SERVPRO Is Among the Most Trusted Mold Removal Companies in Waldorf

12/3/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO containment strategies remediate and prevent ongoing damage to Waldorf homes. Here to Help®

Mold Removal Companies like SERVPRO® Can Save Your Waldorf Homes From Long-Term Damage

Mold can spread quickly and cause aesthetic and structural damage to your home. Hiring professional mold removal companies like SERVPRO can tailor the process to your needs, ensuring fast and efficient restoration.

Unlike other mold removal companies in Waldorf, SERVPRO follows industry standards, such as the IICRC S520, to deliver high-quality results. Our technicians have the experience, expertise, and equipment to restore mold damage to your home “Like it never even happened.”

Containment is the Key to Mold Remediation    

Our mold remediation strategy in Waldorf includes establishing containment to prevent mold from spreading. Depending on the severity of the contamination, SERVPRO uses different containment techniques, including:

• Source containment: Sealing small areas directly with 6-mil plastic sheeting to isolate contamination.
• Local containment: SERVPRO techs use durable 6-mil plastic sheeting to construct barriers around moderate mold growth.
• Full containment: During heavy contamination, we install floor-to-ceiling barriers, airlocks, and negative air pressure.

These methods help our crew to ensure that the mold remediation process is safe and efficient. They also prevent mold spores and fragments from spreading throughout your property during restoration.

Tools Used During Mold Removal

SERVPRO mold specialists use state-of-the-art equipment to get mold out of your Waldorf home.

Some of the critical tools we use include:

• HEPA air scrubbers: We use these to remove airborne mold spores and fragments from the air. The HEPA filters remove 99.97% of particles larger than 0.3 microns.
• Negative air machines: SERVPRO techs use these machines to create negative air pressure in contained areas.
• Dehumidifiers: Reduce moisture levels to prevent the regrowth of mold.

Each piece of equipment is critical to SERVPRO’s systematic mold removal approach, which ensures your property is restored to a clean, safe condition.

For fast, professional service, contact SERVPRO of Charles County and Oxon Hill today!

SERVPRO's Mold Remediation Team Helps Protect Waldorf Homes

2/15/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO techs set up containment barriers to mitigate mold damage. Then we apply fungicides and antimicrobials to eliminate current infestations.

Facts You Should Know About Mold Remediation

Finding mold growing inside your Waldorf home can make alarm bells go off for many homeowners. There are concerns about how it can affect the family and household pets, the damage it might cause, plus the musty smell that comes with having a moldy home. SERVPRO® can help allay these and other apprehensions.

Most homeowners in Waldorf consider mold as something they need to eliminate from their property. Our mold remediation team knows this is not a realistic goal. Mold spores are a constant in any air sample, with some having more and others having fewer spores. We need to correct your home's environment to prevent future colonization of your property. Our team can help you with this, also.

Remediation depends on different steps to be successful, such as:

• Removal and containment,
• Odor control,
• Rebuilding damaged areas, and
• Preventative measures.

We use different methods to eliminate excess mold. The most effective methods include a way to contain the debris. Containment units we build with clear sheeting are basic but highly efficient. They work for dry ice pellet blasting and other abrading methods, including controlled demolition of structural and cosmetic elements.

Mold and its spores produce odors that many people find unpleasant. We know that eliminating these microbes can reduce scents. However, water damage is often present when we find mold. It also produces unwanted odors.

Microbial activity can destroy drywall, carpeting, wood, and concrete. SERVPRO can restore these elements of your Waldorf property and make it "Like it never even happened." 

Preventing future situations that encourage mold to grow is crucial because microbes are ever-present in even the cleanest homes. We use non-toxic applications, various fungicides, and dehumidification devices to make your home less inviting to microbes.

You can trust SERVPRO of Charles County and Oxon Hill with your Waldorf home when you find it needs mold remediation. We can also handle any instances of water damage that might be co-existing. Call us at (301) 753-8313 for services tailored to your needs.

What you should know

2/11/2019 (Permalink)

What You Should Know about Mold

1. Potential health effects 
2. There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.
3. If mold is a problem in your home or school, you must clean up the mold and eliminate sources of moisture.
4. Fix the source of the water problem or leak to prevent mold growth.
5. Reduce indoor humidity (to 30-60%) to decrease mold growth by:
   • Venting bathrooms, dryers and other moisture-generating sources to the outside
   • Using air conditioners and de-humidifiers
   • Increasing ventilation
   • Using exhaust fans whenever cooking, dishwashing and cleaning
6. Clean and dry any damp or wet building materials and furnishings within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.
7. Clean mold off hard surfaces with water and detergent, and dry completely. Absorbent materials such as ceiling tiles, that are moldy, may need to be replaced.
8. Prevent condensation: Reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces (i.e., windows, piping, exterior walls, roof, or floors) by adding insulation.
9. In areas where there is a perpetual moisture problem, do not install carpeting (i.e., by drinking fountains, by classroom sinks, or on concrete floors with leaks or frequent condensation).
10. Molds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any substance, providing moisture is present. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, and foods.

Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings Guide

12/11/2018 (Permalink)

Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings Guide

Concern about indoor exposure to mold has been increasing as the public becomes aware that exposure to mold can cause a variety of health effects and symptoms, including allergic reactions. This document presents guidelines for the remediation/cleanup of mold and moisture problems in schools and commercial buildings; these guidelines include measures designed to protect the health of building occupants and remediators. It has been designed primarily for:

• Building managers
• Custodians
• Others who are responsible for commercial building and school maintenance

It should serve as a reference for potential mold and moisture remediators. Using this document, individuals with little or no experience with mold remediation should be able to make a reasonable judgment as to whether the situation can be handled in-house. It will help those in charge of maintenance to evaluate an in-house remediation plan or a remediation plan submitted by an outside contractor¹. Contractors and other professionals who respond to mold and moisture situations in commercial buildings and schools may also want to refer to these guidelines.

Molds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any organic substance, as long as moisture and oxygen are present. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, foods, and insulation. When excessive moisture accumulates in buildings or on building materials, mold growth will often occur, particularly if the moisture problem remains undiscovered or unaddressed. It is impossible to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment. However, mold growth can be controlled indoors by controlling moisture indoors.

Molds reproduce by making spores that usually cannot be seen without magnification. Mold spores waft through the indoor and outdoor air continually. When mold spores land on a damp spot indoors, they may begin growing and digesting whatever they are growing on in order to survive. Molds gradually destroy the things they grow on.

Many types of molds exist. 

All molds have the potential to cause health effects. Molds can produce allergens that can trigger allergic reactions or even asthma attacks in people allergic to mold. Others are known to produce potent toxins and/or irritants. Potential health concerns are an important reason to prevent mold growth and to remediate/clean up any existing indoor mold growth.

Since mold requires water to grow, it is important to prevent moisture problems in buildings. Moisture problems can have many causes, including uncontrolled humidity. Some moisture problems in buildings have been linked to changes in building construction practices during the 1970s, 80s and 90s. Some of these changes have resulted in buildings that are tightly sealed, but may lack adequate ventilation, potentially leading to moisture buildup. Building materials, such as drywall, may not allow moisture to escape easily. Moisture problems may include:

• Roof leaks
• Landscaping or gutters that direct water into or under the building
• Unvented combustion appliances
• Delayed maintenance or insufficient maintenance are also associated with moisture problems in schools and large buildings

Moisture problems in portable classrooms and other temporary structures have frequently been associated with mold problems.

When mold growth occurs in buildings, adverse health problems may be reported by some building occupants, particularly those with allergies or respiratory problems. Remediators should avoid exposing themselves and others to mold-laden dusts as they conduct their cleanup activities. Caution should be used to prevent mold and mold spores from being dispersed throughout the air where they can be inhaled by building occupants

Managing Mold in Charles County

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

Managing Mold in Charles County

When there’s a water intrusion, like a roof leak or leaking water line, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business. Mold can cause health effects and can also cause significant damage to your property. Fortunately, SERVPRO® of Charles County has the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem. Although every mold damage scenario is different requiring a unique solution, the general mold remediation process stays the same. The following steps illustrate a “typical” mold removal process.

Call the Team in Green

The mold cleanup and restoration process begins when you call SERVPRO® of Charles County.  A representative will ask a series of questions to help determine the necessary equipment, resources, and personnel needed.

Inspection and Damage Assessment

Your property will be carefully inspected for signs of mold using technology designed to detect mold and hidden water sources. Mold feeds on cellulose and water and can be hidden from plain view. Mold Containment Various containment procedures will be placed to prevent the spread of mold and isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to keep the mold spores from spreading during the cleanup process. 

Air Filtration

Specialized filtration equipment captures microscopic mold spores out of the air. SERVPRO® technicians utilize powerful air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in progress.

Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials

The mold remediation process depends on the amount of mold growth and the types of surfaces on which the mold appears. Antifungal and antimicrobial treatments will be used to eliminate mold colonies and help prevent new colonies from forming. Removing and disposing of mold infested porous materials, like drywall and flooring, may be necessary to remediate heavy mold growth.

Cleaning Contents and Belongings

SERVPRO® of Charles County will clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains, and other restorable items affected by mold. They use a variety of cleaning techniques to clean and sanitize your belongings. They are also trained to remove odors and deodorize using fogging equipment.

Restoration

Depending on the level of mold damage, drywall, subfloors, and other building materials may be removed. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business. SERVPRO® of Charles County understands mold and mold growth and have the training and equipment to remediate mold in your home or business.

                Call Us today 301.753.8313

DEFENSE AGAINST MOLD GROWTH in CHARLES COUNTY

9/1/2018 (Permalink)

DEFENSE AGAINST MOLD GROWTH in CHARLES COUNTY

Prompt and proper mitigation is vital to avoid mold growth, which can be visible in as little as 24 to 48 hours under certain conditions. Below we have included some tips to help defend your home or office against mold!

• Keep the humidity between 30 to 60 percent.
• Provide for proper drainage away from building foundations.
• Regularly inspect plumbing and appliances for leaks.
• Keep gutters and drains clear of debris.
• Respond to all water intrusions immediately.
• Inspect the roof, windows and other areas where water might enter the building and perform necessary maintenance.
• Contact SERVPRO® of Charles County Professionals for assistance after a water damage or if you discover mold.

Why take the risk? Call a SERVPRO® of Charles County 301.753.8313!

Working to make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO® of Charles County’s Mold Mitigation & Remediation Process

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Charles County’s Mold Mitigation & Remediation Process

When there’s a water intrusion, like a roof leak or leaking water line, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business. Mold can affect your health and can also cause significant damage to your property. Fortunately, SERVPRO® of Charles County have the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem. Although every mold damage scenario is different, requiring a unique solution, the general mold remediation process stays the same. The following steps illustrate a “typical” mold removal process.

