Mold Inspections

Toxic Black Mold Syndrome

2014-07-12T14:05:00.001-05:00

Mold Exposure Symptoms

2014-07-06T19:41:00.001-05:00

Health Effects of Mold Exposure

2014-07-05T20:19:00.001-05:00

How do molds affect people?

2014-07-05T08:26:00.000-05:00

Some people are sensitive to molds. For these people, exposure to molds can cause symptoms such as nasal stuffiness, eye irritation, wheezing, or skin irritation. Some people, such as those with serious allergies to molds, may have more severe reactions. Severe reactions may occur among workers exposed to large amounts of molds in occupational settings, such as farmers working around moldy hay. Severe reactions may include fever and shortness of breath. Some people with chronic lung illnesses, such as obstructive lung disease, may develop mold infections in their lungs.

In 2004 the Institute of Medicine (IOM) found there was sufficient evidence to link indoor exposure to mold with upper respiratory tract symptoms, cough, and wheeze in otherwise healthy people; with asthma symptoms in people with asthma; and with hypersensitivity pneumonitis in individuals susceptible to that immune-mediated condition. The IOM also found limited or suggestive evidence linking indoor mold exposure and respiratory illness in otherwise healthy children. Other recent studies have suggested a potential link of early mold exposure to development of asthma in some children, particularly among children who may be genetically susceptible to asthma development, and that selected interventions that improve housing conditions can reduce morbidity from asthma and respiratory allergies, but more research is needed in this regard.

What do you do if you suspect Mold?

1. Hire a company that only does mold testing and mold inspection.
2. Wait for the results and see if you have toxic mold.
3. If you do find toxic mold, hire a mold remediation company to come in and do the necessary removal.
4. After the mold removal is completed, have your mold testing company do post testing. If you have clear results this time, your testing company will be able to issue a clean bill of health. If not, the remediation company will have to come in and finish their job.

Mold Clean Up

2014-03-08T15:48:00.000-06:00

How to Kill Mold with Bleach

Bleach produces harsh fumes so make sure the area is well ventilated before you begin. You should also wear gloves during the process to protect your hands.

For killing mold with bleach use a ratio of one cup of bleach per gallon of water (ie about 1 part bleach to 10 parts water).
Apply the solution to non-porous surfaces with mold growth either by using a spray bottle or by using a bucket and a sponge or cloth.
You don't need to rinse the surface afterwards (unless it is used for food preparation or a surface which may be touched by small children or pets) as the bleach will inhibit mold growing in the future.

Does Bleach Kill Mold?

Although the active ingredient in bleach, sodium hypochlorite, is the main ingredient in many mold removal products, there are many reasons to use alternatives to chlorine bleach when killing mold.

One reason is that bleach cannot completely kill mold growing in porous materials. The chlorine in bleach cannot penetrate into porous surfaces such as drywall or wood. The chlorine is left on the surface of porous materials and only the water component of the bleach is absorbed into the material, providing more moisture for the mold to feed on.

Some of the mold on the surface might be killed but the roots of the mold are left intact meaning the mold soon returns, leaving you in a cycle of repeated bleaching. Perhaps this is why some people believe that spraying bleach on mold doesn't affect it but instead just bleaches its color so you can no longer see it.

Another disadvantage of bleach is that it can damage the materials it's used on as it is a harsh, corrosive chemical. Chlorine bleach also gives off harsh fumes and it even produces toxic gas when mixed with ammonia. There are safer alternatives such as borax or vinegar which don't produce dangerous fumes or leave behind toxic residue. For these reasons try to avoid using bleach and if you must use it, only use it on non-porous surfaces.

Mold Removal with Borax
There are many advantages to using borax to kill mold. For starters, borax is a natural cleaning product and although it is toxic if you swallow it, borax does not emit chemicals or dangerous fumes like some other mold killers. Borax, a white mineral powder, has a pH level of about 9 (baking soda is pH 8.1 and pH 7 is neutral) and a low toxicity.

Borax is commonly used as a deodorizer as well as for cleaning toilets and drains. Borax is also used as an insecticide, herbicide and fungicide and it can be mixed with water in a solution to kill and remove mold as it is a natural mold inhibitor. You can buy borax in supermarkets for a few dollars from the laundry section.

