Mold and Its Affects

 

Mold spores release various allergens and irritants, which might result in serious illnesses in both humans and animals. Smelling or getting into physical contact with these spores can cause various allergic reactions in people who are mold-allergic , and severe irritations in eyes, nose, throat and skin in anyone irrespective of being allergic or non-allergic to molds. Moreover, some molds are highly toxic in nature, and has the potential to cause death in extreme situations in case they are inhaled or touched. Hence, it is advisable not to engage in mold or water damage remediation by yourself, but to instead seek expert help for an effective clean-up, and also ensure safety for you and your loved ones' health.
  Mold can usually be seen or smelled. Mold may appear as slightly furry, discolored, or slimy patches that increase in size as they grow. Molds also produce a musty odor that may be the first indication it is present.  The best way to find mold is to look for visible signs of mold growth or water staining, or follow your nose to the source of the odor. After flood waters recede you should check often for new mold growth or signs of moisture that may indicate the need for cleanup, home repair, or removal of affected materials.

  Mold damage can be health-threatening if you let it get out of control. This common fungus can release spores and toxins into the air that can cause anything from respiratory issues, skin irritations, allergy attacks and even neurological disorders. If you suspect the presence of mold in your property, you need to act quickly to avoid or at least minimize potential consequences.
  Mold remediation and water damage restoration go hand in hand, so finding a professional company in the local area is important. Make sure to document what happened with photos and know what your insurance policy covers and what it doesn't.
  Mold requires moisture and a food source. Moisture can come from leaks, damp basement walls or condensation.
  Mold toxicity can and does affect most animals. Even to the point of death. Read this article shared on Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association,  Black Toxic Mold Deadly to Animals .
  Mold Remediation Is Not Rocket Science! If a professional mold remediation company is needed, protect yourself from unscrupulous contractors. If someone tries to complicate and confuse you about the process and scare you into hiring them, walk away and say, “Thanks, but no thanks.” There are plenty of good honest mold removal and mold remediation companies out there as long as you are careful, educate yourself about mold remediation, and get multiple estimates.

Mold may sound intimidating, but the most effective prevention strategy is to keep a clean house with plenty of fresh air exchange, and to be proactive about potential water problems by routinely checking water sources, including those in hidden and infrequently used parts of your home. Always remember, cleaning mold does not stop mold growth. Moisture control is the key to mold control. If you have a mold problem, you must fix the water problem or the mold can return. Don’t be afraid to turn to a reputable professional if the problem seems too overwhelming or big to tackle on your own.
  Mold in a crawl space is as common as in any part of your home due to the high moisture and humidity levels often found in these spaces. We’ve read studies that estimate a whopping 60 percent of homes have mold in their crawl spaces.
 
Mold causes property damage because it digests or destroys the organic food source it is using. This results in decomposition of building materials, furnishings and other items. In addition, mold and its spores and byproducts can cause a wide range of adverse health effects including allergy-related reactions such as sneezing, watery eyes, runny nose, coughing, headaches, skin rashes, chronic fatigue and other more serious ailments.
  Mold cannot be eliminated with bleach. Bleach can temporarily clean an area but it does not kill the spores.
  Mold comes in a variety of colors. Toxic mold is often associated with black mold, but hazardous mold can come in a variety of colors.
  Mold growth on siding can typically be cleaned with a pressure washer and mold killing chemicals from any standard hardware store. Buying them is easy. But be prepared to spend an entire day cleaning mold on siding and exterior parts of the home.

Mold professionals usually discard moldy porous building materials such as drywall, insulation and baseboards. These materials are relatively inexpensive to replace and difficult to impossible to restore to their previous uncontaminated condition.

