Water Damage

Water Damage Restoration in Gainesville, FL
July 8, 2025
Two referral partners (Ref Ptnrs A & B) called us to perform an emergency water damage inspection b/c they were told that houses Y & Z were wet. Ref Ptnr A had one business day left for the inspection period. Ref Ptnr B was accused of causing water to get under ¾ inch solid glued-down wood flooring (these were really nice floors), and the contractor started removing the floor. Fortunately, Ref Ptnr B was able to convince the contractor to STOP removing any more flooring by saying, “My guy is licensed and certified and has the correct equipment to determine if the floor is wet, and he [ PUDDLES ] will be here by 7:00 AM tomorrow to inspect the floor.” CONCLUSION: Neither house Y or Z was wet. If the floors had read wet: Ref Ptnr A’s real estate deal would have failed, and Ref Ptnr B would have incurred 10X what he was paid to fix the floor. Our followers know that green is good when using a Protimeter MMS3 moisture meter, but to be safe, we also used a FLIR infrared camera and a Tramex CMEX5 Moisture meter to inspect the ensuite master bathroom-tiled floor.
Water Damage Restoration | Gainesville, FL
March 11, 2025
What Happened After removing the old flooring from a home in Gainesville, FL , the flooring company uncovered water on the slab that was trapped under the underlayment. Unbeknownst to the homeowner, water was slowly penetrating the vertical exterior walls via hairline fractures. Both the cracks in the stucco and in the concrete slab itself were resolved, but the flooring company wanted the concrete slab moisture levels below a specific percentage. What We Did Florida tends to have elevated levels of humidity, including Gainesville, Florida. To increase the drying efficiency, we sealed all the windows throughout the house with 4 mil plastic to prevent any moisture penetration. We placed a Phoenix DryMax XL Pro dehumidifier and a Dri-Eaz Stealth AV3000 axial air mover in each room. We also implemented the use of a heater to increase the internal temperature slowly to draw the moisture out of the concrete.
A Puddles Restoration expert assessing water from a roof leak, ready for water damage repair in Gain
February 13, 2025
Water damage in Gainesville, Florida can be a homeowner’s worst nightmare, leading to costly repairs and hazardous mold growth. If you need water damage repair in Gainesville, Florida, or professional mold cleanup remediation services in Gainesville, Florida, PUDDLES Restoration is here to help. Preventing water damage before it starts is key to protecting your home and maintaining a safe living environment. Follow these essential tips to keep your property safe and dry. Common Causes of Water Damage Understanding the common causes of water damage can help you take preventive action. Some of the leading causes include: Leaky Pipes and Plumbing Failures - Small leaks can go unnoticed for months, leading to extensive water damage repair and potential mold growth. Overflowing Toilets and Appliances – Malfunctions or blockages in toilets, dishwashers, or washing machines can result in significant water damage requiring professional cleanup. Storms and Heavy Rain – Central Florida experiences heavy rains that can cause flooding if drainage systems are not maintained. Roof Leaks – Damaged or missing shingles allow rainwater to seep into your home, leading to interior damage and requiring fast action. Preventative Measures for Homeowners Taking proactive steps can save you from expensive repairs and health hazards caused by mold and mildew. Here’s what you can do: 1. Regularly Inspect and Maintain Plumbing Check for any signs of leaks under sinks, behind appliances, and in your water heater. Address small drips immediately to prevent major problems. Consider scheduling routine plumbing inspections to catch hidden leaks early and avoid extensive water damage repair in Gainesville, Florida. 2. Monitor Your Roof and Gutters Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against water damage. Inspect it regularly for missing or damaged shingles. Clean your gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage and prevent water buildup around your home’s foundation. 3. Protect Your Home From Storms Since Florida is prone to heavy storms, installing storm shutters and reinforcing doors and windows can help minimize water damage. Ensure your sump pump is functioning properly and consider investing in a backup battery system. 4. Address Mold Issues Promptly If water damage goes untreated, mold can develop within 24-48 hours, causing health risks and additional damage to your home. If you suspect mold, mold cleanup services in Gainesville, Florida, can help eliminate hazardous growth and restore indoor air quality. PUDDLES Restoration provides expert mold removal services to keep your home safe and mold-free. 5. Know Who to Call for Emergency Water Damage Repair in Gainesville, Florida Even with the best prevention, unexpected water damage can still occur. Acting fast is crucial to minimizing damage and restoration costs. PUDDLES Restoration’s expert team is available to help with water damage repair in Gainesville, Florida, ensuring your home is properly dried and restored. Protect Your Home With Damage Repair and Mold Cleanup Services in Gainesville, Florida Preventing water damage requires ongoing maintenance and preparedness. By staying proactive, you can safeguard your home and avoid costly repairs. If you need professional assistance, PUDDLES Restoration is here to help. Our experienced team offers water damage repair in Gainesville, Florida, mold cleanup services in Gainesville, Florida, and emergency response services to restore your home quickly. Contact us today for expert water damage solutions in Gainesville, Florida! PUDDLES Restoration Phone: (352) 722-3790 Email: Info@ PUDDLES restoration.com Website: www. PUDDLES restoration.com
January 16, 2025
Read this article to learn about the causes of water damage to your home or business, and how you can reduce these instances. Call us today if you have additional questions!
