A newspaper article was published to explain the potential health concerns caused by your Christmas tree: “How CHRISTMAS TREES can cause hay fever hell: Pollen grains, dust and mould can trigger sneezing, coughing and a runny nose”
The article dubbed the illness, Christmas Tree Syndrome, because 1 in 3 (approximately 35 percent) people get sick, suffering from hay fever like symptoms, soon after the Christmas tree is set up in the home.
This article explains what causes Christmas Tree Syndrome and provides recommendations on how you can minimize the potential health issues caused by this indoor air quality issue.
Health Symptoms of Christmas Tree Syndrome!
Health Symptoms of Christmas Tree Syndrome!
Typical signs that your tree is making you ill include the following:
Asthma attacks, usually triggered by cladosporium mold
Cold like symptoms, that subside when away from the home or the room with the tree in it.
Mold Is The Cause Of Christmas Tree Syndrome!
Mold Is The Cause Of Christmas Tree Syndrome!
Prior to the studies documented below, it was thought that tree pollen or even weed killer applied to Christmas trees made people ill.
However, as the studies below conclude, the core cause of Christmas Tree Syndrome is mold, which releases spores and causes allergic reactions:
“Researchers at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Bridgeport, Connecticut, found that a room containing a fresh Christmas tree for two weeks had mold levels that were five times the normal level. Other studies have shown that levels this high can cause allergic rhinitis and asthma symptoms, says the study’s coauthor, allergist and immunologist Philip Hemmers.” (A fresh Christmas tree for two weeks had mold levels that were five times the normal level)
In another study Dr. John Santilli, compared the level of mold spores in the home before and after the tree was placed in the home. The normal level of mold spores is 800 per cubic meter, but within 14 days of the Christmas tree being in the home, the level of mold spores increased to 5,000 spores per cubic meter.
Another scientific study by allergy specialist, Dr. Lawrence Kurlandsky at Upstate Medical University in New York set out to determine why respiratory illnesses peak around Christmas. The study found 53 different kinds of mold, including, aspergillus, penicillium, cladosporium and alternaria, which can trigger asthma attacks, sneezing and a runny nose. One of the key conclusions made by this study was 70 percent of the molds found triggered allergies and asthma.
Minimizing Mold From Your Christmas Tree!
Minimizing Mold From Your Christmas Tree!
Mold spores are found naturally on Christmas trees, which will flourish once they are in a centrally heated home.
With this in mind, if you can manage Christmas with an artificial tree, that is the best solution. Please note, artificial trees can accumulate a layer of dust and even mold if not stored properly. Be sure to store your artificial tree in a dry area and preferably in plastic tubs to minimize exposure to moisture and dust.
However, if you must use a live Christmas tree, here are some tips to minimize the health impact:
Thoroughly hose down your tree and let it dry before bringing it into the house. If you bought your tree at a nursery, ask if they have tree washing services.
Clean all ornaments and lights before putting on the tree; they can harbor dust and molds. Store all decorations in plastic containers that can be easily wiped down since cardboard can potentially attract dust and mold.
Minimize exposure. If you’re sensitive to molds, keep a live Christmas tree no more than four to seven days.
Run an air purifier in the same room as the Christmas tree. This may help alleviate symptoms.
Allergy medication may also help alleviate some symptoms as well.
Since mold spores may accumulate the longer your tree is in the house, consider getting rid of it first thing on the 26th.
Got Mold Questions?
Happy holidays from your friends at Mold B Gone. If you have questions, we are here to help! If you think you have mold, call us, 678-697-6267 or contact us via e-mail for further assistance.
The team at Mold B Gone wishes you a safe and happy holidays! We look forward to serving you in 2018! 🙂
Why Should I Get My Home Or Business Dried Professionally After Water Damage?
Why Should I Get My Home Or Business Dried Professionally After Water Damage?
One of the services that Mold B Gone specializes in is water damage restoration. We offer this service because the biggest concern that you should have if your home floods or a washing machine hose bursts or one of the pipes burst is mold prevention. Keep in mind, mold will begin growing within 24 to 48 hours, so it is very important that the moisture in your home or business is controlled.
Unfortunately, when people suffer water damage to their properties, they tend to think they can manage the concern themselves using a shop vac and bleach to disinfect.