Mold and moss on roofs is often caused by overhanging trees whose constant shade does not allow the roofs to dry out properly. Mold and moss can significantly reduce the life of your roof. Trim those trees regularly.
  Mold       and Mildew that result in a musty odor and unsightly stains. Mold and  mildew spores can begin growing in as little as 24 to 48 hours and   infiltrate your entire home including the air vents. Respiratory problems,       Asthma, headaches, allergies and even systemic illness is associated with       some forms of mold and mildew growth. Immediate  water extraction , cleaning       and treatment is required to prevent the spread of mold and mildew spores       especially in carpet padding.
  Mold in carpet is something which can be prevented, but once it takes hold it can be difficult to clean up without removal and replacement. That's why it's important to stay ahead of it and take precautionary measures.
  Mold and mildew will begin to grow within hours of a catastrophe such as this, placing you and your family’s health at risk. Removing the water as quickly as possible is important as well as getting air flowing through your home to help dry the area and reduce odors later on. If possible, try to remove any wet rugs, furniture, or other items as quickly as you can. If the  water damage  is minimal, remove everything from the room and begin to extract as much water as possible with a wet/dry vacuum from the  water damaged  areas.  The wet/dry vacuum can also be used on any upholstered furniture or tile floors.
  If mold is a recurring problem, then consider creating more air movement in the area. Air movement hastens evaporation and thus drying. Installing a vent or exhaust fan in a bathroom often eliminates the re-occurrence of mold and mildew. If mold problems are in a basement or cellar, placing a dehumidifier or box fan can be sufficient to dry the area to a point where mold or mildew are no longer growing.
  If mold or mildew is already a problem in your home, always wear protective gear when you come into contact with it. Use gloves which come up to mid-forearm. In order to keep mold spores out of your eyes, wear goggles without ventilation holes.
  For mold and mildew try to mix a ¼ cup of hydrogen peroxide and a ¼ of color safe bleach. Rub the stain with this concoction and the rinse with water.
  Wash mold off hard surfaces. You don’t have to use chlorine bleach; soap and water, combined with scrubbing from a stiff brush, works to remove mold. Some people also recommend vinegar or hydrogen peroxide. Non-toxic cleaners are also available. Allow areas to dry completely.
  Attic mold and crawl space mold is often caused by inadequate ventilation. As a general rule, ensure 1 square foot of ventilation per 150 feet square of attic floor is needed. For crawl spaces, we recommend at least 1 square foot of ventilation for every 150 square feet of crawl space area. Building codes vary by area so check with your municipality first prior to installing ventilation.
  Prevent mold growth. Although it takes a few days to appear, mold thrives in a moist environment with organic material (e.g., paper or particle board), and temperatures between 68°F and 86°F. Keep air moving and maintain moderate temperatures as possible.
  Water and mold damage from a natural disaster is a stressful event. And none of us are at our best when we are frustrated or stressed out. However, remembering these simple suggestions will help you make a better decision during a stressful time. Further, additional useful information on this subject can be found on the Environmental Protection Agency's website.
  Extensive mold growth will damage your home and furnishings, like carpets, sofas and cabinets. Over a period of time, uncontrolled mold growth can even instigate damage to structural elements of your home. While there is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment, keeping your home clean and dry can avert extensive mold growth and the ensuing damage.
  Most attic mold problems we see are not caused by roof leaks but by attic (soffit) vents being improperly covered by insulation. Without proper ventilation, moisture gets trapped in your attic and leads to mold growth.
  If we find mold in your property, we’ll promptly remove it and help you prevent its recurrence. The key concept that you have to be aware of when it comes to mold is that it needs moisture to thrive. Areas in your home where there is hidden water and not much ventilation are primary mold growth spots. If you keep things dry and you let an ample amount of fresh air in, you will dramatically reduce the chances of encouraging mold growth.
  Exposure to mold can cause health effects in some people. Indoor mold growth does not affect everyone, but people who are sensitive to molds should avoid areas with active mold growth until they can be cleaned or removed.  The most common effects are allergic responses (such as hay fever, asthma, or irritation of the eyes, nose, throat or lungs) from breathing mold spores.

   there is mold in carpet, check to be sure the mold hasn't extended down to the carpet padding. If it has, both the carpet and padding must be removed. If the mold is only on the carpet's surface, a steam carpet cleaner can be used - simply mix Lysol in with the cleaning solution.
  If you have mold in the caulking around your tub, it will probably be difficult to bleach back to its original white color. If this is the case, it is best to strip it off and re-caulk.

  Eliminating mold problems is important because the Environmental Protection Agency estimates that we spend 90 percent of our time indoors, and that the air we breathe indoors is more polluted than the outdoor air. So indoor air quality matters a lot to our health  Symptoms of mold are very similar to other allergies, such as  sneezing, itching, running nose, congestion and dry, scaling skin . Reactions worsen in a damp or moldy room such as a basement.
  There may be mold growing in your home. Like all fungi, mold feeds on the organic materials that can be found on non-synthetic surface areas that contain moisture. Our experienced team of Certified Professionals can find pockets of hidden mold that may be causing serious harm.
  We often see mold in basements caused by seepage, usually from a crack in the home’s foundation. The mold growth is often localized near the crack. Fill all cracks immediately upon discovery or risk having a much costlier problem in the near future  For cleaning mold covering <10 square feet in an area flooded by clean water, detergent and water might be adequate (9,16). However after hurricanes and major floods, flood water is likely to be contaminated and, in this setting, mold can be removed with a bleach solution of 1 cup chlorine bleach per 1 gallon of water (26--30). Never mix bleach or bleach-containing products with ammonia or ammonia-containing products. If water damage is substantial or mold growth covers >10 square feet, consult the EPA guide, Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings (15).
  There are also mold extractions methods that can allow workers to remove any toxic or hazardous mold that may be left over from the incident. Even after the humidity and temperature levels have been restored, Leftover mold can continue to be a problem in the environment that is why specialized dryers are often employed to allow individuals to restore their property back to what it was previously. This is an important thing to do for your property.

