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!

Does Mold Cause Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

Does Mold Cause Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

What Is The Link Between Mold and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

What Is The Link Between Mold and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

What Is The Link Between Mold and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

Many people are aware that water damage in buildings leads to a variety of bad outcomes. Water-impacted building materials and contents provide an environment where a variety of organisms can flourish. Bacteria, fungus, and even viruses can not only survive but reproduce on damp or wet materials. Obviously, being exposed to such organisms can potentially contribute to health problems for the occupants. Numerous national and international agencies (including the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the World Health Organization, Britain’s National Health Service, and many others) have put out information warning of the possible ill health effects from occupying damp and moldy environments.” (Michael Pinto, The Mystery of Mycotoxins in Mold Contamination)

I was a patient of Dr. Cheney’s before the “Yuppie Flu” went through and dropped a bunch of us in our tracks. Guess what my complaint was? “Chronic Fatigue.” I told Dr. Cheney, “I have an inexorably increasing reactivity to mold that gets progressively worse no matter where I live or how well I take care of myself.” This is what brought me to Dr. Cheney’s office in Carnelian Bay in early 1984. So I was reactive to mold prior to CFS. Afterwards my reactivity was absolutely life threatening. Prior to the weird flu, my problems would have been adequately described as inexplicable fatigue….eventually the sensation turned into life-destroying godawful drop-dead neurological living death illness that was nothing like fatigue. My susceptibility to mold was prior, not later as is automatically assumed. I thought that it was more than coincidental that this same mold that has such an effect on me showed up so often in clusters of CFS – especially the one that started it all, at my old high school. Interesting how Dr. Shoemakerʼs “24%” HLA genotype is suggestive of the “25% ME group.” (Erik Johnson, The Role of Toxic Mold in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome)

One of the core goals of Mold B Gone is to create awareness of mold and the potential health impact it can have.

To date, we have written several articles on the connection between mold and illness.

Listed below are some of our most popular articles:

  1. Why Is Black Mold A Health Concern?
  2. How Do I Know If Mold Is Making Me Sick?
  3. How Toxic Is Mold?
  4. Does Mold Affect Pregnant Women and Infants?
  5. Does Mold Remediation Improve Health?
  6. Does Mold Cause Multiple Sclerosis?
  7. Are You Sick From Mold Because Of Your Genes?
  8. How Does Mold Cause Depression?
  9. What Is The Link Between Mold and Parkinson’s Disease?
  10. Can Toxic Black Mold Poison You?
  11. Is Mold Sickness A Hidden Epidemic?
  12. Are Sinus Infections Caused By Mold?
  13. What Is The Link Between Mold and Asthma?

The purpose of this article is to explore the topic of mold and health further by examining the link between mold and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome!

Top 10 Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Facts and Stats

Top 10 Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Facts and Stats

Top 10 Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Facts and Stats

  1. Chronic fatigue syndrome – now very often referred to as ME/CFS (myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome) – has been widely studied over the past 25 years
  2. ME/CFS is a debilitating and complex disorder characterized by profound fatigue that is not improved by bed rest and that may be worsened by physical or mental activity.
  3. The cause of chronic fatigue syndrome is unknown, although there are many theories, ranging from viral infections to psychological stress. Some experts believe chronic fatigue syndrome might be triggered by a combination of factors including infections (particularly by viruses), oxidative stress, immune aberrations and toxic exposures, among others.
  4. No single cause has been confirmed to fully explain ME/CFS.
  5. There is no single test to confirm a diagnosis of ME/CFS.
  6. ME/CFS patients remain chronically ill despite varying attempts at treatment.
  7. An estimated one to 2.5 million Americans are thought to suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), but the vast majority of them are undiagnosed.
  8. ME/CFS occurs more often in women than men and is less common among children and adolescents.
  9. The CDC website suggests that treatments for the disease may include drugs (antidepressants and sleeping pills), psychological counseling and graded exercise.
  10. Nutritional supplements such as Ubiquinol (the reduced form of CoQ10; one of the strongest lipid-soluble antioxidants known that is produced within your own body); D-ribose (a core building block of ATP); and Glutathione (one of your body’s most important antioxidants and a natural detox agent) may also help ME/CFS patients recover their energy.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Symptoms

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Symptoms

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Symptoms

According to the CDC website, there are 12 symptoms associated with ME/CFS.

