by Eric Brown | Apr 22, 2016 | Beware Of Mold When Buying A Home, Health, Indoor Air Quality, Mold Facts, Mold Information, Mold Inspection, Mold Remediation, Mold Removal, Questions and Answers
How Reliable Is Your Home Inspection?
How Reliable Is Your Home Inspection?
It’s that time of year when the real estate market begins heating up in Atlanta, Georgia. More houses on the market to fill the need of anxious home buyers.
Many homes built since the 1970s are showing signs of mold growth because of the oil crisis that occurred. This event encouraged home builders to make the homes more air-tight, meaning there were less drafts that brought outdoor air into the home.
This trend to energy efficiency has led to mold problems because mold needs water and moisture to thrive and the air-tight environments trap moisture in.
The upside is energy efficiency has saved you costs on utilities.
The downside, indoor air quality has suffered because of mold growth! This has led to higher incidences of mold related illness and reduced home values because mold literally feeds on the home, impacting its structural integrity.
The major problem with mold is that it can be hidden. You could have mold in your home and not even know that you have it. Sometimes the only clue that you have mold is family members may be getting sick more often. The problem with hidden mold is the mold spores are not visible and because of modern day HVAC systems, the air borne spores will continue to be circulated in your home, thereby spreading the spores in every room of your home.
As a home seller or home buyer, you need to be aware of the potential concerns caused by mold.
If you are selling your home and know that you have mold, had past water leaks that have been fixed and/or experienced a major water event like a flood or sewage backup, you should disclose this information to the realtor listing your home to avoid potential litigation.
In a perfect world, the home seller will disclose this information, but let’s face it, we are not living in a perfect world.
When a home seller wants to sell their home, their objective is to list the property and get the highest price for their home. This is the reason they get the help of a realtor.
The only way home buyers can protect themselves is to take matters into their own hands and make sure that the home they are buying does not have mold or moisture concerns that could lead to mold.
Most home buyers rely on the expertise of their home inspector, but as this article explains, can you really just rely on the opinion of your home inspector? Are they experts in mold? Most home inspectors are not and they rely on the goodwill of referrals from realtors, so there could be an inherent conflict of interest.
This article explains why you should submit an offer to purchase, subject to a home inspection AND a mold inspection. It also reveals the top 3 reasons to have a mold inspection before buying a home.
What Is Mold?
What Is Mold?
A fungus, some molds are visible, in various colors–black, white, green, gray–and will likely give off a smell.
Mold is nature’s recycler. It is everywhere because it has an important purpose in our eco-system: to breakdown and eat dead organic matter.
Mold needs three important ingredients to grow.
First, a food source, dead organic material like wood, paper, carpet, etc.
Second, the ideal temperature of 41 degrees fahrenheit up to 100 degrees fahrenheit.
Third, and most importantly, moisture. Without moisture, mold will not grow.
Why Is Mold A Problem?
Aside from the structural and health concerns (asthma and chronic sinusitis for example) that mold poses, the other major concern is that mold is often out of sight and difficult to see.
Common reasons and areas of the home that mold can be found include:
- Around leaking pipes, windows, or roofs. Water provides mold spores the moisture they need to grow.
- Basements or other areas of the home that have flooded and were not dried properly.
- Common with new construction is the practice of tightly sealing the building, which can trap moisture leading to mold growth.
- Poorly ventilated homes that does not enable outside air to circulate in the home.
Some other clues that there could be mold in the home include the following:
- Water stains on the walls and ceilings.
- Musty odors in areas of the home like the bathroom, kitchen, laundry room, and basement, where leaky pipes are commonly found.
- Standing water in the basement.
Be particularly careful if you are looking at purchasing a foreclosed home. These homes are susceptible to mold growth because cost saving measures by the banks usually means they will shut down the HVAC system, which is a major concern because it results in high humidity levels and ultimately mold growth.
Recently renovated homes are another concern because improperly trained contractors or the home seller could have found mold, but not addressed it properly.
A Brand New Home Could Have Mold!
A Brand New Home Could Have Mold!
If you are buying a new home, you may think that mold will not be an issue either. New does not necessarily mean mold free for several reasons:
- The trend towards building energy efficient homes may save money on heating and cooling. The negative, however, is that by building homes so that they are air tight could result in a lack of proper ventilation, leading to mold growth.
- Simple construction errors like installing the vapor barrier when there is moisture present. This error will lead to mold growth because the moisture is trapped.
- The time of year the home was built could also be a factor. If the home was built when there was lots of rain and the foundation was not allowed to completely dry before installing the insulation and vapor barrier, then moisture could be trapped behind the walls.
- Cost saving construction measures is another factor. Home builders are using more Orient Strand Board (OSB) and less plywood and timber which provided some resistance to mold because these materials are semi-porous. In contrast, OSB and particle board are porous and susceptible to mold growth.
Top 3 Reasons To Have a Mold Inspection Before Buying a Home
Aside from the peace of mind that mold inspection offers, here are the top three reasons why you should consider a mold inspection when you buy a home:
1. Mold Remediation Can Be Costly!
2. Real Estate Agents Are Not Mold Experts!
3. Home Inspectors Are Not Mold Experts!
#1 Mold Remediation Can Be Costly!
#1 Mold Remediation Can Be Costly!
As stated in an earlier article, the cost of mold remediation will depend on three key factors:
1. How much of the area is infected with mold?
2. What kind of materials are infected?
3. How easy is it to access the mold?
On average, the typical household mold removal project will range from $2,000 to $6,000, but can be as high as $30,000 or more depending on the extent of contamination.
Considering the potential cost of mold removal, you are much better off finding out if there is a potential mold problem before purchasing the home. A mold inspection will provide you with the data you require to make an informed decision.
Best case scenario, no mold is found. Worst case scenario, mold is found, but then if you still have your heart set on the home, at least you now have some negotiating power to bring down the price so the home can be properly remediated before you move in.
#2 Real Estate Agents Are Not Mold Experts!
#2 Real Estate Agents Are Not Mold Experts!
The goal of every real estate professional is to list and sell homes. They will only make their commission when the property sells, so they have significant motivation to do what it takes to facilitate the sale. Their end goal is pretty defined: sell the home and collect the commission.