  Simple bathroom mold in and around your tub is the most common type of mold problem in the home. Most of the time, this mold problem is due to improper ventilation  Mildew and black mold can use any damp and wet places as breeding ground. Basement of commercial building and house is the place where mold can present. Basement becomes wet place because sunlight can’t reach their and this state is very helpful to grow the mold. Mold can sustain on the fabrics, paper, wood and other organic materials. Noticing of paint on the walls peeling is the indication of moisture present. Without rectifying it initially, you have to see the mold growth on the walls.
  If you have attic mold, you should consider discarding the attic insulation because mold spores will have likely settled on it. However, taking out and replacing attic insulation can be expensive. You'll have to weigh cost vs. benefit. Many homeowners decide to leave the insulation as-is.
  In the event that mold is detected in the damaged area, or other places in the building structure, mold remediation will need to be performed. This is a highly specialized field, where the mold must be handled correctly without causing further problems to the commercial property. Any mild agitation or disruption can cause the mold spores to become airborne, transferring it to other areas inside the building.
  You may have seen a mold inspector or an insurance adjuster use a moisture meter. This device uses a weak electrical current to measure how much moisture content is on a surface. Generally speaking, your walls and floors should have zero moisture content. If the moisture meter indicates that water is present you could have a water problem, and potentially a mold problem.

  Numerous species of mold cause infection through respiratory exposure. In general, persons who are immunosuppressed are at increased risk for infection from mold (11). Immunosuppression can result from immunosuppressive medication, from medical conditions and diseases that cause immunosuppression, or from therapy for cancer that causes transient immunosuppression. Although certain species of mold cause infection (5,8,11), many mold species do not cause infection. Infections from mold might be localized to a specific organ or disseminated throughout the body.
  If nobody knows how bad mold is, should you care? Yes! A moldy home is unappealing to buyers, and can cause allergies and illness to those living in it. It should be removed or treated as soon as possible.
  The first step to proper mold remediation is to thoroughly analyze the type and extent of the problem. Sampling will be collected to identify specific fungal contaminants. If an active leak is present, the original source of the water damage must be located and stopped in order to proceed with the remediation process.
  Get your house tested for mold. A moisture meter test will help. Also, a dust sample from your carpet can show whether mold spores are in your home. Check with your state health department about mold testing.
  For particularly obstinate mold and mildew, you can go in for a non-chlorine bleach or lemon juice and salt solution for colored fabrics. Else you can just slightly brush the area with a solution of hydrogen peroxide (one part of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide to five parts of water), provided you are sure that the solution doesn't harm the fabric of the carpet.
  Microbial organisms, such as mold and bacteria, can cause illness (such as allergies, asthma, and respiratory symptoms), costly damage, and discomfort. Microbes need moisture, a food source (such as drywall) and other particular conditions to grow.  Moisture control is emphasized to prevent and manage microbial growth, because it is the easiest way to control microbial growth.
  Usually, do-it-yourself home mold kits found at hardware stores do not provide much value. These tests tell you the types of mold you have, but will not quantify the amount of each mold species found. Since mold is found in every home, knowing you have mold is not especially helpful. If you suspect a mold problem but do not actually see it or smell it, these test kits do not help you locate the problem or tell you how serious it is. Rather than spending your money on one of these kits, just remember our simple rule: If you can already see mold, you need to remove it and testing is usually unnecessary.
  When assessing or remediating mold contamination to a house, homeowners or clean-up personnel might decide to repair or clean household items (e.g., housewares or kitchen items) damaged or contaminated by flood waters. As with clothing and other textiles, make sure the water being used is safe. Use only water that is properly disinfected or that the authorities have stated is safe.
  Correctly and safely removing mold isn't easy and doing it yourself may lead you into legal trouble. Certain types of mold or mildew may also cause health problems. Mold Removal / Mold Remediation should be correctly handled through certified technicians who can detect mold or mildew with the right equipment.

  In recent years, more and more  mold remediation  and  fire damage restoration  companies are discovering the benefits of  soda blasting .  Soda blasting  quickly and efficiently removes mold, carbon and smoke damage without harming the underlying material and without harming the  environment .  And, as an added bonus,  soda blasting  deodorizes the affected area.  No musty or smoky odors!  It works the same as that box of baking soda that you put in your refrigerator to remove odors.
  •    If you see large amounts of mold growth on porous surfaces, consider hiring a professional to remove the material. •    If you develop chest pain, shortness of breath or other respiratory symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

  Preventing excessive exposure to mold is the best way to avoid harmful health consequences. The preferred approach to preventing mold exposure is to prevent water from infiltrating a building or damaging household goods and structures. After major hurricanes or floods, substantial water damage and mold growth might occur in many buildings.
  People at the greatest risk from mold are people with asthma, allergies or other breathing conditions. Also people with suppressed immune systems are at higher risk of mold infections. If there is mold in your home it must be cleaned up and the water problem that caused it must be fixed. Controlling moisture is the most critical factor for preventing mold growth. If you don't control the moisture, the mold will return. To remove mold from hard surfaces, use commercial products for this purpose or use a bleach solution of 1 cup of bleach to a gallon of water. Do not mix bleach with ammonia! Open windows and doors. Wear non-porous gloves, eye wear and a N95 mask and wear it when inside the building.
  By sighting and smelling, basement mold can be detected. Floor and basement wall can be affected by the water leakage troubles because of clogged gutter. In case of carpeted basement, you have to search out the black mold and mildew underneath the carpet. You must clean and air the carpet before placing carpet back. Basement walls, furniture in the basement and ceiling may also be affected. Basement mold should be clean and remove at the initial stage. Otherwise, it can cause serious problem. To eliminate the mold from the basement, here some ways are given.
  Exposure to some level of airborne mold is inevitable because molds are found indoors and outdoors (6,17). However, demolishing or cleaning heavily mold-contaminated materials outdoors can lead to excessive exposure to mold. The level of exposure to mold outdoors is primarily based on the amount of mold-contaminated material, the amount of mold in the material, and the type of work being performed. The need for PPE (including respiratory, skin, and eye protection) for outdoor workers requires ongoing professional assessment that considers the potential for exposure to mold and the potential for exposure to other hazardous substances that might be in the outdoor work area.