The temptation to do the job yourself is strong because of the perceived cost savings. However, as this article will explain, there are nine critical reasons you should call a professional to manage the water damage concern in your home or business.
It is not just about saving a few bucks but ensuring that the moisture problems are properly dealt with to avoid future mold concerns.
#1 It May Look Dry, But There Is Still Moisture!
Water always takes the path of least resistance, flowing to the lowest point on your property. Even so, you can’t always know where moisture will hide. Cracks and crevices, cavities in walls and above ceilings, layers of flooring, and all other sorts of places hide water. However, without proper training, without meters to measure the moisture or infra-red cameras, you won’t be able to find all the places water lingers.
This is just another reason to hire Mold B Gone to get your home or business dried professionally because we locate all the hidden water damage – before it becomes a health threat.
#2 Water Weighs Alot!
One gallon of clean water weighs 8.34 pounds.
In a flood damage situation, the hundreds of gallons of water invading your property likely contains contaminants. That makes it even heavier. Once you’ve filled your shop vac with 3-5 gallons of dirty water, you have to get rid of it.
Now imagine lifting and carrying that water-filled bucket weighing 25 to 42 pounds up your basement stairs. Repeatedly!
Don’t risk a back injury just to save a buck, call a professional who has specialized equipment that can remove the water at a much faster speed so that commercial drying equipment and dehumidifiers can be deployed to dry out and remove as much moisture as possible. Again, the major concern of Mold B Gone is to prevent the onset of mold.
#3 Prevent Mold and Bacteria Growth!
Prevent Mold and Bacteria Growth!
The biggest health threat after water damage is mold and bacterial growth.
While your home or business will eventually dry out, moisture left inside the walls or under floors starts to grow mold in as little as 24 hours. And mold can damage your family’s or employee’s health for a very long time.
Don’t expose yourself to biological contaminants, call a professional that uses proper personal protective equipment.
Keep in mind, even if the water damage did not come from outside, clean water can still contain contaminants if it filtered through building materials.
The only way to determine how many contaminants are in the water is to take a sample and send it to the lab.
#5 We Maximize Your Claim Because We Will Take An Inventory And Photos Of The Contents!
We Maximize Your Claim Because We Will Take An Inventory And Photos Of The Contents!
We separate damaged items into categories of non-salvageable, salvageable, and questionable items. And, if need be, we pack-out and store your precious belongings for you to clean off-site until the water damage restoration is complete. Because we follow the best practices for water damage restoration, we keep costs down and salvage as much as possible.
#6 Mold B Gone Has Years Of Experience!
For most people, flood or water damage is a once-in-a-lifetime event.
Because of that, we know how devastating it is to see your office disrupted or your family’s possessions soaked and scattered.
But we do this work every day. We know how to make a difficult time easier for you. Our professional moisture removal methods work. We can replace do-it-yourself guesswork with our proven experience of years in the business.
#7 Our Goal Is To Save Your Possessions!
Materials and furniture exposed to flood water must be carefully evaluated. If you try to do this on your own, you may discard things that could be saved. Conversely, you may save things that absolutely must be discarded. Part of any professional water damage restoration process is evaluating your possessions. And we explain what’s safe to keep and what you need to discard.
And, for the contaminated items being disposed, we haul it away for you as part of the restoration service!
#8 We Know How To Work With Your Insurance Provider!
We use the latest water damage restoration estimating technology. That means we understand their language, and communicate with them to help resolve your insurance claim fast. If you’re a “do it your selfer,” this might be the best reason to get your property dried professionally.
When water damages homes and businesses, whether it’s from storm damage, over the ground floods, or leaking pipes, the time to act is now!
#9 Mold B Gone Uses Specialized Drying Equipment!
There’s nothing that you can rent from your local hardware store or borrow from your friend down the street that dries out your home or business like the equipment we have.
In a water damage emergency, you need industrial strength fans and dehumidifiers, placed in a very specific pattern for the most efficient drying environment.
Three Key Tips For Choosing A Water Damage Restoration Company!
Three Key Tips For Choosing A Water Damage Restoration Company!
Look for industry experience and leadership.
Evaluate their reputation of professionalism and customer service. Ask for referrals!