Moisture Check in Crystal River, FL
By websitebuilder October 31, 2024
When disaster strikes and your residence or business floods, one of the first steps toward recovery is ensuring that your property is completely dry. This applies regardless of whether the flood is a Category 1, 2, or 3. While it may seem like your property has dried out with time, appearances can be deceiving. Moisture can linger in hidden areas like wall cavities, insulation, and under flooring, creating the perfect environment for secondary damages, such as mold growth and structural damage if left unremediated. That’s why getting your residence or business in Gainesville, Florida professionally inspected by PUDDLES Restoration for moisture is a critical step in the recovery process. Hidden Moisture Can Cause Serious Damage After a flood, property owners often rely on sight and touch to determine whether their property is dry. We commonly hear owners state, “It doesn’t look wet.” However, moisture can hide beneath the surface where it’s not immediately noticeable. Relying solely on visual inspection can lead to long-term problems, such as mold growth, weakened structural integrity, and deteriorating indoor air quality. Professionals use specialized equipment like infrared cameras and moisture meters to detect moisture in areas not visible to the naked eye. Flood Cleanup after a water disaster in Gainesville, Florida or any part of West Central Florida can be quickly remediated with the services of PUDDLES Restoration. Why Professional Moisture Inspection is Crucial A professional inspection can give you peace of mind that your home is truly dry. Our trained experts use advanced tools to identify moisture that could be trapped in walls, floors, and ceilings. These tools ensure that your home and/or business is thoroughly inspected, and that no lingering moisture is left behind, which could lead to much more expensive repairs down the road. For instance, one common scenario involves contractors or homeowners believing a space is dry because surfaces feel dry to the touch. However, without using the correct equipment, such as a moisture meter it’s impossible to confirm whether moisture is still present within the affected areas. Professionals can accurately assess the moisture levels and determine whether additional drying equipment, like dehumidifiers and air movers, are necessary to ensure effective flood cleanup in Gainesville, Florida and West Central Florida properties. Time is your enemy. The longer you take to call us, the more secondary damages you are likely to incur. The Dangers of Mold and Structural Damage Moisture left behind after a flood can lead to significant problems. Mold can begin to grow within 24 to 48 hours in the presence of moisture and organic materials like wood or drywall. Once mold sets in, it can spread quickly throughout your home, compromising indoor air quality and posing health risks to your family, your employees, and/or your customers. Unlike water damage that “may” dry with time, mold does not go away on its own. Additionally, moisture that seeps into the structure of your home can cause wood rot, weaken drywall, and erode the structural integrity of the property. Addressing these problems after they’ve taken hold is far more expensive and time-consuming than taking preventive measures with a professional moisture inspection immediately after a flood cleanup in Gainesville, Florida or West Central Florida. Ensure Your Home is Safe with a Professional Check If you've experienced flooding in your property, don’t take any chances. Even if everything appears dry, it's important to have a professional moisture check done to confirm the property's condition. Our professional technicians can help prevent long-term issues by identifying any remaining moisture and providing the necessary equipment and techniques to dry your property completely. Remember, a visual inspection isn’t enough, regardless of who did the visual inspection. Only a professional with the right equipment can confirm your home is truly dry. By investing in a moisture inspection, you are protecting your home and ensuring the health and safety of your family for the long term. Contact PUDDLES Restoration for peace of mind. Schedule a professional moisture inspection by calling (352) 722-3790 to ensure your home is thoroughly dried. Don’t wait — act now!