The most effective way to eliminate mold growth is to remove it from materials that can be cleaned and to discard materials that cannot be cleaned or are physically damaged beyond use (9,18,19,26--30). Persons with respiratory conditions, allergies, asthma, or weakened immune systems should avoid mold cleanup if possible or seek the advice of their doctor and determine what type of personal protective equipment is appropriate. Appropriate PPE (e.g., tight-fitting NIOSH-approved N-95 respirator, gloves to limit contact of mold and cleaning solutions with skin, and goggles) (13,26--30) should be used when performing clean-up or other activities in mold-contaminated homes or buildings after a flood.
  Dirty carpets are at higher risk of mold infestation,  especially  if your building’s in an area with high humidity and/or exposure to moisture. When it rains on a dirty carpet, it pours: Moisture gets tracked inside and sinks deep into the carpet fibers and   carpet mold rears its ugly head .
  Prolonged exposure to high levels of mold (and some bacterial species) can produce an immune-mediated disease known as hypersensitivity pneumonitis (13). Clinically, hypersensitivity pneumonitis is known by the variety of exposures that can cause this disorder (e.g., farmer's lung, woodworker's lung, and malt worker's lung).

  While there are over 100,000 species of mold,  the good news is that you do NOT need to know what kind of mold you have to eliminate mold growth.  All  mold is treated in the same way. Since mold is a living organism, it requires food and water to survive. But controlling mold by eliminating food sources is very difficult since mold can feed off building materials, and the tiniest of organic matter like dirt, dust and debris.  Thus the best way to eliminate mold problems is to eliminate water problems.
  For the majority of persons, undisturbed mold is not a substantial health hazard. Mold is a greater hazard for persons with conditions such as impaired host defenses or mold allergies. To prevent exposure that could result in adverse health effects from disturbed mold, persons should 1) avoid areas where mold contamination is obvious; 2) use environmental controls; 3) use personal protective equipment; and 4) keep hands, skin, and clothing clean and free from mold-contaminated dust.

  Assessing the level of human exposure to mold in flooded buildings where mold contamination is not obvious is often a central and ongoing activity in recovery related to hurricanes and floods. Understanding the strengths and limitations of the approaches that are available to assess such exposures is important. Buildings that were not flooded could also have mold. For example, buildings with leaking roofs or pipes, which allows water to penetrate into biodegradable building materials, or excessive humidity, particularly buildings built with biodegradable materials, are susceptible to mold growth (  When vacuuming and using air scrubbers for mold remediation, the filters used should be HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air). Only HEPA filters are designed to capture particles as small as mold spores. Regular filters will not work.

