Unavoidable Signs Your Ducts Should Be Cleaned

Unavoidable Signs Your Ducts Should Be Cleaned

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.

Mold Testing: How to Test for Mold in Your Home

Mold Testing: How to Test for Mold in Your Home

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.

How Fast Does Black Mold Grow?

How Fast Does Black Mold Grow?

Mold can be a severe problem in homes and businesses. Not only is the mold unsightly, but it can cause health problems for people who breathe in the spores.

One of the dangerous types of mold is black mold. Also professionally known as Stachybotrys chartarum, black mold produces mycotoxins, which can cause serious health issues.

Black mold grows in damp, humid environments and can appear as greenish-black or black spots.

Read more: What Causes Black Mold?

It’s essential to understand how fast black mold grows on concrete and other surfaces so that you take the necessary steps to prevent it from taking hold in your home or business. Black mold usually starts growing in ideal conditions in 24 to 48 hours. We will also discuss health issues with black mold and factors that influence mold growth in your home or business.

What Are the Health Issues With Black Mold?

Black mold, known as Stachybotrys chartarum or Stachybotrys atra, is a fungus that can cause serious health issues if left untreated. These include:

  • Respiratory problems, including coughing and sneezing, asthma attacks, and chronic sinus infections.
  • Eye irritation, such as burning eyes or watery eyes.
  • Skin problems, with redness and itching being the most common symptoms.
  • Various neurological issues, such as headaches and fatigue.
  • In extreme cases, black mold can cause nausea and vomiting.

Patients with weakened immune systems, as well as infants, children, and older adults, are especially vulnerable to its effects.

Factors That Affect How Fast Black Mold Grows

Mold only needs a few essential components to grow and thrive: moisture, warmth, food source, and oxygen. Here are the factors that can affect how quickly black mold grows:

Humidity:

Mold will grow faster in moist, humid environments. High relative humidity (RH) means more moisture is available for the mold to feed off, causing it to grow faster. Places like bathrooms and basements are typically more humid, making them ideal environments for mold growth.

Temperature:

Warm temperatures help black mold reproduce quickly. The warmer the environment, the faster it will grow. Locations with higher temperatures, such as attics, will experience faster mold growth than rooms with lower temperatures.

Food Source:

Different molds require different food sources to survive. Black mold grows on organic materials like wood and paper high in cellulose. To grow faster, it needs a consistent source of these materials.

Oxygen:

Mold needs oxygen to survive and reproduce. Without it, the mold won’t be able to grow. Black mold can also reproduce anaerobically (without oxygen) in small amounts, substantially slowing its growth.

What Should You Do While Waiting for Mold Remediation Services?

If you have noticed telltale signs of black mold in your homes, such as discoloration, musty smells, and even health issues, you may:

a) Seal off the area until a mold remediation service arrives

b) Contact your insurer and file a claim

c) Increase ventilation in the affected rooms to reduce moisture levels

d) Clean up any remaining water or spills and all porous materials (like carpeting and drywall).

Contact Mold-B-Gone for expert mold inspection in Atlanta. We have a team of certified professionals available to answer any questions about mold growth, particularly black mold.

What Do You need to Know About White Mold?

What Do You need to Know About White Mold?

Mold comes in many shapes and colors, but did you know that there is a type of mold that is white? White mold, also known as Aspergillus, is a type of fungus that can cause respiratory problems. Organisms such as mold and fungus can wreak havoc in your home if left unchecked.

People often confuse white mold with mildew, which is also a type of fungus. Although white mold and mildew may look alike, they affect the body differently. Mildew is more common in wet climates, while white mold prefers warmer temperatures and high humidity levels.

Read more: Mold vs. Fungus: Their Similarities and Differences

Here, we will discuss what white mold is, its health effects, and how you can safely remove it from your home.

What Is White Mold?

White mold is a fungus that can grow in areas with excessive moisture and humidity. White mold looks like a white, fuzzy material and often appears on organic materials such as wood, paper, insulation, drywall, wallpaper, or other cellulose-based materials. It may also appear in damp corners of rooms or around windows and doors.

What Are the Common Causes of White Mold?

White mold is a type of fungus which thrives in damp and humid environments. Common causes of white mold can include:

a) Leaky pipes, windows, or roofs:

When there is a leak in the home, it can allow moisture to accumulate in areas that may not usually be damp. This provides an ideal environment for white mold to thrive.

b) Insufficient ventilation:

Poor air circulation and ventilation can cause excess humidity and moisture in the home. This will create an environment that is favorable for white mold to grow.

c) Flooding:

When flooding occurs, it can create a perfect environment for white mold growth.

d) Improperly maintained HVAC systems:

If the insulation and filters of an HVAC system are not regularly checked and changed, they can become saturated with moisture, creating a perfect environment for white mold.

How To Identify White Mold?