By websitebuilder September 30, 2024
Water damage, whether it stems from a leaky roof during a Florida thunderstorm, a plumbing mishap, or the aftermath of a hurricane, is more than just an inconvenience. It poses immediate health risks that can impact you and your family. In the warm, humid climate of Gainesville, FL these risks can escalate rapidly, so understanding risks and taking swift action are crucial.
By websitebuilder September 23, 2024
Water damage, whether from a leaky pipe, a flood, or a tropical storm, can wreak havoc on your home and disrupt your daily life. But amidst the chaos of cleanup and restoration, it's important not to overlook the impact on your furry family members.
A room with a lot of mold on the walls and floor.
By websitebuilder September 20, 2024
Water damage, whether from a leaky pipe, a flood, or even high humidity, is a common problem in the warm and humid climate of Gainesville, FL. Unfortunately, water damage often leads to another, more insidious issue: mold growth. While mold may initially seem like a cosmetic problem, it poses significant health risks and can lead to various symptoms. Understanding these symptoms and their connection to water damage is vital for protecting your health and well-being.
Pictures of a mold.
By websitebuilder August 8, 2024
Water damage is a common problem in Gainesville, Florida, due to our humid subtropical climate and frequent rainstorms. Unfortunately, water damage often leads to another, more insidious issue: mold growth. For Example, this incident occurred in Gainesville Mold can quickly spread and cause health problems, structural damage, and a decrease in property value. Understanding how quickly mold can develop and what factors influence its growth is crucial for taking timely action and preventing costly consequences. Mold Growth Timeline: From Water Damage to Visible Mold The mold growth timeline can vary depending on several factors, but here's a general overview: 24-48 Hours: Mold spores, which are always present in the air, but invisible to the naked eye, can start to germinate and grow on damp surfaces within 24 to 48 hours of water exposure. However, at this stage, the amount of mold may not be visible to the naked eye. 3-12 Days: Mold begins to colonize and multiply rapidly, forming visible colonies. The type of mold, temperature, humidity, and nutrient availability will influence the exact time frame. 18-21 Days: Mold colonies become more extensive and easily visible, often appearing as fuzzy or discolored patches. It's crucial to address the issue before reaching this stage to prevent further damage and health risks. Factors Affecting Mold Growth in Gainesville Several factors influence how quickly mold develops in our region: Humidity: The high humidity levels in Gainesville, FL create an ideal environment for mold growth . Mold thrives in humid conditions, and the moisture in the air provides the necessary water for spores to germinate and grow. Temperature: Warm temperatures, especially during the summer months, accelerate mold growth. Mold generally grows faster in temperatures between 77°F and 86°F (25°C to 30°C). Type of Water Damage: The source of the water damage can also impact mold growth. Clean water (from a leaking pipe) may take longer for mold to develop compared to contaminated water (from sewage or flooding), which can introduce additional microbes and nutrients that promote mold growth. Type of Surface: Mold can grow on various surfaces, but porous materials like wood, drywall, and carpeting are particularly vulnerable. These materials absorb water readily, providing a damp environment for mold to flourish. Airflow: Poor ventilation and stagnant air can contribute to mold growth by trapping moisture and preventing surfaces from drying. Common Types of Mold in Gainesville Several types of mold are prevalent in Gainesville, FL due to our warm, humid climate: Aspergillus: This common mold is often found indoors and can cause allergic reactions and respiratory problems. Cladosporium: This mold thrives in damp environments and can be found on various surfaces, including walls, fabrics, and wood. Penicillium: This mold is commonly found on food and can produce toxins that are harmful to humans. Stachybotrys chartarum (Black Mold): This toxic mold is often found in water-damaged buildings and can cause serious health problems, including respiratory issues, neurological symptoms, and immune system suppression. The Importance of Prompt Action Addressing water damage and mold growth promptly is crucial for several reasons: Health Risks: Mold exposure can cause allergic reactions, respiratory problems, headaches, fatigue, and skin irritation. Some types of mold, like black mold, can produce toxins that are even more dangerous. Structural Damage: Mold can weaken and deteriorate building materials, leading to costly repairs and potential safety hazards. Property Value: Mold contamination can significantly decrease the value of your property and make it difficult to sell. PUDDLES Restoration Services: Your Trusted Mold Remediation Experts in Gainesville At PUDDLES Restoration Services of Gainesville , we understand the urgency of addressing water damage and mold growth. Our certified professionals are equipped with the latest tools and techniques to remediate mold problems in your home or business. We offer: 24/7 Emergency Response: We're available around the clock to address water damage and mold emergencies. Thorough Inspection and Assessment: We'll assist in identifying the source of the problem and the extent of the damage. Professional Mold Remediation: We'll safely and effectively remediate your home and/or business to Condition 1. Moisture Control and Drying: We'll dry out affected areas to reduce the recurrence of future mold growth in the affected area. Don't wait for mold to take over your property. Contact PUDDLES Restoration Services of Gainesville today for a consultation and let us help you protect your health, home, and investment. We're committed to providing the highest quality mold remediation services inGainesville, Florida.