  To the extent that you are able, prevent mold by removing wet contents immediately.  Wet carpeting, furniture, bedding and any other items holding moisture or water inside the building can develop mold within 24-48 hours.  Items should be cleaned with a phenolic or pine-oil cleaner and bleach solution, if completely dried, and monitored for several days for any fungal growth and odors.
  Scrub masonry with medium-soft brushes until mold, mildew, and algae are thoroughly dislodged and can be removed by rinsing.  Use small brushes for mortar joints and crevices.  Dip brush in mold, mildew, and algae remover often to ensure that adequate fresh cleaner is used and that masonry surface remains wet.
  Many homeowners do not even realize they have mold in their attic or crawl space until a home inspector or appraiser tells them when they’re trying to sell their home. Mold has killed countless real estate transactions. Prevent this from happening to you by checking your attic and crawl space at least once every three months.  Many of the major noninfectious health effects of mold exposure have an immunologic (i.e., allergic) basis (6). Exposure to mold can sensitize persons, who then might experience symptoms when re-exposed to the same mold species. For sensitized persons, hay fever symptoms and asthma exacerbations are prominent manifestations of mold allergy (6). Although different mold species might have different propensities to cause allergy, available data do not permit a relative ranking of species by risk for creating or exacerbating allergy. In addition, exposure to beta glucans might have an inflammatory effect in the respiratory system (12).
  You can use the quality sandpaper to eliminate the mold from the basement floor that is made of wood. For polishing, you can apply the good quality floor wax to avoid the mold growth trouble in future. In case of tiles floor, you can use the good disinfectant to scrub. Then, use the solution of water and bleaching powder few times to wash the affected floor before applying fresh plain water. Then, dry out floor of basement by the dehumidifiers or exhaust fans.
  There are many chemical products that “encapsulate” mold. These products are most often used after a separate anti-microbial is applied to kill the mold. The encapsulants act as a secondary layer of mold protection. Like other products these products are   For the majority of adverse health outcomes related to mold exposure, a higher level of exposure to living molds or a higher concentration of allergens on spores and mycelia results in a greater likelihood of illness. However, no standardized method exists to measure the magnitude of exposure to molds. In addition, data are limited about the relation between the level of exposure to mold and how that causes adverse health effects and how this relation is affected by the interaction between molds and other microorganisms and chemicals in the environment. For this reason, it is not possible to sample an environment, measure the mold level in that sample, and make a determination as to whether the level is low enough to be safe or high enough to be associated with adverse health effects.
  Currently, there is a popular movement among homeowners, mold professionals, and cleaning professionals to “go green” with natural, biodegradable cleaning products with low VOCs (fumes). In our experience, some of these green products clean mold effectively. But remember: Just cleaning mold will not stop it from coming back. You must stop the water source.
  We often see customers who will attempt to remove small amounts of mold themselves. A common example is when mold (also called mildew) is growing on the bathroom tile. Commercial cleaners designed for mold and mildew removal are usually successful in such cases. Obviously, the user should follow label directions, wear gloves and ensure there is adequate ventilation to avoid a buildup of unpleasant vapors. It is important to remember that such cleaners consist mostly of water (90% or more), and that moisture is the leading cause of mold growth.  Therefore, it is essential to thoroughly dry the area after cleaning. If the area is left moist the mold will usually reappear in a short time.
  Through timely response and the careful monitoring of water damage, mold and other health issues can be prevented. If water damage has been present too long, mold will occur. Our IICRC-certified professionals have the training and experience to identify moisture sources, evaluate mold growth (visible or suspected), contain damage, remove contaminated materials to ensure a fully restored pre-damaged condition.
  New York does not certify or license building contractors, including mold contractors. If you hire a contractor to work on your flooded home and your home was built before 1978, check whether the contractor complies with the current Environmental Protection Agency lead paint rules, and (if you have asbestos) whether they are a licensed New York asbestos contractor.  If the contractor follows the requirements for lead paint and asbestos cleanup then they will also prevent the spread of mold and dust in your home  Interestingly, approximately 2/3’s of all fire damage projects become mold remediation projects to one extent or another.  Since most fires are put out with water, the moisture that is necessary for dormant spores to germinate and grow now has been supplied in copious amounts. These spores may be left over from the time of original construction. After a fire occurs, a period of time lapses before repair work can begin as the insurance assesses the damage and contractors are located to put the repair into motion.  That is all the time necessary for mold, fungus, bacteria and mildew colonies  to get going and to spread.
  Water and flood damage restoration companies will also deodorize rooms, scrub away any indications of mold and install air movers and dehumidifiers to rid the space of any excess moisture. In most cases the property will be reevaluated after a few days to ensure that no further equipment or labor is needed to maintain the structure.
  Standing water remaining from any flood is a breeding ground for microorganisms. Bacteria, viruses, and mold can become airborne and be inhaled, putting people at risk for lung disease. With the reports of sewage and toxins in the water, the floodwaters here will likely exacerbate the growth of microorganisms.  Even when the flooding is due to a fairly clean source, such as rain water, the growth of these microorganisms can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
  State and local public health agencies do not generally collect information on the conditions related to mold exposure. In situations where there are large numbers of flooded and mold-contaminated buildings, such as occurred in New Orleans after hurricanes Katrina and Rita in fall of 2005 (2), the repopulation of those once-flooded areas probably will expose a large number of persons to potentially hazardous levels of mold and other microbial agents.
  According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) there are four primary forms of indoor mold: Cladosporium, Penicillium, Alternaria and Aspergillus. The CDC advises that the reactions people have to these forms may vary depending on their level of sensitivity. Mold may cause mild agitations like eye irritation or, for those with chronic lung conditions, mold can cause them to develop mold infections in their lungs.  Mold removal  may not seem like a top priority item, but the effects of lingering mold can be severe.
  Homeowners use their basement for storage. Extra boxes are a nightmare to clean up if there is a flood and mold growth. Anything stored in basements, especially valuables or important documents, should sit at least 6 inches off the ground on racks/shelves and 6 inches away from walls.

Make sure there are no holes or cracks in the ceiling of your crawl space. These holes can be a gateway for mold and water transport from the crawl space to your living area since air rises.

Double and triple pane windows are much better at insulating—and therefore better at discouraging moisture & mold problems—than single pane. If they are within your budget, we encourage them.
  Water damaged building interiors provide a “prime” environment for the growth and reproduction of bacteria and mold. Both are parasitic, i.e., they rely on dead or decaying organic matter for food. Favorite foods for bacteria and mold are cellulose based building material, such as wood, drywall and any soiled surface. Synthetic carpet fibers do not support microbial growth but the soils attached to them certainly do. These factors, coupled with warm humid air, create the ideal environment for reproduction. Bacteria and mold may cause allergic reactions, arthritis, puffy eyes, chronic cough, rheumatism, asthma, depression and headache.
   Persons engaged in activities that moderately disturb contaminated material (e.g., light cleaning by removing mold from surfaces with a wet mop or cloth) and persons with health conditions that place them at risk for mold-related health problems should use at least an N-95 respirator that is certified by NIOSH.