How to Kill Mold with Borax

To kill mold using borax, create a borax-water solution using a ratio of 1 cup of borax per gallon of water.
Vacuum up any loose mold with a HEPA filtered vacuum cleaner to lessen the number of spores stirred up into the air during the cleaning process.
Use a scrubbing brush with the borax-water solution to scrub the mold off the surface.
Wipe up any extra moisture and excess mold particles or dust/debris to prevent them spreading into the air once the surface has dried.
You don't need to rinse off the borax as the solution will prevent more mold beginning to grow on the surface again.
Leave the surface to dry completely.

Mold Removal with Vinegar

Vinegar is a mild acid which can kill 82% of mold species. However it also has the advantages of being natural and safe. Vinegar is non-toxic and doesn't give off dangerous fumes like bleach does.

How to Kill Mold with Vinegar

To kill mold with vinegar, use white distilled vinegar which you can buy cheaply from the supermarket.

Pour some vinegar into a spray bottle without watering it down.
Spray the vinegar onto the moldy surface and leave it to sit for an hour.
Wipe clean the area with water and allow the surface to dry. Any smell from the vinegar should clear within a few hours.

If you want to use vinegar to prevent mold growing on surfaces just spray vinegar on the surface and leave it. Repeat this every few days to ensure the surface will stay mold-free. You can even mop your tiled bathroom floor or other hard non-porous floors with vinegar if you are worried about mold growing on them.

Mold Removal with Ammonia
Like bleach, ammonia will kill mold on hard non-porous surfaces such as counter tops, glass or tiles but it is ineffective at killing mold growing in porous material such as wood or drywall.

Another disadvantage of using ammonia is that it is a harsh, toxic chemical. Make sure you never mix ammonia with bleach because the gas they create when combined is toxic. Chlorine mixed with ammonia was even used as a chemical weapon during World War 2.

Additionally, although ammonia can kill surface mold, dead mold and dead mold spores are still allergenic so you will need to make sure to remove them afterwards.

How to Kill Mold with Ammonia

To kill mold using ammonia, create a solution of 50% clear ammonia and 50% water in a spray bottle and spray it on moldy areas.
Make sure the ammonia you use says "clear ammonia" on the label.
Leave the area for a few hours before wiping and rinsing.
Often detergents or mold cleaning products will contain ammonia. In that case just follow the directions on the label and be sure never to mix it with bleach.

Mold Removal with Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide kills mold as it is anti-fungal as well as anti-viral and anti-bacterial. Hydrogen peroxide is a good alternative to chlorine bleach because it is safe to use and doesn't damage the environment, nor does it leave behind toxic residue or produce toxic fumes like chlorine bleach does. You can buy hydrogen peroxide from drug stores for around one dollar for a bottle of 3% concentration.

Hydrogen peroxide kills mold effectively on many materials such as clothes, floors, bathroom fixtures, walls and items such as kitchen appliances. Since hydrogen peroxide is a bleaching agent it may also help fade the stain mold leaves behind. Spot test hydrogen peroxide on the material you're going to be cleaning to make sure it won't fade the material's colors.

How to Kill Mold with Hydrogen Peroxide

To kill mold pour 3% concentration hydrogen peroxide into a spray bottle.
Spray the moldy surface completely so that the moldy areas are saturated with hydrogen peroxide.
Leave the surface to sit for 10 minutes while the hydrogen peroxide kills the mold.
Then scrub the area to make sure to remove all the mold and mold stains.
Finally wipe the surface down to remove residual mold and spores.

You can also use vinegar with hydrogen peroxide during the cleaning to more effectively remove the mold. Afterwards store the spray bottle in a dark place since light diminishes hydrogen peroxide's effectiveness.

Mold Removal with Detergent and Water
A solution of detergent and warm water can be used to scrub surface mold off non-porous surfaces. Although detergent itself doesn't kill mold, if the mold is on non-porous materials then the solution doesn't need to kill it as long as you completely clean away all the mold on the surface.

Mold Removal with Baking Soda

Baking soda is well known as a natural and safe household cleaner. But you can also use baking soda to kill mold in your home. Unlike other mold killers which contain harsh chemicals, baking soda is mild (pH of 8.1) and harmless to your family and any pets.

Besides killing mold, baking soda also deodorizes and so using it can get rid of the smell mold leaves in your home. Baking soda also absorbs moisture to help keep mold away.

Vinegar is often used along with baking soda when cleaning up a mold problem since vinegar kills different species of mold to baking soda.