A vacuum cleaner is cleaning a tiled floor in a kitchen.
By websitebuilder July 31, 2024
Most Frequent Causes of Water Damage in Gainesville: What Every Homeowner Needs to Know As a homeowner in Gainesville, you know that Florida's climate is a blessing and a curse. Abundant sunshine and warmth make for paradise living, but they also bring the risk of intense storms, humidity, and the potential for water damage. PUDDLES Restoration of Gainesville , we're your neighbors and water damage restoration experts. We've seen firsthand the most common causes of water damage in our area and are dedicated to helping homeowners understand and mitigate these risks. The Unique Water Damage Challenges of Gainesville Our region faces a unique set of water damage challenges due to: Subtropical Climate: Heavy rainfall, high humidity, and the occasional hurricane or tropical storm create a perfect environment for water to infiltrate homes. Aging Infrastructure: Many homes in Gainesville, FL were built decades ago. Older plumbing systems, roofs, and foundations can be more susceptible to leaks and deterioration. Seasonal Residents: Snowbirds who leave their homes vacant for part of the year may not immediately notice slow leaks or plumbing issues, allowing damage to escalate. Sinkholes: While less common, sinkholes are a geological risk in Florida. They can cause sudden and significant structural damage, potentially impacting plumbing and drainage. The Most Frequent Culprits of Water Damage in Homes Let's dive into the most prevalent causes of water damage we encounter in Gainesville: Plumbing Issues: Leaky pipes: Corrosion, loose connections, and age-related wear and tear are common culprits. Even a slow drip can cause significant damage over time. Clogged drains: Blockages can lead to backups, overflowing sinks, tubs, or toilets, and water damage to floors and walls. Water heater failures: Old or malfunctioning water heaters can burst, releasing large volumes of water into your home. Washing machine malfunctions: Hoses can burst or leak, causing flooding in laundry rooms and surrounding areas. Roof Leaks: Damage Shingles: Wind, hail, and debris can damage or dislodge shingles, allowing water to seep in. Clogged gutters: Leaves and debris can obstruct gutters, causing rainwater to overflow and seep into your roof or foundation. Poorly sealed flashing: Gaps around chimneys, vents, and skylights are vulnerable entry points for water. HVAC Problems: Condensation leaks: Air conditioners produce significant amounts of condensation. If the drainage system is clogged or damaged, water can overflow and damage ceilings and walls. Leaky pipes: Pipes carrying condensation or coolant can leak, causing water damage inside walls or ceilings. Foundation Issues: Cracks in foundation: Soil shifts, settling, and tree roots can cause cracks in your foundation, allowing water to enter your crawl space or basement. Hydrostatic pressure: During heavy rains, water can build up around your foundation, exerting pressure that forces it through cracks and into your home. Appliance Malfunctions: Dishwasher leaks: Damaged hoses or seals can lead to leaks under or around dishwashers. Refrigerator leaks: Water line leaks or defrost drain issues can cause water damage to floors and surrounding areas. What You Can Do: Proactive Water Damage Prevention Taking preventative measures can significantly reduce your risk of water damage: Regular Inspections: Schedule annual plumbing and roof inspections to identify potential problems before they escalate. Prompt Repairs: Address any leaks or plumbing issues immediately. Even minor leaks can worsen quickly. Clean Gutters: Clear debris from gutters and downspouts regularly, especially during the fall when leaves accumulate. Proper Landscaping: Ensure proper grading