White mold is identified by its color, usually white or grayish. It can also have a powdery or fuzzy texture. Other signs of white mold include unpleasant musty odors, water spots on walls and ceilings, discolored patches on walls and floors, and black spots on wood surfaces. Efflorescence, a white powdery substance found on basement walls, indicates white mold growth.

How Does White Mold Affect Your Health?

White mold can cause various health problems, from mild symptoms like hay fever and sneezing to more severe issues such as respiratory infections and skin problems. When exposed to the spores of white mold, some people may experience allergic reactions, including runny noses, watery eyes, coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. Those with respiratory conditions, such as asthma, may be particularly vulnerable to the effects of white mold.

Long-term exposure can also lead to breathing problems and other illnesses. It is essential to take action as soon as you notice any signs of white mold in your home or office to prevent potential health risks.

White fluffy mold is dangerous and should be taken seriously. For expert mold removal in Atlanta, contact Mold-B-Gone Remediation Services. We have the experience and knowledge to resolve your mold concerns effectively.

Can Basement Mold Make You Sick?

Can Basement Mold Make You Sick?

Mold can be a severe issue. It can cause health problems and damage to your property.

Basements are the perfect breeding ground for mold. The combination of darkness, moisture, and lack of ventilation creates the perfect environment for mold to grow.

Mold produces allergens that can cause respiratory problems, skin irritation, and other health issues. In some cases, mold can even produce toxins that can harm your health.

Hence, it is essential to call mold remediation for your basement as soon as you see any signs of mold.

Read more: Health Benefits of Mold Remediation

Experts will take care of the problem quickly and efficiently to ensure your home’s safety and integrity.

We will explain what causes mold, its health risks, and how our mold remediation services can help you get rid of it for good.

What Are the Causes of Mold Growth in Basements?

1) Poor ventilation – Moisture-laden air can condense on cold surfaces, leading to mold growth.

2) Water leaks – Leaks from pipes, foundation cracks, or other sources can introduce moisture into the basement, promoting mold growth.

3) Flooding – Basements are susceptible to flooding, leading to mold problems.

What Are the Health Effects of Mold?

1) Mold can cause nasal stuffiness, throat irritation, coughing, or wheezing.

2) People with asthma or who are allergic to mold may have more intense reactions.

3) Mold exposure can lead to inflammation of the airways and lungs.

4) Mold exposure is linked to neurological conditions and illnesses, including memory loss and depression.

How To Identify the Different Types of Mold?

1) Black Mold

These fungi are commonly found in bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. They thrive in places with high humidity or water leaks. They are also mildew and can cause many respiratory problems if inhaled.

2) White Mold

This type of mold is often found in food like bread, cheese, and fruits. It can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea if ingested.

3) Toxic Mold

This is the most dangerous type of mold as it can release mycotoxins into the air, which can be inhaled and cause serious health problems.

How Do Experts Help With Mold Removal from Basements?

1. Identify the Location and Extent of Mold Growth

This will help determine the best way to remove the mold.

2. Contain the Mold

Containing will prevent it from spreading to other areas of your home. This can be done by establishing a physical barrier, such as using negative pressure to keep mold spores from traveling through the air or using natural barriers like plants.

3. Eliminate the Source of Moisture

Mold needs water to grow, so eliminating the source of moisture is essential to preventing it from returning. This can be done by fixing leaks, increasing ventilation, or using a dehumidifier.

4. Remove the Mold

Once the mold has been contained and the source of moisture eliminated, the mold can be removed. This can be done through cleaning, sanding, and HEPA vacuuming.

5. Clean the Affected Area

After removing the mold, the area should be cleaned with soap and water. Any porous materials that have been affected by mold should be thrown away.

If you are searching for a mold specialist in Atlanta, contact Mold B Gone. We will come to your home and inspect for mold. Our process is simple: we find the mold, we kill the mold, and we remove the mold. We also offer a warranty on all of our work.

Black Mold: An Introduction To Prevention And Identification

Black Mold: An Introduction To Prevention And Identification

Mold is found in many households in the U.S., and while it can be unsightly, it’s usually not a cause for alarm. It is a fungus commonly found in damp areas and can cause serious health problems if left unchecked. The primary difference between mold and fungus is that mold is green or black, while fungus can be any color.

Also, a fungus is composed of microscopic spores, while a mold is composed of filaments. The fungus typically grows on food or soil, while mold usually grows on damp surfaces.

Read more: Mold vs. Fungus: Their Similarities and Differences

Black mold can be black, green, or brown. It’s often found in damp areas, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. If left unchecked, black mold can cause serious health problems.

Read on to learn about black mold and its dangers.

What Is Black Mold?

Black mold, known as Stachybotrys chartarum, is a mold that thrives in damp, dark environments. It’s often found in homes and buildings damaged by water or flooding. Black mold can cause serious health problems, including respiratory illness, neurological damage, and even death.