Check to make sure you hire a company with certified technicians that have knowledge, training and experience to get your property dry fast.
Hiring a professional is the best thing you can do for your home and your family following a flood!
Have questions? Ready to hire a professional to help with your water damage repair? Contact us today to learn how we can fix up your water damage and get your home or business looking like new again. If you have questions, we’ve provided answers here in our post “15 FAQs About Water Damage Restoration!”.
Peace of mind is just a phone call away!
Remember, Mold B Gone is here to help. We provide water removal and other restoration services! Call us at 470-545-4467.
During this period we have encountered many questions about mold and the impact it can have on health.
Listed below are the top 15 questions we have encountered with links to articles that provide detailed answers.
#1 Why is Stachybotrys Mold A Health Concern?
Why is Stachybotrys Mold A Health Concern?
You often hear about black mold in the media. Why is it such a big deal? Can black mold actually make you sick? This article explains why!
#2 Why Do Some People Get Sick From Mold And Others Do Not?
Why Do Some People Get Sick From Mold And Others Do Not?
The challenge mold poses is that it impacts everyone differently. This article explains why!
#3 What Is The Link Between Mold and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
What Is The Link Between Mold and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
Considering the similarity of symptoms between those suffering from ME/CFS and those suffering from CIRS, it is likely that many individuals diagnosed with ME/CFS may have been exposed to mycotoxins produced by mold growth. Learn more!
#4 Is Mold Sickness A Hidden Epidemic?
Is Mold Sickness A Hidden Epidemic?
Since so many health professionals are not aware of the health problems mold causes, many mold advocates believe that it is a hidden epidemic. In short, you could be sick from mold and not even know it. Learn more!
#5 Does Mold Cause Sinus Infections?
Does Mold Cause Sinus Infections?
Chronic sinusitis costs the health care system more than 8 billion dollars each year. The cause is most likely mold, meaning most of the treatments prescribed are not effective. Learn more!
#6 Could Some People Diagnosed With Multiple Sclerosis Actually Be Suffering From Mold Sickness?
Could Some People Diagnosed With Multiple Sclerosis Actually Be Suffering From Mold Sickness?
Dr. Rick Sponaugle of the Florida Detox & Wellness Institute strongly believes that environmental factors, such as mold, could be a cause of MS because mold toxins destroy the myelin sheath on brain neurons, causing the classic white spots seen in MS. Learn more!
#7 How Do I Know If Mold Is Making Me Sick?
How Do I Know If Mold Is Making Me Sick?
Most people do not even know they are sick because of mold and or suffering from Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS). Learn more!
#8 Are Dead Mold Spores Harmful?
Are Dead Mold Spores Harmful?
There is a lot of bad information on the internet. One of the most prevalent myths is that you can kill mold. This article explains why this is not a good idea and why it can impact your health. Learn more!
#9 Why Does Mold Cause Depression?
Why Does Mold Cause Depression?
Doctor Ackerley believes there is a strong correlation between mold and brain health, particularly depression and suicide. Learn more!
#10 Does Mold Cause Parkinson’s Disease?
Does Mold Cause Parkinson’s Disease?
Recent research suggests that that biologic compounds such as mold have the potential to damage dopamine and cause Parkinson’s symptoms. Learn more!
#11 Why Is Mold A Health Concern?
Why Is Mold A Health Concern?
Mold is nature’s recycler meaning it is designed to break down dead, organic material. Now, imagine, what happens when you have mold growing in your home. It is breaking down the material it is feeding on. Since we spend up to 90 percent of our time indoors this creates a situation ripe for health issues. Learn more!
Four studies demonstrate a strong link between mold and asthma. Learn more!
#14 Does Mold Affect Pregnant Women and Infants?
Does Mold Affect Pregnant Women and Infants?
This is a difficult topic to research, but there is some evidence that mold could have an impact. Learn more!
#15 Can Mold Poison Me?
Can Mold Poison Me?
There is evidence that toxins and poisons released by growing mold can harm one’s immune system and cause severe sickness. Learn more!
Got Mold and Health Questions?
If you are concerned about mold and think that it may be impacting your health, please do not hesitate to contact us because we specialize in helping mold sensitized individuals. Our team of professionals looks forward to serving you. Peace of mind is just a phone call away, 678-697-6267!