In addition, real estate agents are sales and marketing professionals, they are not construction experts and likely know very little about mold, where it could be found, and why it is a problem.
When listing a home, the agent is relying on the honesty and integrity of the seller who fills in a property disclosure form. If the seller fails to disclose a mold problem that has not been fixed and is trying to hide the mold problem by painting over it or trying to hide it, how is the agent going to know. How will you know?
Buyers should pay close attention to the property disclosure form because it could provide you with clues of potential moisture problems that could cause mold. Some clues include YES answers to these types of questions:
- Is the property in a flood hazard area or an inland wetlands area?
- Does the home have basement water, seepage, or dampness issues?
- Has the home had roof leaks?
- Does the home have any rot and water damage problems?
- Does the home have any water drainage problems?
- Does the home have any sump pump problems?
#3 Home Inspectors Are Not Mold Experts!
#3 Home Inspectors Are Not Mold Experts!
Mold sickness is considered a hidden epidemic for two key reasons. First, most physicians are not trained to identify or treat mold illness. Second, most homes have mold, but the owners do not realize they have mold because it is hidden.
Since some people get sick from mold and other’s do not, a family could have been living in a moldy home and never experienced any major health concerns. In short, a seller of a home could have mold and not know because mold can be hidden underneath carpet, a new paint job, baseboards, behind walls, above ceiling, etc.
Taking this into consideration, when you hire a home inspector, their primary concern is not to identify if the home has mold. Rather, they are inspecting the overall structural integrity of the home, the roof, wiring, bathrooms, plumbing, etc.
A home inspector may point out water stains or moisture concerns in areas of the home, advise you that your basement has an odor, identify water seepage or a leaky roof, but they will not tell you if you have mold, what type of mold you have, and how extensive the mold problem is.
As a final note, like many business owners, home inspectors rely on referrals. Not surprisingly, one of the biggest sources of referrals tends to be real estate agents, whose primary objective is to sell property. Mold concerns present challenges to home sellers and their agents. Could there be a potential conflict of interest?
Mold Inspections Are Important!
The process of buying a home is an exciting process. You have big plans for your new home! You are looking forward to the future in your dream home to raise your family.
But in all the excitement, many home buyers forget about the future problems that mold and past moisture issues could have caused. This fact is ignored because many home buyers think a home inspection is a enough to protect them from future and costly repair problems. This is the #1 mistake home buyers make; home inspectors are not mold experts!
The worst case scenario is you move your family and all your possessions into your new home and eventually discover mold. Now what? You can ignore the problem which could cause future health and structural concerns for your property or you make the financial decision to deal with your mold problem.
Both options can be costly. Ignoring the problem will reduce your property value as the mold eats away at your home, not to mention the potential health issues. Addressing the mold concern can also be costly because proper remediation needs to be done by professionals.
Likely, the last concern you have when you are purchasing a home is the potential problems that mold could cause. Once you find your dream home, you want to submit your offer and close the deal.
However, I caution against being too hasty. In addition to hiring a reputable home inspector, seriously consider the services of a mold inspector.
Mold inspectors are trained to not only identify the moisture issue causing the mold but will also provide you with information on what type of mold is growing in your home and how extensive the problem is.
As mentioned earlier, the best case scenario is that no mold is found in your home.
However, if the mold inspector does find a mold problem it is better to be aware of the problem so that you can adjust your offer, subject to mold removal by the seller along with proper clearance letters. If the seller does not want to cover the cost of the removal, then at least you can factor in the cost of the mold removal into the purchase price.
Bottom line, it is better to be safe and informed, then sorry. The relative cost of a mold inspection is minor compared to the overall investment into the home and the potential costly headaches you will face if you have to pay for mold removal in the future.
Questions? We are mold inspection, detection, and removal experts. Call us, 678-697-6267, or contact us via e-mail. We look forward to serving you! 🙂
by Eric Brown | Apr 15, 2016 | Air Conditioning, Attic Mold, Basement Mold, Beware Of Mold When Buying A Home, Bleach and Mold, Can Black Mold Poison You?, Can Mold Kill?, Christmas Tree Mold, Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS), Crawlspace Mold, Dead Mold Spores, Flood Clean Up, Health, How Toxic Is Mold?, Indoor Air Quality, Killing Mold, Mold and Asthma, Mold and Depression, Mold and Infants, Mold and Multiple Sclerosis, Mold and Parkinson's Disease, Mold and Pregnant Women, Mold and Sids, Mold and Sinusitis, Mold Facts, Mold In Apartment, Mold In The Bible, Mold Information, Mold Inspection, Mold Remediation, Mold Removal, Mold Removal Cost, Mold Risk During Renovation, Mold Sensitized Success Story, Questions and Answers, Sewer Backup, Sippy Cup Mold, Stachybotrys Black Mold, Top 15 Mold Prevention Tips, Toxic Mold, Water Damage Restoration
The Ultimate Mold Education Resource
The Ultimate Mold Education Resource
The goal of Mold B Gone is to educate our customers about mold. We strongly believe that an educated and informed consumer can make better decisions when they have concerns about mold.
Included in this article are 36 links to articles that will help you learn about mold.
Please bookmark this page because we will update it with new articles as they are researched and published.
If you have questions about mold removal, crawl space mold removal and encapsulation, other services we offer, and/or our 1 year up to 25 year guarantee, call us, 678-697-6267, or send us an e-mail. We look forward to serving you. 🙂
Mold Facts and Information (7 Articles)
Mold Facts and Information (7 Articles)
Priests were the equivalent of today’s mold inspectors. This article lists the three passages cited in Leviticus. Learn more!
Mold Fact 1: The Key Ingredient Mold Needs To Thrive Is Moisture. There are 9 more mold facts explained in this article. What do you think they are?
Top 4 Reasons Mold Grows In Your Attic! The purpose of this article is to explain why mold grows in your attic and prevention tips.
Top 3 Reasons Your Crawlspace Has High Humidity. This article explains why your crawlspace is humid, why this leads to mold and how you can fix the problem!
Steps Residents Can Take If They Have Mold In Their Apartment! This article explains what you can do if you find mold in your apartment. Learn more!
Top 10 Reasons Mold Is Scary!
Here are the top 10 reasons we believe that mold is scary. Enjoy!
