by Mold-B-Gone | Jan 17, 2023 | Mold Facts
Mold is a fungus that grows almost anywhere there is moisture and organic material. In some cases, mold can grow on concrete. While it is not as common as mold growth on other materials such as wood, carpet, or drywall, it can still happen.
Mold growth happens faster in the presence of moisture, which can come from a flood, leaky roof or pipes, or other forms of water intrusion.
Read more: How Long Does It Take for Mold To Grow?
If you are concerned that your concrete may be infected with mold, there are several steps you can take to investigate and remove the problem. We will discuss what mold is, how it grows on concrete, and some steps you can take to remove it.
Why Does Mold Grow on Concrete: Reasons
Mold growth on concrete is a common issue that can cause damage to the building structure and pose health risks for those living in or near the affected area. It is essential to understand what causes mold growth on concrete and how to prevent it from occurring to protect your home or business from potential harm.
1) High Levels of Moisture
One of the most common reasons mold grows on concrete is its high moisture content. Concrete is porous, meaning water can easily seep into it, creating an ideal mold growth environment.
2) Poor Ventilation
Poor ventilation in areas with concrete can also cause mold growth. Poor ventilation can trap moisture and cause the temperature in an area to rise, creating a breeding ground for mold.
3) Leaking Pipes or Drains
Leaky pipes or drains can cause water damage on concrete that leads to mold growth. If left unchecked, this water damage will only worsen with time, increasing the likelihood of mold appearing.
4) Improperly Sealed Concrete
Concrete needs to be adequately sealed to prevent water from seeping into it. If the sealant applied is not of high quality, or if the concrete was not correctly prepped before sealing, water can easily penetrate and cause mold growth.
Tips To Prevent Mold Growth on Concrete
Mold growth on concrete surfaces is a common problem in many households. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to prevent its occurrence.
1) Better Ventilation
Ventilation helps keep indoor moisture levels low and prevent mold growth on concrete. Ensure your home has open windows or exhaust fans to circulate air and reduce humidity.
2) Install Dehumidifiers
Dehumidifiers extract water molecules from the air, reducing moisture content and preventing mold growth on concrete surfaces. Consider investing in a dehumidifier if you live in a damp climate.
3) Clean Regularly
Regular cleaning helps eliminate accumulated dirt and debris, which can attract mold growth. Use mild detergents to clean concrete surfaces and dry them thoroughly after washing. Drying ensures no residual moisture remains, making it harder for mold to thrive.
4) Seal Concrete Surfaces
Sealing off concrete surfaces can help prevent moisture infiltration caused by rain and condensation. Apply a waterproof sealant to concrete surfaces to make them more resistant to mold growth.
Call Mold-B-Gone for the best mold removal service in Atlanta. We are experts in mold removal and remediation on concrete surfaces. We use specialized tools and cleaning agents to penetrate deep into the concrete’s pores and remove mold or mildew.
by Mold-B-Gone | Dec 13, 2022 | Mold and Infants, Mold Facts, Mold Inspection
Duct cleaning is an often overlooked but essential part of home maintenance. Many people don’t think about it until they start experiencing problems like allergies, asthma, or even higher energy bills.
Duct cleaning has many benefits because it not only improves air quality but also helps reduce energy costs.
Read more: Top 15 Reasons To Clean Your Ducts!
If you’re unsure whether or not your air ducts need to be cleaned, read on for the signs that you should call in the professionals!
1) Dusty Grills
The grills are the first place to look for signs of dirt. If you can easily spot dust and debris on the grills, it indicates that your air ducts need cleaning. Professionals use tools like high-powered vacuums and brushes to remove the dust build-up and can access tight spaces.
2) Mold Growth
If you notice that your air ducts have a musty smell or signs of visible mold growth, this indicates that the airflow in your home has been compromised and should be addressed immediately. Cleaning your air ducts will help reduce any mold problems and improve the overall quality of indoor air.
3) High Humidity
High humidity levels in your home can worsen asthma and allergy symptoms. It can also lead to mold growth, spreading through the air ducts if not kept in check. If you notice high humidity levels in your home, it might indicate that your ducts need to be cleaned. Humidity causes problems inside the ducts, leading to dust and debris build-up. This build-up creates an ideal environment for mold growth and can cause a musty smell in your home that’s hard to ignore.
