service' in Sydney 0412 547 547.  

Why do you Need Professional Cleaning for Sharps and Needles?

Sharps is a medical term objects that possess a sharp points or edges that can puncture or cut the skin. Needles and syringes can be found in a variety of places including home, office or while you’re travelling somewhere. It’s best to stay clear of these objects as they could have been used for a variety of applications such as to manage the medical conditions of people or their pets, including allergies, arthritis, cancer, diabetes, hepatitis, HIV/AIDS, infertility, migraines, multiple sclerosis, osteoporosis, blood clotting disorders, and psoriasis. Sharps and needles waste includes syringes, razors, knives, lancets, scissors, fishing hooks, insulin pen tips, pins, broken bottles, scalpels and EpiPens.

Due to all the potential dangerous used needles and other sharps carry, the proper disposal of these is paramount. It is best to dispose these in an FDA cleared sharps and needles disposal container or have a professional cleaning of sharps and needles done. Later being a better option as they not only properly dispose these objects but also take care of all the other contaminants and chemicals that could be associated with them. It is imperative that any spotting of needles and sharps is quickly reported and asked to be handled by trained professionals.

Sharps and needles have several dangers associated with them. They can cause severe infections to humans as well as our beloved pets. A simple cut or a wound from these objects can expose you various deadly viruses depend on what the sharp or needle has come in contact with, such as a chemical, harmful or biological material. If the needle or sharp has come in contact with blood, body fluids or cell lines, then there is chance of you catching a blood born disease such as Hepatitis B or C or HIV. There could be several other risks like, if the needle is dirty, it could give rise to Tetanus.

It is important that these objects are disposed in the correct way and we at Bio-Cleanse Services make sure that they are. Our team of trained and specialised sharps and needle clean up experts who work methodically and systematically to ensure that the area is left in a safe and a sharps and needle free area. Call now on “0427 411 789” to know more about our services or visit our website.

An insight into crime scene cleaning

Crime Scene Cleaners

If you have ever encountered a crime scene investigation, you would have a fair idea of how messy and chaotic a crime scene can get. But have you ever pondered what happens once the police, ambulance, and investigators have left the site? Well, there is a whole lot of cleaning left to do, more than one can imagine. And this is where the second responders, the crime scene cleaners come into the picture. Their job is intricate as they have to restore a bio-hazardous site to a safe and inhabitable state without leaving any trace of the horrific event behind. These cleaners possess the necessary knowledge, equipment and not forgetting experience to deal with the nastiest of crime scene events. Here's an insight into crime scene cleaning.

Home Restoration

Cleaning after a crime scene goes beyond any ordinary cleaning. Crime scenes include discharge of bodily fluids like blood and other matter that may contain deadly pathogens making the site a highly contaminated environment. And these fluids embed in surfaces, carpets, and furniture making it impossible to clean with regular cleaning supplies. Remediation of a crime site is done by experienced technicians who use state of the art equipment. And the bio-hazardous waste is disposed of in proper containers and items that cannot be salvaged are also discarded carefully.

Tackling Worst Case Scenarios

Based on the intensity of the crime, crime scene cleaning varies from one situation to another. In tragic events like brutal murders and painful suicides, the situation can be emotionally disturbing for the victim's family. Which is why crime scene cleanup involves cleaning and decontaminating the site in a careful and compassionate manner without causing further pain and worry to the family. No matter how horrific the situation is, the cleaners do a thorough cleanup to ensure that the place is hazard free and safe to reside in.

Comforting Families

Crime scene cleaning demands not only passion but also compassion. As the environment is already tense, the cleaners have to carry out their work without further affecting any family member's emotions. Alongside cleaning, the cleaners have to dispose of sentimental items in a careful manner without upsetting any of the family members. A clean up of this kind requires a high level of understanding for what the family may be going through and making them feel supported and comforted in their crisis.

Reaching out to Crime Scene Cleaners

For any kind of crime scene cleaning, be it a less or highly intense situation, it is important to call for the services of a professional crime scene cleaning company. If you experience a crime in your surrounding and have no idea whom to reach out to, give us a call immediately. Our cleaning crew has dealt with challenging crime scene situations and managed to restore sites to their original state. 

We will surely be there in your difficult times and take charge of all the cleanup. To know more about our services and how we can help, call us on  0427 411 789.

What Happens When an Unattended Death Occurs?

An unattended death is when a person dies and the body is not discovered for days or longer period of time. Unattended deaths are not uncommon because many people live alone now-a-days. These people tend to keep to themselves and do not socialize as much as others. Hence, when they pass away, it takes longer for someone to know that they are gone.

Dealing with the death of a loved one is never easy for the family members. And handling the clean-up can be even more traumatic. The family should not have to deal with this mess alone. It is best to avail of the services of professional cleaners to thoroughly clean and sanitize all affected areas. The technician will ensure there is no further damage to your property.

As the body decomposes, it releases body fluids and potentially harmful bacteria that can make one sick and negatively affect the home and environment. There are generally five stages of decomposition:

Fresh: This stage begins immediately after the heart stops beating and visible changes caused by decomposition are limited. The small amount of oxygen remaining in the body is quickly depleted. The body releases enzymes that begin eating the cells from the inside out.

Bloat: This stage provides the first clear visual sign that microbial proliferation is underway. The accumulation of gases within the bodily cavity leads to the distention of the stomach and gives a cadaver its overall bloated appearance. The build-up of pressure along with the loss of the skin elasticity may also cause the body to rupture.

Active Decay:  During this period there is greatest mass loss. This happens due to maggots feeding of the body and the purging of decomposition fluids into the surrounding environment. This leads to strong and offensive odours being emitted.

Advanced Decay: The body loses most of its mass during this stage as its soft tissue decomposes and all organs, muscles, and skin become liquefied. By the end of this stage only hair, bones and cartilage remain. 

Dry/Remains/Skeletonization: After most of the body tissues have decayed and been eaten away by insects, the skeleton is still greasy from the remaining soft tissues and body fluids. Over time, those tissues lose moisture and begin to dry out and break down from environmental factors. Eventually, only the skeleton will remain, completely exposed and free from any tissues and fluids.

Bio Cleanse Services provides unattended death cleanup services to families and property owners. Our bioremediation specialists wear personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow approved safety and sanitation procedures to prevent the spread of diseases and bacteria.

Let us help lift the burden of the cleaning process, off your shoulders so you can begin moving on from this traumatic event. We service the areas of Sydney, Goulburn, Batemans Bay, Canberra & surrounding suburbs of NSW. Call now on 0412 547 547 or visit our website.