This article provides you with information to help you determine if you have a mold problem and explains what you should and should not do if you do find mold.
Black Mold (2 Articles)
Black Mold (2 Articles)
Recently a news article featured a woman who believes that she was poisoned by toxic black stachybotrys mold. This article explores this topic further!
Stachybotrys is considered the king of molds because exposure to this toxic black mold causes 15 serious health conditions. Learn more!
Mold and Health (13 Articles)
Mold and Health (13 Articles)
Wondering if you are sensitive to mold? This article explains how to determine if you are mold sensitized, seeking treatment, and the next two steps to health!
This article explains why mold can be toxic, listing 10 specific health conditions. Learn more!
Potential Health Complications Mold Exposure Has On Pregnant Women and Infants! Questions answered about SIDS, asthma, miscarriage, and pulmonary hemorrhage.
This article article explains why mold grows on sippy cups, why it could make your child sick, and how you should properly clean the sippy cup!
Mold Remediation Improves Health! This article explains why, citing an interview with Jack and Helen Graham, a Mold Sensitized Success Story!
Could Some People Diagnosed With Multiple Sclerosis Actually Be Suffering From Mold Sickness? This article explains how and why. Learn more!
One in Three people get sick from their Christmas tree. This article explains why and what you can do to feel better. Learn more.
Why Do Some People Get Sick From Mold And Others Do Not? This article explains why 1 in 4 people have a genetic predisposition to mold illness.
This article explains why many suffering from CIRS are diagnosed with depression caused by mold. Both scientific and anectodal data are cited. Learn more!
Does Mold Cause Parkinson’s Disease? The purpose of this article is to explain why and how mold could be a possible cause of Parkinson’s Disease.
Top 3 Reasons Mold Sickness Is A Hidden Epidemic! You could be sick from mold and not even know it. This article explains why mold is a hidden epidemic!
37 million Americans suffer from sinusitis. Cause? This article lists the top 10 stats and facts citing MAYO clinic research that believes mold is the cause!
According to the CDC, rates of asthma among children in Georgia is 3% above the national average. Is mold a factor? This article cites stats and research!
Water Damage and Mold (4 Articles)
Water Damage and Mold (4 Articles)
Concerned about sewer backups? This article explains what causes sewers to backup and how you can prevent this from happening. Learn more!
Flood and water damage not only disrupts your life but can also be hazardous to your health! This article explains the top 3 hazards and prevention measures!
A flooded home or business is always a stressful situation. This blog provides you with the 3 steps required to reduce flood damage and most importantly, mold!
Water damage restoration restores a property to pre-loss condition after a flood. Check out the top 3 facts. Hint: Mold is not the only concern.
Mold Inspection and Prevention (7 Articles)
Mold Inspection and Prevention (7 Articles)
Mold growth can be prevented. This article list the top 15 mold prevention tips, to help you live in a mold free home.
Top 3 Reasons A Mold Inspection Is Essential! This article explains why you should submit an offer to purchase, subject to a home AND mold inspection!
Home improvement is an American tradition. But, did you know that 6 out of 10 homes could have mold? Renovating can cause serious problems. Learn more!
If you are concerned about mold in your basement or your basement was recently flooded, implement these 10 tips to prevent mold growth. Learn more!
If you or someone in your family suffers more frequently from colds or flus and you are not sure why, the cause could be poor indoor air quality. Learn more!
The purpose of this article is to explain how you air conditioner could be a source of mold contamination making you sick and what you can do to fix it.
Wonder what happens during a mold inspection? This article answers all your questions, listing the top 4 actions taken by reputable inspectors.
Mold Removal (3 Articles)
Mold Removal (3 Articles)
Have a mold concern, wondering what it will cost to remove? This article provides you with a detailed explanation of how mold removal cost is determined!
Mold sprays, bleach, biocides, and fungicides are an ineffective “short cut” to mold removal. Killing mold is not the answer! This article explains why.
Mold Removal Is Referred To As Mold Remediation Because Professionals Follow These 8 Steps. This article explains the steps and why you need to hire a pro!
by Eric Brown | Mar 4, 2016 | Attic Mold, Bleach and Mold, Dead Mold Spores, Health, Indoor Air Quality, Killing Mold, Mold Facts, Mold Information, Mold Inspection, Mold Remediation, Mold Removal, Questions and Answers
Top 4 Reasons Mold Grows In Your Attic!
Top 4 Reasons Mold Grows In Your Attic!
Mold B Gone has been very busy this year doing many attic mold remediation projects.
The purpose of this blog is to explain why you have mold in your attic.
Four Common Causes Of Mold Growth In The Attic
Causes Of Attic Mold: A Leaking Roof
If you have a roof leak, you may see water on your floors and water stains on the ceiling. The good news, you know that you have a problem.
However, if you have a roof leak and it goes unnoticed leading to moisture accumulation in your attic, this will eventually lead to mold growth that you may not even know exists.
This is the reason it is important to inspect your attic several times each year, just to make sure that there is no moisture buildup.
- Check for discoloration of insulation and wood (e.g. rafters, sheathing, joists, attic side of fascia boards, etc.).
- Check roof valleys (i.e. where two roofs join at an angle), which are highly susceptible to roof leaks.
- Observe skylights, chimneys, attic windows and any portion of the attic/roof where dissimilar materials join each other (including flashings). These places are hotbeds for potential moisture intrusion.
- If you have a vapor barrier installed, check for condensation. Although this is not really a roof leak, it is nevertheless a sign of a moisture problem. And moisture problems lead to attic mold problems!
- Make sure there are no leaks coming from and around attic plumbing stacks.
The first step to addressing the moisture cause is to get your roof repaired, then call us to remove the mold.
Causes Of Attic Mold: Missing Insulation or Improperly Installed Insulation
The quest to save money on heating and cooling bills motivates many Do-It-Yourselfer’s to install more insulation in their attics.
Unfortunately, if the wrong kind of insulation is chosen or if it is installed improperly, this can cause moisture from the lower levels of your home to rise and get trapped in the attic.
As we have written before, the primary cause of mold growth is moisture. Your attic is made of the food mold loves to feed on.