How to Kill Mold with Baking Soda

Add one quarter of a tablespoon of baking soda to a spray bottle of water.
Shake the bottle to dissolve the baking soda into the water.
Spray the moldy area with the baking soda and water solution.
Then use a sponge or scrubbing brush to make sure to remove all the mold from the surface.
Once you've scrubbed away the mold rinse the surface with water to remove any residual mold on the surface.
Spray the area with the spray bottle again and let the surface dry. This will kill any left over mold and prevent the mold returning.

You can use a cloth instead of a spray bottle to clean mold with baking soda:

Soak a cloth in water and then add one quarter of a tablespoon of baking soda to it.
Use the cloth on the moldy area to remove the mold with the baking soda and water solution.

Mold Removal with Tea Tree Oil

Of all the natural mold killing solutions tea tree oil is the most effective. Although it is also expensive, a small amount of tea tree oil goes a long way in killing mold.

Tea tree oil is an essential oil which is harmless to people and pets. Tea tree oil is anti fungal, capable of killing all types of molds. Tea tree oil is antibacterial as well.

You can buy tea tree oil for about $10 for a small bottle from most natural food stores. Make sure the tea tree oil you buy is derived from the Melaleuca Alternifolia, which is the technical name for tea tree, as not all brands always are.

How to Kill Mold with Tea Tree Oil

To kill mold using tea tree oil add water to a spray bottle, keeping in mind how many cups it takes to fill the bottle.
Next add tea tree oil at the ratio of 1 teaspoon per cup of water that went into the spray bottle.
Spray the solution on the moldy surface.
There is no need to rinse since leaving the tea tree oil on the surface will kill the mold and prevent it from returning.

An alternative to using a spray bottle is to use a rag or cloth with the tea tree oil solution to clean away mold:

First create a solution of tea tree oil and water in the ratio of 1 teaspoon per cup of water.
Use a cloth to apply the solution to the moldy surface and scrub the mold away.
Again, you do not need to rinse the surface afterwards.

Tea tree oil has a strong smell but it will go away after some time. You can keep and use the solution you have made for a long time afterwards as tea tree oil does not lose its potency quickly.

Mold Removal with Grapefruit Seed Extract

Grapefruit seed extract is similar to tea tree oil in that it is an expensive but very effective natural mold killer. The advantage of grapefruit seed extract over tea tree oil however is that it has almost no odor. Like tea tree oil you can buy grape fruit seed extract from most health food stores.

Grapefruit seed extract kills mold naturally as the citric acid from the grapefruit attacks mold. Grapefruit seed extract also disinfects areas and deodorizes as well. Like tea tree oil, a small amount of grapefruit seed extract goes a long way in killing mold.

How to Kill Mold with Grapefruit Seed Extract

To kill mold with grapefruit seed extract create a solution of grapefruit seed extract and water in a spray bottle in the ratio of 10 drops of grapefruit seed extract per cup of water.
Shake the spray bottle to mix the solution thoroughly and then spray it onto the surface where mold is growing.
You do not need to rinse the solution away afterwards although you can use a cloth to wipe away the mold and solution after some minutes if you like. The longer grapefruit seed extract is in contact with mold the more it will cut through and kill the mold colony and prevent mold from returning.
Repeat if needed to more thoroughly remove mold from the surface.

The grapefruit seed extract solution in the spray bottle will remain potent for a long time and can be reused again and again as grapefruit seed extract has a long shelf life.

Common Mold Types

2014-01-02T09:51:00.001-06:00

Below is a list of the most common types of mold found in the United States. This is not a complete list of mold species, nor all of the types that are present in the US. They are the most dominant types found in nature and in contaminated properties.

Alternaria

Alternaria belongs to a Division of the fungi called the Deuteromycota. The word means "neuter fungi" and they are called this because they have no sexual spore stage (meiospores). It grows rapidly and the colony size reaches a diameter of 3 to 9 cm following incubation at 25°C for 7 days on potato glucose agar*. The colony is flat, downy to woolly and is covered by grayish, short, aerial hyphae in time. The surface is grayish white at the beginning which later darkens and becomes greenish black or olive brown with a light border. The reverse side is typically brown to black due to pigment production.