This revised version is intended to more broadly address public health concerns related to limiting exposure to mold and identifying, preventing, and managing mold-related health effects following any natural disasters or other occurrences that results in flooding or major water intrusion. Published guidelines, established standards, and the peer-reviewed literature were reviewed to ensure the accuracy and consistency of the recommendations. In addition, the document was sent for stakeholder review and external peer review by experts in the areas of worker protection, general public health, medical, environmental and occupational epidemiology, allergy, industrial hygiene, mycology, and pulmonology.

  After natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods, excess moisture and standing water contribute to the growth of mold in homes and other buildings. When returning to a home that has been flooded, be aware that mold may be present and may be a health risk for your family.
  Keep year-round indoor humidity to less than 60 percent. Adequate ventilation, air-conditioning and dehumidifiers can help. Indoor mold grows very well when the indoor humidity is above 70 percent. Minimize the use of live indoor plants, which facilitate mold growth and increase humidity due to frequent watering. High humidity in southern and eastern Hong Kong, leaks, internal air-conditioner moisture and dirt accumulation and ground water wicking up through concrete floors are the major causes of growth.
  We highly recommend the use of HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) vacuums in your home. HEPA filters trap the smallest particles, including mold spores, which collect in your carpets. Only HEPA filters are designed to capture particles as small as mold spores. Regular filters will not work. We think paying a few more dollars for a HEPA vacuum is well worth the money.

Most over-the-counter “mold stain removers” contain bleach that is mixed with other chemicals. These cleaners can be effective at cleaning minor mold problems such as those often found in bathrooms.
  After a Dallas Fort Worth flood, wearing gloves, rubber boots, goggles, and a mask is important for your safety. Flood water damage gives rise to mold and inhaling or touching mold may cause respiratory, skin, and other health problems. Flood water may also be contaminated with chemicals, bacteria and heavy metals. Protective gear is essential when clearing out contaminated flood water and debris.
  Many homeowners rarely go down into their basements, which means they seldom open up windows for fresh air exchange and look around to notice any mold or water problems. Even if you use your basement infrequently, be sure to check it regularly for water spots, and air it out to reduce the likelihood of basement mold growth.
  Make sure to air out and dehumidify attics and basements from time to time. These areas of the house can go unvisited for long time frames, allowing mold to grow undisturbed if there is enough moisture.
  Carpets should be professionally cleaned at least once a year to maintain their appearance. Consumers using rented equipment often leave the carpet too wet, causing mold and fungal build-up, or they do not fully remove the detergent, which attracts more dirt. A professional cleaner has the equipment and expertise to fully remove dirt and detergent, and leaves the carpet drier.
  Almost every homeowner owns a fan or two. Not only are fans inexpensive, but they are great for moisture control and fresh air exchange – both of which aid in reducing mold levels in the home.
  The design of schools is a very important factor when dealing with sanitation related to moisture. Building roofs that leak or will not stop water are detrimental. Water in classrooms leads to mold which can cause allergic reactions. High humidity and standing water also creates an environment favorable to all kinds of bacteria, which can spread diseases.

  Hygrometers are inexpensive instruments used to measure relative humidity levels and can be purchased at most hardware stores. We highly recommend them since high relative humidity can lead to mold growth.