4) The Air Filters Are Dirty
The air filters in your HVAC system should be changed every three months or so, depending on the type of filter and how often you use it. If these become clogged with dirt and debris, it can lead to poor airflow from the registers. This indicates that your ducts have built up dust and dirt and should be cleaned.
5) Mold Is Present
If you notice any visual or odor of mold, your ducts are likely harboring the spores. The air circulating through your home picks up these spores and spreads them throughout the system. This can cause problems for anyone in the home who has allergies or asthma. Contact a professional to have the ducts cleaned and any mold removed.
6) Unusual Sounds Coming From Your System
If your vent system is making odd noises, like rattling or squeaking, it likely means a blockage somewhere in the line. This could be due to debris buildup, which could lead to an increase in airflow resistance. This can cause high air pressure and make strange noises you may hear. Have your vents inspected if you hear any odd sounds coming from them?
7) Higher Energy Bills
When dust, dirt, and other particles build up in ducts, the system has to work harder to circulate air throughout the house. This requires more energy and can lead to an increase in energy costs. The U.S Department of Energy recommends regularly cleaning and inspecting air ducts and other parts of your HVAC system to reduce overall energy consumption.
Call Mold-B-Gone for the best duct cleaning in Atlanta. We can help keep your air clean and your home safe.
by Mold-B-Gone | Dec 6, 2022 | Mold Facts, Mold Inspection
Mold can be a severe issue in any home. Not only is it unsightly, but it can also cause health problems for you and your family. If you have mold in your home, it’s essential to test for it as soon as possible.
Some signs that indicate the presence of mold in your home include a musty smell, visible growth on walls and ceilings, and water damage.
Read more: How Do I Know If Mold Is Growing In My Basement?
There are several different ways to test for mold in your home. We will discuss how to test for mold and what to do if you have a problem with mold in your home.
1. Determine If You Have a Mold Problem
Mold growth happens when there is an excess of moisture in the air or on surfaces. A dripping roof, plumbing leaks, and condensation can lead to mold growth. Inspect your home’s walls, ceilings, windowsills, and floors for discoloration or any visible signs of mold. If you do see signs of it, or if your home smells musty, it is time to inspect further.
2. Collect Samples for Testing
Experts in mold testing use different methods to find and collect samples. These include:
a) Air Sampling:
This involves collecting a sample of air and sending it to the laboratory for testing. The air sampling procedure can be used in different house parts, such as near HVAC ducts or other areas where mold may be present.
b) Swab Sampling:
Swab samples are taken by rubbing a sterile swab on non-porous surfaces, such as walls or floors. The sample can then be sent to the laboratory for further testing.
c) Bulk Sampling:
This involves collecting a physical sample of the material that may be contaminated with mold and sending it to the laboratory for analysis.
3. Test the Samples for Mold
Testing mold samples requires specialized kits, or you can send the samples to a laboratory for analysis. Be sure to follow your chosen method’s instructions carefully and note any information unique to your particular situation.
4. Interpret the Test Results
Mold growth found in your home should be tested and identified to determine the best course of action for remediation. It’s important to understand that a professional mold inspector or testing company can help you interpret the results so you can make informed decisions on how to address the problem.
The test kits available at hardware stores include easy-to-follow instructions, but these tests need to assess the type or amount of mold growth accurately. For this, a professional lab will be necessary to provide a detailed report of what types of molds were found and the levels they were present.
5. Take Action Based on the Results
Mold remediation involves both the removal of existing mold growth and the prevention of future mold growth. If the test results show high mold levels, it is essential to take action quickly. Mold can cause health problems, such as allergies and asthma, so it should be removed immediately.
6. Maintain Your Mold-Free Environment
Preventive measures are the best way to keep your home free of mold. Take steps to reduce humidity in areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens, by using exhaust fans or dehumidifiers and ensuring that these areas are well-ventilated.
Call Mold-B-Gone for expert mold inspection in Atlanta. We are a certified mold remediation company with the experience, knowledge, and technology to diagnose and remove mold from your home or office accurately.
by Mold-B-Gone | Sep 20, 2022 | Green Mold, Mold Facts
Mold is a fungus that can grow almost anywhere there is moisture and organic material. In some cases, it can be dangerous to your health. According to EPA, mold can cause a variety of respiratory problems, as well as skin irritation. Taking action immediately is essential if you think you have mold in a home.