Natural Habitat	Soil Plants and Wood Food
Methods of Spore Dispersion	Wind/air Direct contact
Potential Allergenic	Yes
Potential Health Effects	Asthma/hay fever/allergies Hypersensitivity pneumonitis Common pathogen for those in an immunocompromised/immunosuppressed state Phaeohyphomycosis Onychomycosis Sinusitis Visceral infections
Potential Mycotoxins Produced	Alternariol (AOH) Alternariol monomethylether (AME) Tenauazonic acid (TeA) Altenuene (ALT) Altertoxins (ATX)
Identifiable Through Testing	Yes; air and surface sampling

Arthrinium

Arthrinium is a mold that lacks a known sexual state. It grows rapidly, reaching a colony size of 3 to 9 cm in diameter following incubation at 25°C for 7 days on potato glucose agar*. The colonies are woolly to cottony and white with brown spots on the surface.

Natural Habitat	Soil Plants
Methods of Spore Dispersion	Wind/air Direct contact
Potential Allergenic	Yes
Potential Health Effects	Asthma/hay fever/allergies Others unknown
Potential Mycotoxins Produced	Terpestacin 3-nitropropionic acid (NPA)
Identifiable Through Testing	Yes; air and surface sampling

Ascospore

Ascospores are produced in a sac-like structure called an ascus. Ascus is spore-bearing cell of the fungi classification Ascomycota, which covers a huge number of fungi genera around the world.

Natural Habitat	Everywhere in nature
Methods of Spore Dispersion	Wind/air Insects Direct contact
Potential Allergenic	Varies; depends on specific species
Potential Health Effects	Asthma/hay fever/allergies Others unknown
Potential Mycotoxins Produced	Varies; depends on specific species
Identifiable Through Testing	Yes; air and surface sampling

Aspergillus

Aspergillus fumigatus is the most common species of Aspergillus. Aspergillus fumigatus colonies grow rapidly. On potato dextrose agar* at 25°C are smoky gray-green with a slight yellow reverse. Some isolates may display a lavender diffusible pigment. Very mature colonies turn slate gray. Texture is woolly to cottony to somewhat granular. Atypical isolates may remain white with little conidiation. It likes high temperatures and its optimum temperature for growth is about 37°C (blood temperature). It is not surprising, therefore, that it is also known as a parasite of humans, other mammals and birds.

Natural Habitat	Soil Plants
Methods of Spore Dispersion	Wind/air Direct contact
Potential Allergenic	Yes
Potential Health Effects	Asthma/hay fever/allergies/flu and cold-like symptoms Excessive fatigue and lethargy Dermatitis Impaired or altered immune function Common pathogen for those in an immunocompromised/immunosuppressed state Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) and chronic pulmonary aspergillosis is common in asthmatic persons or those with lung disease Aspergillus sinusitis Toxicoses Several others
Potential Mycotoxins Produced	Several
Identifiable Through Testing	Yes; air and surface sampling

Aureobasidium

Aureobasidium pullulans is the only well-known species of Aureobasidium. It grows moderately rapidly and matures within 7 days of incubation. The colony diameter is 1 to 3 cm following incubation at 25°C for 7 days on potato glucose agar*. The colonies are flat, smooth, moist, yeast-like, mucoid to pasty, shiny and leathery in appearance. The surface is white, pale pink or yellow at the beginning and becomes brown to black and velvety with a grayish fringe by aging. Reverse is pale or black.

Natural Habitat	Soil Plants and wood Water
Methods of Spore Dispersion	Wind/air Rain/water Direct contact
Potential Allergenic	Yes
Potential Health Effects	Asthma/hay fever/allergies Hypersensitivity Keratomycosis Phaehyphomycosis Pulmonary mycosis with sepsis Dermatitis
Potential Mycotoxins Produced	Unknown
Identifiable Through Testing	Yes; air and surface sampling

Basidiospore

Basidiospores are sexually produced fungal spore that is born on basidium. A basidium typically bears four basidiospores.

Natural Habitat	Plants Lawns Forest ground
Methods of Spore Dispersion	Wind/air Direct contact
Potential Allergenic	Yes
Potential Health Effects	Asthma/hay fever/allergies Hypersensitivity pneumonitis
Potential Mycotoxins Produced	Amanitins monomethyl-hydrazine muscarine ibotenic acid psilocybin
Identifiable Through Testing	Yes; air and surface sampling

Bipolaris / Drechslera Group

Bipolaris colonies grow rapidly, reaching a diameter of 3 to 9 cm following incubation at 25°C for 7 days on potato dextrose agar*. The colony becomes mature within 5 days. The texture is velvety to woolly. The surface of the colony is initially white to grayish brown and becomes olive green to black with a raised grayish periphery as it matures. The reverse is also darkly pigmented and olive to black in color.