Call your local SERVPRO® of Charles County

The mold cleanup and restoration process begins when you call SERVPRO® of Charles County. A representative will ask a series of questions to help determine the necessary equipment, resources, and personnel needed.

Inspection & Damage Assessment

Your property will be carefully inspected for signs of mold using technology designed to detect mold and hidden water sources. Mold feeds on cellulose and water which can be hidden from plain view.

Mold Containment

Various containment procedures will be placed to prevent the spread of mold and isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to keep the mold spores from spreading during the cleanup process.

Air Filtration

Specialized filtration equipment captures microscopic mold spores out of the air. SERVPRO® technicians utilize powerful air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in process.

Removing Mold & Mold-Infested Materials

The mold remediation process depends on the amount of mold growth and the types of surfaces on which the mold appears. Antifungal and antimicrobial treatments will be used to eliminate mold colonies and help prevent new colonies from forming. Removing and disposing of mold-infested porous materials, like drywall and flooring, may be necessary to remediate heavy mold growth.

Cleaning Contents & Belongings

SERVPRO® of Charles County clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains, and other restorable items affected by mold. They use a variety of cleaning techniques to clean and sanitize your belongings. They are also trained to remove odors and deodorize using fogging equipment.

Restoration

Depending on the level of mold damage, drywall, subfloors, and other building materials may be removed. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet, or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business. SERVPRO® of Charles County understands mold and mold growth and have the training and equipment to remediate mold in your home or business.

SUMMER TIPS TO PREVENT MOLD

6/28/2018 (Permalink)

SUMMER TIPS TO PREVENT
MOLD 

SERVPRO® would like to offer you some summer tips to prevent mold in your home. During the warm summer months, mold thrives because mold needs warm temperatures in order to grow. Preventing mold takes preventative maintenance, but it’s a lot less work and a lot cheaper than cleaning up a household mold problem later.

Tips to Prevent Mold in Summer

Some simple things you can do to prevent mold in summer include:

• Use your air conditioner on hot days. Mold grows best at temperatures above 77 degrees Fahrenheit, so keep the indoor temperature lower than that if you can.
• Watch for any condensation or moisture in your air ducts. Sometimes using the air conditioner can cause condensation and that moisture provides a place for mold to grow.
• Mold thrives in moist environments, so it’s best to keep the relative humidity below 50 percent. If any areas of your home have relative humidity higher than that, purchase a dehumidifier to reduce the amount of moisture in the air. Mold doesn’t grow well in dry environments.
• Close windows when it rains. If windows are open when it rains, dry windowsills, floors or any other surfaces as soon as possible. If carpet gets wet, use a fan to dry it faster.
• If it’s a rainy summer, watch for signs of a leak in your roof. A discolored spot on the ceiling generally means a leak, even if you don’t see water coming through the ceiling. Have any leaks repaired as soon as possible to keep mold from developing.

In addition to the above summer tips to prevent mold, you should do some basic things all year around, including:

• Repair any leaky pipes or appliances as soon as possible.
• Make sure your clothes dryer is vented to the outdoors, not into your attic or crawlspace.
• Turn on the exhaust fan or open a bathroom window a couple inches when showering. The steam that fills the bathroom when you shower provides ample moisture for mold.
• Don’t use carpet in bathrooms. It’s hard to dry out carpet thoroughly. It’s much easier to dry linoleum or tile floors if they get wet. You can use throw rugs in bathrooms, which can be machine washed and hung to dry, which prevents them from getting moldy.
• Clean up any spills of water or other liquids immediately.
• Address any mold problems that do occur promptly to prevent the mold from growing and spreading to other areas of the home.
• If you notice a musty smell in the home, you probably have mold somewhere. Mold often grows in hard-to-see places, like under carpet and inside walls. If you smell something musty but can’t find any mold, call SERVPRO® of Charles County @ 301.753.8313.

If Mold Develops Despite Your Best Efforts at Prevention

If mold does develop despite your best efforts at prevention, we recommend scheduling a free consultation. SERVPRO® will visit your home, inspect the premises for mold, provide recommendations and advice for cleaning up the mold, and also provide recommendations for preventing mold from recurring in the future.

Mold Allergy Peak in Spring

3/30/2018 (Permalink)

Signs of Mold

Mold Allergy Peak in Spring

by ALLERGY GUY

Mold allergy problems increase in the spring.  This can be confused with a pollen allergy, but they are quite different.

You may be suffering from both, to make matters worse.

What can you do about it?

Mold is around all year because it grows indoors as well as outside.  If you live far enough north to experience winter temperatures below freezing, mold allergies are usually less of a problem during those months.

Mold does not grow outside when it is frozen, and the drier air inside from heating reduced mold growth in your house as well.

Outside is a a different matter.

As temperatures increase, the mold begins to wake up.  I’ve seen mold growing on top of snow as it melts, and under the snow, so that its already growing on the grass even before you can see the grass.

All of this aggravates your mold allergy

Last year’s leaf litter is this spring’s mold bed.  There is no getting away from it.

Allergy shots may help with your mold allergy.  See your allergist about this in the winter so that you’re already taking the shots before the spring mold season.

Open the windows for fresh air in the evening when temperatures are lower and the mold less active, then close them during the day.  This is the opposite of what you should do in the summer in some cases.

Make sure the fresh air intake damper for forced air heating is turned off during the spring.  Do open it during the summer and winter.

Reduce your humidifier setting to maintain a drier atmosphere inside.  This discourages mold growth in your home.

