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. Consult with your Real Estate Agent and ask them to call Mold B Gone, 470-545-4467; for a limited time we are offering mold inspections.
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.
If you are buying a new home, you may think that mold will not be an issue either. New does not necessarily mean mold 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:
Mold Remediation Can Be Costly!
Real Estate Agents Are Not Mold Experts!
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.
As mentioned earlier in this article, consult with your Real Estate Agent and ask them to call Mold B Gone, 470-545-4467; for a limited time we are offering mold inspections.
Got Mold Questions?
We are mold inspection, detection, and removalexperts. Call us, 470-545-4467, or contact us via e-mail. We look forward to serving you! 🙂
Are You Buying or Selling A #Moldy Home? | Atlanta GA | Mold-B-Gone https://t.co/tGIGFvU9jQ Does the home you are buying or selling have #mold? This article lists the top 3 reasons why you should get a mold inspection before buying or selling a home! PLS RT pic.twitter.com/SGO0pWJo1H
September 2017 marks the 9th annual Mold Awareness Month started by the National Indoor Mold Society:
“The purpose of National Indoor Toxic Mold Awareness Month is to inform, educate, and raise awareness about the adverse health effects due to exposure of indoor molds and mycotoxins.” (Executive Director, Letitia Peters)
“The reason that mycotoxins are suspected of poisoning people is based on both science and observational connections. “Mycotoxin” is the term that scientists use for a variety of chemical compounds that are produced by fungi during their growth cycle (the official term for mycotoxins is “secondary metabolites”). The suffix toxin is found at the end of the word mycotoxin because a great number of these mold-produced chemicals have been proven to be poisonous to both insects and animals—including people.”
One of the goals of Mold B Gone is to educate consumers in the Atlanta, Georgia area about mold. We believe that every month should be mold awareness month. Since launching this site, we have had nearly 68,000 views from individuals interested in learning more about mold.
There are three key lessons you need to know about mold:
There is no practical way to eliminate all molds and mold spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.
Considering that some molds, like Stachybotrys chartarum and Aspergillus, produce myctoxins that cause sickness, the purpose of this article is to list and explain the top 10 reasons you need to be aware of mold.
#1 Mold Needs Less Than 2 Days To Begin Growing!
#1 Mold Needs Less Than 2 Days To Begin Growing!
Mold requires three key ingredients to grow:
Food: wood & wood products; paper and other paper products like cardboard and wallpaper; leather; fabric and upholstery; grout; painted walls; cement; plaster (drywall); ceiling tiles; insulation materials; and carpet.
The ideal temperature of 41 degrees to 100 degrees Fahrenheit; and
Moisture, the key ingredient.
In the presence of moisture, the ideal temperature, and ample food, mold will begin growing within 24 to 48 hours. This is the reason that water damage restoration is so important during a flood event!
“Medications haven’t worked for chronic sinusitis because we didn’t know what the cause of the problem was. Fungus allergy was thought to be involved in less than ten percent of cases. Our studies indicate that, in fact, fungus is likely the cause of nearly all of these problems. And it is not an allergic reaction, but an immune reaction. This is a potential breakthrough that offers great hope for the millions of people who suffer from this problem. We can now begin to treat the cause of the problem instead of the symptoms. Finally we are on the trail of a treatment that may actually work.”
This conclusion was based on a research study of 210 patients with chronic sinusitis. The Doctors collected mucus samples from the patients’ noses and discovered fungus in 96 percent of the patients. In addition, they identified 40 different kinds of fungi, averaging out to 2.7 types per patient.
Further research was done on 101 of these patients by removing nasal polyps. What they found were eosiniphils, which are which blood cells activated by the immune system in the nasal tissue of the patients. The Doctors believe that this discovery shows that the body’s immune system is sending the eosinophils to attack the fungi which is what is causing the irritation and inflammation of the membranes of the nose. For this reason, they do not believe that traditional treatments work because they do not address the root cause of the problem, fungi, which will continue to irritate the nose membranes.