Natural Habitat	Plants Soil
Methods of Spore Dispersion	Wind/air Direct contact
Potential Allergenic	Yes
Potential Health Effects	Asthma/hay fever/allergies Cerebral infections/brain abscess Peritonitis in patients on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) Mycotic keratitis Subcutaneous phaehyphomycosis (in both normal and immunocompromised people) Allergic and chronic invasive sinusitis
Potential Mycotoxins Produced	Sterigmatocystin
Identifiable Through Testing	Yes; air and surface sampling

Botrytis

Botrytis cinerea is the most common species of Botrytis. It is a very common plant parasitic found on weakened plant tissues. It grows rapidly, reaching a colony size of 3 to 9 cm in diameter, following incubation at 25°C for 7 days on potato glucose agar*. The texture is woolly. The surface color is white at the beginning and becomes gray to brown in time. Dark spots may be observed on the surface of the colony. Reverse is dark.

Natural Habitat	Plants; houseplants, fruits, and vegetables are the most common
Methods of Spore Dispersion	Wind/air Rain/water Direct contact
Potential Allergenic	Yes
Potential Health Effects	Asthma/hay fever/allergies Hypersensitivity pneumonitis
Potential Mycotoxins Produced	Unknown
Identifiable Through Testing	Yes; air and surface sampling

Chaetomium

Chaetomium contains several species. The most common are Chaetomium atrobrunneum, Chaetomium funicola, Chaetomium globosum, and Chaetomium strumarium. Its colonies are rapidly growing, cottony and white in color initially. Mature colonies become gray to olive in color. From the reverse, the color is tan to red or brown to black.

Natural Habitat	Soil Plant debris Dung Seeds
Methods of Spore Dispersion	Wind/air Insects Rain/water Direct contact
Potential Allergenic	Yes
Potential Health Effects	Asthma Onychomycosis Cerebral phaeohyphomycosis/brain abscess Peritonitis Cutaneous lesions
Potential Mycotoxins Produced	Chaetomin Chaetoglobosins A,B,D and F are produced by Chaetomium globosum Sterigmatocystin is produced by rare species
Identifiable Through Testing	Yes; air and surface sampling

Cladosporium

The most common species of Cladosporium include Cladosporium elatum, Cladosporium herbarum, Cladosporium sphaerospermum, and Cladosporium cladosporioides. The growth rate of Cladosporium colonies is moderate on potato dextrose agar* at 25°C and the texture is velvety to powdery. Similar to the other dematiaceous fungi, the color is olivaceous green to black from the front and black from the reverse. Most of the Cladosporium spp. do not grow at temperatures above 35°C.

Natural Habitat	Dead plant matter Soil
Methods of Spore Dispersion	Wind/air Direct contact
Potential Allergenic	Yes
Potential Health Effects	Asthma/hay fever/allergies Edema Keratitis Onychomycosis Pulmonary infections Sinusitis
Potential Mycotoxins Produced	Cladosporin Emodin
Identifiable Through Testing	Yes; air and surface sampling

Curvularia

Curvularia contains several species. Curvularia lunata is the most prevalent cause of disease in humans and animals. Curvularia produces rapidly growing, woolly colonies on potato dextrose agar* at 25°C. From the front, the color of the colony is white to pinkish gray initially and turns to olive brown or black as the colony matures. From the reverse, it is dark brown to black.

Natural Habitat	Plants Soil
Methods of Spore Dispersion	Wind/air Direct contact
Potential Allergenic	Yes
Potential Health Effects	Immunocompromised/immunosuppressed persons are at a greater risk of adverse health issues Asthma/hay fever/allergies Phaeohyphomycosis Endocarditis Mycetoma Ocular keratitis Onychomycosis Pneumonia Dialysis-associated peritonitis Allergic bronchopulmonary disease
Potential Mycotoxins Produced	Cytochalasin B
Identifiable Through Testing	Yes; air and surface sampling

Epicoccum

Epicoccum contains a single species, Epicoccum purpurascens. Epicoccum grows rapidly and produces woolly to cottony or felty colonies on potato dextrose agar* at 25°C. From the front, the colonies are yellow to orange, orange to red or pink initially and become greenish brown to black by aging. From the reverse, the same color is observed but is usually more intense than in the front view. Epicoccum may produce a diffusible pigment which turns the color of the inoculated medium to yellow, orange, red or brown. Black dots may be observed macroscopically on the colony surface. These are the tufts of hyphae which have conidiophores on their surface. These tufts of hyphae are cushion-shaped and non convoluted and are called sporodochia.

