Stachybotrys. Although this word sounds more like a member of the kale family, it is actually most knows as being “black mold” or “toxic black mold.” This species of mold are frequently associated with poor indoor air quality that arises after fungal growth on water-damaged building materials. Regardless of the water source from which this mold grows, there are risks associated with exposure as well as cleanup. First, a few facts about Read More
Following a water loss, time is of the essence in regards to avoiding secondary damage, which can include mold growth. Prolonged exposure to excessive moisture enables microbes to flourish. If any water damaged environment is not promptly and properly restored, many environmental microbes, such as odor-causing bacteria and fungi will colonize, grow, and amplify on building materials. These microbes will eventually contaminate the indoor air and Read More
Do you think you have mold in your home or office building? The following are some tips that may help you by investigating that suspicion. There is a myth that every building has mold. This is only half-true, as every building has mold spores within the indoor airflow. This does not mean there is mold growing! If a mold spore lands on a material, which supports growth, it can flourish. Keep in mind spores are the reproductive stage for mold, Read More
Several different elements can lead to the growth of mold; high humidity (relative humidity), water pipe leaks, flooding, mildew, leaking roof, condensation, poor ventilation, and wet materials. If you see or have these issues present in your home, you are highly susceptible to mold growth. The bathroom is a natural area where mold growth occurs, with constant heat and moisture along with the lack of proper ventilation. Condensation has Read More
Have you ever seen small dark spots on the siding of a home, which look like tar? If you have, or if you have it on your home, it is known as shotgun mold a sticky, artillery fungus. Artillery Fungi, is a dark brown spore packet that sits on top of a specialized cup-shaped cell, which accumulates water and cell contents. When enough liquid is accumulated, the cup inverts causing the cell to burst and ‘shoot' the spores as high as six meters! Read More
Winter only last several months, but the accumulating snow may cause severe problems when the Spring thaw arrives. Sewers and rivers back up and spill out and over into homes and offices, potentially causing health issues during the flood cleanup. Failure to remove contaminated materials and to reduce moisture and humidity can present serious long-term health risks. Standing water and wet materials are a breeding ground for microorganisms, Read More
Mold and mildew growth can be a health hazard, as well as a detriment to your home. If the mold covers an extensive area and/or you want a professional to clean it up, here are some tips for what to look for in a mold removal company. Ensure the company is certified by a reputable organization. These would include the National Association of Mold professionals, the International Association of Mold Professionals, EPA, or The Institute of Read More
I remember watching an episode of CSI in which the case involved a man found in his home with half his face sunken in and no other apparent trauma. At first, the investigators thought he was a victim of foul play, but after the medical examiner conducted the autopsy, they found the real killer. They went back to his home, and found the smoking gun ... in this case it was a leaky pipe behind a wall. The man had died from mold inhalation over a Read More