Make sure the dirt around your home is slightly sloped away from your home so water flows away from the perimeter. Water that pools against your home’s outer walls can lead to water seepage and mold growth inside the home.
  If possible, try to expose the water damage emergency to air flow. The more air that moves past the water damage emergency location the easier it is going to be to dry, and the harder it is for mold spores to latch onto something and start to spread and develop. Try to open windows and doors (as long as there isn't standing water that is going to escape) to bring in more air, and you might also want to set up fans in the area as well.
  Once you've carefully documented all the damage, the dirty work begins. You need to get your home dry and cleaned up as quickly as possible to avoid further damage, as well as to prevent the development of mold and fungus, which can lead to health problems and larger remediation projects. Pump out any remaining standing water, set up de-humidifiers, and get as many fans running as soon as possible. Hiring a flood damage repair specialist for your emergency flood cleanup is an excellent investment if they are available. They have equipment and knowledge that you don't have access to, all of which will get your home dried out in the shortest amount of time possible.
  Finished basements are a nice feature as they add value to your living space. But in most older homes, basements were never meant to be finished. As a result, they often have seepage problems that lead to basement mold growth. If you decide to finish your basement, do it right. It will save you lots of hassle and money in the future.
  Public health agencies should consider the need for clinicians to report cases of known or suspected mold-associated illnesses (e.g., invasive fungal disease, blastomycosis, hypersensitivity pneumonitis attributed to mold contamination, ODTS attributed to contaminated dust exposure, and alveolar hemorrhage in infants) to public health authorities for tracking and follow-up investigations. Providers caring for patients at high risk for poor health outcomes related to mold exposure could be targeted. For example, hematologists, rheumatologists, and pulmonologists might care for many patients at risk for invasive mold infections because of underlying malignancies and immuno suppression. Enhancing provider-based surveillance requires targeting and educating providers; developing reporting mechanisms; and collecting, analyzing, and reporting data.
  Workers should wear PPE regardless of the engineering controls used, especially for skin and eye protection (1,9,17,18,32). Primary functions of PPE in a mold-contaminated environment are prevention of the inhalation and ingestion of mold and mold spores and prevention of mold contact with skin or eyes (1,32). PPE requirements for workers are likely to differ from the PPE recommendations for homeowners or other building occupants who are less likely to disturb and aerosolize contaminated materials. In addition, PPE recommendations for persons with underlying illness or compromised immune systems will differ from PPE recommendations for healthy persons. Proper training or instruction in the use of protective equipment is essential for effective use. Guidelines for protection of and training recommendation for workers have been   Workers should wear PPE regardless of the engineering controls used, especially for skin and eye protection (1,9,17,18,32). Primary functions of PPE in a mold-contaminated environment are prevention of the inhalation and ingestion of mold and mold spores and prevention of mold contact with skin or eyes (1,32). PPE requirements for workers are likely to differ from the PPE recommendations for homeowners or other building occupants who are less likely to disturb and aerosolize contaminated materials. In addition, PPE recommendations for persons with underlying illness or compromised immune systems will differ from PPE recommendations for healthy persons. Proper training or instruction in the use of protective equipment is essential for effective use. Guidelines for protection of and training recommendation for workers have been published (33).
  Water Damage is nothing to mess around with!  We get calls daily from homeowners that attempted to do the  water extraction  and repair process themselves only to discover they had made things worse.  We get the call once they notice mold and mildew growing in corners and walls and floors that start buckling and bubbling.  By the time we get there, it's a bad situation and it didn't have to be that way.
  Standard surgical or dust masks are intended for use only as barriers against large particles and do not provide protection against many airborne particles (38). Respirators used to protect persons from airborne contaminants (including mold and mold spores) must be certified by CDC's NIOSH. In addition, as specified by the OSHA respiratory protection standard (37), workers whose employers require them to use respirators must be properly trained, have medical clearance, and be properly fit-tested before they use the respirator. If a worker must use respirators, the worker's employer must develop and implement a written respiratory protection program with worksite-specific procedures and elements. Additional information on respiratory protection is available from OSHA (37,42,43).

  Guidelines summarized below are based on guidelines from OSHA (37,42,43), EPA (13), and the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (18). These guidelines recommend particular respirators on the basis of the size of the area of mold contamination. However, the size criteria are based on general professional judgment and practicality because data are limited related to the extent of contamination to the frequency or severity of health effects.

The activities (and possible exposure to mold) of persons re-entering their homes or working outside might be similar to those of workers. Preventing the creation of dust and limiting exposure to dust are the best ways to minimize exposure to mold (1,9,18). For example, using wet mops or vacuums with HEPA filters instead of dry sweeping dust and debris will decrease the amount of dust in the air (1,9,18).

  The cardboard boxes that find refuge in the back of your closets or the corners of your house shelter mites, dander, and other particles. Not to mention, if those cardboard boxes are water-damaged, they could be home to allergy triggers such as mold and mildew. Waterproof plastic containers are the perfect alternative.
  Cut drywall so it is one-half to one-inch off the floor.    This is especially important in basements.  Concrete floors commonly absorb ground moisture-especially in winter months.  The moisture can wick up the wallboard if it is touching the floor, allowing mold to grow out-of-sight within the walls.  You can hide the gap with wood or rubberized floor trim.
  Molds reproduce by releasing microscopic airborne spores that find their way to a habitable surface. Molds can grow on almost anything, including most building materials such as drywall, insulation, wood, etc. If enough water is present on these surfaces, the mold grows into active colonies and releases spores into the air.
  It's not by accident that most kitchens and bathrooms have tile or ceramic-type surfaces. These are the two areas in any home with the highest risk of bacterial contamination. Wiping down these surfaces frequently is the best way to provide daily protection for yourself and your family, preferably with an anti-bacterial solution and a disposable cloth. Gaps in grout are an open door for insects, germs and bacteria. Fill them as soon as possible and keep grout clean and mold free.

  Buy Zithromax Without Prescription , With spring rolling closer it is time again to think about having your house washed.   Zithromax from canadian pharmacy , In most parts of the country a house should be washed every one to two years depending on  the situation. Homes in areas of high traffic or surrounded by trees might need washed more often than homes in different locations,  buy cheap Zithromax no rx .   Fast shipping Zithromax , Homes in more southern areas will suffer from mold and mildew more often than homes in northern states.
  Avoiding Insurance claims;  yes it’s possible with your help and involvement in the restoration process. Avoiding a claim on your home owner’s policy is the best thing to do only after surveying the damage and getting an ideal of the cost of restoration. Your insurance agent cannot help or give you any information regarding cost of restoration. Once you have called your agent he will report a water damage occurrence against your policy even if you decide to do the work yourself. Let Mold Pro give you an evaluation of the cost of restoration and then decide whether or not make a claim on your home owner’s policy. If you decide to involve your insurance company no problem all you need to do is to supply us with your adjuster’s name, claim and phone number.

  Don't Jump the Gun:   Be wary of signing up with an attorney or public adjuster just yet. While they can help in some situations, a call to your state insurance regulation agency is a free and easy way to get advice if you're having a problem with your claim without signing over a percentage of your payout.     Act Normally:   Even if your claim is not covered, that swimming pool you used to call your basement will still need to be drained. Act as a reasonable and prudent person would. Don't let that flooded basement turn into a mold jungle because your claim wasn't covered. You've been taking pictures and documenting everything and can consult with your state agency without putting your health in danger.
  FLA-CAT | Florida Catastrophe Corp. knows there is more to water damage then meets the eye. On the surface one may think that their water damage is confined to some wet carpet and a few furnishings. What most people do not realize is that when water damage occurs, water travels quickly absorbing into and traveling underneath walls spreading from one room to another. When left untreated or improperly treated, water damages can lead to secondary problems. Drywall can disintegrate, wood can warp or rot, electrical problems may occur, mold and mildew can grow.

  Recent parallels to the kind of flooding observed in New Orleans as a result of hurricanes Katrina and Rita occurred in 1997 in Grand Forks, North Dakota, and in 1999 in North Carolina after Hurricane Floyd (2). The number of structures affected was much smaller in North Dakota than in New Orleans, and the population affected in North Carolina was much more dispersed than the population affected in New Orleans. In North Carolina, a reported increase in persons presenting with asthma symptoms was postulated to be caused by exposure to mold (2). In 2001, flooding and subsequent mold growth on the Turtle Mountain reservation in Belcourt, North Dakota was associated with self-reports of rhinitis, rash, headaches, and asthma exacerbation (3).  Disposable PPE should be discarded after it is used. Such equipment should be placed into impermeable bags and usually can be discarded as ordinary construction waste. Appropriate precautions and protective equipment for biocide applicators should be selected on the basis of the product manufacturer's warnings and recommendations (e.g., goggles or face shield, aprons or other protective clothing, gloves, and respiratory protection). Reusable protective clothing should be cleaned according to the manufacturers' recommendations after the product has been exposed to mold. Hands should be washed with clean potable water and soap after gloves are removed.

  North Shore- LIJ Health System established a hotline to address potential environmental health hazards associated with Hurricane Sandy and its aftermath. Open to Nassau County residents, calls to 855-473-6399 go directly to the North Shore- LIJ Department of Population Health, with inquiries addressed by environmental health experts. Hotline hours are 9 a.m. to 5p.m., Monday through Friday; messages left when the hotline is closed are returned the next business day. Environmental hazards due to Hurricane Sandy flooding and damage or post-storm renovations may include asbestos; pesticides; mold; lead; sewage; water with undetermined contamination; carbon monoxide; chemicals such as solvents and paint thinners; and heating fuels such as gasoline, oil and kerosene.
  In recent years, increased concern has arisen about exposure to specific molds that produce substances called mycotoxins. Health effects related to mycotoxins are generally related to ingestion of large quantities of fungal-contaminated material (17). No conclusive evidence exists of a link between indoor exposure to airborne mycotoxin and human illness (6,25). Many molds can potentially produce toxins given the right conditions (6,11,17). Some molds that produce mycotoxins are commonly found in moisture-damaged buildings; research related to the importance of these findings is ongoing. Although the potential for health problems is an important reason to prevent or minimize indoor mold growth and to remediate any indoor mold contamination, evidence is inadequate to support recommendations for greater urgency of remediation in cases where mycotoxin-producing fungi have been isolated.

Fungal brain abscesses are uncommon in healthy persons (52,53,57). The primary infection results from inhalation of infectious conidia from the environment; the route of infection appears to be hematogenous dissemination from the lungs (52,53,57). Of particular interest after major hurricanes or floods is S. apiospermum (P. boydii) (52,53,57). Many case reports document patients with focal neurologic defects caused by multiple brain abscesses weeks or months after nearly drowning. The organism apparently spreads hematogenously after initial aspiration of sewage-laden water (from floods, lagoons, or bayous) into the lungs. Near drowning presumptively results in a massive inoculation of mold into the lungs.

Mold is most often found on floors, ceilings, walls, and carpets exposed to moisture.  It is covered in the IAQ Reference Guide under  Appendix H -- Mold and Moisture .  It is a potentially harmful problem in many homes.  It has killed countless real estate transactions.  Mold can cause allergy symptoms to flare up and aggravate asthma in those suffering from the disease.  It can begin to grow in as little as twenty-four hours. 

Mold was found in two of Waterford Township's three elementary schools.  It may occur within a wall cavity that is wet.  It cannot be eliminated with bleach.  It is one of the most challenging issues to deal with.