Keeping your house a bit warmer in the spring may also help.

Spring can be a bad time for mold allergies, so do your best to avoid mold problems.

Ten Things You Should Know about Mold

12/13/2017 (Permalink)

Mold

Ten Things You Should Know about Mold

1. Potential health effects and symptoms associated with mold exposures include allergic reactions, asthma and other respiratory complaints.
2. There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.
3. If mold is a problem in your home or school, you must clean up the mold and eliminate sources of moisture.
4. Fix the source of the water problem or leak to prevent mold growth.
5. Reduce indoor humidity (to 30-60%) to decrease mold growth by:
   • Venting bathrooms, dryers and other moisture-generating sources to the outside
   • Using air conditioners and de-humidifiers
   • Increasing ventilation
   • Using exhaust fans whenever cooking, dishwashing and cleaning
6. Clean and dry any damp or wet building materials and furnishings within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.
7. Clean mold off hard surfaces with water and detergent, and dry completely. Absorbent materials such as ceiling tiles, that are moldy, may need to be replaced.
8. Prevent condensation: Reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces (i.e., windows, piping, exterior walls, roof, or floors) by adding insulation.
9. In areas where there is a perpetual moisture problem, do not install carpeting (i.e., by drinking fountains, by classroom sinks, or on concrete floors with leaks or frequent condensation).
10. Molds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any substance, providing moisture is present. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, and foods.

IICRC Mold Remediation: What Happens After a Flood?

11/30/2017 (Permalink)

Mold

IICRC Mold Remediation: What Happens After a Flood?

Have you ever wondered what happens when a mold removal specialist gets called to a mold-damaged facility? The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) shares five steps a mold removal specialist takes when conducting mold remediation.

“Many people aren’t aware of the dangers, nor the difficulty level of removing mold from a facility,” said IICRC Chairman Tony Wheelwright. “Mold remediation is a potentially hazardous process that should only be undertaken by a certified professional.”

Five steps that each mold-removal specialist takes when conducting mold remediation includes:

1. Determine the degree of contamination. The first step for a mold remediation specialist may be to bring in an Indoor Environmental Professional (IEP) to determine the extent of the mold damage and test for contamination within the facility. Because mold spores and other microscopic contaminants can travel easily throughout a building, the IEP may collect and analyze samples from affected as well as unaffected areas of the building. Once the IEP has finished the inspection they will develop a remediation plan for the mold removal specialist with steps to return the home to its preloss condition (Condition 1).

2. Set up and verify containment. To make sure mold contamination does not spread to other areas of a facility, the mold remediation specialist will set up containment by creating isolation barriers. Once the barriers are set up, the specialist will need to verify the containment with a lower partial pressure differential (negative pressure) to ensure there is no air leakage between containment zones. Exit chambers would then be used to serve as a transition between the containment and the unaffected area of the building. Once the containment is verified and the correct amount of pressure is achieved, the removal process can begin.

3. Remove unsalvageable materials. Porous materials and items that cannot be restored or cleaned effectively must be carefully discarded. Unsalvageable items include but are not limited to drywall, insulation and other items with visible mold growth. It is important for the specialist to wear the appropriate personal protective equipment which may include a full face respirator equipped with a P100/OV cartridge, disposable coveralls and nitrile gloves.

4. Clean surfaces with a high-attention to detail. A mold remediation specialist will likely begin the cleaning process by thoroughly vacuuming the contaminated areas using a HEPA vacuum with a high-efficiency filter to catch mold spores. He or she will then begin a detailed cleaning process involving mold removal tools such as a HEPA filtered sander, followed by the damp wiping of surfaces with an effective cleaning solution.

5. Verify remediation. Once cleaning is complete, the IEP will return to too to verify the remediation was successful. The area must be returned to the dry standard and should be visually dust free with no malodors. In addition an IEP may perform surface or air sampling as part of the verification that the area is back to normal fungal ecology (Condition 1).

“Mold remediation requires mold removal specialists to perform techniques that promote source removal rather than relying on chemicals, paints and coatings as a replacement,” said Rachel Adams, President of Indoor Environmental Management, Inc. “Understanding and managing air flow is also critical to the success of a mold remediation project. Working with qualified IEP can also help to reduce the liability for the technician as well as provide a final determination if the remediation was successful.”

For more information on mold remediation or the latest in mold remediation standards, visit the IICRC website at http://www.IICRC.org.

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Mold?

9/18/2017 (Permalink)

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Mold?

People are usually afraid of the fact that mold can grow in their homes. However, this is not an excuse to ignore the topic altogether. We have covered methods before about Mold Prevention and Control Tips; however, what about you already have mold damage in your home? Are there any insurance plans that will protect you from the costs of mold remediation? Well, these questions that homeowners ask leads to the big question. Does homeowners insurance cover mold? Let’s discuss.

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Mold?

Homeowners insurance does not usually cover mold damages. Although, there are instances when mold is covered. These instances are generally when the cause of mold is due to an incident that homeowners insurance does cover. For example, if mold has grown due to accidental and sudden pipe burst or if a recent fire has caused mold, your homeowners insurance will likely cover the mold damages. On the contrary, if mold has grown due to improper maintenance practices, such as on-going humidity exposure or a continuous leak, homeowners insurance will not likely cover the damages.