Natural Habitat	Plant debris Soil
Methods of Spore Dispersion	Wind/air Direct contact
Potential Allergenic	Yes
Potential Health Effects	Asthma/hay fever/allergies
Potential Mycotoxins Produced	Epicorazine A&B Flavipin Indole-3-acetonitrile
Identifiable Through Testing	Yes; air and surface sampling

Fusarium

Fusarium contains several species. The most common of these are Fusarium solani, Fusarium oxysporum, and Fusarium chlamydosporum. Fusarium spp. grow rapidly on Sabouraud dextrose agar* at 25°C and produce woolly to cottony, flat, spreading colonies. The only slow-growing species is Fusarium dimerum. From the front, the color of the colony may be white, cream, tan, salmon, cinnamon, yellow, red, violet, pink, or purple. From the reverse, it may be colorless, tan, red, dark purple, or brown.

Natural Habitat	Soil Plants
Methods of Spore Dispersion	Wind/air Insects Rain/water Direct contact
Potential Allergenic	Yes
Potential Health Effects	Immunocompromised/immunosuppressed persons are at a greater risk of adverse health issues Asthma/hay fever/allergies Keratitis Endophthalmitis Onychomycosis Cutaneous infections Mycetoma Sinusitis Pulmonary infections Endocarditis Peritonitis Septic arthritis Central venous catheter infections Esophageal cancer Cutaneous infections in burn victims Esophageal cancer
Potential Mycotoxins Produced	Trichothecenes Zearalenone Fumonisins
Identifiable Through Testing	Yes; air and surface sampling

Memnoniella

Myrothecium echinata is considered a powerful cellulolytic cellulose decomposer. It is very similar to Stachybotrys, except it produces its spores in chains.

Natural Habitat	Plants Soil
Methods of Spore Dispersion	Wind Direct contact
Potential Allergenic	Yes
Potential Health Effects	Asthma/hay fever/allergies/flu and cold-like symptoms Dermatitis Impaired or altered immune function Considered to be a possible cause respiratory diseases
Potential Mycotoxins Produced	Dechlorogriseofulvin Epidechlorogriseofulvin Griseofulvins Memnopeptide A Trichodermol Trichodermin
Identifiable Through Testing	Yes; air and surface sampling

Myrothecium

Myrothecium verrucaria is the most common species in the Myrothecium genus. It is considered a powerful cellulose decomposer.

Natural Habitat	Dead agaric mushrooms Grass/weeds Soil
Methods of Spore Dispersion	Insects Water Direct contact
Potential Allergenic	Unknown
Potential Health Effects	Unknown
Potential Mycotoxins Produced	Trichothecene mycotoxins
Identifiable Through Testing	Yes; air and surface sampling

Nigrospora

Nigrospora sphaerica is the most well-known species of the genus Nigrospora. Nigrospora grows rapidly and produces woolly colonies on potato dextrose agar* at 25°C. The colonies mature within 4 days. Color of the colony is white initially and then becomes gray with black areas and turns to black eventually from both front and reverse. Sporulation may take more than 3 weeks for some isolates.

Natural Habitat	Grass/weeds Soil Seeds
Methods of Spore Dispersion	Direct contact
Potential Allergenic	Yes
Potential Health Effects	Asthma/hay fever/allergies Keratitis Skin lesions
Potential Mycotoxins Produced	Unknown
Identifiable Through Testing	Yes; air and surface sampling

Penicillium

Penicillium is one of the most commonly occurring fungi. The colonies of Penicillium other than Penicillium marneffei are rapid growing, flat, filamentous, and velvety, woolly, or cottony in texture. The colonies are initially white and become blue green, gray green, olive gray, yellow or pinkish in time. The plate reverse is usually pale to yellowish.

Natural Habitat	Soil Seeds Cereal crops
Methods of Spore Dispersion	Wind/air Insects
Potential Allergenic	Yes
Potential Health Effects	Rarely; typically encountered in immunosuppressed hosts Asthma/hay fever/allergies Hypersensitivity Penicilliosis
Potential Mycotoxins Produced	Several
Identifiable Through Testing	Yes; air and surface sampling

Pithomyces

Pithomyces is generally classified as a dematiaceous (dark-walled) fungus. The surface of these spores ranges from smooth, to slightly rough with small pointed projections, to warty with large, wide projections.

