Does Your Front Loading Washing Machine Have Mold?

Does Your Front Loading Washing Machine Have Mold?

Rebate Available For Front-Loading Washers With Mold Problem!

Rebate Available For Front-Loading Washers With Mold Problem!

Rebate Available For Front-Loading Washers With Mold Problem!

In 2014, Consumer Reports published an article about consumer problems with front-loading washing machines. The primary complaint many consumers had was mold issues in their washers.

It turns out that the manufacturers of these washing machines knew about this problem, but still continued to sell the washers to consumers. This resulted in a class action law suit. The lawsuits claimed that the washers fail to self-clean. As a result, they accumulate bacteria and mold, resulting in bad odors, ruined laundry, and for the mold-sensitive individual, health issues.

This article will explain why your front-loading washing machine has mold problems and what you can do to get compensated now that the suit has been settled.

Why Front-Loading Washing Machines Have Mold Problems!

The core problem is a design flaw that causes the machine to accumulate mold because mold grows in the gaskets of the high-efficiency machines.

For many people this is not an issue. However, for the mold sensitized, for infants and children, people with asthma and allergies to mold, and compromised immune systems, washing machine mold growth has been an issue.

If you have one of the flawed washing machines, here are some things you can do:

  1. Wipe the door gasket and glass dry once you’re done.
  2. Clean the detergent dispenser and any attachments once or twice a month.
  3. Run a dehumidifier if your laundry room is damp.
  4. Keep the washer door ajar between loads to allow air to circulate. If you have small children, keep the laundry-room door locked.
  5. If none of this works, call the manufacturer for service and save all mold-related paperwork, even after the warranty expires.

You also qualify for compensation if you have a washing machines that falls under the settlement. Details below.

Rebate Details On Front-Loading Washing Machine Mold Problems!

On September 23, 2016, Judge Christopher A. Boyko of the United States District Court for the Northern District of Ohio granted final approval to the settlement of the Whirlpool front-load washer mold cases.

The claims period closes soon, providing class members who experienced mold or odor the choice of $50 cash, a 20% discount off purchase of a new washer (worth $148.50) or, if they paid out of pocket or to replace their washer due to mold /odor, dollar for dollar cash reimbursement up to $500.

Owners of the affected Whirlpool, Kenmore, and Maytag-brand front-loading washers can now submit claims as part of the settlement of several class action lawsuits brought on claims that the machines fail to adequately self-clean. The suits alleged that certain Whirlpool, Kenmore, and Maytag brand front-loading washing machines manufactured between 2001 and 2010 fail to adequately self-clean themselves of laundry residue, resulting in mold or mildew buildup that can cause bad odors and ruined laundry.

If you are included in the Settlement, you may qualify for one of a variety of benefits including:

  1. Cash payment.
  2. Rebate on the purchase of a new washing machine or dryer.
  3. Or reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses incurred due to past mold or odor problems in your washing machine.

Please read the FAQ notice on the WasherSettlement.com settlement website carefully.

For a full list of washers covered by the class action lawsuit, click here.

To see details of the settlement or for more information, visit www.washersettlement.com or call 844-824-5781.

Submit A Claim!

Submit A Claim!

Submit A Claim!

The only way to get a cash payment, a rebate for the purchase of a new washing machine or dryer, or reimbursement for the repair or replacement of a washing machine with mold or odor problems is to complete and submit a Claim Form, including all required documentation.

The deadline for submitting claims for Whirlpool, Kenmore and Maytag customers is October 11, 2016.

The deadline for submitting claims for LG customers is October 10, 2016.

Got Mold Questions?

If you have mold or IAQ questions, please give us a call, 678-697-6267 or send us an e-mail. We look forward to serving you! 🙂

Why Should I Have An Indoor Air Quality Test?

Why Should I Have An Indoor Air Quality Test?

What Is Indoor Air Quality Testing?

Why Should I Have An Indoor Air Quality Test?

Why Should I Have An Indoor Air Quality Test?

Most people are unaware that their indoor air could be polluted. Indeed, today, we spend 90% of our time indoors, relying on our HVAC systems to create a constant stream of healthy air. Our health is dependent on the the quality of the air we breathe. The problem with indoor air pollution is that is not visible to the naked eye, meaning the quality of your air could be making you sick without you even knowing it. Despite your efforts to maintain a clean and healthy household, you still may be getting sick because of indoor pollutants.