How To File a Homeowners Claim for Mold

The first step in filing a claim is to call your insurance company quickly and informing them of the damages. Once you speak with your insurance company and they provide you with next steps, gather the evidence. You can do this by taking several pictures of the damages. Also, take pictures any mold that becomes visible before anyone comes out and fixes the issue. Keep in mind that mold only needs 24 hours to begin to grow. It would also be a good idea to contact a mold remediation company and have them come out and dry the water before mold starts to grow. However, consult with your insurance company before making this call to be sure that they will cover the costs.

Once your insurance claim goes through and resolves all damages, keep any documentation and images. If mold later grows in that area and the growth is due to the initial incident, then your insurance company will likely have to cover the costs of going back in and fixing the problem.

Mold Prevention Tips

9/18/2017 (Permalink)

Mold Prevention Tips

Mold can be very costly to repair and the effects it can have on your health can be serious. We have put together a list of mold prevention tips to help keep your home and your family healthy.

Mold Prevention Tips

• When water leaks or intrusions occur, act quickly! Wet or damp material that is dried within 24 – 48 hours of the leak, in most cases, will NOT grow mold.
• Remove wet carpet or furniture that cannot be dried within 24 – 48 hours.
• Do not install carpet in areas of water usage such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
• Remove wet clothes from the washer promptly.
• Do not leave damp clothes or towels lying around.
• Keep indoor humidity levels below 60%. The ideal level is between 30 – 50%. Relative humidity can be measured by a moisture or humidity meter, a small and inexpensive instrument available at most hardware stores.
• If you see condensation or moisture collecting on windows, walls or pipes, act fast to dry the wet surface and reduce the moisture or water source.
• Use air conditioners or dehumidifiers to keep humidity low.
• Keep air conditioning drip pans clean and the drain lines free of obstructions.
• Be sure dryers, stoves, heaters and exhaust fans vent to the outside, not into the walls or attic.
• Use a bathroom exhaust fan or open the window when you shower.
• Dry shower walls after a shower.
• When cooking or using the dishwasher, use an exhaust fan or open the window.
• Keep furniture from blocking air returns and vents.
• Dust and vacuum often.
• Remove mold growing in the soil of houseplants.
• Clean and repair gutters regularly.
• Repair any roof leaks as soon as you discover them.
• Make sure the ground slopes away from the building foundation so that water does not enter or pool around the foundation.
• Insulate cold surfaces such as cold water pipes to prevent condensation.
• Repair any plumbing leaks as soon as you find them.
• Use mold-resistant building materials when available.
• Install a vapor barrier in the crawlspace to prevent moisture from the ground.
• Keep the crawlspace and basement well ventilated.
• Ensure that the attic is properly ventilated and properly insulated.

More Mold Tips

In addition to tips for mold prevention, we have listed a few things you should not do when you have a mold infestation.

• Do not ignore the problem! It will not go away and will actually get worse! If the affected area is small enough, you can remediate the mold yourself. Any area larger than 10 square foot will require a mold remediation expert.
• Do not attempt to clean mold with bleach! Bleach will not penetrate a porous surface and is 97% water. The water component will provide moisture for mold to grow. This is a very ineffective way to treat mold as well as being a very corrosive chemical.
• Do not try to remove mold, even a small area, without proper protection.
• Do not paint or caulk over moldy surfaces. Clean up the mold and dry the area before painting to avoid the paint from peeling.

Hopefully, these tips have given you a better understanding of mold and how to prevent it. For even more tips on mold prevention, check out these 25 Mold Facts That Everyone Should Know.

HOW TO PREVENT MOLD IN YOUR HOME

8/31/2017 (Permalink)

HOW TO PREVENT MOLD IN YOUR HOME

Humidity leads to moisture problems and MOLD. How can you prevent moisture problems in your home? Here are some tips from EPA.gov.

• When water leaks or spills occur indoors - ACT QUICKLY.  If wet or damp materials or areas are dried 24-48 hours after a leak or spill happens, in most cases mold will not grow.
• Clean and repair roof gutters regularly.
• Make sure the ground slopes away from the building foundation, so that water does not enter or collect around the foundation.
• Keep air conditioning drip pans clean and the drain lines unobstructed and flowing properly.
• Keep indoor humidity low.  If possible, keep indoor humidity below 60 percent (ideally between 30 and 50 percent) relative humidity.  Relative humidity can be measured with a moisture or humidity meter, a small, inexpensive ($10-$50) instrument available at many hardware stores.
• If you see condensation or moisture collecting on windows, walls or pipes ACT QUICKLY to dry the wet surface and reduce the moisture/water source.  Condensation can be a sign of high humidity.

Actions that will help to reduce humidity

• Vent appliances that produce moisture, such as clothes dryers, stoves, and kerosene heaters to the outside where possible.  (Combustion appliances such as stoves and kerosene heaters produce water vapor and will increase the humidity unless vented to the outside.)
• Use air conditioners and/or de-humidifiers when needed.
• Run the bathroom fan or open the window when showering.  Use exhaust fans or open windows whenever cooking, running the dishwasher or dishwashing, etc.

Mold in the home: how big a health problem is it?

8/31/2017 (Permalink)

Mold in the home: how big a health problem is it?

Published Wednesday 28 January 2015

By James McIntosh

970

For many people, January is a cold and damp month. During the winter, activities at home can lead to increased humidity and moisture indoors and, unfortunately, this can lead to the growth of mold.

Walls, clothes, books, toys and even CDs - nothing is sacred when it comes to mold growth. Its seemingly insidious growth can turn prized possessions into musty, moist sadness that only look fit for the garbage.

But for all its corrupting menace, to what extent should we be worried about mold when it invades our homes? If these are the effects that it can have on our possessions, what effects can it have on our bodies?