With respect to the type of insulation, if you are layering insulation on top of other insulation, make sure you do not use the kind that has paper or foil backing because it acts as a vapor barrier and can trap moisture in the insulation.
Before you decide to add more insulation to your attic, determine if you need more first. If you are unsure, contact a professional.
Causes Of Attic Mold: Inadequate Attic Ventilation
One of the problems we have encountered in our projects is the fact that insulation is blocking the ventilation ducts that distribute air in the attic.
The lack of ventilation is another major cause of mold growth in your attic.
Air travels up to the attic meaning activities such as cooking, bathing, showering, etc will produce moisture that will makes it way up to the attic. If there is poor ventilation, the moisture gets trapped in the attic and can lead to mold problems.
Check your soffit vents and make sure they are free of insulation, bird nests, and other debris that could be blocking them and preventing proper air flow.
If you are unsure if the ventilation is ideal in your attic, contact a home inspector or give us a call so that we can take a look.
Causes Of Attic Mold: Fans Vented Into The Attic
Mold will grow if there is moisture, food, and warmth.
Poor building practices occur when the dryer vents, plumbing vents, kitchen or bathroom fans are vented into the attic.
Dryer exhaust vents, kitchen exhaust fans and bathroom exhaust fans are designed to pump moisture out of your home. Make sure that they are vented to the outside of your home and not in the attic.
Plumbing stacks in the attic can also be a source of condensation, which can lead to attic mold growth. Plumbing stacks can also emit hazardous gases, so make sure that they too do not terminate inside the attic.
If any of your vents are routed into the attic, hire a reputable contractor to re-route the vents to the outside of your house.
Why Does Mold Grow In My Attic?: Final Thoughts
Once the cause of your attic moisture issues are identified, then the next step is to determine if you have a mold problem.
Mold is nature’s recycler and will grow and proliferate when moisture is present.
Condensation in an attic, heat and humidity from household activities (cooking, showering, etc.), and the fact that the attic provides an excellent food source for mold, provides the ideal conditions.
All mold needs to grow is 24 to 48 hours and as long as the proper conditions exist, it will continue to proliferate.
If you do find mold in your attic, DO NOT use bleach or try to kill the mold!
The first step is to contact Mold B Gone for a mold inspection and air quality test.
During the inspection, tape or swab samples of suspected mold may also be taken and sent to a micro-biology lab.
Once the type of mold and spore count is determined, we will provide with a scope of work on the best way to remediate the mold in your attic.
Questions? Call 678-697-6267 or send us an e-mail. We look forward to serving you! 🙂
What’s Lurking In Your Attic Infographic
What’s Lurking In Your Attic Infographic
by Eric Brown | Feb 12, 2016 | Air Conditioning, Beware Of Mold When Buying A Home, Can Black Mold Poison You?, Can Mold Kill?, Crawlspace Mold, Health, Indoor Air Quality, Mold Facts, Mold Information, Mold Inspection, Mold Remediation, Mold Removal, Mold Removal Cost, Mold Sensitized Success Story, Questions and Answers, Stachybotrys Black Mold, Toxic Mold
Interview With Jack and Helen Graham: Mold Sensitized Success Story
Interview With Jack and Helen Graham: Mold Sensitized Success Story
For the past four years, I suffered from upper and lower digestive issues, extreme fatigue, and weakness. I was diagnosed with the lethal condition, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (unknown cause, hence no treatment). Later it was determined that the fibrosis was caused by acid reflux, which is treatable. I began to have difficulty breathing, which made me question the quality of our indoor air. The link between my health problems, poor indoor air quality and mold seems to be confirmed by the fact that when the house was retrofitted with new equipment and extensively cleaned my symptoms have largely been alleviated. Medical tests have shown improvement in my breathing and improved lung health. (Helen Graham)
The whole purpose of the Remediation for Sensitized Individuals course is to help sensitized individuals live healthier and better lives.
Johnny Wells, owner of Mold-B-Gone, invested in the training from Wonder Makers Environmental so that he can offer a higher level of service and expertise to individuals suffering from mold related illnesses. Johnny also works with Stephen Andrews of HealthyAirUSA, another graduate of the course. Together, they are serving the needs of mold sensitized individuals in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.
Below is an interview with Jack and Helen Graham, who hired Mold-B-Gone and HealthyAirUSA, to investigate the indoor air quality of their home and most importantly remediate the mold and make sure that the indoor air quality contributed to their health and well-being.
1. When was mold identified as the cause of your sickness?
17 years ago we moved into our 2800 square foot three story dream home, which was approximately 30 years old. We are very fastidious with the cleaning and maintenance of the home.
Within two years of moving in, we began to find leaking issues with sewer pipes and other pipes in the home. In addition to fixing these issues, over the years we also installed a new roof, flooring, chimney, outside exterior, windows, and doors. We even hired a restoration company to remediate some mold and dry out other areas in the home.
Despite our efforts to fix moisture issues and remediate mold, Helen’s health continued to deteriorate.
In Helen’s words:
“For the past four years, I suffered from upper and lower digestive issues, extreme fatigue, and weakness. I was diagnosed with the lethal condition, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (unknown cause, hence no treatment). Later it was determined that the fibrosis was caused by acid reflux. I began to have difficulty breathing, which made me question the quality of our indoor air.”
2. What caused the mold in your house?
The mold was not obvious. We had noticed there was more dust on our furniture, though we were keeping our furniture and interior surfaces very clean.
When the Mold-B-Gone specialists inspected our home they used high intensity lights shown at an angle and on nearly every surface there were tiny specks of white mold spores.
What we learned is that in any home here in the South where the humidity is almost always above 70% and where homes are air-conditioned, mold invariably exists, no matter how much one cleans. This is even more prevalent in older homes.
3. What remediation contractor did you use?
“After 71 years of health and physically energetic living, I experienced fatigue, shortness of breath, and bodily pains. A colleague I worked with 7 years ago was so sick and weak she had to crawl up her home stairs. After seeing her early this year, she was energetic, enjoying her career and family, and looked wonderful. We had switched places: she was healed, and I was quite sick. Her thriving health seemed miraculous, so I asked her how she became well.”
Initially we had another mold removal specialist do an inspection of our home. He took pictures inside the ducts and above the drop-down ceiling and wanted to remove all the ducts and air flow systems. The estimated cost was $59,000 and the time for completion was two months.