  1. Extreme fatigue and weakness, difficulty maintaining upright posture, dizziness, balance problems, and fainting.
  2. Post-exertional malaise, lasting 24 hours or longer.
  3. Muscle and joint aches and pains.
  4. Sore throat, swollen glands, and periodic fevers and chills.
  5. Chronic headaches.
  6. Numbness and tingling of the extremities.
  7. Brain fog, cognitive dysfunction, and/or lack of concentration.
  8. Insomnia, and/or unrefreshing sleep, night sweats.
  9. Visual disturbances (blurring, light sensitivity, and eye pain).
  10. Gastrointestinal disturbances.
  11. Allergies and sensitivities to foods, odors, chemicals, and medications.
  12. Irritability, depression, and mood swings.

Could Mold Be The Cause of ME/CFS?

Could Mold Be The Cause of CFS?

Could Mold Be The Cause of CFS?

To date, no cause has been identified for ME/CFS. In addition, many patients suggest that the treatments recommended for the disease are not helpful or even can make them worse. At best, research suggests that they are only mildly helpful and clearly not a long-term solution for those suffering from ME/CFS.

Upon review of the symptoms, it is apparent that there are many similarities with the symptoms of Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS).

As discussed in a previous article, 25% of the population have a genetic susceptibility to CIRS which is characterized by 37 symptoms: fatigue and weakness; aches, pains, and muscle cramps; respiratory issues (cough, trouble breathing, and sinus problems); headaches; numbness and tingling; focus/concentration issues, confusion, and mood swings; sleeping troubles caused by night sweats; visual problems, including sensitivity to light and blurring vision; diarrhea and other gastrointestinal problems; and allergic reactions.

Could this possibly mean that individuals diagnosed with ME/CFS are actually suffering from CIRS because they have a genetic predisposition to mold illness?

If this is the case, then one of the key causes of ME/CFS could be mold.

Research backs this hypothesis!

Detection of Mycotoxins in Patients with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Detection of Mycotoxins in Patients with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Detection of Mycotoxins in Patients with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

In 2009, the World Health Organization (WHO) published, WHO Guidelines for Indoor Air Quality: Dampness and Mould, to highlight the potential health problems caused by Water Damaged Buildings (WDB). The WHO concluded:

When sufficient moisture is available, hundreds of species of bacteria and fungi – particularly mould – pollute indoor air. The most important effects of exposure to these pollutants are the increased prevalence of respiratory symptoms, allergies, and asthma, as well as disturbance of the immune system. Preventing (or minimizing) persistent dampness and microbial growth on interior surfaces and building structures is the most important means of avoiding harmful effects on health.

In layman’s terms, in this 228 page document, the WHO clearly argues that WDB pose a health threat to occupants.

According to Kristine Allcroft, Ph.D, the 9 most common causes of mold growth in WDB’s are the following:

  1. Leaking roof causing moisture in the attic.
  2. Improper ventilation in the attic trapping moisture in the eves and insulation.
  3. Poor ventilation in the bathroom trapping moisture allowing mold to grow on the walls.
  4. Leaking seals around windows allowing storm water to be trapped inside the walls.
  5. Leaking plumbing in bathrooms. Sometimes the leaks are so slow that the only indication of a problem is when mold shows up!
  6. Leaking water supply lines to washing machines.
  7. Leaking dishwasher supply lines or drain lines in the kitchen. Leaking ice maker supply lines.
  8. Poor grading from landscaping allowing water to drain toward and into the home instead of away from the home.
  9. One of the most common causes of mold growth happens when a burst pipe causes water damage in the home and it’s not dried quickly enough.

One of the key problems for individuals working or living in a WDB is that they will be exposed to mycotoxins. Mycotoxins, also known as secondary metabolites are chemical compounds that are produced by fungi during their growth cycle. The suffix toxin is used because a great number of these mold-produced chemicals have been proven to be poisonous to both insects and animals—including people.