This article provides you with ten tips to prevent mold in your basement. These tips are very important if your basement was recently flooded. Implement these tips to avoid future headaches and costly mold removal in the future.
Top 6 Mold Species You Will Find In Your Basement!
The infograpnhic below lists the top 6 mold species that could be growing in your basement.
To determine the species our staff will either gather the spore count in the air using our air quality testing equipment or take swab or tape samples of visible mold. The samples are then sent to an independent lab to verify the species and spore count.
Top 6 Mold Species You Will Find In Your Basement
Ten Tips To Prevent Mold In Your Basement
Top 10 Tips To Prevent Basement Mold!
Fix The Flooding Source!
The first step to preventing future flooding is to determine the cause and fix it. Most basements flood because of backed up drains, leaky pipes, human error (i.e. leaving a tap on), sewer back ups, the lack of a sump pump and/or a malfunctioning sump pump.
Start The Clean Up As Soon As Possible!
The onset of mold will begin within 24 to 48 hours, so it is essential that you begin the clean up immediately.
Hire Experienced Professionals!
If mold is not properly contained and cleaned properly, it can become airborne and contaminate even larger areas of the property.
You need to hire properly trained professionals, like Mold B Gone, who understand how to properly restore a water damaged property and prevent mold growth. Mold growth prevention is important because of the health impact it has and also because mold will impact the structural integrity of the property.
Remove All Wet and Contaminated Materials!
Most insurance companies will not recommend a complete gut for cost savings. Usually they recommend that it is necessary to only remove one foot of drywall above the flood line.
We do not because this could result in long term mold problems because moisture can creep up behind the surface. For this reason, we recommend a complete gut of the basement because the extra short term cost could result in significant long term cost savings.
The last thing you want to happen is for a reconstruction to occur only to find out six months later that you now have a mold problem.
Removal of all the drywall is not our only recommendation. We also suggest the removal of following: all flooring, including the sub-floor; insulation because it absorbs moisture; and finally, if the electrical panel was submerged under water, it should be replaced as well.
“Perhaps the most misunderstood aspect of bleach when proposed as a cleaner or sanitizing agent is that its effectiveness is greatly reduced in the presence of organic material. To be a successful sanitizer, bleach must be used on clean materials and surfaces. This is why bleach products are used in the laundry after the wash cycle or in a commercial kitchen as a component in the third sink after the dishes have been washed and rinsed. The efficacy of bleach as a sanitizer is also compromised by heat and light. Despite the fact that the chlorine odor may linger for some time after use, bleach loses strength so quickly that it is not considered to have a residual effect that would prevent future bacterial or fungal growth.”
Do Not Begin Any Rebuild Until the Basement Is Completely Dried Out!
We understand that a flooded basement disrupts your life and you want to resume your normal routine as soon as possible. However, patience is the key.
In addition, if the flood water was category 3, we recommend that swab tests be performed to ensure that the cleaning process was done effectively.
Only after it is verified that the basement is completely dry and sanitized and clearance testing verifies that the indoor air quality is healthy should the basement rebuild begin.
Properly Insulate Your Basement!
According to Mike Holmes, a respected contractor, insulation is one of the most important factors in preventing basement mold:
“When air, which is full of moisture, leaks into that insulation, it will inevitably lead to mould. Here’s why: Your basement, like every room in your home, has its own natural air convection. The air nearest the ceiling is warmer, and the air nearer the floor is cooler. The cold air at the bottom pushes the warm air up. As it rises, it comes into contact with the cooler exterior wall and releases the moisture it’s holding. It condensates. That air and moisture — if it’s able to get into the batt insulation through a gap in the seal — will wick into the insulation. Over time, it will soak that batt to the point that water can drip down the walls and pool on to the floor….You need a thermal break to stop hot from meeting cold….So, use closed cell spray foam insulation or rigid foam insulation, which will provide a thermal break and not trap any moisture. If you’re using foam insulation boards, make sure you Tuck Tape every seam, and spray-foam all corners and joints to create a 100% seal and a perfect thermal break. That way, you’ll know that anything you do inside your finished basement won’t have to be torn out in a few years because of mould.”
Cross-Ventilate!