The price, time, and other factors seemed high. We felt scare tactics were employed hearing twice the unacceptable statement, “I am sure you want your wife to live, don’t you?” Both of us decided not to hire that company.
Helen’s condition continued to worsen. Luckily, one of Helen’s colleagues, who had chronic debilitating effects from mold, recommended HealthyAirUSA and Mold-B-Gone.
After their work was complete, her health improved dramatically.
Specifically, we hired them for three key reasons.
First, their assessment of the problems was thorough and very professional. They used specialized equipment to measure humidity and moisture levels in each area of the home.
Second, they educated us on the different types of mold and fungi and explained how they would resolve the problem. There is no shame in having home mold. We always thought homes get mold if they are not cleaned properly, so we have been conscientious about maintaining the cleanliness of our home.
Finally, the cost was reasonable. The total cost for remediation, including new equipment not proposed by the first remediator, was $22,000, and it would only take 6 to 8 days!
4. How long did it take for the work to be completed?
We were impressed by the persons in the crew, and enjoyed their professionalism, competence and respect for our home. We enjoyed being with them in the mornings before we left for work.
The work was finished in 8 days, as they predicted. They worked Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday to overhaul all the air flow systems and returned the next Monday for 5 days to clean every object in the home. We had the weekend to ourselves, which seemed miraculous to us!
They explained in advance exactly what was going to happen and did not miss a beat in holding to their schedule.
They completed the job exactly as they said they would. We were introduced to every person who came into our home, and given a full appraisal of their experience.
At the end of the job they checked the air quality in every room to ensure that the fungal ecology was at healthy levels.
5. What difference do you think it made working with a mold sensitized trained contractor?
Both of us noticed the effects of clean air immediately.
It made all the difference in the world to have a mold-sensitized trained contractor!
They knew what needed to be done. Both mold remediation, as well as the machinery and air circulation that were needed to cleanse the air and keep humidity at 40%, so mold could not be present.
They said that the air quality in the Master Bedroom was “surgical room quality.”
The air just seems “pure,” “fresh,” “hygienic,” “blue—if that is an image of cleanliness.”
We still have our house cleaned every two weeks, but the accumulation of dust is a tenth of what it was.
Perhaps the sense of the air quality is physiological, perhaps it is psychological, but Helen feels her breathing and energy are much better. I (Jack) have always grown up in old musty-smelling houses, but now that we have become educated about the harmful effects of mold, we are most grateful for the quality of this home improvement, and for the trust that we have experienced in the people who did this work.
6. What were the main steps/processes involved in the remediation?
After we made the decision to get the work done, we met with Johnny of Mold-B-Gone and Stephen of HealthyAirUSA as soon as possible. They told us that it would take 6-8 days and were very clear about what would happen on each day. We had assumed we would have to move out while the work was being done, yet they said that would not be necessary…what superb news!
With respect to specific steps, this is what they did.
They brought in a top tier duct cleaning service using 10,000 lbs of suction pressure. Then the edges of every duct opening where it meets the ceiling, were sealed. A large HEPA Air Cleaning system was added above the Master Bedroom. Then a large dehumidifier was added to dry out the entire house and keep the humidity of the house at a constant 47 percent, a level where no mold can grow and yet the wood does not dry and crack. The ceiling tiles in the lower level were all removed and cleaned on both sides and re-installed, the wood joists and all surfaces were coated with a mold preventative.
Once this step was completed, Mold-B-Gone brought in their team of five technicians who did a basement to roof cleaning of every surface and object, wiping every surface with a mold prevention cleaner developed by Johnny Wells. They were meticulous, cleaning every lamp, every object, every picture, every piece of furniture turned upside down, every drawer removed, emptied, cleaned, the contents cleaned, every one of about 3000 books individually cleaned. They took particular interest and care in cleaning about 60 antiquity objects dating from 5000 BCE to about 850 CE. This process took five days and they cleaned 12 rooms, including the garage.
For added “peace of mind”, there was a site supervisor that ensured that each step documented for us was followed through upon.
7. Further thoughts?
We highly recommend HealthyAirUSA and Mold-B-Gone because of the care and respect they demonstrated for the contents of home. Most importantly, they were easy to work with, friendly, and did an exceptional job.
Months after they were finished, Mold-B-Gone returned to investigate the mold on the caulking of the master shower. When Johnny and his staff supervisor, Rick, arrived it was liking seeing cherished friends. They are excellent professionals, fun and down-to-earth. They removed the contaminated caulking and re-caulked the shower and even brought ladders in to replace light bulbs in the hall entry at no extra cost.
Working with them was a marvelous experience because of their attitude, work ethic, and outstanding work. We have already referred friends and family to Mold-B-Gone and HealthyAirUSA because of their exceptional service.
We highly recommend Mold-B-Gone because of the care and respect they demonstrated for the contents of our home. Most importantly, they were easy to work with, friendly, and did an exceptional job!
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by Eric Brown | Jan 25, 2016 | Basement Mold, Beware Of Mold When Buying A Home, Flood Clean Up, Health, Indoor Air Quality, Killing Mold, Mold Facts, Mold Information, Mold Inspection, Mold Remediation, Mold Removal, Mold Removal Cost, Questions and Answers, Top 15 Mold Prevention Tips, Toxic Mold, Water Damage Restoration
The Key To Mold Prevention Is Moisture Control!
The Key To Mold Prevention Is Moisture Control!
Mold spores are all around us, outside and indoors. Mold actually serves a purpose in our eco-system to consume dead organic materials.
Problems with mold arise indoors primarily because our homes are made of dead organic materials, meaning mold can grow anywhere in your home: on carpet, clothing, food, paper, and even in places you can’t see, such as the backside of drywall, areas inside walls around leaking or condensing pipes, and above ceiling tiles.
The simplest way to detect a mold problem is using your own senses. A musty odor is one indication. Not only is mold smelly, but can be many different colors from black and gray to orange and green. Watermarks on the ceiling and walls are also a telltale sign.
There are two key reasons, you should be concerned about preventing mold.
First, mold can be difficult and costly to remove.