In 2013, researchers, Joseph H. Brewer, Jack D. Thrasher, David C. Straus, Roberta A. Madison, and Dennis Hooper explored the connection between mycotoxins and CFS, to determine if mold could possibly be the cause. Their study concluded:

Over the past 20 years, exposure to mycotoxin producing mold has been recognized as a significant health risk. Scientific literature has demonstrated mycotoxins as possible causes of human disease in water-damaged buildings (WDB). This study was conducted to determine if selected mycotoxins could be identified in human urine from patients suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). Patients with a prior diagnosis of CFS were evaluated for mold exposure and the presence of mycotoxins in their urine. Urine was tested for aflatoxins (AT), ochratoxin A (OTA) and macrocyclic trichothecenes (MT) using Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assays (ELISA). Urine specimens from 104 of 112 patients (93%) were positive for at least one mycotoxin (one in the equivocal range). Almost 30% of the cases had more than one mycotoxin present. OTA was the most prevalent mycotoxin detected (83%) with MT as the next most common (44%). Exposure histories indicated current and/or past exposure to WDB in over 90% of cases.

Key conclusions from the study:

  1. 93% of the ME/CFS patients tested had mycotoxins in their bodies. If you have been diagnosed with ME/CFS, you may want to have your urine checked for the presence of mycotoxins
  2. 90% of the ME/CFS patients tested, were exposed to or are currently living in a Water Damaged Building. If you have been diagnosed with ME/CFS and your test proves positive for mycotoxins, then you likely have lived or are living in a WDB.

Concluding Thoughts On The Link Between Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Mold

Concluding Thoughts On The Link Between Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Mold

Concluding Thoughts On The Link Between Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Mold

Since the modes of activity of trichothecenes differ from aflatoxins and other mycotoxins, the combinations of mycotoxins could be additive or even synergistic, which could significantly reduce the amount of either mycotoxin required to induce an immunosuppressive or toxic effect. Immunosuppressive and combinational effects of multiple mycotoxins may constitute major components in the adverse health effects reported by many of the victims of mold exposure. (A risk assessment model for mycotoxin-producing molds on human health in indoor environments)

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.

If you have been diagnosed with ME/CFS, one of the first proactive actions you can take is to find out if you have mycotoxins in your body. If you do, then your current exposure to mold in a WDB or previous history of living in a WDB could be the cause.

If you are unsure of whether or not your home is water damaged and has mold, contact Mold B Gone and we can determine if you have mold and the cause of your mold growth.

If you do have mold and you test positive for mycotoxins in your body, there are two key actions you must take.

First, you should consult with an environmental physician that knows how to treat individuals sick from mold and mycotoxin exposure. If you live in the Atlanta metropolitan area, call us, 678-697-6267, because we can refer you to a physician that treats mold sensitized patients.

Second, if you are currently living in a WDB property, the source of the mycotoxin exposure has to be removed. This is very important because professional mold remediation is essential to preventing the symptoms of mold sickness and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome from coming back when your medical treatment has been completed.

Got Mold Questions?

If you have recently been diagnosed with ME/CFS and suspect that mold may be the cause, please call us, 678-697-6267 or send us an e-mail. We have mold sensitized training and empathize with your situation. Mold B Gone has removed mold from 1000s of homes and we specialize in serving the needs of mold sensitized individuals.

Article Sources

In addition to the resources listed below, I would like to thank Lisa Petrison, Ph.D, for her suggestions and comments!

  1. Chronic fatigue syndrome – Mayo Clinic
  2. CDC – Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)
  3. Chronic fatigue syndrome – Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
  4. You Might Have A Mold Problem If You’ve Been Diagnosed With Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
  5. Detection of Mycotoxins in Patients with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
  6. Energy Boosting Strategies That May Help Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
  7. The Role of Toxic Mold in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
  8. The Mystery of Mycotoxins in Mold Contamination
  9. Why Cleaning and Restoration Contractors Should Respect What The World Health Organization Says About Mold
  10. Mycotoxins – US National Library of Medicine
  11. Patients, Scientists Fight Over Research-Data Access
  12. TRIAL BY ERROR: The Troubling Case of the PACE Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Study (final installment)

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Infographic

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Infographic

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Infographic

Does Your Air Conditioner Have Mold?

Does Your Air Conditioner Have Mold?

Is Your Air Conditioner Making You Sick?

Is Your Air Conditioner Making You Sick?

Is Your Air Conditioner Making You Sick?

One of the core causes of mold is high humidity levels. For this reason, your air conditioner is effective at reducing humidity levels and maintaining healthy levels of 30% to 50%. Unfortunately, your air conditioner can also be a source of mold if it is not properly maintained. The purpose of this article is to explain how your air conditioner could be a source of mold contamination and what you can do to address this problem.