If possible, open the windows on all sides of your basement in the evenings when the air is cooler to create a cross-ventilation air flow which will prevent excessive moisture and also ensure that a steady stream of fresh air is circulating throughout the basement.
Ensure Water Drains Away From Your Home’s Foundation!
One of the most effective ways to prevent water intrusion is to ensure that water is not sloping towards the foundation of your home but away from it. This is particularly important if your basement walls are porous and can trap moisture, which can lead to mold. To avoid this, ensure that the ground slopes away from the foundation walls of the home and your downspouts extend at least 6 feet away from the property.
Invest In A Dehumidifier!
To prevent excess moisture in your home, use a dehumidifier and consider waterproofing your basement by sealing cracks in the floor and walls with hydraulic cement and a concrete waterproofing sealer where the floor meets the walls.
One of the questions we are often asked is why do some people get sick from mold and other’s do not?
One of the biggest challenges faced by people sick from mold is the fact that doctors, friends, and other family members dismiss their symptoms simply because they do not get sick when exposed to mold.
This is tragic because many people that get sick have no control over their sickness because their bodies have a genetic pre-disposition to mold illness.
The other major problem with mold illness is the fact that there are so many symptoms, 37, associated with it, meaning it is difficult for physicians to pinpoint the cause.
This article explains how your genes impact mold illness and what you can do if you suspect that you suffer from Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS).
Legal Challenges Faced By Mold Sensitized Individuals
Legal Challenges Faced By Mold Sensitized Individuals
Sickness from mold has been around for decades.
Victims of mold have tried to plea their cases in the courts seeking compensation for the health damages caused by poorly maintained homes and buildings that had water damage and mold.
Unfortunately, many of the plaintiffs lost their battle because the courts did not believe that mold actually makes people sick.
Despite this, data from thousands of contractors working with occupants of water-damaged buildings documented the health challenges that many mold sensitized individuals faced.
According to Erik Johnson, a mold expert and survivor, it was not until the 1990s, that the World Health Organization, acknowledged that “Sick Building Syndrome” could be caused by toxic mold.
Moving forward, finally, it seems that there is greater recognition that mold is in fact the cause of sickness for many. In 2015, the MOLDY documentary featured health professionals and people who have suffered mental and physical health issues after living in moldy homes. This was a ground breaking documentary because it brought the issue of mold and sickness to a much broader audience, thereby creating significant awareness of this issue.
One of the most notable trends he cites is a “A Tighter Connection Between Medicine and Environment“.
Pinto cites new diagnosing techniques to identify the illness, Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) (detailed below), which legitimizes the tie between Water Damaged Buildings (WDB) and sickness. Research has identified a genetic component to this condition (explained below), a screening test (VCS), and most importantly, a treatment regimen.
Other trends Pinto believes demonstrate the important ties between medicine and the environment include the Environmental Relative Moldiness Index (ERMI) which is a scientific test that analyzes dust samples for 36 mold species. This test provides base information to identify CIRS because 26 of the mold species are considered to be water damage indicators.
This test is important because one sample can be analyzed to identify the extent of water damage in the building that could make someone susceptible to CIRS sick. Importantly, this test will provide an ERMI score, ie. a HERTSMI-2 score that can be given to physicians and will help them assess whether a building will make their patient sick.
Because of the growing medical awareness and the fact that there are now medical tests and drugs to diagnose and treat mold illness, Pinto believes that one of the other consequences of this acknowledgement will be a “More Active Justice System” where plaintiffs will now be able to get compensation because they now have science to back up their claims.
25% Of People Have A Genetic Predisposition to Mold Illness
25% Of People Have A Genetic Predisposition to Mold Illness
The most interesting aspect of the research on the effect that Sick Building Syndrome has on patients pertains to genetics. One of the biggest problems with mold sickness is that it impacts everyone differently. Some may experience minor allergies, and other health conditions like asthma and chronic sinusitis, while other mold sensitized patients may suffer severe illnesses.
One physician documented the health symptoms of 227 patients that lived in water damaged buildings during a three year period. What this doctor found was that 98% of his patients had one of the gene types where their immune systems were not able to effectively deal with contaminants from water damaged buildings.
“In layman’s terms, two different genes have been isolated, which keep some people’s immune systems from functioning properly when they have been exposed to contaminants from water-damaged buildings. Instead of properly identifying and eliminating the foreign invader, those body defense mechanisms increase the problem. When viewed with a basic understanding of genetic distributions, this research made it clear that up to a quarter of the population (25%) is at increased risk from exposure to water-damaged buildings.“
This research is very significant because it demonstrates that up to 25% of the population has a genetic pre-disposition that makes them more susceptible to mold illness and the condition known as Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS).
Because of this research, the scientific community and legal system is now taking much greater notice because diagnostic tests, lab tests and treatment tools are being developed to help these patients.
37 Health Conditions Associated With CIRS!
37 Health Conditions Associated With CIRS!
Listed below are the 37 symptoms associated with CIRS.
“an accute and chronic, systemic inflammatory response syndrome acquired following exposure to the interior environment of a water-damaged building with resident toxigenic organisms, including, but not limited to fungi, bacteria, actinomycetes and mycobacteria as well as inflammagens such as endotoxins, beta glucans, hemolysins, proteinases, mannans, c-type lectins and possibly spirocyclic drimanes, plus volatile ogranic compounds.“
For 75% of the population, when exposed to biotoxins caused by mold, the individuals immune system responds by binding with the invading poison that allows its cells to filter the biotoxins through the liver, kidneys, and other organs. In contrast, 25% of the population that have the genetic susceptibility to mold illness get sick because their bodies immune system does not bind to the biotoxin, meaning it is not eliminated and therefore continues to circulate, causing the many symptoms, documented below.
The “C” in CIRS refers to the term “Chronic” because individuals that are exposed to poisons from mold are unable to eliminate the toxins from their body, resulting in on-going and escalating sickness, particularly if the person is continually exposed to mold. This is the primary reason that the first priority of medical practitioners treating mold sensitized patients is to begin the detox process which also must coincide with movement away from the building that is constantly exposing the person to the toxins.
The “I” in CIRS refers to the term “Inflammatory” because the constant exposure to the toxins creates a cycle of sickness, meaning the individual’s immune system is constantly trying to fight the toxins, leading to inflammation.
The “R” in CIRS refers to “Response” because the human body is designed to respond to invading toxins. In the case of patients suffering from mold sickness, the immune system is constantly trying to fight the toxins causing a stress on the complete immune system of the individual, which in turn leads to other health conditions.
As stated by Pinto, the “S” in CIRS refers to “Syndrome” because:
“The symptoms are a result of many factors, including external exposures and internal responses. The contaminants from water-damaged buildings should trigger the activation of an immune response, but some people’s genetic structure does not allow the proper recognition of the biotoxin. Since this combination of circumstances inhibits the clearance of the poison from the body, these harmful substances continue to circulate and create continual damage. With such individuals there is no linear dose/response relationship, meaning that even trivial exposures can create severe problems.“
Is CIRS Life Threatening?
Is CIRS Life Threatening?
The major problem that individuals with CIRS face is their bodies immune systems become severely compromised and weakened from the vicious cycle of invading poison, immune response, and inflammation.
The end result is many of their bodies systems are damaged leading to a wide range of health conditions, some life threatening.
For this reason, many mold survivors have reported that they have abandoned the primary residence that initially made them sick; instead, seeking shelter in trailer parks, and very dry areas, with desert like conditions where moisture is limited. These drastic measures were taken by these individuals because their bodies have become so sensitized to mold that even minor exposure triggers severe reactions.
The core problem with CIRS is the fact that there are so many symptoms associated with the condition.
Are you constantly seeking medical attention?
Have you been feeling sick for an extended period of time?
If you think you may be sick because of mold, review the mold sensitized interviews to gather more information.
The next step is to verify that you actually have a bio-toxin illness caused by mold, meaning you should get your home tested for mold.
Then seek out an environmental physician who can properly diagnose, determine if you have a genetic pre-disposition to mold illness, and most importantly begin treatment so your body can properly detox.
If you are diagnosed with mold illness, your physician may request that you leave your home for awhile during the detox process.
During this period, we advise that you get all the mold removed from your home, your contents cleaned, and a thorough cleaning of your HVAC system to prevent the spread of mold spores after the remediation is complete.
The core problem with this industry is the fact that there is not much regulation, which means that any contractor can offer mold inspection or mold removal services.
Some states require licensing, which is great, but if you live in an area without licensing requirements, this can create an atmosphere where unskilled, inexperienced, and untrained contractors can offer mold removal services.
This creates a situation where a simple mold problem could be made worse because the contractor did not know what they were doing.
So, how do you know if the contractor you call is qualified to remove mold from your home or business?
The purpose of this article is to list and explain the top 10 clues that the mold removal contractor you called may not have the training or experience to properly remediate your mold problem.
#1: The Contractor Concludes You Have Mold Without Providing A Valid Explanation Or Investigation Further!
Really? How does the contractor know? You know there is a problem if the contractor claims you have mold without doing any testing of the area.
#2: The Contractor Fails To Explain How They Will Test For Evidence Of Mold!
Since there are many different kinds of tests, you need someone who uses the right kind of test to assess whether you have a problem.
Tape testing, swab testing, air quality, and ERMI testing are some tests that are used to determine if you have a mold problem. Make sure that you work with a qualified mold inspection specialist who understands how to test whether or not you have a mold problem so that a proper protocol can be put in place.
This is important! Without the right kind of test, at the end of the job, you won’t know if the mold problem was properly rectified.
#3: The Contractor Does Not Want Their Work To Be Verified By A Third Party!
#3: The Contractor Does Not Want Their Work To Be Verified By A Third Party!
If you begin working with a contractor and they do testing and find mold, make sure you ask them how the quality of their work will be verified.
We recommend that you get a Pre-Test and a Post-Test. The purpose of the Pre-Test is to measure the spore count inside of the property and compare it to outdoor levels. This is done using specialized equipment that takes samples of both the indoor and outdoor air. The samples are then sent to an accredited laboratory to be analyzed. The lab will then issue a report documenting the spore count and the mold species that is found in both the indoor and outdoor samples. Once this data is determined, the contractor should explain to you what mold spores were found in your home or business and how it compares to the outside. If there is a huge difference and the spore count indoors is higher than outdoors, then you will have some pertinent information to compare to the Post-Test once the work is complete.
The purpose of the Post-Test is to do the same as the Pre-Test. In this case, however, the spore count indoors should be close to or equal to the outdoor spore count. If the data shows this, then the indoor fungal ecology of the home is healthy. The Post-Test, in short, verifies that the mold remediation was successful.
When you decide to work with a contractor make sure you understand what they will do to restore the fungal ecology of your home to healthy levels. Reputable contractors will provide you with the lab results of the Pre and Post tests and will offer you the option of using a Third Party to do the Post Test should you choose to do this.
Pre and Post testing is like a check and balance system, meaning someone else is checking the efficacy of the work. Without this test, you will never know if the mold removal was successful.
To summarize, here are the three key reasons you should invest in Pre and Post testing:
So you know if you have a problem that actually needs remediation. Testing will verify this!
So that you know at the end of the job a clearance test tells you if you got what you paid for. A lot of times mold damage is clearly evident, so it’s okay to waive the first test. However, the final clearance test provides protection from mold scams and peace of mind that your home or business is safe.
Finally, because it’s part of the IICRC recommended standard for mold removal!
#4: The Contractor Gives You A Price Quote Without Doing A Formal Site Inspection!
Believe it or not, some contractors will give you a quote over the phone without even visiting your home or business.
If you get a price over the phone, definitely stay away from this contractor for two key reasons:
One of the goals of reputable mold removal contractors is to identify the moisture source that is causing the problem. How can a contractor provide a quote without knowing this?
Most importantly, how can a quote be provided unless an actual site visit and inspection is done to know the full extent of the mold damage.
#5: The Contractor Refuses To Provide Evidence Of Training!
#6: The Contractor Does Not Provide You With A Detailed Estimate!
#6: The Contractor Does Not Provide You With A Detailed Estimate!
You should never work with a contractor that gives you a one line estimate that simply states “mold removal” and then the “price”. Demand a detailed written estimate so you know exactly what you are paying for.
If you don’t demand a detailed estimate you may face other charges when the contractor shows up to do the job. Some contractors provide minimal detail in the estimate because they want to up-sell or up-charge you for other work.
There are some cases when unforeseen issues on a property present themselves after a job starts. But a detailed written estimate before you sign the contract outlines what will be done on the basis of a professional assessment. The estimate and contract protects both the contractor and the property owner because it clearly states the limitations (i.e., what will and won’t be done) before the work starts.
#7: The Contractor Wants 100% Of Payment Before The Job Starts!
If you are comfortable with the contractor and have properly pre-screened and done your due diligence and have a signed contract, you may be asked for a deposit to cover some of the costs for doing your mold removal job.
However, if the contractor asks for 100% of the payment up front, you may want to re-consider hiring this contractor because you will have very little recourse if the job is not done right.
We recommend that the final payment be made once all the work, according to the signed contract, is complete and you have a successful Post-Clearance test that assures you that the job was done properly and the indoor air of your home or business is healthy.
#8: The Contractor Gives You An Unbelievable Low Price!
If you get three estimates and one estimate is a lot lower than the others, keep in mind that “you get what you pay for”. In short, the cheapest price is not the best indicator of competent service. Rather, it usually indicates the reverse.
#9: The Contractor Attempts To Pressure You Into Making A Decision Using Scare Tactics!
#9: The Contractor Attempts To Pressure You Into Making A Decision Using Scare Tactics!
Finding mold in your home or business can be scary. Because of this, some contractors behave like predators, using scare tactics to close the sale on their next potential victim.
The key point to remember if you find mold is not to panic or get to stressed out. Stay focussed on finding the best trained contractor to deal with your mold concerns.
It is important to understand that we are surrounded by mold all the time because it is in our environment and part of the eco-system to break down dead organic material. Mold is nature’s recycler and will always be a problem when it is growing indoors because the spore counts will increase to unhealthy levels.
If you suspect you have mold and contact a contractor, be sure to ensure that you get all the information in order to make a sound decision! This is very important; if you do have mold, you want to ensure that it is removed the right way the first time by a mold removal professional who knows what they are doing.
If you are pressured into making a quick decision and not encouraged to seek other estimates or given time to do your due diligence, then be careful, particularly, if in order to close the sale, the contractor resorts to pressure tactics or scare tactics.
Any contractor that uses pressure or scare tactics without providing you with evidence from testing and/or does not try to determine the cause of your mold problem may just be trying to pressure you into a quick sale.
#10: The Contractor Recommends Bleach!
Avoid mold removal contractors that recommend the use of bleach for your mold removal job. Bleach does not work and is not recommended by experienced industry professionals.
We do not recommend bleach for three key reasons:
Bleach does not address the cause of the mold problem!
Now that you understand some of the tactics used by unqualified or unscrupulous contractors to try to get business, let’s look at the five key steps you can take to protect yourself…
How To Choose A Professional Mold Removal Contractor?
How To Choose A Professional Mold Removal Contractor?
The best way to ensure that you choose an experienced professional is to ask questions and educate yourself!
Find out what training the contractor has received and from what organization.
Ask if the contractor recommends Pre and Post testing.
Get a detailed mold removal action plan, often referred to as the Scope of Work. The report will guide the remediation activities of the mold damage restoration.
Once you have that indoor air quality test result, get a written, detailed estimate describing the mold damage restoration project.
Finally, it’s a good idea to get 3 different bids from 3 different contractors. This way you’ll know the price range for the project. If you get an extremely low bid, make sure you compare apples to apples. If a price seems too good to be true, it usually is. The risk of a low bid is that proper attention to detail won’t be followed. Proper attention to detail includes things like creating containment and following proper procedures for removing contaminated materials from the property. These two steps prevent contamination to the rest of the property.
One final point. Mold will only grow if there is moisture, ie. a water source. The key to long lasting mold prevention is to first identify the source of moisture. With this in mind, make sure you hire a contractor who will do this before any mold remediation activities begin. If the source of the moisture isn’t identified and corrected any mold removal activities will be wasted effort.
Got Mold Removal Questions?
Got Mold Removal Questions?
Mold B Gone, is dedicated to helping homeowners and business owners in the Atlanta, Georgia area. One of the reasons we are so passionate about education is we know that an informed consumer will be able to make better and informed decisions. We have built a reputation of trust in our service area because of our focus on education and our guarantee.
When you have questions about mold removal, don’t hesitate to send us an e-mail or call our experts at 678-697-6267. Peace of mind is just a phone call away!