Natural Habitat	Soil Plants Tree bark
Methods of Spore Dispersion	Wind/air Direct contact
Potential Allergenic	Unknown
Potential Health Effects	Etiologic agent in immunocompromised patients
Potential Mycotoxins Produced	Cyclodepsipeptides Sporidesmin Sporidesmolides
Identifiable Through Testing	Yes; air and surface sampling

Rusts

There are 5000 known species of rusts belonging to at least 150 different genera. Rusts are considered a parasite to many types of plants and the cause of great economic loss for cultivated crops.

Natural Habitat	Living plants
Methods of Spore Dispersion	Wind Direct contact
Potential Allergenic	Yes
Potential Health Effects	Unknown
Potential Mycotoxins Produced	Unknown
Identifiable Through Testing	Yes; air and surface sampling

Smuts, Periconia, Myxomycetes

Considered plant parasites. Often found with dust. These three types of fungi are linked when testing because of their similarities and the difficulty in distinguishing them from each other.

Natural Habitat	Grass/weeds Soil Cereal crops Dung Decaying plant or wood
Methods of Spore Dispersion	Wind Rain/water Direct contact
Potential Allergenic	Yes
Potential Health Effects	Asthma/hay fever/allergies
Potential Mycotoxins Produced	Periconia circinata produces Periconin A and Periconin B (both are biologically inactive) Others unknown
Identifiable Through Testing	Yes; air and surface sampling

Stachybotrys

There is only one species of Stachybotrys, Stachybotrys chartarum. It has been nicknamed the "black mold" or "toxic mold" by the media. Stachybotrys produces cottony, rapidly growing colonies which mature in about 4 days. From both front and reverse, the color of the colony is white initially and turns to black by aging.

Natural Habitat	Decaying plants Soil Seeds
Methods of Spore Dispersion	Wind/air Water/rain Insects Direct contact
Potential Allergenic	Yes
Potential Health Effects	Asthma/hay fever/allergies/flu and cold-like symptoms Excessive fatigue and lethargy Dermatitis Impaired or altered immune function Considered to be a possible cause of acute idiopathic pulmonary hemosiderosis, lung cancer and other respiratory diseases Toxicoses Several others
Potential Mycotoxins Produced	Cyclosporins Macrocyclic trichothecenes: roridin E, satratoxin F, G & H, sporidesmin G, trichoverrol, verrucarin J Stachybotryolactone
Identifiable Through Testing	Yes; air and surface sampling

Stemphylium

The most common species of Stemphylium is Stemphylium macrosporoideum. Colonies of Stemphylium grow rapidly and mature in 5 days. At 25°C and on potato dextrose agar*, they are velvety to cottony in texture. From the front, the color is gray, brown, or brownish-black. Reverse is black.

Natural Habitat	Dead plants Wood Spinach leaf
Methods of Spore Dispersion	Wind/air Direct contact
Potential Allergenic	Yes
Potential Health Effects	Asthma/hay fever/allergies Possible links to phaeohyphomycosis
Potential Mycotoxins Produced	Stemphol
Identifiable Through Testing	Yes; air and surface sampling

Torula

Torula is a genus of wild yeasts that are imperfect and never form sexual spores. It is generally classified as a dematiaceous (dark-walled) fungus.

Natural Habitat	Leaves Soil Wood Plant roots
Methods of Spore Dispersion	Wind/air Direct contact
Potential Allergenic	Yes
Potential Health Effects	Asthma/hay fever/allergies Possible links to phaeohyphomycosis
Potential Mycotoxins Produced	Unknown
Identifiable Through Testing	Yes; air and surface sampling

Ulocladium

Ulocladium has two species under it, Ulocladium chartarum and Ulocladium botrytis. Colonies of Ulocladium grow moderately rapidly. At 25°C and on potato dextrose agar*, the colonies are wooly to cottony. From the front and the reverse, the color is olive brown to black.

Natural Habitat	Soil Decaying plants Wood Dung
Methods of Spore Dispersion	Wind/air Direct contact
Potential Allergenic	Yes
Potential Health Effects	Asthma/hay fever/allergies Phaeohyphomycosis Subcutaneous infections
Potential Mycotoxins Produced	Unknown
Identifiable Through Testing	Yes; air and surface sampling

Zygomycetes

Zygomycetes is a class of fungus, not a particular genre. The classes include three orders, Mucorales, Mortierellales, and Entomophthorales. This class of fungi are extremely fast growing and can inhibit other fungi when competing for food or space.