The first step is to identify the type of mold you’re dealing with. Many of us do not know the difference between mold and fungus. Mold is a fungus that can grow on wet surfaces. It’s often green, black, or white. On the other hand, the fungus is a plant-like organism that feeds on organic matter.
Read more: Mold vs. Fungus: Their Similarities and Differences.
One of the dangerous forms of mold is green in color. Green mold is also known by its scientific name, Stachybotrys chartarum. This mold is often found in damp or water-damaged areas, such as basements, crawl spaces, and attics. Read on to understand green mold, its dangers, and how to get rid of it.
What Is a Green Mold?
Green mold is fungi that can grow indoors and outdoors. It thrives in moist, warm environments and can often be found in basements, bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and on or around building materials that have been water damaged. Green mold can also be found in food that has gone bad.
While green mold is not necessarily more dangerous than other types of mold, it can cause health problems for people with allergies or respiratory conditions. Green mold can also cause damage to the material it is growing on.
For example, wooden beams or drywall covered in the green mold may need to be replaced.
If you think you have green mold in your home or business, it is essential to have it removed by a professional as soon as possible.
Tips and Tricks By Professionals to Remove Green Mold
1. Identify the Source of Green Mold
It is probably the most critical step as you need to know where the mold is coming from to remove it properly. Some familiar places for mold growth are leaky pipes, windows, or roofs; condensation on cooling coils of air conditioners; and damp basements or crawlspaces. You should also check for any water damage, as this can be a breeding ground for mold spores.
2. Isolate Affected Areas
After identifying and locating the source of green mold, isolate all affected areas so that the spores do not spread. You can do it by sealing off the rooms with plastic sheeting and using a HEPA filter. Experts wear proper protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and respirators while handling moldy materials.
3. Ventilate Your Home
Open your windows and allow fresh air to circulate throughout your home to help dry out any affected areas. The more quickly you can dry out these areas, the less likely new mold will grow.
4. Use a Commercial Mold Removal Product or Solution
These contain chemicals that can kill mold and mildew.
5. Remove All Material That May Have Been Affected by Mold
Any material in your home that has been affected by green mold (e.g., drywall, insulation, carpeting) needs to be removed and replaced. This is because cleaning and disinfecting these materials will be challenging, and they may continue to harbor mold spores even after you’ve removed the visible mold growth.
Contact Mold-B-Gone for the mold removal company in Atlanta. We are experts in mold remediation and will get rid of your green mold problem quickly and efficiently.
by Mold-B-Gone | Sep 6, 2022 | Mold Facts, Mold in Wood
Mold spores in the air are inevitable, and so is the mold growing on your wood furniture. No matter how often you clean or how well you ventilate your home, there will always be a few spores that slip through and take root in the dampest corners of your house.
Read more: 7 Places Mold Hides In Your Home!
Wooden furniture is especially susceptible to mold growth because they are often kept in humid environments. The good news is that mold on wood furniture is relatively easy to remove, as long as you take the necessary precautions.
Here are a few tips and tricks for removing mold from wood furniture:
1. Identify the Source of Moisture
There are different sources of moisture that can cause mold to grow on wood. These include:
- leaks in the roof or walls
- high humidity levels
- flooding
- damp basements or crawl spaces
If you can identify and fix the source of moisture, this will help to prevent mold from growing back.
2. Use a Dehumidifier
A dehumidifier is a way to remove mold from unfinished wood and cabinets. If the humidity in your home is too high, it can create the perfect environment for mold to grow. Using a dehumidifier can lower the humidity levels and make your home less hospitable for mold.
It is a machine that helps to remove water from the air. Dehumidifiers can be used in many settings, such as during construction, flooding, or high humidity levels.
There are two types of dehumidifiers: desiccant and refrigerant.
- Desiccant dehumidifiers work by absorbing moisture from the air.
- Refrigerant dehumidifiers work by cooling the air and condensing the water vapor.
3. Open Windows and Doors To Allow for Air Circulation
Mold growth is often the result of stagnant, humid air. Allowing fresh air to circulate throughout your home is essential for preventing mold growth and removing existing mold. If possible, open windows and doors to create a cross breeze and improve airflow. You can use fans to help circulate the air in your home.