Symptoms of Poor Indoor Air Quality

Our bodies are designed to rid ourselves of toxins and pollutants, this is one of the reasons that we get sick and experience colds and flus. However, if you or other’s in your family seem to always be sick, the air you are breathing could be the cause.

Do you often experience the following health issues?

  • Headaches;
  • Respiratory issues such as asthma, sinusitis, and other respiratory infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia;
  • Excessive coughing and/or a breathless feeling;
  • Dizziness, confusion, malaise, trouble concentrating, and other cognitive disorders;
  • Skin irritation, itchiness, and rashes;
  • Ear and/or eye infections

If you consistently experience these symptoms, the air you are breathing could be the cause.

A simple test is to record how you feel when you are away from your home or business. If you feel sick when you are in your home or business, but feel much better when you are away, then this could be a clue that the air is making you sick.

What Causes Poor Indoor Air Quality?

What Causes Poor Indoor Air Quality?

What Causes Poor Indoor Air Quality?

Contaminated air can seep in from the outside or could be caused by indoor sources like construction materials, consumer products, mold, insects, and pets. The effect of pollutants is compounded by poor ventilation which allows pollutants to accumulate to unhealthy levels.

Poor indoor air quality in your home or business could also be caused by factors such as the building design, heating/cooling design, and/or previous water damage.

Other potential causes of poor indoor air quality include the following:

  • High humidity levels.
  • Airborne dust problems from poorly maintained ducts or other sources in the building.
  • Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC’s) which are chemicals released by building materials and furniture.
  • Inadequate ventilation caused by mechanical or building issues.
  • Combustion problems leading to high levels of Carbon Monoxide (CO) or Carbon Dioxide (CO2).
  • Sewer gas leakages, leading to odors.
  • Recurring water damage, causing growth of mold and other bacteria.
  • Radon, the second highest cause of lung cancer, most likely seeping through the foundation in your basement.
  • Radioactive marble or granite in the home.
  • Air borne asbestos, a cause of mesothelioma.

What Should I Do?

What Should I Do?

What Should I Do?

The easiest way to determine if the air you are breathing is making you sick is to call an indoor air quality specialist to test the air. Indoor air quality professionals have specialized equipment that can test the air for radon, mold spores, and other pollutants.

At Mold B Gone, our Indoor Air Quality testing uses OSHA, NIOSH, and EPA testing procedures to investigate indoor air quality complaints. We can test for 100s of compounds, including gases, chemicals, dust, and biological samples to give you a profile of your air.

One of the services we specialize in is mold testing, which is done by taking air samples from both inside and outside the building so the spore numbers can be compared with each other. If the testing shows high mold spore counts, then a mold inspection and mold removal plan will be provided to you.

In order to ensure the most accurate and reliable results, Mold B Gone utilizes specialized calibration instruments and sample handling procedures. In addition, controlled samples are compared with yours to ensure the most accurate results possible. We use Third Party Labs to analyze the results of all of the samples we take to provide you with a detailed air quality report and recommendations.

Fall Mold Inspection Promotion!

Fall Mold Inspection Promotion!

Fall Mold Inspection Promotion!

Contact Mold B Gone for a free mold inspection, a value of $250, PLUS if you need any testing, you get that for 50% off!

Got Indoor Air Quality Questions?

If you are concerned that you may have indoor air quality issues and have questions, call 678-697-6267 or send us an e-mail.

September Is Mold Awareness Month

September Is Mold Awareness Month

Top 10 Reasons You Need To Be Aware Of Mold!

Top 10 Reasons You Need To Be Aware Of Mold!

Top 10 Reasons You Need To Be Aware Of Mold!

September 2016 marks the 8th 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)

According to Michael Pinto:

“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 37,000 views from individuals interested in learning more about mold.

There are three key lessons you need to know about mold:

  1. Mycotoxins kill other things, like bacteria and viruses, so mold can continue to grow.
  2. Mold spores, whether dead or alive, can cause adverse health effects.
  3. 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!

#1 Mold Needs Less Than 2 Days To Begin Growing!

Mold requires three key ingredients to grow:

  1. 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.
  2. The ideal temperature of 41 degrees to 100 degrees Fahrenheit; and
  3. 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!

#2 Mold Causes Chronic Sinusitis!

#2 Mold Causes Chronic Sinusitis!