around your foundation to direct water away from your home. Monitor Your Water Bill: A sudden spike in your water bill could indicate a hidden leak. Seasonal Preparation: Before leaving your home for an extended period, turn off the water supply, drain pipes, and have someone check on your property regularly. When Disaster Strikes: PUDDLES Restoration is Here to Help If water damage does occur, time is of the essence. Our 24/7 emergency response team is ready to deploy anytime, day or night. We'll arrive promptly, assess the damage, and implement a customized restoration plan to mitigate further damage and restore your home to its pre-loss condition. Don't Let Water Damage Ruin Your Piece of Paradise Gainesville are wonderful places in Florida to live, and your home is an investment worth protecting. By understanding the common causes of water damage and taking preventative steps, you can safeguard your property and enjoy peace of mind. And remember, PUDDLES Restoration Services of Gainesville is always here to help! Contact us today at (352) 722-3790 Together, we'll keep your home dry.
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Mold Removal

Mold on Wall in Laundry Room in Gainesville, FL
July 1, 2025
Slow Leaks vs Fast Leaks Gainesville, FL 32601 We are often asked which is worse: Slow Leaks or Fast Leaks?
A close up of a sliding glass door with a dirty floor.
April 28, 2025
Protect your home with expert mold cleanup in Gainesville, FL. Call Puddles Restoration at (352) 722-3790 today for fast and professional service.
Mold Damage Restoration | Gainesville, Florida
April 21, 2025
Protect your home with expert mold cleanup in Gainesville, FL. Call Puddles Restoration at (352) 722-3790 today for fast and professional service.
Mold Remediation | Gainesville, FL
April 14, 2025
What Happened A contractor in Gainesville, FL stopped his team from “removing” the “mold problem” by, as they suggested, "spraying it with bleach." The contractor insisted that the mold remediation be done correctly and called PUDDLES . Upon completion of the work, PUDDLES insisted that the client retain an independent company to conduct a post remediation verification test to confirm that the mold remediation was done correctly. We were "lucky" to pass a PRV with a gaping hole in the floor.
Mold in Ceiling | Gainesville, FL
April 7, 2025
What Happened The gaps between the ceiling drywall and the light fixtures allowed dirty air from the attic to mix with the air conditioner air, resulting in mold growth in the ceiling. CAN’T YOU JUST WIPE IT [MOLD] OFF! PUDDLES: No We get that a lot for mold removal, except it is usually said as a statement rather than a question. CALLER: Why not? PUDDLES: For many reasons: (1) the lab results confirmed it is mold, (2) it is on drywall, (3) the affected material is a popcorn ceiling, (3) …, (4) …, but more importantly, we don’t do that -- “wipe off drywall.” CALLER: But I was told you can. PUDDLES: You can, but we don’t; and we understand if you wish to call another company who would do that. No hard feelings. CALLER: Two days later: Caller agrees to us removing the affected material starting at 6:30 AM the next business day. Typically, the mold you cannot see is worse than the mold you can see. The same thing applied here.
A person is standing on a tiled floor next to a wall with mold on it.
March 3, 2025
Homeowners in Gainesville, FL dealing with insurance claims related to water damage and mold can trust PUDDLES Restoration for assistance. Learn about the complexities of the process and how we can help in this blog article.
Removing mold from a wall during mold cleanup by PUDDLES Restoration | Gainesville, FL
February 27, 2025
WE REMOVED AND DISCARDED THE AFFECTED MATERIALS, CLEANED THE SUBSTRATE, THEN ENCAPSULATED RESULTING IN A CLEAN PRV.