The HVAC System Is Your Home’s Lungs

HVAC is an abbreviation for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. The purpose of the HVAC system is to provide healthy indoor air quality by removing moisture, odors, smoke, heat, dust, airborne bacteria, and carbon dioxide, and replace it with clean air.

Ventilation is the most important component of your HVAC system because it’s main purpose is to circulate the air within the home and ideally is constantly introducing outside air into the system. The duct work in the HVAC system enables it to circulate the air throughout the whole home. Proper maintenance of your HVAC system is essential to ensuring that your indoor air quality is optimal.

Failure to replace filters is the number one error that home owners make. Filters need to be replaced consistently because they prevent pollen, pesticides, and other pollutants from entering the home. Once pollutants, dust, and other debris get into the duct work, mold can begin to grow because it now has a food source. Mold will only begin to grow if there is moisture. Once mold spores enter the air conditioning system, alternating high and low humidity conditions will help grow, spread, and distribute the spores throughout the house.

The HVAC System Is Your Home's Lungs

The HVAC System Is Your Home’s Lungs

Illnesses Caused By Air Conditioning Mold

Health signs that you could have mold in your AC unit include the following:

  • Frequent colds
  • Stomach pains
  • Ear infections
  • Frequent headaches
  • Allergic reactions
  • Asthma
  • Coughing
  • Sneezing
  • Wheezing
  • Itchy skin
  • Sore nasal passages
  • Irritated throat
  • Watery eyes/dry eyes
  • Hypersensitivity
  • Skin care problems

Many of these symptoms are also associated with over-exposure to air conditioning which causes mucus membranes to dry out, causing colds, upper respiratory infections, dry skin, nose bleeds, and flu-like symptoms including fatigue, headaches, dizziness, and breathing difficulties.

Another potential problem caused by over-exposure to air conditioning is heat intolerance which causes discomfort when you go outside. Symptoms of heat intolerance include exhaustion, dizziness, headaches, and heat stroke. Prevent over-exposure by using a thermostat that regulates the indoor temperature, meaning the AC unit turns off when the ideal temperature is reached and turns on when the temperature goes above the ideal setting.

How Do I Verify That I Have Air Conditioning Mold?

If you are experiencing the health symptoms above and suspect that your AC unit or duct work is contaminated with mold, here are some clues to determine if you do have mold.

1. Check your vents and look for any visible mold or a musty smell in the room.

2. Take a short vacation and record your health symptoms. If you feel better when you are out of your home, then likely you have air quality concerns in your home which could be caused by mold.

3. Hire a professional mold inspector to do a complete survey of the home to find the source of contamination and determine if the home requires remediation. Also, be sure to check your crawlspace for suspect mold.

If no suspect mold is found or major moisture concerns that could be causing the mold, then a comparative air quality test can measure the relative spore count inside and outside. If the spore count is much higher inside than outside, then this could indicate that you have mold spores circulating throughout your home and you should get your AC unit and ducts checked for mold.

Removing Air Conditioning Mold

If you have mold in your AC unit, then it should be professionally cleaned. When you hire the service company, ensure that they take the following actions:

  • Clean the blower unit.
  • Use a certified and non-toxic chemical cleaner.
  • Use a chemical that has anti-fungi and anti-bacterial properties.
  • Ensure that the technician does not just clean the unit with a vacuum and brush because this simply agitates the bacteria and viruses breeding there.

We also recommend that the ducts are professionally cleaned in accordance with NADCA standards to ensure that your whole HVAC system is functioning efficiently and to prevent further spread of mold spores.

Professionals should be hired because it can be difficult to access all the parts of the air conditioning ductwork and they have the experience and training to do this properly. Further, professionals have air whips or air skippers that drive dust, dirt, mold, and other debris toward collection devices fitted with HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filters.

Preventing Air Conditioning Mold

Mold can be prevented in your air conditioner and HVAC system. Once you have the system professionally serviced and cleaned, these guidelines will help prevent future problems

1. Always maintain indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50% by getting a humidistat installed and set at the ideal level.

2. Follow manufacturer’s recommendations and clean or replace your unit’s air filter because these are designed to prevent the spread of bacteria and viruses. Failure to properly clean and replace filters will allow pollutants to build up and get caught in the filter and disperse into your indoor air.

3. Service your HVAC system every year.

4. Turn off your system and open the windows during cooler periods to bring in more fresh air. Adequate ventilation is essential to reducing indoor contaminants.