In this spotlight feature, we take a look at precisely what mold is, what causes it to grow, whether it is bad for our health and, if so, what can be done to stop it.

Ten Things You Should Know about Mold

8/31/2017 (Permalink)

Ten Things You Should Know about Mold

1. Potential health effects and symptoms associated with mold exposures include allergic reactions, asthma and other respiratory complaints.
2. There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.
3. If mold is a problem in your home or school, you must clean up the mold and eliminate sources of moisture.
4. Fix the source of the water problem or leak to prevent mold growth.
5. Reduce indoor humidity (to 30-60%) to decrease mold growth by:
   • Venting bathrooms, dryers and other moisture-generating sources to the outside
   • Using air conditioners and de-humidifiers
   • Increasing ventilation
   • Using exhaust fans whenever cooking, dishwashing and cleaning
6. Clean and dry any damp or wet building materials and furnishings within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.
7. Clean mold off hard surfaces with water and detergent, and dry completely. Absorbent materials such as ceiling tiles, that are moldy, may need to be replaced.
8. Prevent condensation: Reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces (i.e., windows, piping, exterior walls, roof, or floors) by adding insulation.
9. In areas where there is a perpetual moisture problem, do not install carpeting (i.e., by drinking fountains, by classroom sinks, or on concrete floors with leaks or frequent condensation).
10. Molds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any substance, providing moisture is present. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, and foods.

Mold 101

8/31/2017 (Permalink)

The Bottom Line

Mold is a non-scientific term for many types of unwanted fungi found both indoors and outdoors. Active mold growth requires moisture. Actively-growing mold damages the material it lives on, thereby impairing structural integrity. In addition, mold is associated with some untoward health effects in humans, including allergies and infections.

The Full Story

Mold is a non-scientific term for many types of fungi - unwanted, unappealing patches of black, brown, yellow, pink, green, smelly, fuzzy growths. Countless species of mold are found both indoors and outdoors.

"Mold" and "fungus" have many connotations, most of them unpleasant: musty odors, damp basements, moldy carpets, water leaks, soggy drywall, athlete's foot, and poisonous mushrooms, among others. On the positive side, molds are also responsible for penicillin and blue cheese; yeasts are fungi (plural of fungus) used to make bread, beer, and wine; and some types of mushrooms are considered edible delicacies. And without fungi to break them down, the world would be buried in leaves, trees, grass, and garbage.

Although mold and its spores are literally everywhere, active mold growth requires moisture. Whether on visible surfaces or hiding behind drywall, in attics, or under carpets, indoor mold grows in the presence of excessive dampness or water. Also found in damp indoor environments are:

• bacteria;
• dust mites;
• break-down products of bacteria and molds, such as proteins, cell-wall particles (glucans) and volatile organic compounds (the actual cause of the musty odor associated with mold);
• airborne chemicals, gasses, and particulate matter caused by destruction of materials by growing molds.

Indoor mold may be unsightly and smelly, but the potential problems are more serious than that. By definition, actively-growing mold damages the material it lives on, thereby impairing structural integrity. In addition, mold is associated with some untoward health effects in humans, including allergies and infections. (Some health effects attributed to mold may in fact be caused by bacteria, dust mites, etc., found in mold-colonized environments. So-called "toxic mold" has been claimed as the cause of "toxic mold disease"; this syndrome remains undefined and "toxic mold" as a cause remains unproven. "Toxic mold" is also unproven as a cause of the various symptoms associated with "sick building syndrome".^1,2)

Mold growth in homes, schools, and businesses should be eliminated for the sake of human health, structural integrity, and quality of life. Cleaning up small amounts of mold can be done by homeowners. Eliminating mold from large areas requires expertise and protection both for the removal specialists and occupants of the affected space.

Fungus and mold

Fungi comprise a vast world of organisms, perhaps as many as 300,000 species. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency defines funguses, or fungi, as "types of plants that have no leaves, flowers or roots."³Fungi include such seemingly unrelated substances as poisonous and non-poisonous mushrooms; organisms that can cause athlete’s foot, fingernail infections, and some types of pneumonia; molds found in cheese, peanut butter, mulch, hay, grains, and spoiled foods; and the black material growing in bathroom grout.

Fungi reproduce by means of spores which are spread through the air but land and survive on surfaces. Many spores can remain dormant for long periods under dry conditions, but typically develop into fungi in the presence of moisture.

Outdoors, fungi break down organic matter, including leaves, grass clippings, and dead trees. The fungi themselves constitute a large mass of material with many types of spores. These spores vary with the material on which they are found, the season, and the weather. At any given time, the same types of spores are found indoors because they enter through doors and windows and on clothing and shoes.

Molds are fungi. Homes and structures often provide many opportunities for mold spores to grow, even in the absence of frank water leaks: seepage through foundation walls and cellar floors, dehumidifiers and air conditioners, window condensation, defective plumbing, damp bathrooms, air filters, and potted plants.⁴ Different types of mold spores thrive on different surfaces; for example, the "yellow slime" found on hardwood mulch won’t be found growing in a tiled bath enclosure.

Common indoor mold species include Aspergillus, Alternaria, Acremonium, Cladosporum, Dreschslera, Epicoccum, Penicillium, Stachybotrys, and Trichoderma.²  Specific types of molds can be tested for and identified. This allows comparison of indoor and outdoor mold species at a given location and time. If the two don't correlate, at least roughly, it is possible that indoor mold colonies have developed. Even if they're not in a visible location, such molds can release spores and other material into the indoor air.