Second, mold can produce allergens, irritants, and mycotoxins that can compromise your health. Because mold spores are very small and can easily be inhaled into the lungs, it is harmful to live in a home with high mold levels.
Mold Can Compromise Your Health
Mold growth can be prevented. Mold growing in your home requires moisture, warmth, and food. Depriving mold of any of these three items will stop it from growing, but it will not kill the mold that is already there. Mold spores will remain dormant, and if the moisture, warmth and food all reappear, mold will begin to grow again.
So what can you do if you’re concerned about mold growing in your home?
Listed below are the top 15 mold prevention tips.
The Top 15 Mold Prevention Tips
Mold Prevention Tip #1: Audit Your Home For Problem Areas!
It is difficult to mold-proof a home. However, you can take proactive steps to determine if you have problems that could lead to mold concerns.
Does the basement flood?
Do you notice frequent condensation on windows?
Is there a water stain on the ceiling from a persistent leak?
Is your basement damp?
Does water flow into your home’s foundation?
Addressing these questions may entail some upfront costs to fix, but it will be worth the investment in preventing future mold problems.
It is also important to note that if you are renovating your home or considering building a new home, that you may want to consider researching mold prevention products, including mold-resistant drywall and sheetrock, and mold inhibitors for paints.
Mold-resistant drywall is recommended because traditional drywall is made up of gypsum plaster core pressed between piles of paper, making it highly susceptible to mold. What this means is that in the presence of moisture and water, traditional drywall acts like a sponge absorbing the moisture leading to mold. Since traditional drywall is so porous, the only remedy to removing the mold is to tear out the drywall.
In contrast, mold-resistant drywall is paperless because the gypsum core is covered in fiberglass, meaning it is water-resistant and therefore less susceptible to mold growth. Moisture resistance drywall should be used in bathrooms, laundry rooms, basements, and kitchens because these areas of the home are most prone to moisture.
Mold Prevention Tip #2: Dry Wet Materials Immediately!
Mold can not grow without moisture and given the right conditions, it will begin growing within 24 to 48 hours.
With this in mind, tackle we areas right away.
- Don’t leave wet clothes or other items lying around the house, dry them outside if possible.
- Dry spills on carpet and floors.
- Dry your clothes after washing them by putting them in the dryer soon after the wash cycle is complete.
- If heavy rainfall causes seepage into your basement, make sure you dry the area promptly and contact a company to waterproof your basement to prevent future occurrences.
- If you experience a flood event, dispose of water-damaged carpets, bedding, and furniture if they can not be dried completely. Ideally, contact a restoration company to manage the clean up and drying process.
Mold Prevention Tip #3: Clean, Disinfect, and Dry Surfaces!
Vacuum and clean regularly to remove possible sources of mold growth.
Pay special attention to bathrooms and other areas of your home that are likely to generate a lot of moisture.
Non-porous surfaces (tile, stone, laminate) can be cleaned well with disinfectants and other cleaners.
Mold Prevention Tip #4: Repair Water Leaks!
Repair water leaks in your roof, windows, or any other part of the home as soon as possible.
Over time, constant leaks will cause moisture to buildup leading to mold growth.
Mold Prevention Tip #5: Use Area Rugs!
In portions of your home that are susceptible to moisture, use area rugs or washable floor surfaces rather than wall-to-wall carpeting. If you use area rugs, launder them periodically.
Mold Prevention Tip #6: Increase Air Flow!
Prevent moisture buildup by increasing the air flow within your home. Without good air flow, excess moisture can appear on your walls, windows, and floors.
To increase air circulation, open doors between rooms, move furniture away from walls, and open doors to closets.
In addition, open windows to allow fresh air to flow indoors.
If you don’t already have an HVAC system that has an outside air intake to bring in a steady stream of outside air, consider installing one.
Mold Prevention Tip #7: Proper Ventilation!
Routine daily activities such as cooking, taking a shower, and washing laundry can create excess moisture in your home.
Prevent moisture with proper ventilation.
Vent appliances that produce moisture (clothes dryers and stoves) to the outside, not to the attic or crawl space.
Use AC units and dehumidifiers (especially in humid climates), but make sure they don’t produce moisture themselves by checking them periodically and cleaning them as directed by the manufacturer.
Energy-efficient homes are prone to holding moisture inside. For this reason, it is important that you open windows or use exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom (especially when you are showering).
Mold Prevention Tip #8: Make Sure Your Storage Room Is Dry!
Most homeowners have a room where they store materials such as books, clothes, camping gear, and other occasional use items.
It is important that you check the humidity of your storage room and make sure that there is no excess moisture because most of the materials you are storing are ample sources of food for mold.
Ideally, use your garage, a well built shed that prevents moisture intrusion, or a dry storage unit and not the inside of your home. Make sure there is air circulating in the storage area as well.
Mold Prevention Tip #9: Control Humidity!
Clues that your home has excess humidity include condensation on windows, pipes, and walls. If you notice condensation, dry the surface immediately and address the source of moisture, and invest in a dehumidifier if necessary.
To measure the humidity levels in your home, purchase a moisture meter from your local hardware store.
Ideally, the indoor humidity of your home should be between 30 and 60 percent.
In the winter, it is recommended that humidity levels are below 40 percent to prevent condensation from appearing on the windows.
Mold Prevention Tip #10: Check Your Attic!
Make sure that your exhaust fans are not venting into the attic because this will create excess moisture and lead to mold.
Also, your attic needs ventilation as well, so check this.
Insulation is important, particularly in cooler climates because snow accumulation on the roof can lead to ice damning issues which will cause moisture issues.
Mold Prevention Tip #11: Check Your Crawl Space!
Most homes in the Southern United States have crawl spaces.
Crawl spaces are a breeding ground for mold because there is so much excess humidity.
Mold growth in the crawl space is a particular concern because it will also impact the indoor air quality of your home.
If you find excess moisture or mold issues in your crawl space, then the area should be cleaned properly and the mold removed. To prevent future mold issues, wall-to-wall guide, durable, 14 mil vapor barrier should be installed over the ground and up sidewalls to 6 inches below floor joists. Installation of a dehumidifier will also help control humidity.
Mold Prevention Tip #12: Prevent Basement Condensation!
The cool basement floor and walls can be a source of moisture build-up, leading to mold and that musty smell many encounter in their basements.