5. Install an air cleaner on your central heating and air conditioner unit to ensure a constant stream of clean air.

Consistent use of your AC is important because it reduces humidity levels which is moisture that mold needs to thrive. However, like any household appliance, you need to properly service and maintain your AC unit to ensure that it is operating efficiently and does not become a source of indoor contamination. Preventative maintenance is the key.

Got Air Conditioning Mold Questions?

We are here to help. Call, (470) 545-4467, or contact us via e-mail.

Air Conditioning Maintenance Tips Infographic

Air Conditioning Maintenance Tips

Air Conditioning Maintenance Tips

Atlanta Indoor Air Quality Testing Professionals!

Atlanta Indoor Air Quality Testing Professionals!

Atlanta Indoor Air Quality Testing Experts!

Atlanta Indoor Air Quality Testing Experts!

Atlanta Indoor Air Quality Testing Experts!

Indoor air quality testing is an important part of determining how healthy your surroundings are.

Since we spend over 90% of our life indoors, the health and quality of the air we breathe is of utmost importance.

The majority of indoor pollutants are invisible to the naked eye and do not necessarily produce a noticeable odour.

Good indoor air quality should also not be confused with cleanliness or hygiene.

A visibly clean home or office can have a number of air quality issues that are difficult to rectify if they are not identified properly.

Bad Air Can Impact Your Health!

Do you have any of the following health symptoms?

  1. Recurring headaches;
  2. Breathing difficulties, asthma, or respiratory infections;
  3. Excessive coughing or the feeling of not getting enough air;
  4. Repeated congestion or sinus infections;
  5. Dizziness, confusion or malaise;
  6. Skin irritation or rash;
  7. Ear and eye infections

These symptoms could be caused by the air you are breathing.

Our Indoor Air Quality Testing

We use OSHA, NIOSHA, and EPA testing procedures to investigate indoor air quality complaints or give you a profile of your air.

Hundreds of compounds can be tested for including gases, chemicals, dust, and biological samples.

We take special care in instruments calibration and sample handling to produce accurate and reliable results.

Our results are compared with controlled samples to ensure accurate data.

We offer services for both residential and business customers.

Mold Testing

Mold testing is done by taking air samples and comparing inside and outside spore numbers and can determine if a building has a high amount of mold present.

Mold and moisture testing will help assess problems by determining if high mold levels exist and if remediation work is necessary.

For more general info on mold you can also visit the EPA’s mold home page, the CDC’s homepage, and the website set up by Wonder Makers Environmental, www.moldsensitized.com.

Mold Inspections

Mold inspections look for any areas affected by mold and moisture.

During our inspections, we take moisture reading of interior walls in the sample area to see if there is a suitable environment for mold to grow.

Our experts are trained scientists and have a background in the building construction industry.

We can relate mold data to a building and provide you with practical solutions if a problem is found.

We can identify and asses any mold problem you may have.

Environmental Consulting

Consulting services meet your special and specific environmental needs.

Risk management services are offered to help asses environmental conditions present and to help determine if action should be taken to minimize risks and exposure.

Got Indoor Air Quality Questions?

Call, (470) 545-4467, or send us an e-mail. We look forward to serving you! 🙂

Indoor Air Quality and Your Health (Infographic)

Indoor Air Quality Facts Infographic

 

Atlanta Crawlspace Mold Removal and Encapsulation Professionals

Atlanta Crawlspace Mold Removal and Encapsulation Professionals

Atlanta Crawlspace Mold Removal, Mold Prevention, and Encapsulation Experts!

Atlanta Crawlspace Mold Removal, Mold Prevention, and Encapsulation Experts!

Atlanta Crawlspace Mold Removal, Mold Prevention, and Encapsulation Experts!

Top 3 Questions About Crawl Space Humidity

What’s the threshold humidity level for mold growth?

When the relative humidity of your crawl space is 70% or higher, mold can thrive.

“Relative” humidity is the humidity level expressed in a percentage of the amount of moisture in the air needed for “saturation” (i.e. the highest level of humidity – 100%).

The amount of water the air can hold (humidity level) is dependent upon the temperature of the air itself.

When the humidity level begins to creep up past 70% relative humidity, this provides the perfect environment for mold growth!

I’m seeing condensation. What does that mean?

Condensation is an indication that the air within your crawl space has reached 100%.