#2 Mold Causes Chronic Sinusitis!

According to Doctors at the Mayo Clinic, David Sherris, Eugene Kern, and Jens Ponikau, chronic sinusitis is caused by a fungus and is an immune reaction:

“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!

#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.

#4 Mold Causes Asthma!

#4 Mold Causes Asthma!

#4 Mold Causes Asthma!

“Infants who are exposed to mold in their living environments have nearly a three times greater risk of becoming asthmatic than those who did not have extensive mold exposure in their first year of life.” (Medical Evidence that Connects Mold Exposure to Illness Keeps Piling Up)

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.

According to Michael Pinto, CEO, of Wonder Makers Environmental, there is mounting evidence pointing to the link between mold and asthma.

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!

#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!

#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.

  1. The quest to reduce energy bills means that many new homes are air tight and lack proper ventilation, conducive to mold growth.
  2. 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.
  3. 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!

#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!

#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.

The only way to stop mold is to address the moisture source to prevent future mold growth and then remove the contaminated porous materials. Effective, long lasting mold remediation is based upon identifying the source of contamination and ensuring it is fixed.

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!

#9 Mold Remediation Can Be Costly!

As mentioned 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.

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!

#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.

  1. 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.
  2. Approximately 28 percent of the population have genes that make them highly susceptible to mold-related health issues.
  3. 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!

Got Mold Questions?

Mold B Gone has been serving the Atlanta, Georgia area since 2009. We are experts at detecting and removing mold and specialize in serving the needs of mold sensitized customers. If you have a mold question or concern, please call 678-697-6267, or send us an e-mail. Peace of mind is just a phone call away!

Is Mold In Schools Making Kids Sick?

Is Mold In Schools Making Kids Sick?

How Safe Is The Air In Your Child’s School?

How Safe Is The Air In Your Child's School?

How Safe Is The Air In Your Child’s School?

“Once school started again, he was having breathing issues; he didn’t have any issues over the summer. This is their health and they have to breathe this in. Every single day that they are there, six hours a day that they are at school. I don’t think that’s fair to them.” (Barbara Gareau, mother of son she suspects is sick from mold)

“My child is never sick. She never has stomach problems or anything like that. It’s just weird. It’s mainly stomach pains, asthma. Some kids are having to take their allergy medicine again when they were not taking it this summer.” (Katherine Saldana, mother of daughter she suspects is sick from mold)

“Mold clung to the ceiling and left dark trails across the walls and floor. The teacher had already complained about the stench months before. Stuff was even growing on desks.” (Toxic schools: Mold, air quality spark thousands of complaints in Central Florida)

Recently there have been several news articles about mold concerns in schools:

  1. East Pennsboro school officials meet with parents over mold concerns
  2. Mold concerns at Largo’s Plato Academy have parents scared
  3. Parent voices concerns about mold issue at Englewood Elementary
  4. East Penn plans more school closures as mold cleanup costs deplete savings
  5. Mold problem at West Vigo High School serious
  6. Mold forces local school district to cancel classes
  7. Farmington school tackles possible mold problem

The issue of mold in schools is not a recent problem. In fact in 2012, CNN ran a special report, that explored the issue of mold in schools. They focused on a third-grader, Matthew Asselin, in Winsted, Connecticut who missed 53 days of school because he was getting sick from mold at his school.

Matthew suffered from lethargy, a persistent wet cough, respiratory infections, headaches, pneumonia, and eventually got so ill that he needed to be hospitalized. His parents suspected that his school was making him ill because he was energetic and healthy during the summer holidays, but soon after starting school again, he got sick.

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.

Stats and Facts on Indoor Air Quality in Schools

Stats and Facts on Indoor Air Quality in Schools

Stats and Facts on Indoor Air Quality in Schools

According to CNN:

  1. It is estimated that one-third of schools have indoor air problems.
  2. The core cause of mold and subsequent indoor air quality issues is moisture. An easy fix you would think. However, it is not and the situation is getting worse because of budget cutbacks that make it difficult for schools to fix issues that cause moisture issues, like roof leaks.
  3. A national survey of school nurses found that 40% knew children and staff adversely affected by indoor pollutants.
  4. Indoor air affects more than health. A growing body of research suggests students also perform better in schools with healthier air.
  5. Asthma is the number one chronic illness that keeps kids out of school, and it’s growing
  6. About one in 10 children in the United States now has asthma, which causes them to miss an average of four days of school a year
  7. Even when children don’t miss school, the medications they take for asthma and conditions like rhinitis, an allergic reaction to mold or dust, can make it harder for them to do their best work.
  8. About 20% to 30% of people are susceptible to mold or dust, which triggers an allergic reaction. The resulting symptoms can include itchy eyes, runny nose, coughing, headaches, fatigue, even memory problems and slowed thinking. It takes very little exposure once you’re sensitized to provoke symptoms and gets worse over time.
  9. Children are not the only ones affected by poor indoor air quality, teachers and staff also get sick.
  10. Home schooling is growing amongst parents that are concerned that the air quality of their child’s school is not healthy.

Is The School Making Your Child’s Asthma Worse?

Is The School Making Your Child's Asthma Worse?

Is The School Making Your Child’s Asthma Worse?

Last year, we explored the issue of mold and asthma. Highlighted below is information that pertains directly to the issue of mold and asthma with respect to children.

One of the most common health concerns for children is asthma.

One study based on a survey of more than 10,000 university students, cited that there was a strong correlation between mold and asthma.

Another study of 300 children found a strong correlation that three species of mold–Aspergillus ochraceus, Aspergillus unguis and Penicillium variabile–caused asthma in children. The studies author went on to conclude that: “It’s proof of common sense that you want to take care of mold in the home. It’s just proving that if you don’t do that, your kids are more likely to develop asthma.”

December, 2013 the New York City Housing Authority was forced to recognize mold as a health threat and specifically that one of the core causes of asthma was moisture and mold.

It would appear that more research is pointing to the fact that the prevalent and core cause of asthma in children is mold.

Research out of Taiwan, provides even more proof that mold causes asthma.

The researchers studied school children aged 6 to 15 years old in 44 schools and concluded that:

Classroom Aspergillus/Penicillium and basidiospores are significantly associated with childhood asthma and asthma with symptoms reduced on holidays or weekends (ASROH). Government health policy should explore environmental interventions for the elimination of fungal spores in classrooms to reduce the prevalence of childhood asthma.

Based on this conclusion, it is fairly clear that parents, teachers, school trustees, and the government needs to take the issue of mold in schools seriously. It is no longer a theory that poor air quality affects the health of school children, it is fairly clear that it does. It is also fair to conclude that the prevalent cause of childhood asthma is mold.

If we want to reduce the number of children with asthma, then the obvious solution is to address the issue of poor air quality in schools. Will this happen? I am hopeful, but in an age of constant government cutbacks and tight budgets, the likelihood of this happening is not very high. The driving force for change in schools will ultimately have to be the parents whose children are impacted by poor air quality.

As a parent, the only way you can determine if your child’s school is causing sickness is to monitor their health during the summer when they are away from school and monitor their health when they are in school.

Questions To Ask When Your Child Is Back In School

Questions To Ask When Your Child Is Back In School

Questions To Ask When Your Child Is Back In School

How do I know if my child is getting sick at school from mold?

Some children are more sensitive than others. But watch out for symptoms that seem to appear only at school – for example, wheezing, hoarseness, cough, runny nose, acid reflux, digestive issues, headache and irritated eyes.

What should I do if my child is getting sick because of school?

Visit your children’s classrooms and other parts of their schools. Do you see or smell mold or mildew? Are there signs of water leaks on walls, around windows or on the ceiling?

Musty and earthy odors are always an indication that a mold problem is present. Dirty carpet and water damage might also mean there is mold and bad air quality. Mold grows where there’s moisture.

How do I know if it’s mold?

If you see fuzzy, slimy, or discolored surfaces — especially in damp or wet areas — it’s probably mold. Molds can be green, black, gray, purple or even orange.

What if I see a problem?

Alert your principal or a School Board member. A lot of times, it will take more than one call or e-mail to get a response. Although calls might be quicker, your letters will provide a paper trail. Also, be sure to log all your calls, letters and observations. Inform other parents of the problem.

How can I protect my child?

Educate yourself. Talk to school officials about what they’re doing to control humidity and how quickly they’re fixing leaky roofs and windows. Ask to see copies of investigative reports and work orders for repairs and mold removal. Finally, ensure that your child is maintaining a healthy diet so their immune system is strong.

Got Mold Questions?

