Mold FAQ's
What exactly is mold and why should I be concerned about it?
Molds can grow on most any organic substance, so long as moisture and oxygen are present. These fungal organisms grow and reproduce by making spores that spread through the indoor and outdoor air. Molds can produce allergens capable of triggering allergic reactions and asthma attacks. Other types are known to produce potent toxins or irritants. Potential health concerns are an important reason to prevent mold growth and to remediate or clean up any existing growth discovered within an indoor environment.
As building practices have changed within the past 30 years, the number of buildings with mold problems has steadily increased. In an effort to conserve energy, construction methods have changed, creating air-tight building envelopes. This does not provide adequate air exchanges with the outside air as was prevalent in older space. The problem is that mold spores remain within the structure. Many building materials are now organic based and safer for the environment, but these organic materials make an excellent food source for mold. These environmental factors, among others, have led to the increased frequency of mold.
What should I do if I believe an area may be contaminated with mold?
Don’t attempt to remove or remediate the affected area. The disturbance of the suspect molds can expose other areas of the structure and create severe contamination issues. This condition may make the space uninhabitable for those people affected by exposure to mold spores. A visual inspection and site assessment will need to be conducted. Our trained personnel utilizing specialized equipment will inspect the affected area and make recommendations. This can include interior wall cavities, crawl spaces, attics and other areas of the structure.
We are available to provide free recommendations and site assessments. On projects with severe conditions, an indoor air quality specialist is recommended.
Once the discovery of mold is confirmed, what is next?
The development of a site remediation plan, and the provision of an estimate of expected costs will be required. We provide this service free of charge and walk you through the process. We provide complete remediation services including removal, decontamination, encapsulation and all phases of testing.