#3 Your Home Is A Buffet For Mold!
#3 Your Home Is A Buffet For Mold!
Mold is nature’s recycler, it’s main purpose in our eco-system is to break down dead organic material.
In the outdoors, the relative number of spores is small enough not to cause significant harmful health effects for most people.
However, indoors, once mold begins to grow, it will cause health concerns because the spore counts will increase. Indoor air quality is a critical concern, particularly in hot and humid climates like Georgia because residents tend to stay indoors more and use their air conditioners for heat relief.
The problem with mold is the fact that most homes are made out of the material that it loves to eat. A home is an “all you can eat buffet” for mold because homes are constructed using dead organic materials: wood & wood products; paper and other paper products like cardboard and wallpaper; leather; fabric and upholstery; grout; painted walls; cement; plaster (drywall); ceiling tiles; insulation materials; and carpet.
According to Medical News Today, asthma affects 300 million people in the world and more than 22 million Americans. Although people of all ages suffer from the disease, it most often starts in childhood, currently affecting 6 million children in the US. Asthma kills about 255,000 people worldwide every year.
Asthma is a respiratory condition marked by spasms in the bronchi of the lungs, causing difficulty in breathing. According to WebMD, no one really knows what causes asthma, but what is known is that it is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways. Trigger and causes of asthma include allergies, tobacco smoke, environmental factors, obesity, genetics, and other factors.
To learn more about the link between mold and asthma, including legal evidence and research studies, click here.
#5 The Core Problem With Mold Is That It Can Grow Undetected!
#5 The Core Problem With Mold Is That It Can Grow Undetected!
Most people do not realize they have a mold problem because it is hidden.
Mold can be detected through smell, visual clues, and knowledge of the building history, ie. was there a flood or indoor leak.
One of the first signs that you have a mold problem will be a “musty” or “mildewy” odor.
The next step is to determine where the smell is coming from.
The seven areas of the home that you will likely find mold includes the following: bathrooms and kitchen that have leaks under the sink; leaks behind appliances (refrigerator, dishwater, and washing machine); ceilings and walls where there are water leaks; window sills and around the windows where condensation accumulates; your basement; closets; and crawl spaces.
#6 Modern Day Building Practices Promote Mold Growth!
#6 Modern Day Building Practices Promote Mold Growth!
The rush to make quick money and high profits by real estate developers has created a disaster waiting to happen because new homes built today are more susceptible to mold growth.
The quest to reduce energy bills means that many new homes are air tight and lack proper ventilation, conducive to mold growth.
The season that the home was built is also a factor. For instance, if the home was built during a period 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.
Building practices have changed. In the past, most homes were built with non-porous materials like plywood and timber which made it difficult for mold to penetrate the surface. Today, cost conscious builders use Orient Strand Board (OSB) and particle board which are porous and susceptible to mold growth.
According to the MOLDY documentary, at least 50 percent of homes in the United States have water damage issues caused by water line leaks, tears in moisture vapor barriers, leaky showers, condensation under eaves, and water pooling in crawl spaces. It is this water damage which causes mold to grow.
Improving building practices to prevent moisture issues is the single most effective way to prevent mold.
#7 25% of the Population Is Susceptible To Mold Illness!
#7 25% of the Population Is Susceptible To Mold Illness!
According to Dr. Richie Shoemaker, physician and expert in the field of biotoxin-related illness and author of the book Surviving Mold, 1 in 4 people have a genetic pre-disposition to the mold illness, Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS):
“Genes made them prime targets for an assault by their own innate immune systems….exposure to the interior environment of a Water-Damaged Building (WDB), [causes] an innate immune response that is going haywire.”
Individuals exposed to the toxins in a water damaged building suffer from chronic illness because their bodies are trying to eliminate the foreign substances that stay in the body resulting in chronic inflammation and multiple symptoms.
It is difficult to diagnose CIRS because there are 37 symptoms patients could suffer from: fatigue; weakness; aches; muscle cramps; unusual pain; ice pick pain; headache; light sensitivity; red eyes; blurred vision; tearing; sinus problems; cough; shortness of breath; abdominal pain; diarrhea; joint pain; morning stiffness; memory issues; focus/concentration issues; word recollection issues; decreased learning of new knowledge; confusion; disorientation; skin sensitivity; mood swings; appetite swings; sweats (especially night sweats); temperature regulation or dysregulation problems; excessive thirst; increased urination; static shocks; numbness; tingling; vertigo; metallic taste; and tremors.
#8 Mold Will Reduce Your Property Value!
#8 Mold Will Reduce Your Property Value!
“Mold is a serious issue. If you leave it untreated, it continues to grow. It leads to respiratory illness and it rots the wood, leaving the property valueless.” (Ian Schlake of Respond and Rebuild)
Like a parasite or cancer, mold will continue to grow as long as there is a food source, moisture, and the right temperature.
Failing to fix the underlying causes of the mold and effectively removing the mold will lead to reduced property values caused by structural damage as the mold continues to feed on the home.
#9 Mold Remediation Can Be Costly!
#9 Mold Remediation Can Be Costly!
As mentioned in an earlier article, the cost of mold remediation will depend on three key factors:
How much of the area is infected with mold?
What kind of materials are infected?
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.
The core problem with the mold remediation industry is any contractor can offer mold removal services…so it is truly “Buyer Beware.” Because of the lack of regulation, many contractors believe they can offer mold removal services without the proper training or experience. To stay competitive, these contractors may offer “quick fix” solutions that focusing on killing the mold. However, as stated by Michael Pinto:
“Killing mold, but leaving the residue in place, is not acceptable. Since many health impacts can be triggered by exposure to both live and dead mold spores, the source and secondary contamination must be removed.” (MOLD INDOORS: Killing it is Not Enough)
Killing mold is not the answer because it is not a permanent solution to a mold problem. Professional mold removal contractors will follow an eight step process to ensure that your mold problem is fixed properly and will back up their work with a guarantee.
Don’t pinch pennies when you encounter a mold problem, the cheapest estimate may not necessarily be the best one. Do your due diligence, ask questions, get references, and most importantly avoid contractors that offer you magical solutions that involve just spraying a chemical to kill the mold dead.
#10 Mold Sickness Is A Hidden Epidemic!
#10 Mold Sickness Is A Hidden Epidemic!
According to the producers of the MOLDY documentary released earlier this year, most Physicians do not understand or have the knowledge to properly diagnose patients with mold sickness:
“Possibly every doctor in the United States is treating mold illness, and they just don’t realize it.” (Dr. Scott McMahon, MD)
Since most physicians are not trained to treat and identify mold illness, their patients continue to suffer in silence, mis-diagnosis, and a vicious cycle of numerous visits to different doctors and specialists that do not understand why they are sick.
Considering the statistics revealed in the MOLDY documentary it is not surprising that mold sickness is now considered a hidden epidemic.
At least 45 million buildings in the United Stats have unhealthy levels of mold.
You have a 33% chance of being exposed to toxic mold when you move into a new home, apartment or office. The documentary also emphasizes the fact that many foods are contaminated with mold, including corn, peanuts, and coffee.
Approximately 28 percent of the population have genes that make them highly susceptible to mold-related health issues.
Despite the fact that mold is a significant health concern, like lead and asbestos, there are no federal environmental protections laws.
Mold is a hidden epidemic because it makes people sick and they do not know that mold is the cause!
Stachybotrys molds decay organic matter. The most common species, Stachybotrys chartarum, sometimes referred to as Stachybotrys atra often grows indoors.
Ideal conditions for Stachybotrys growth include moisture, a nutrient/food source, temperature, and time. Ideal humidity for this black mold is a relative humidity of 90% or higher for it to begin the germination growth process. Stachybotrys feeds on materials with a high cellulose content such as hay, straw, wood chips, and building materials such as ceiling tile, drywall, paper vapor barriers, wallpaper, insulation backing, cardboard boxes, and paper files.
Stachybotrys Is The King Of Molds!
Stachybotrys Is The King Of Molds!
Stachybotrys is considered the King of Molds because it will develop into the dominant mold group if the conditions are favorable and will crowd out the other molds that began feeding on the material first.
This happens because unlike other molds like Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Cladosporium which begin growing within one to two days, Stachybotrys takes one to two weeks to begin growing.
How Does Black Stachybotrys Mold Spread?
How Does Black Stachybotrys Mold Spread?
When Stachybotrys mold is growing on wet material, the spores do not disperse as easily because the spores are held together by a sticky/slimy coating. However, when the material dries out or is disturbed, the spores will spread through the air.
The main concern of a mold remediation contractor is to prevent the spread of toxic black mold. The most effective method of doing this is through containment, which is the process of creating a poly barrier around the area where the Stachybotrys mold is growing.
This procedure is so important because Stachybotrys spreads by releasing spores. Mold contaminated materials must be removed and disposed of because this mold does not just grow on the surface of the material; it has root-like tendrils called mycelia, meaning it is able to penetrate the surface.
Typically Stachybotry mold grows in clusters at the end of stem-like structures known as hyphae.
Top 15 Health Problems Caused By Stachybotrys Black Mold!
Top 15 Health Problems Caused By Stachybotrys Black Mold!
Stachybotrys black mold is a health concern because animal studies have shown that one of the major effects of trichothecenes is immuno-suppression.
In fact, even low level exposure can suppress the immune system resulting in bacterial and viral infections, coughing, skin irritation, and other allergic reactions, and there is some speculation that it may even cause cancer.
Listed below are the top 15 health conditions caused when toxic Stachybotrys black mold is inhaled or ingested:
Sore/hoarse throat
Cold and flu symptoms (headaches, slight fever, and muscle aches)
Nosebleeds
Tingling or burning of nose, mouth, and perspiration areas (under the arms or between the legs)
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. Consult with your Real Estate Agent and ask them to call Mold B Gone, 678-697-6267; for a limited time we are offering For a limited time, we are offering mold inspections.
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.
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:
Mold Remediation Can Be Costly!
Real Estate Agents Are Not Mold Experts!
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.
As mentioned earlier in this article, consult with your Real Estate Agent and ask them to call Mold B Gone, 678-697-6267; For a limited time, we are offering mold inspections.
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.
The Ultimate Mold Education Resource (50 Articles)
The Ultimate Mold Education Resource (50 Articles)
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 50 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.
This article explains what you should and should not do if you find mold in your home, church, school, day care center, store, office building, restaurant, or hotel!
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!
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.
The purpose of this article is to answer the most common questions asked about crawl spaces and explain why your crawl space needs a vapor barrier. Learn more!
Recently a news article featured a woman who believes that she was poisoned by toxic black stachybotrys mold. This article explores this topic further!
The purpose of this article is to help you determine if mold and the indoor air quality of your child’s school is making them sick and what you can do. Learn more!
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!
Potential Health Complications Mold Exposure Has On Pregnant Women and Infants! Questions answered about SIDS, asthma, miscarriage, and pulmonary hemorrhage.
25% of people are genetically pre-disposed to mold illness. This article explains why, citing scientific research and 37 symptoms associated with CIRS.
This article explains why many suffering from CIRS are diagnosed with depression caused by mold. Both scientific and anectodal data are cited. Learn more!
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!
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!
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!
Basements are susceptible to mold growth. The first clue of mold is a musty smell. This article provides you with 10 tips to prevent basement mold. 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!
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!