To prevent condensation and future moisture issues, improve air circulation, run a dehumidifier, and install a foundation drain.
Ideally, make sure the basement walls are insulated properly to keep the walls warm and limit condensation.
As a final note, if you find that there is moisture intrusion into your basement through seepage, consider hiring a contractor to water proof the area.
Mold Prevention Tip #13: Direct Water Away From Your Home!
One of the best methods to prevent seepage into your crawlspace or basement is to ensure that water around your home sufficiently slopes away from the foundation of your home.
Do not put gardens or plants too close to your foundation so that watering them could cause water to flow toward your house.
If you water your lawn with a sprinkler, make sure the water does not hit your house or the area next to the foundation.
Mold Prevention Tip #14: Keep Your Gutters and Downspouts Clear of Debris!
Debris in your gutters or downspouts could block the flow of water from your roof. To prevent water accumulation, clean your gutters regularly and have them inspected for damage. It is also a good idea to check your ceiling for water stains, particularly after heavy storms.
In addition, make sure the area under your downspouts is properly graded so that rainwater from the roof flows away from your foundation. If the water is not flowing away from the foundation, extend your downspouts.
Mold Prevention Tip #15: Check Your Plants For Mold!
Plants help keep your indoor air clean. Unfortunately, mold grows in the soil of house plants and can also grow on the leaves, leading to higher levels of mold spores in the home. To hinder mold growth in plant soil, add some Taheebo tea to your house plant water in a mild solution. The oil of this tree, which withstands fungi even in rain forests, helps hinder mold growth in plant soil and can be found at natural food stores.
Questions? Mold B Gone is here to help. We are mold removal and mold prevention specialists backing our services with a minimum guarantee of 1 year. Call 678-697-6267 or send us an e-mail.
The infographic below is an exceptional summary of mold. Enjoy!
Mold Summary
by Eric Brown | Jan 15, 2016 | Air Conditioning, Basement Mold, Bleach and Mold, Can Black Mold Poison You?, Can Mold Kill?, Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS), Flood Clean Up, Health, Indoor Air Quality, Killing Mold, Mold and Asthma, Mold and Depression, Mold and Multiple Sclerosis, Mold and Parkinson's Disease, Mold and Sinusitis, Mold Facts, Mold In Apartment, Mold Information, Mold Inspection, Mold Remediation, Mold Removal, Questions and Answers, Stachybotrys Black Mold, Toxic Mold, Water Damage Restoration
Steps Residents of Georgia Can Take If They Have Mold In Their Apartment!
Steps Residents of Georgia Can Take If They Have Mold In Their Apartment!
In the past month there have been two high profile stories in Georgia concerning the issue of mold in apartments:
- Renter says childrens’ safety jeopardized due to possible mold in apartment.
- Commissioner takes apartment mold problem into his own hands.
The purpose of this article is to explain what steps you can take if you have mold in your rental property.
Why Is Mold One of the Biggest Concerns of Tenants In Georgia?
Based on a tenant review website, the five most common complaints of tenants include the following:
- Unfair bond claims
- Black mold
- Illegal landlord access
- Severe water damage
- Attitude toward tenants
An environmental hazard, mold is a type of microscopic fungi that thrives in moist conditions, and is very prevalent in humid climates. It grows on any organic material including wood, paper, drywall, tiles, wall paneling, paint, rugs and fibers.
Colonies of mold, like like stachybotrys, penicillium, aspergilus, paecilomyces, and fusarium, can cover a large area and are usually black, white, grey, brown, green, or gray. Some molds are powdery or shiny and can give off a musty or mildewy smell. Unfortunately, not all mold is visible and can be hidden or covered in the areas such as a vent; underneath a refrigerator, radiator, or sink; under the floor or a ceiling; or behind a wall.
Common causes of moisture include the following:
- leaky pipes or radiators (including leaks that occur between the walls or floors);
- broken or poorly sealed windows;
- a damaged roof;
- a damaged or deteriorated section of brickwork or the building’s facade;
- water coming from a neighboring apartment (leaks; regular spilling or flooding);
- air ducts;
- poor ventilation, especially in a bathroom;
- standing water (such as in a basement);
- flooding
There are two key problems caused by mold. First, it damages the surfaces it grows on, which could eventually cause structural problems. Second, it can also cause serious health problems. Depending on your sensitivity to mold and the extent of the mold growth, you may be forced move out of your apartment if mold is present.
Inhalation of mold spores released into the air can cause illness. Some molds cause serious health concerns, especially for young children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems.
Healthy people constantly exposed to mold can also develop severe illnesses and allergies when exposed to mold.
Illnesses related to mold growth include allergic reactions (fever, itching, rashes, eye problems, breathing difficulties, etc), chronic fatigue, chronic sinusitis, nausea, diarrhea, headaches, nose bleeds, cognitive losses, asthma, and severe respiratory problems.
Severe illnesses, including hemorrhaging lungs, is caused by mycotoxins, chemicals produced by some harmful molds–mycotoxins can induce allergies and chronic, severe health problems in previously healthy people.
Considering all the potential health problems mold can cause, here are some research tips you may want to consider when you are searching for an apartment.
Steps To Avoid Mold Problems When Renting An Apartment In Georgia
One of the biggest steps you can take to avoid mold concerns is to properly research your rental before committing to a lease with a landlord.
Consider these factors in your research:
- Basement apartments tend to be more prone to damp and moisture issues, so if mold is a concern, you may want to avoid renting this type of unit.
- If you are renting in a multi-story building, find out if there have been any flooding issues in the basement. If so, best to avoid renting because if the building had a wet basement, there could be mold growing and since the HVAC system is located in the basement, mold spores will circulate in all units.
- Check the unit for bathroom and kitchen fans. If there are none, then do not rent the unit because the building will likely have moisture issues and mold.
- Ideally, rent a unit without carpet. However, if you are considering renting a unit with carpet, find out how old it is and if possible, get the landlord to change it before you move in.
- Try to find out as much about the building history, specifically, does the building have a history of roof or plumbing leaks. If so, avoid renting because there will undoubtedly be mold.
Bottom line, as the tenant you are the customer of the landlord, so you have the right to choose who you rent from and should do your due diligence before you rent.
The infographic below, courtesy of Rocket Lawyer, emphasizes the need to do your due diligence before signing a lease and the necessity of creating a paper trail in the event of a future dispute.
Steps To Avoid Mold Problems When Renting An Apartment
Landlord/Tenant Responsibilities In Georgia
Generally speaking, as a tenant you have the right to live in a clean and habitable environment. Your landlord is responsible for offering you a safe environment to live in and must repair issues such as leaky pipes, roofs, and windows, which could create moisture issues that lead to mold.
Regardless of where you live, you should expect the following from your landlord:
- Follow all health and safety laws so the building, apartments, and common areas are safe. (Common areas include the driveway, yard, halls, and laundry rooms.)
- Make all repairs needed to keep your apartment fit and livable.
- Keep all electrical, plumbing, heating, ventilation, appliances, and other landlord supplied features, such as elevators and appliances working and safe.
- Provide containers for trash and arrange for its removal.
- Supply heating, running water, and hot water.
- Repair cracked, chipped, or peeling paint.
- Remove paint that contains dangerous and illegal amounts of lead. Lead is very dangerous for small children and pregnant women.
As a renter, you should:
- Follow all housing and fire codes that apply to you.
- Keep your apartment as clean and safe as possible, including sinks, toilets, tubs, and appliances.
- Put all trash in the containers supplied by the landlord.
- Use all services and facilities, such as the elevator, laundry room, and heating, reasonably.
- Not destroy, damage, or take any property or allow anyone else to do so. You may have to pay the landlord if you or your family or guests cause damage that is more than normal wear and tear.
- Not disturb your neighbors or allow any of your guests to do so.
- Obey all of your landlord’s rules if they are reasonable, clear, apply to all tenants, and you were told about the rule(s).
- Pay the rent, even if your apartment needs repairs, unless the court says otherwise.
- Let the landlord into your apartment, if the request to go in is reasonable.
Landlord / Tenant Mold Dispute Resolution Steps In Georgia
“If there’s one thing a renter should do, it is properly documenting the condition of the unit during the pre-move-in inspection. Tenants may be quick to check all the boxes saying everything is fine, and landlords will use that against a tenant later or when a request for repair is made. Renters need to keep in mind that they have basic rights to have their unit maintained in good condition. A landlord can’t force you to “give up having a working heater” or take the unit “as-is” when there are known problems. Tenants can demand repairs even if they signed provisions to that effect. Tenants often worry about rocking the boat and getting asked to leave if they complain. It is illegal for a landlord to retaliate against a tenant simply because a tenant is requesting repairs.” (San Francisco landlord-tenant attorney Michael Bracamontes)
There would not be a need for lawyers, if all disputes between landlords and tenants could be settled amicably. Unfortunately, there are no federal laws that set permissible exposure limits or building tolerance standards for mold in residential buildings in the United States, so the legal recourse you may have depends largely on where you live.
Some states like California, Indiana, Maryland, New Jersey, and Texas have passed laws aimed at developing guidelines and regulations for mold in indoor air. In addition, some municipalities, like New York City have have enacted ordinances related to mold.
If you live outside of Georgia and are seeking information on mold rules and regulations in your state, check with your state department of environmental protection or your state department of public health. For local mold-related rules, contact your city manager or mayor’s office or local health department. Click here for a useful website to find state and local governments online.
There is no federal or Georgia law establishing permissible levels of mold indoors. There may be local laws, but state environmental officials say these codes generally do not contain or enforce mold standards.
So, as a renter it becomes vital to read your lease, and know your general rights as a tenant. When you lease a home, landlords normally provide tenants with a mold addendum.
It goes into how to avoid mold, what to do if you see mold, who to report it to, etc. Sometimes landlords are responsive, and sometimes they’re not.
Considering the above information, the guidelines below will help you resolve any dispute you may have with your landlord, particularly if you have a mold concern.
- Mold is caused by moisture, so the most important action you can take is to report any potential sources of moisture, including water leaks from the ceiling, under the sink, in your bathroom, etc. It is also very important that you report any water stains on walls or ceilings that could be indicative of a leak.
- Once you report the concern, document it with written records and pictures. Keeping proper records is essential. Hopefully, the moisture concerns will be addressed in a timely and professional manner by your landlord.
- If mold begins to grow, report this to your landlord and properly document the mold complaint with pictures and a written letter documenting your concerns. A paper trail is essential.
- Also, if you think the mold is making you sick, begin to document your health issues. When did your health begin to deteriorate? When did you start seeking medical attention? How much have you spent on prescriptions, doctor visits, etc.? How many days have you been off work? Document your medical condition from when you began getting sick and track all costs, time off from work, etc. to build your case, in the event you need to seek legal remedies.
- Once your complaints are filed with the landlord, it is up to the landlord to fix the problems and if there is mold have it professionally removed.
- If your landlord ignores your request, delays too long or doesn’t take adequate action to solve the problem, you may have legal remedies.
- Your next step is to contact your local and state governments, contact your health department, and find out if there is a local tenants’ union or other consumer rights organization dealing with landlord tenant issues in your area. Before you contact an attorney, do your due diligence and try to use all existing dispute resolution systems in place in your city and state.
- If all else fails, contact an attorney for assistance.
You may need to prove that there is mold in your apartment which may mean that you need to pay for a mold inspection or indoor air quality test.
In addition, it is important that you do not withhold rent, move out, or take further actions until you get proper advice from your attorney.
Hopefully, the information above is a starting point. Listed below are helpful resources to seek out further information and guidance if you have mold in your apartment.
Georgia Resources To Seek Out Further Information and Guidance If You Have Mold In Your Apartment
- Georgia Legal Aid: Georgia’s guide to free legal information and legal services, including answers to whether landlords are responsible for repairs.
- Georgia Landlord Tenant Handbook: This guide is published by the Georgia Department of Public Affairs
- National Conference of State Legislatures: Search for environmental laws in yours, or surrounding states.
- UGA Cooperative Extension: Read what University of Georgia experts have to say about mold.
Questions? We are here to help and guarantee all of our work. If you have a mold or air quality concern that you think is adversely affecting the health of your family call us, 678-697-6267 or send us an e-mail.