4. Vacuum the Furniture
Vacuuming is the first step in mold remediation. Use a HEPA filter to avoid spreading spores while you vacuum. If you don’t have a HEPA filter, seal the bag after each use to prevent spores from escaping.
Use a brush attachment to vacuum moldy areas. If the mold has penetrated deep into the wood, you may need to sand the affected area before vacuuming.
After vacuuming, use a damp cloth to wipe down the furniture. This will remove any mold spores that are left behind.
5. Mix Vinegar and Water for Cleaning
The best cleaning solution for white mold on wood is a mix of vinegar and water. Use equal parts vinegar and water; if you’re using distilled white vinegar, use one part vinegar to four parts water.
This natural solution is safe for people and pets and effectively cleans mold off wood surfaces. Apply the mixture to the affected area with a sponge or cloth and scrub until the mold is gone.
6. Sand the Wood
Sandpaper is a great way to remove mold from wood. Be sure to sand in the grain direction to avoid damaging the wood. If you are searching for a mold removal specialist in Atlanta, contact Mold-B-Gone. Our highly trained professionals are experts in mold removal and will work diligently to rid your home of mold.
by Mold-B-Gone | Aug 23, 2022 | Killing Mold, Mold Facts
Amie Skilton from Australia was 37 years old when she moved into an apartment with her now-husband. She was perfectly healthy: she traveled around the country giving keynote speeches, did “fun runs”, and worked as a naturopath and nutritionist.
Then she started to get sick. She noticed allergy symptoms, she gained over 20 pounds, and she started getting chronic fatigue. Amie even started to forget her own name.
Shaken and puzzled, her now-husband took her to the doctor’s office, where they performed a battery of tests. All the tests came back fine, stunning the doctors.
She was referred to a neurologist who later diagnosed her with Type III Alzheimer’s. Type III Alzheimer’s disease is also known as inhalational Alzheimer’s and is caused by airborne toxins.
Amie had a mold expert check her home and found that the underside of the carpet was lined with black mold. This mold grew after a pipe leaked and soaked the carpet, and Amie didn’t know about it until she was already sick. Luckily, after moving out of the apartment, her brain function returned to normal. But who knows what could have happened to Amie if it had gone unchecked?
Today, Amie is a qualified mold testing technician in her native Australia who educates others about the dangers of mold.
The Dangers of Black Mold
Toxic black mold, or Stachybotrys chartarum, grows in wet conditions under the carpet, drywall, and flooring. They produce highly poisonous spores that can cause respiratory illness and fatigue. But not everyone is affected equally.
In Amie’s case, her genetic predisposition caused a severe reaction to mold spores. Just as some people are intolerant to lactose or gluten, some people are strongly affected by toxic mold spores. Most people won’t know until it’s too late.
What To Do About Black Mold In The Home
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. The best way to deal with black mold in the home is to prevent it from growing in the first place. Water damage is usually the cause, and it’s best to call a specialist immediately if a leak is ever found.
Another cause of mold growth is a high level of humidity in the home. Ensure adequate ventilation to prevent mold growth. Keep humidity levels between 30% and 50% in the home, and check your humidity levels with a meter. A single room might be more humid than others; if that’s the case, a dehumidifier can help. If you’re having persistent issues with humidity in your home, call an HVAC specialist.
The truth about black mold is that once it’s found in a home, it needs to be removed by a professional. Professional mold remediation experts have the tools necessary to remove black mold and prevent it from causing further health issues. Otherwise, it’s best to move to a clean home if you find black mold.
Mold Remediation in Atlanta
25% of the human population has a genetic predisposition to mold-related illness, and most people don’t take the chance: keep your family safe with mold remediation in Atlanta by Mold-B-Gone.
Mold-B-Gone is the premier mold remediation company in Atlanta, specializing in whole-house mold removal. We clear mold caused by water damage and humidity. 100% of our client’s homes have passed a mold inspection in Atlanta after working with us. Best of all, we offer a 5-year written guarantee on all mold removal services.
Speak to a mold removal expert today; call 470-545-4467 and enjoy peace of mind knowing your family is safe.
Read Amie Skilton’s full New York Post story here.