Signs of a Black Mold Infestation in Your Home

1) Visible Mold Growth

You can find black mold anywhere in your home where there is moisture, such as in damp basements, showers, or leaky pipes. The mold may appear as black specks, streaks, or blotches and can quickly spread if not removed.

2) Musty Odors

Black mold emits a gas called mycotoxin, which smells musty. If you notice this musty smell, it’s essential to investigate further to see if mold is present.

3) Respiratory Problems

When inhaled, black mold can cause several respiratory problems, including:

  • Asthma
  • Allergies
  • Bronchitis
  • Inflammation of the lungs
  • In severe cases, black mold inhalation can even lead to death.

How To Prevent or Get Rid of Black Mold: Tips

1) Ventilation

Adequate ventilation is key to preventing the growth of mold. Be sure to ventilate any areas in your home prone to moisture, such as the kitchen and bathroom. Use exhaust fans or open windows to help circulate air and keep these areas dry.

2) Humidity

Mold thrives in humid environments, so it’s essential to keep the humidity level in your home low. Use a dehumidifier to help remove excess moisture from the air.

3) Water Damage

One of the most common ways mold enters the home is through water damage. If your home has experienced flooding or a leak, dry the area thoroughly and repair any damage to prevent mold from growing.

4) Cleaning

A good cleaning routine is essential for preventing the growth of mold. Be sure to clean any areas of your home prone to moisture, such as the kitchen and bathroom. Use a mild detergent and water to clean these areas

5) Mold-resistant products

Many products, like paints, caulk, sealants, etc., have mold-resistant features. You can use these products in areas more prone to moisture and susceptible to black mold growth.

While black mold may not be as toxic as other types of mold, it can still pose serious health risks. Exposure to black mold can cause several respiratory problems, including coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing.

You may wonder if cleaning or removing black mold is safe. It is better to call experts for mold removal in Atlanta, like Mold B Gone. We use the best EPA-registered products, and our approach is always efficient and effective.

Australian Woman’s Home Demolished Because of Mold Infestation

Australian Woman’s Home Demolished Because of Mold Infestation

23-year-old Juliana, from New South Wales, Australia, had to be evicted from her home after authorities condemned it. The cause? A rampant mold infestation caused by a year of damp, wet weather.

“It’s really disgusting,” she told to NCA NewsWire. “It started out just in the corners of our bedrooms and living area, but at this point it’s taken over most of the walls and roofing spaces. Even after multiple attempts to remove it, it keeps growing back thicker and in new spots.”

Juliana and her two roommates were all affected. The mold spread to their personal belongings and may be the cause of a mysterious illness.

“Both of my roommates have been sick for the past six months with no explanation – a constant cough and runny nose,” Juliana said. “We’re pretty certain this is from the mold growing in their bedrooms.”

Even though they tried to deal with it themselves, the constant rain and damp weather created the perfect conditions for the mold to re-emerge. Their landlord stepped in to try and deal with the problem, but it was to no avail.

Ultimately, the three housemates had to leave the home because it was condemned.

She’s not the only one that has been dealing with mold. People living in places like Georgia, with humid climates and damp winters, are at increased risk of mold in their homes.

What Are The Signs of Mold In My Home?

Mold development can be concealed. Mold may develop behind walls or above ceiling tiles. Therefore, inspecting for mold in any wet area is critical, especially if water damage has occurred.

Begin by performing a visual survey of your home. Look for stains or discoloration on floors, walls, window panes, ceiling tiles, textiles, and carpets that indicate mold or excessive moisture. Examine the area for evident leaks, dampness, floods, or a musty stench. If you detect anything strange, take immediate action!

How Can I Remove Mold From My Home?

Do not attempt to remove mold yourself. Although mold seems simple to kill, it is not simple to eliminate. One mold spore can spawn a huge infestation quickly. Many landlords and homeowners are tempted to remove mold by themselves to save on costs. However, the risk is much greater than the initial cost of mold remediation and is seldom done correctly. If the mold gets out of control, you might need to have your home demolished like Juliana’s home was.

We recommend hiring the most trusted professional in your area. If you’re in or around Atlanta, Mold-B-Gone is an excellent choice.

Mold-B-Gone: Atlanta’s Mold Remediation Experts

Our highly skilled team of certified mold removal experts specializes in whole-house cleaning. We have done mold removal services for thousands of homes and companies in Atlanta over the years and never failed a test on any house or commercial structure. Since we opened our doors, we have had a 100% rating for our mold cleaning service in Atlanta. Give us a call at (470) 545-4467 today!

What is Green Mold, and How Do You Get Rid of It?

What is Green Mold, and How Do You Get Rid of It?

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.

How to Remove Mold from Wood: Expert Tips and Tricks

How to Remove Mold from Wood: Expert Tips and Tricks

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.

How Hidden Mold Almost Killed A Healthy 37-Year-Old Woman

How Hidden Mold Almost Killed A Healthy 37-Year-Old Woman

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.