The air can no longer hold the moisture and it’s condensing onto the surfaces, causing the organic materials that make up your crawl space to become damp, which will result in mold growth.

How do I know when the humidity in my crawl space is at a dangerous level?

A hygrometer is a device used to measure the humidity of indoor air.

Using this tool to measure the humidity of your crawl space is a great way to monitor the amount of moisture present.

A thermo-hygrometer measures both temperature and humidity level.

These devices are even more ideal for crawl space atmosphere monitoring because the relative humidity level is contingent upon the moisture in the air in relation to the air’s temperature.

Being able to track the changes in both of these conditions in your crawl space will allow you to see trends and anticipate necessary changes.

For instance, if the weather is hot during the day but the temperature plummets at night, this can cause problems for your crawl space’s humidity levels.

The daytime temperature is higher, which allows the air to hold more moisture.

As night approaches and the air cools, the amount of moisture the air can hold also decreases – causing the relative humidity level to rise.

A crawl space that was at a permissible humidity level during the day can run into problems when night falls.

Being able to see these changes on your thermo-hygrometer can help you identify these types of trends so that you can respond appropriately.

Keep in mind that properly insulating your crawl space and installing vapor barriers will help regulate the temperature and keep moisture levels down, resulting in less fluctuations in the air’s relative humidity.

Humidity Levels In Your Crawlspace Affect The Rest Of Your Home

Having unconditioned air below your living spaces makes the whole house harder to heat and cool as well as provide the perfect damp setting for mold spores to breed.

In the past, we were told that crawlspaces needed to be ventilated. Now, however, we are learning that crawlspaces need to be treated almost as if they were living spaces. In other words, areas that are in contact with your living space affect your living space. So if you have a crawlspace, what solution is available?

Mold-B-Gone Remediation, LLC can help you dry out the dampest crawlspaces and turn them into drier, healthier foundations for your home that aren’t breeding grounds for mold spores.

Crawlspace Solutions

Turning crawlspaces into dry spaces!

Our Dry-space technique combines the following:

  • A thorough cleaning of the space, including mold remediation.
  • Installation of a wall-to-wall guide, durable, 14 mil vapor barrier.
  • Attachment of the vapor barrier over ground and up sidewalls to 6 inches below floor joists.

Crawlspace Encapsulation (Before and After Photos)

[huge_it_gallery id=”3″]

The result is an energy efficient, healthy home. Mold-B-Gone Remediation, LLC’s dry space methods described above not only helps mold-proof your home, but the combination of these methods will make it more energy efficient and comfortable. For more information on our crawlspace solutions, contact us today.

Mold Facts and Information (36 Articles)

Mold Facts and Information (36 Articles)

The Ultimate Mold Education Resource

The Ultimate Mold Education Resource

The Ultimate Mold Education Resource

The goal of Mold B Gone is to educate our customers about mold. We strongly believe that an educated and informed consumer can make better decisions when they have concerns about mold.

Included in this article are 36 links to articles that will help you learn about mold.

Please bookmark this page because we will update it with new articles as they are researched and published.

If you have questions about mold removal, crawl space mold removal and encapsulation, other services we offer, and/or our 1 year up to 25 year guarantee, call us, 678-697-6267, or send us an e-mail. We look forward to serving you. 🙂

Mold Facts and Information (7 Articles)

Mold Facts and Information (7 Articles)

Mold Facts and Information (7 Articles)

Is Mold Cited In The Bible?
Priests were the equivalent of today’s mold inspectors. This article lists the three passages cited in Leviticus. Learn more!
Top 10 Facts About Mold

Mold Fact 1: The Key Ingredient Mold Needs To Thrive Is Moisture. There are 9 more mold facts explained in this article. What do you think they are?

Why Does Mold Grow In My Attic?

Top 4 Reasons Mold Grows In Your Attic! The purpose of this article is to explain why mold grows in your attic and prevention tips.

Top 3 Reasons Your Crawlspace Has Mold

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!

What Can I Do If I Have Mold In My Apartment?

Steps Residents Can Take If They Have Mold In Their Apartment! This article explains what you can do if you find mold in your apartment. Learn more!

Top 10 Reasons Mold Is Scary!

Here are the top 10 reasons we believe that mold is scary. Enjoy!

7 Places Mold Hides In Your Home!

This article provides you with information to help you determine if you have a mold problem and explains what you should and should not do if you do find mold.

Black Mold (2 Articles)

Black Mold (2 Articles)

Black Mold (2 Articles)

Can Toxic Black Mold Poison You?

Recently a news article featured a woman who believes that she was poisoned by toxic black stachybotrys mold. This article explores this topic further!

Why Is Black Mold A Health Concern?

Stachybotrys is considered the king of molds because exposure to this toxic black mold causes 15 serious health conditions. Learn more!

Mold and Health (13 Articles)

Mold and Health (13 Articles)

Mold and Health (13 Articles)

How Do I Know If Mold Is Making Me Sick?

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!

How Toxic Is Mold?

This article explains why mold can be toxic, listing 10 specific health conditions. Learn more!

Does Mold Affect Pregnant Women and Infants?

Potential Health Complications Mold Exposure Has On Pregnant Women and Infants! Questions answered about SIDS, asthma, miscarriage, and pulmonary hemorrhage.

Does Your Kids Sippy Cup Have Mold?

This article article explains why mold grows on sippy cups, why it could make your child sick, and how you should properly clean the sippy cup!

Does Mold Remediation Improve Health?

Mold Remediation Improves Health! This article explains why, citing an interview with Jack and Helen Graham, a Mold Sensitized Success Story!

Does Mold Cause Multiple Sclerosis?

Could Some People Diagnosed With Multiple Sclerosis Actually Be Suffering From Mold Sickness? This article explains how and why. Learn more!

Is Mold In Your Christmas Tree Making You Sick?

One in Three people get sick from their Christmas tree. This article explains why and what you can do to feel better. Learn more.

Are You Sick From Mold Because Of Your Genes?

Why Do Some People Get Sick From Mold And Others Do Not? This article explains why 1 in 4 people have a genetic predisposition to mold illness.

How Does Mold Cause Depression?

This article explains why many suffering from CIRS are diagnosed with depression caused by mold. Both scientific and anectodal data are cited. Learn more!

What Is The Link Between Mold and Parkinson’s Disease?

Does Mold Cause Parkinson’s Disease? The purpose of this article is to explain why and how mold could be a possible cause of Parkinson’s Disease.

Is Mold Sickness A Hidden Epidemic?

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!

Are Sinus Infections Caused By Mold?

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!

What Is The Link Between Mold and Asthma?

According to the CDC, rates of asthma among children in Georgia is 3% above the national average. Is mold a factor? This article cites stats and research!

Water Damage and Mold (4 Articles)

Water Damage and Mold (4 Articles)

Water Damage and Mold (4 Articles)

How Do I Prevent A Sewer Backup?

Concerned about sewer backups? This article explains what causes sewers to backup and how you can prevent this from happening. Learn more!

What Are The Top 3 Water Damage Hazards?

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!

Three Steps to Reduce Flood Damage

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!

Top 3 Facts About Water Damage Restoration

Water damage restoration restores a property to pre-loss condition after a flood. Check out the top 3 facts. Hint: Mold is not the only concern.

Mold Inspection and Prevention (7 Articles)

Mold Inspection and Prevention (7 Articles)

Mold Inspection and Prevention (7 Articles)

Top 15 Mold Prevention Tips

Mold growth can be prevented. This article list the top 15 mold prevention tips, to help you live in a mold free home.

The #1 Mistake Home Buyers Make!

Top 3 Reasons A Mold Inspection Is Essential! This article explains why you should submit an offer to purchase, subject to a home AND mold inspection!

Is Mold A Concern During Renovations?

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!

10 Tips To Prevent Basement Mold!

If you are concerned about mold in your basement or your basement was recently flooded, implement these 10 tips to prevent mold growth. Learn more!

What Is Indoor Air Quality Testing?

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!

Is Your Air Conditioner Making You Sick?

The purpose of this article is to explain how you air conditioner could be a source of mold contamination making you sick and what you can do to fix it.

4 Key Mold Inspection Actions!

Wonder what happens during a mold inspection? This article answers all your questions, listing the top 4 actions taken by reputable inspectors.

Mold Removal (3 Articles)

Mold Removal (3 Articles)

Mold Removal (3 Articles)

How Is Mold Removal Cost Determined?

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!

Killing Mold Is Not The Answer!

Mold sprays, bleach, biocides, and fungicides are an ineffective “short cut” to mold removal. Killing mold is not the answer! This article explains why.

8 Steps To Mold Remediation Success!

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!