Natural Habitat	Decaying plants and animals
Methods of Spore Dispersion	Wind/air Water Direct contact
Potential Allergenic	Yes
Potential Health Effects	Asthma/hay fever/allergies Hypersensitivity Zygomycosis in immunocompromised persons
Potential Mycotoxins Produced	Varies by genus
Identifiable Through Testing	Yes; air and surface sampling

* Using potato glucose/dextrose agar and Sabouraud dextrose agar are common laboratory method for studying mold growth and other behaviors.

Note: This library lists the common types of mold found during testing, their most common natural habitat, the means of their dispersion/dissemination, if they're considered a potential allergenic, their potential health effects, and other information. Side effects of mold exposure will vary from person to person. The information presented here is based upon medical and scientific findings from a variety of sources. The effects of mold as it relates to human health has been studied and studies are continuing.

New Day Homes specializes in Mold Inspections in the Magnolia Texas area.

Mold and Your Health

2013-05-08T22:31:00.004-05:00

Exposure to airborne mold spores can occur through inhalation, ingestion or skin contact, and can result in symptoms including dermatitis, cough, rhinitis, nose bleeds, cold and flu symptoms, headache, general malaise and fever.

Molds are organized into three groups according to human responses: Allergenic, Pathogenic and Toxigenic.

Allergenic Molds - Allergenic molds do not usually produce life-threatening health effects and are most likely to affect those with allergies. The body's responses to allergenic mold tend to be relatively mild, depending on individual sensitivities and allergies. Typical symptoms include:
- Scratchy, Sore or Itchy Throat
- Nasal Congestion
- Runny Nose
- Sneezing
- Coughing and Wheezing
- Shortness of Breath/Breathing Difficulties
- Asthma Flares
- Itchy or Watery Eyes
- Sensitive or Itchy Skin
- Skin Rash
These can lead to uncomfortable living situations for some if concentrations are present in the air or on surfaces.

Pathogenic Molds - Pathogenic molds usually produce some type of infection. They can cause serious health effects in persons with suppressed immune systems. Healthy people can usually resist infection by these organisms. However, in some cases, high exposure can cause hypersensitivity and infection with those who are seemingly healthy.
Toxigenic Molds - While a toxic mold is living and growing, toxic metabolites called mycotoxins are produced. Exposure to this chemical compound by other organisms can be harmful. The health effects of mycotoxin exposure to humans can vary, ranging from short-term bodily irritation and allergenic reaction to lung infection, a weakened immune system, cancer or even death. Initial awareness of adverse health effects from exposure to mycotoxins was raised by a mid-1990's study from Cleveland, Ohio, involving infants who had died from sudden and unexplained pulmonary hemorrhage (bleeding of the lungs). Upon investigation, researchers found that the infants resided in homes with high levels of the mold Stachybotrysatra were prone to serious health effects. Therefore, when the presence of toxigenic mold is suspected within a property, inspection and testing is advised. Furthermore, when such mold and/or mycotoxins are identified, remedial action is highly recommended.

Mold and health concerns go hand in hand. The medical and legal communities are now taking mold contamination very seriously. There are a number of documented cases of health effects and physical problems resulting from indoor exposure to mold and mold spores. Mold related illnesses can result from high level/short-term exposures and lower level/long-term exposures. The most common health effects or symptoms reported from exposure to indoor mold environments are a chronic clearing of the throat, runny nose, eye irritation, cough, congestion and aggravation of asthma — allergic reactions similar to cat allergies — headache and fatigue. Mold related health effects are often reported as feeling like you have a cold but you don't. Eventually it may feel like you have the flu but you don't. Many of our customers report feeling better when they leave their home for a week or more. Once they arrive back within a day or so they are ill again.

With so much overwhelming evidence to support the dangers of exposure to mold, mold testing is the first step in properly assessing whether an abnormal or elevated mold condition exists.

New Day Homes specializes in Mold Inspections in the Magnolia Texas area area.

Buying a Home? Get a Mold Test

2013-05-08T22:28:00.001-05:00

EVERY HOME SHOULD BE TESTED FOR MOLD

According to Dr. John D. Shane, