Wed 27 Oct 2010
Mold Removal – How It Works
Posted by admin under How Mold Removal Works (edit this)
No CommentsLiving in a mold infested home can be detrimental to one’s health. Even in Santa Monica‘s relatively dry climate, mold can and does grow in houses when there is sufficient moisture present from a leaky roof or plumbing, or a build up of humidity due to inadequate ventilation. In many cases, mold can develop in an unseen location, for instance, inside a wall.
Mold can trigger an allergic reaction in many individuals, symptoms of which may include watery or itchy eyes, sinus problems, difficulty breathing, a chronic cough, tiredness, or rashes. Over-exposure to mold can play havoc with the immune system. Prolonged, intense exposure can lead to mold growth in the oral cavity which can cause death by asphyxiation. And one variety of mold called stachybotrys chartarum – commonly known as black mold – produces myotoxins which, as their name suggests, are toxic.
Besides health concerns, such as toxic mold syndrome, mold is basically problematic. Mold damages whatever surface it grows on because that is its source of food, not to mention the fact that mold and mildew usually give your house an unpleasant, musty odor.
The one thing that is critical in order for mold and mildew to thrive is moisture. Where there is moisture, fungi can grow–which is why locker room are such a hospitable environment for athlete’s foot. Therefore, the first step to permanent mold eradication is locating the source of moisture. You have to identify and eliminate the source of accumulated water otherwise fungal growth will continue to occur. If any room in the house (such as the basement) has a humidity level of 55 percent or higher, you should consider purchasing a dehumidifier to prevent mold growth. A room’s humidity can be determined with a device called a hygrometer.
After identifying the moisture source, the next step is to eliminate it, and thoroughly dry the area. Move wet items away from walls and off the floors as well. When you are done sealing off the area, it’s time for you to clean and disinfect the mold growth. Make sure you choose a disinfectant that’s proven to kill mold spores.
Mold removal is only effective if all the infected components are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected to prevent a re-contamination. The application anti-microbial chemicals may be necessary to completely eradicate the mold.
It is possible to do this mold removal as a D.I.Y. project as there are many different mold removal products available on the market today and they are fairly easy to use. If you undertake this task on your own, make sure you wear proper clothing and don’t forget your respirator or filter dust mask. If you are unsure about the correct procedures for removing mold you can of course hire a professional to do it for you.
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Wed 27 Oct 2010
Black Mold Remediation
Posted by admin under Black Mold Remediation (edit this)
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People are getting more concerned and aware about the health hazards of black mold. The so-called “toxic mold” is not actually toxic itself, but sometimes releases airborne spores called mycotoxins that can cause a long list of maladies, ranging from chronic bronchitis to permanent, debilitating damage to the brain and immune system.
No specific standards or regulations for black mold remediation, or mold removal in general, have been put in place as opinion on the matter varies, which means it is still an unregulated field. Since black mold thrives in areas where there is sufficient moisture or wetness, the first thing you have to do is to isolate and remove all possible sources of moisture. When I say all possible sources, I mean just that. Mold can grow on hidden surfaces like the backside of dry wall, wallpaper, top of ceiling tiles or the underside of carpets. Check the pipe chases and utility channels, acoustic liners inside ductwork and roof materials that are above the ceiling tile as well.
If moisture is not present, mold can not grow. It sounds simple but actually is not because it can be very difficult to target the source of moisture. It can come from many different sources such as water in the basement, leaking pipes, condensation and humidity levels among others.
After pinpointing and rectifying the main source of moisture in the area, the next order of business is to remove any objects that have been contaminated by toxic mold. Again, this is easier said than done. Everything that has been infected with black mold for 72 hours or longer should be taken away and destroyed.
You’ll need some effective moldicides and other chemical sprays that are powerful enough to kill any potential remaining infestation. If you are not certain about the correct procedures to follow in killing mold, you can always call a professional to do it for you.
The most important thing that you have to remember is to keep moisture at bay all the times. If you don’t, the mold will return. Control the moisture in your home before it controls you.
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Wed 27 Oct 2010
What Is Toxic Mold Syndrome?
Posted by admin under Toxic Mold Syndrome (edit this)
No CommentsToxic Mold Syndrome, an allergy spread by mold spores, is often compared and linked to Sick Building Syndrome. It can potentially lead to chronic fatigue syndrome, particularly for people who live or work in an environment in which they experience a high rate of exposure to toxic black mold. What is black mold? This type of mold produces toxic airborne spores that can cause vexing health problems and discomfort when inhaled. To eliminate this cause of poor I.A.Q. (indoor air quality), it is imperative to undertake effective mold removal procedures.
Toxic mold can be found growing in areas that have been exposed to water or where there is too much moisture such as the basement or bathroom. It can also grows as a result of water damage caused by a flood, plumbing problems or roof leaks which allow moisture to get into the walls. When a bathroom is not well ventilated, it also has the tendency to develop some black or toxic molds.
Sometimes a home or building can become infested without the occupants being aware of it. The problem with toxic mold syndrome is that it is hard to recognize and diagnose because the symptoms can also be attributed to a host of common illnesses. It difficult for doctors to distinguish between toxic mold syndrome and common allergies because the symptoms are often identical. Also, the mildness or severity of symptoms vary quite a lot depending on the particular individual exposed to toxic mold. Watery eyes, nausea, fever and shortness of breath are just some of the most common symptoms of this disease. Although the effects of toxic mold syndrome are most often not permanently debilitating, in some cases they are. It is certainly advisable to see a doctor before your symptoms become severe.
If you notice symptoms like unusual memory loss, anxiety, abdominal pain, unexplained hair loss, rashes, numbness in hands and feet, frequent sinus problems, frequent throat problems, bleeding in the rectal area, unexplained fatigue or unexplained pain or soreness throughout the body, you should see a doctor immediately to determine whether you are infected with toxic mold syndrome or not.
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