A bathroom with a speech bubble that says looks like a normal bathroom w/o any cause for concern
January 21, 2025
Gainesville, FL: Despite this bathroom’s normal visual appearance, it was harboring a hidden menace: MOLD (specifically Chaetomium, Penicillium/Aspergillus, and/or Stachybotrys). These silent invaders thrive in the damp, humid environment typical of bathrooms (think of extended hot showers), often growing unnoticed within walls, under floors, and behind fixtures. The mold you can see (if any) usually pales compared to the mold you cannot see, which poses a greater challenge to your health and the integrity of your home or business. UNDERSTANDING MOLD Mold is a type of fungus that grows in multicellular structures called hyphae. These structures can spread across surfaces and penetrate deep into materials, making mold difficult to eradicate. Mold reproduces through spores, which are tiny, lightweight particles that can travel through the air. Once these spores land in a suitable environment — one with moisture and organic material — they begin to grow and colonize.
By websitebuilder November 19, 2024
Mold removal is key to preserving your property for years to come. If you have mold concerns, read on to learn how professional intervention is necessary.
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Fire/Smoke Removal

Fire Smoke Remediation
By websitebuilder April 2, 2024
Quack! Quack! Fires are scary, and the aftermath can be overwhelming. But fear not, feathered friends, because PUDDLES is here to guide you through the process of who to contact after a fire.

Odor Removal

An empty living room with a blue light on the floor.
March 18, 2025
What Happened Gainesville, FL: An elderly mother’s cat repeatedly urinated throughout the house, including on the carpet. When the mother passed away, the daughter inherited the house. Unfortunately, the daughter was unable to sell the house because prospective buyers complained about the odor . Given Florida’s temperature and humidity levels, it was not surprising that the odor remained in Gainesville, FL. PUDDLES is often asked if we use an ozone machine to remove odors. According to the EPA, “When inhaled, ozone can damage the lungs. Relatively low amounts can cause chest pain, coughing, shortness of breath and throat irritation.” See https://www.epa.gov/.../ozone-generators-are-sold-air... “Manufacturers and vendors of ozone devices often use misleading terms to describe ozone. Terms such as "energized oxygen" or "pure air" suggest that ozone is a healthy kind of oxygen. Ozone is a toxic gas with vastly different chemical and toxicological properties from oxygen.” Id. “There is a large body of written material on ozone and the use of ozone indoors. However, much of this material makes claims or draws conclusions without substantiation and sound science. … Often the vendors of ozone generators make statements and distribute material that lead the public to believe that these devices are always safe and effective in controlling indoor air pollution. For almost a century, health professionals have refuted these claims … Some vendors suggest that these devices have been approved by the federal government for use in occupied spaces. To the contrary, NO agency of the federal government has approved these devices for use in occupied spaces.” Id. Because ozone can kill living things, such as plants, pets, and YOU; we do not use ozone machines. What We Did Removed the glued down carpet Utilize chlorine dioxide Implemented a Hydroxyl Machine Added a HEPA Air Scrubber with a charcoal filter Sprayed the entire house (walls and floors) with an EPA-approved plant-based anti-microbial Fogged the entire house with an EPA-approved plant-based anti-microbial approved for fogging Even if you do not plan to be in the property while the ozone machine is operational, ozone also breaks down organic substance, and rubber, plastics, fabrics, paint, and metals. That Gucci or Louis V handbag you love can deteriorate.
A close up of a pipe and a socket on a wall.
By websitebuilder May 7, 2024
Water damage can be a devastating experience for homeowners particularly in areas with high humidity such as Florida. Beyond the immediate damage to your property, water intrusion can lead to lingering odors that can be unpleasant and even pose health risks. In the aftermath of a water damage event, one of the questions that often arises is: "Does my homeowner's insurance cover the cost of removing these odors?"  Short Answer: Check with your insurance company to confirm in order to avoid any unpleasant surprises after the fact.
A toilet with a green seat cover is sitting on a tiled floor in a bathroom.
By websitebuilder April 30, 2024
Water damage can be a devastating event for homeowners, causing structural damage and disrupting daily life. But beyond the physical destruction, there's another insidious threat lurking – the lingering odor associated with water damage.

Roof Tarping

Roof Tarping | Gainesville, FL
March 31, 2025
Not calling PUDDLES will cost you more $$$$. Tarping your roof immediately after it is damaged will minimize secondary damages which ultimately saves you (the property owner) and your insurance company a significant amount of money. In this case, both the homeowner and their public adjuster chose a different (cheaper) company. That company never showed, never called, never emailed, never text; they did nothing. What Happened Hurricane Helene happened in Gainesville, FL.
Roof Tarp
March 25, 2025
Tarping your roof immediately after it is damaged will minimize secondary damages, which ultimately saves you (the property owner) and your insurance company a significant amount of money. What Happened Severe winds in Gainesville, FL bent numerous shingles allowing water penetration when it rains.

All Posts

July 14, 2025
EXAMINATION: Individuals seeking licensure as a Mold Remediator must first take and pass a department approved exam for mold remediation. For information about the examination, visit the Examination Information webpage. EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE : A copy of a transcript is required demonstrating an Associate of Arts degree or higher in microbiology, engineering, architecture, industrial hygiene or occupational safety or related field of science from an accredited institution. The applicant must also demonstrate a minimum of 1 year of documented field experience in a field related to mold remediation; or a high school diploma and 4 years of documented field experience in a field related to mold remediation. This is not a complete listing of educational and experience requirements. Please see the application instructions page for complete information. FINGERPRINTS: An applicant must have a background check as part of the licensing process. You must submit your fingerprints using a Livescan Service Provider registered with FDLE immediately after submitting your application for licensure. It may take up to five days for your fingerprint results to be received by the Department after they are submitted to the Florida Department of Law enforcement (FDLE). Please note that the Florida Department of Law Enforcement requires that an application for licensure should precede the submission of your fingerprints. To learn more about fingerprinting, please visit our Fingerprinting webpage . INSURANCE: Applicants for a Mold Remediator license are required to attest that they have obtained general liability insurance in the amount of no less than $1 million dollars as determined by statute. FEE: Pay the required fee as provided in the application. If applying online, you can pay with a credit card or electronic check. If mailing your application, please include a check payable to the Department of Business and Professional Regulation. Military veterans, their spouses and Florida National Guard members may be eligible for a fee waiver, fee reimbursement, and/or fee discount. Please visit our DBPR Military Services page for more information. APPLICATION: Complete the application by clicking on the "Online Services" link or the "Printable Application" link at the bottom of the page.  NOTICE FOR APPLICANTS SUBMITTING FINGERPRINTS WHERE CRIMINAL RECORD RESULTS WILL BE USED FOR LICENSING PURPOSES PUDDLES Restoration Phone: (352) 722-3790 Email: Info@PUDDLESrestoration.com Website: www.PUDDLESrestoration.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/puddlesrestoration Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/puddlesrestoration/ Licenses & Certifications : • FL Licensed Mold Assessor • FL Licensed Mold Remediator • IICRC Odor Control Technician (OCT) • IICRC Applied Structural Drying (ASD) • IICRC Water Damage Restoration (WRT) • IICRC Health and Safety Technician (HST) • IICRC Mold Remediation Specialist (MRS) • IICRC Commercial Drying Specialist (CDS) • IICRC Trauma and Crime Scene Technician (TCST) • IICRC Applied Microbial Remediation Technician (AMRT) • IICRC Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration Technician (FSRT) • Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) Certified Firm
July 14, 2025
In the State of Florida, the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) licenses and regulates mold assessors and mold remediators. To become licensed, individuals need to meet specific education and experience requirements, pass an approved examination, and undergo a criminal background check. Licensing Requirements: Requires specific education (e.g., Associate's degree in a related field) and documented field experience, or a high school diploma with more experience. Mold Remediator: Requires the same educational and experience qualifications as a mold assessor, plus passing a department-approved exam. Examination: Both mold assessors and remediators must pass a state-approved examination. Background Check: A criminal background check is part of the licensing process. Fees: Application and licensing fees apply, and are non-refundable. PUDDLES Restoration Phone: (352) 722-3790 Email: Info@PUDDLESrestoration.com Website: www.PUDDLESrestoration.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/puddlesrestoration Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/puddlesrestoration/ Licenses & Certifications : • FL Licensed Mold Assessor • FL Licensed Mold Remediator • IICRC Odor Control Technician (OCT) • IICRC Applied Structural Drying (ASD) • IICRC Water Damage Restoration (WRT) • IICRC Health and Safety Technician (HST) • IICRC Mold Remediation Specialist (MRS) • IICRC Commercial Drying Specialist (CDS) • IICRC Trauma and Crime Scene Technician (TCST) • IICRC Applied Microbial Remediation Technician (AMRT) • IICRC Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration Technician (FSRT) • Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) Certified Firm
Water Damage Restoration in Gainesville, FL
July 8, 2025
Two referral partners (Ref Ptnrs A & B) called us to perform an emergency water damage inspection b/c they were told that houses Y & Z were wet. Ref Ptnr A had one business day left for the inspection period. Ref Ptnr B was accused of causing water to get under ¾ inch solid glued-down wood flooring (these were really nice floors), and the contractor started removing the floor. Fortunately, Ref Ptnr B was able to convince the contractor to STOP removing any more flooring by saying, “My guy is licensed and certified and has the correct equipment to determine if the floor is wet, and he [ PUDDLES ] will be here by 7:00 AM tomorrow to inspect the floor.” CONCLUSION: Neither house Y or Z was wet. If the floors had read wet: Ref Ptnr A’s real estate deal would have failed, and Ref Ptnr B would have incurred 10X what he was paid to fix the floor. Our followers know that green is good when using a Protimeter MMS3 moisture meter, but to be safe, we also used a FLIR infrared camera and a Tramex CMEX5 Moisture meter to inspect the ensuite master bathroom-tiled floor.
Mold on Wall in Laundry Room in Gainesville, FL
July 1, 2025
Slow Leaks vs Fast Leaks Gainesville, FL 32601 We are often asked which is worse: Slow Leaks or Fast Leaks?
A close up of a sliding glass door with a dirty floor.
April 28, 2025
Protect your home with expert mold cleanup in Gainesville, FL. Call Puddles Restoration at (352) 722-3790 today for fast and professional service.
Mold Damage Restoration | Gainesville, Florida
April 21, 2025
Protect your home with expert mold cleanup in Gainesville, FL. Call Puddles Restoration at (352) 722-3790 today for fast and professional service.
Mold Remediation | Gainesville, FL
April 14, 2025
What Happened A contractor in Gainesville, FL stopped his team from “removing” the “mold problem” by, as they suggested, "spraying it with bleach." The contractor insisted that the mold remediation be done correctly and called PUDDLES . Upon completion of the work, PUDDLES insisted that the client retain an independent company to conduct a post remediation verification test to confirm that the mold remediation was done correctly. We were "lucky" to pass a PRV with a gaping hole in the floor.
Mold in Ceiling | Gainesville, FL
April 7, 2025
What Happened The gaps between the ceiling drywall and the light fixtures allowed dirty air from the attic to mix with the air conditioner air, resulting in mold growth in the ceiling. CAN’T YOU JUST WIPE IT [MOLD] OFF! PUDDLES: No We get that a lot for mold removal, except it is usually said as a statement rather than a question. CALLER: Why not? PUDDLES: For many reasons: (1) the lab results confirmed it is mold, (2) it is on drywall, (3) the affected material is a popcorn ceiling, (3) …, (4) …, but more importantly, we don’t do that -- “wipe off drywall.” CALLER: But I was told you can. PUDDLES: You can, but we don’t; and we understand if you wish to call another company who would do that. No hard feelings. CALLER: Two days later: Caller agrees to us removing the affected material starting at 6:30 AM the next business day. Typically, the mold you cannot see is worse than the mold you can see. The same thing applied here.
Roof Tarping | Gainesville, FL
March 31, 2025
Not calling PUDDLES will cost you more $$$$. Tarping your roof immediately after it is damaged will minimize secondary damages which ultimately saves you (the property owner) and your insurance company a significant amount of money. In this case, both the homeowner and their public adjuster chose a different (cheaper) company. That company never showed, never called, never emailed, never text; they did nothing. What Happened Hurricane Helene happened in Gainesville, FL.
Roof Tarp
March 25, 2025
Tarping your roof immediately after it is damaged will minimize secondary damages, which ultimately saves you (the property owner) and your insurance company a significant amount of money. What Happened Severe winds in Gainesville, FL bent numerous shingles allowing water penetration when it rains.
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