The presence of molds or mold metabolites does not necessarily correlate with human illness, though. Tests identify the presence of these substances at a moment in time, and not necessarily the time frame in which individuals are exposed and illness develops. Also, the presence of these substances does not necessarily mean exposure: the fact that they are present doesn't necessarily mean they were inhaled.⁵

Note that identification of specific mold spores is not necessary when cleaning up indoor mold colonies. It may or may not be useful when treating health effects of mold exposure, depending on the circumstances. In any case, the role of testing for indoor mold is undefined, because as yet there are no standards for interpreting these tests.⁶

Allergies and Asthma

As suggested above, there are hundreds of studies reaching a variety of conclusions. It can be difficult or impossible to assess all types of molds, spores, fungal fragments, chemicals from destruction of mold-colonized materials and second-hand smoke, and other airborne matter indoors at any given time. Though numerous studies associate the presence of dampness and mold with respiratory allergies and asthma, it can be equally difficult or impossible to establish the presence of these substances as the definitive cause of illness in particular patients.

Even so, it is possible to assess and treat individuals who have symptoms of respiratory allergies and asthma. Khalili and colleagues emphasize that determining whether respiratory symptoms are related to mold exposure involves a process of elimination. Before mold is considered the likely cause of respiratory symptoms and infections, patients must be evaluated for the possible presence of pre-existing illness or the recent onset of an illness that happens to coincide with mold exposure. Once other possible causes of respiratory symptoms have been ruled out, patients can be assessed for the possibility of mold-induced illness.¹⁸

In a lengthy document, Storey and colleagues identify three groups of patients to be assessed for mold exposure: those who present with symptoms often associated with wet spaces and mold; those whose symptoms occurred at the time of a presumed exposure to mold or damp spaces; and patients concerned about exposures to mold even though they have no symptoms.²

In any case, a medical diagnosis is needed. For example, does the person have an allergy, asthma, or an infection? There are established methods for diagnosing these and many other conditions. Diagnosis is related to the disease process, not a specific trigger. For example, it is possible to test people for allergies to molds, but positive results do not necessarily correlate with symptoms. A sizable percentage of the U.S. population will test positive for mold allergens but have no symptoms; estimates range from 3 percent to more than 90 percent.⁹ And, generally speaking, treatments will not differ if the cause is mold exposure versus other triggering conditions.

One issue is whether to undertake environmental assessments for the presence of mold or other airborne substances found in damp homes, schools, and workplaces. If someone does develop respiratory conditions in a given location only, an environmental assessment may be indicated if there are no other known triggers. These conditions include asthma (either newly diagnosed or worsening of existing asthma), the lung conditions called interstitial lung disease and hypersensitivity pneumonitis, sarcoidosis, and recurring cold-like symptoms, sinus infections, and hoarseness.²

Hypersensitivity pneumonitis is a lung disease sometimes called "farmer's lung" as it is associated with overwhelming exposure to fungi found in feed and grain. Hypersensitivity pneumonitis also has been associated with bird droppings in pigeon breeders and exposure to molds in homes and hot tubs.¹⁹

If mold and related substances seem to be causing adverse health effects, removal from the damp place is a necessary part of prevention and treatment. Storey and colleagues provide several case studies of people who developed allergies, bronchitis, and asthma when spending time in damp spaces. Avoiding those places decreased symptoms and re-exposure caused symptoms to recur.² Unquestionably, removing people from those environments until dampness was controlled and mold removed was indicated in those cases, even if the precise cause of illness could not be determined.

Infection

Spending time in damp and moldy buildings seems to increase the risk of bronchitis and respiratory infections, but is not proven to do so. If it is a cause of these infections, bacteria or chemical emissions are likely to be responsible.¹⁰

There are well-known fungal infections, but they are not typically a result of exposure to indoor molds. Examples include:

• Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis. Although Aspergillus is a fungus found indoors and outdoors, people who develop this condition usually suffer from asthma, cystic fibrosis, or immune deficiency. The illness is related to the anatomy of the lung, not exposure to indoor molds.^5,20
• Athlete's foot and thrush are among many fungal infections that are not related to the presence of indoor mold.^21,22

Pulmonary hemorrhage

In the 1990s, several children in Cleveland, OH, developed pulmonary hemorrhage (bleeding in the lungs). One of those children died. A preliminary study identified exposure to mold, particularly mycotoxins from Stachybotrys chartarum, as a possible cause of these illnesses.^23,24 On further review, however, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) determined that the earlier analyses were in error and that the cause remained unknown. CDC also noted that a similar cluster of cases in Chicago was not associated with mold exposure and that pulmonary hemorrhage was not consistent with what is known of exposure to this fungus.²⁵

"Toxic Mold Syndrome"

The original publication about pulmonary hemorrhage fueled concerns and speculation about the health effects of Stachybotrys chartarum, or "black mold". "Black mold" is indeed unsightly, but has not been identified as a cause of human illness.

"Toxic mold syndrome" is a legal construct, rather than a medical diagnosis, involving unidentified disease processes, a constellation of disparate symptoms, and reports of illness uncorroborated by a physical examination of the patients or a professional examination of their surroundings. Although "black mold" or "toxic mold" has been identified in litigation as a cause of human illness, there is no established cluster of symptoms or physical findings associated with this alleged disease. There are neither diagnostic criteria nor any valid scientific publications establishing Stachybotrys or other molds as a cause of these diverse symptoms.^{Footnote 2;Reference 1}

There are many practitioners who advertise themselves on web sites as experts in "treating" victims of "toxic mold disease", an entity which does not exist. For large sums of money, they will advise on numerous supplements and restrictive diets to "extract" mold from people. Since mold is not retained within human organs, it is pointless to spend money on such processes.