If you are concerned about mold in your home or your child’s school, please don’t hesitate to call us, 678-697-6267 or send us an e-mail. Mold B Gone are experienced mold removal and detection specialists that have specialized training to work with mold sensitized individuals. Peace of mind is just a phone call away. We look forward to serving you! 🙂

Mold In Schools Infographic

Mold In Schools Infographic

Mold In Schools Infographic

15 FAQs About Mold and Health

15 FAQs About Mold and Health

Top Fifteen Frequently Asked Questions About Mold and Health

Top Fifteen Frequently Asked Questions About Mold and Health

Top Fifteen Frequently Asked Questions About Mold and Health

Mold B Gone has been helping residents in the Atlanta metropolitan area and surrounding Georgia states with mold removal since 2009.

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?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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!

#12 Does Mold Remediation Improve Health?

Yes, it does, this article cites a case study.

#13 Does Mold Cause Asthma?

Four studies demonstrate a strong link between mold and asthma. Learn more!

#14 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?

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!

Mold Sensitized Customer Testimonial

Mold Sensitized Customer Testimonial

Mold Remediation Helps Mold Sensitized Woman Move Back In Home!

Mold Remediation Helps Mold Sensitized Woman Move Back In Home!

Mold Remediation Helps Mold Sensitized Woman Move Back In Home!

Mold B Gone has three main goals.

  1. To create awareness of mold, which we accomplish through this website and our blog.
  2. To service the needs of mold sensitized individuals.
  3. To offer our customers throughout Atlanta and other surrounding areas in Georgia and other states peace of mind with our service guarantee. We guarantee our work up to 25 years, depending on the mold prevention system: Mold Zap (1 years) or Mold Shield (25 years), that our customers choose. Both products are manufactured by American Mold Products.

Mold B Gone Specializes In Helping Mold Sensitized Customers!

One of the specialties of Mold B Gone is servicing mold sensitized individuals.

Our specialized training from Wonder Makers Environmental, enables us to effectively help our customers because we address the immediate mold concerns in a home, the spore deposition throughout the home and also the HVAC system.

We are experts in working with individuals that have been sickened from living in Water Damaged Buildings (WDB) and understand that this can cause Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS).

Since we understand the health consequences caused by WDB, we empathize with our customers and take special care and precautions to ensure that the indoor environment is safe for our mold sensitized customers.

Mold Sensitized Testimonial

Mold B Gone has received several testimonials from our customers, including an interview with a mold sensitized customer whose health dramatically improved once their home was properly cleaned.

The testimonial below was sent to us by Gail Z, a customer that we worked with in Alabama, about 3 hours from our head office in Atlanta, Georgia.

Gail was referred to us by Wonder Makers Environmental because she is mold sensitized and needed to work with a contractor that understands how to effectively remediate her home and properly clean up all the potential spore deposition.

Mold B Gone took on this project, removed the mold, addressed the spore deposition of all the home’s contents, and also advised her on the best method to clean up the HVAC system.

Today, Gail is back in her home, and this is what she had to say about our services:

Mold B Gone has been a blessing in big measure with their innovation and hard work in remediation.

Specifically Richard Baker, the Manager, has excellent leadership skills and has trained a very efficient and knowledgeable team of young men who did a superb job when they came to remediate my home in Alabama. He also is a very good communicator.

Mold B Gone did a large scale remediation in my house in spring of 2016 and traveled here to do it as well. Their “can do” attitude was very encouraging at EVERY interaction.

When problems arose, they were quick responders with a great attitude. In spite of being very busy and in great demand, their responsiveness and knowledge of the topic of mold remediation makes them stand out greatly. Service is an area that seems to lack greatly today.

In a field where the remediation industry does not seem to have caught up with new findings, discovery and research on mold, and its remediation, Johnny Wells, the owner of Mold B Gone has not only stayed on top of it but also has innovated in a manner that is consistent with a healthy understanding of the extent of care that needs to be exercised in remediation.

Mold B Gone has a patent and additional certification with higher standards of remediation for mold-ill and sensitized individuals that makes them stand out among their peers.

Mold B Gone not only has my respect but great commendation for their skill, their teamwork, their staying on top cutting edge technologies, and providing me with excellent and critical service in mold remediation.

Got Mold Questions?

If you have concerns about mold or the impact it is having on your health, please call 678-697-6267, or send us an e-mail. We look forward to serving you! 🙂