"Sick Building Syndrome"

The Environmental Protection Agency defines "sick building syndrome" as "situations in which building occupants experience acute health and comfort effects that appear to be linked to time spent in a building, but no specific illness or cause can be identified". Those effects might include headache, fatigue, and irritation of skin, eyes, or throat, among others. Most often, these symptoms are linked to indoor air quality problems when a building is insufficiently ventilated or maintained.

It is possible for mold to be an indoor air contaminant, for example in heating ducts or other areas where moisture can accumulate and stagnate. Any number of other contaminants may be responsible for symptoms, though; a lengthy list ranges from bacteria, to body odors, plumbing exhaust, copy machine fumes, cleaning agents, pesticides, bird droppings, carpeting, and furniture.²⁶

Preventing and eliminating indoor mold

Mold spores are literally everywhere; controlling moisture is the key to preventing their growth. Sources within homes, businesses, and schools include leaks through roofs, walls, and basements; condensation on windows and in bathrooms; standing water in drains, on floors, and in heating, cooling, and dehumidifying equipment; heating/cooling ducts; and wet floors and carpets. Preventing mold growth requires preventing leaks, removing standing water, venting areas prone to condensation (especially bathrooms and kitchens), and immediately drying or removing damp carpets and furniture. Mold-inhibiting paints can be used indoors, and air conditioners and dehumidifiers can be used in humid weather.²⁷

If mold is present or suspected, it is possible to assess the building for mold and mold spores. However, there are no nationwide standards for mold inspectors, testing methods, normal amounts of mold, or reporting formats. This makes it difficult to interpret test results and their potential implications.^6,27 A process developed by EPA identifies DNA of some molds in indoor spaces, even if the mold is hidden; this testing method is being used experimentally.¹⁶

If mold is clearly present, as determined by visual inspection or a reputable inspector, it should be removed because it can destroy the materials it grows on and is associated with human health problems. Small amounts of mold on hard surfaces can be removed with commercial mold and mildew removers, or with a solution of bleach and water (one cup bleach to one gallon water).²⁷ Follow product instructions carefully to avoid breathing fumes, irritating skin, or splashing chemicals in the eyes.

Large amounts of mold require specialized removal techniques and personal protective equipment. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency described the necessary steps in a document entitled "Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings". However, this document is applicable to mold removal in homes as well.²⁸

Summary

Moisture is required for indoor mold to grow. Indoor mold damages or destroys whatever substances it grows on. That, plus associated odors, causes diminished quality of life in people who spend time in such spaces.²⁹ There is considerable disagreement in the scientific community about whether adverse health effects are actually caused by indoor mold, though most seem to agree that spending time in damp/moist environments can contribute to such respiratory illnesses as allergy, asthma, cough, runny nose, and sinus conditions. Whether these illnesses are caused by mold, mold by-products, dust mites, chemicals emitted from deteriorating surfaces, or indoor air pollution, remains a subject for further research.

This may seem like scientific hair-splitting to an average person who simply wants to live and work in nuisance-free environments. Whether or not scientists agree on the cause of illnesses that might occur in damp places, or even the definition of dampness, there are abundant reasons to keep indoor environments clean and dry. This process begins with determining the source(s) of excess moisture, taking necessary steps to eliminate those sources, getting rid of mold that may already be in place, and keeping the area dry afterwards to minimize the potential for further growth of mold.

People who feel they are ill should seek medical care to establish a diagnosis and course of treatment, rather than relying on self-appointed "experts" who advertise unfounded "cures" on the internet.

Take-Home Messages:

Mold is a non-scientific term for many types of fungi - unwanted, unappealing patches of black, brown, yellow, pink, green, smelly, fuzzy growths. Countless species of mold are found both indoors and outdoors.

Although mold and its spores are literally everywhere, active mold growth requires moisture. Whether on visible surfaces or hiding behind drywall, in attics, or under carpets, indoor mold grows in the presence of excessive dampness or water. Also found in damp indoor environments are:

• bacteria;
• dust mites;
• break-down products of bacteria and molds, such as proteins, cell-wall particles (glucans) and volatile organic compounds (the actual cause of the musty odor associated with mold);
• airborne chemicals, gasses, and particulate matter caused by destruction of materials by growing molds.

Indoor mold may be unsightly and smelly, but the potential problems are more serious than that. By definition, actively-growing mold damages the material it lives on, thereby impairing structural integrity. In addition, mold is associated with some untoward health effects in humans, including allergies and infections. (Some health effects attributed to mold may in fact be caused by bacteria, dust mites, etc., found in mold-colonized environments. So-called "toxic mold" has been claimed as the cause of "toxic mold disease"; this syndrome remains undefined and "toxic mold" as a cause remains unproven. "Toxic mold" is also unproven as a cause of the various symptoms associated with "sick building syndrome".) Mold growth in homes, schools, and businesses should be eliminated for the sake of human health, structural integrity, and quality of life. Cleaning up small amounts of mold can be done by homeowners. Eliminating mold from large areas requires expertise and protection both for the removal specialists and occupants of the affected space.

Rose Ann Gould Soloway, RN, BSN, MSEd, DABAT emerita
Clinical Toxicologist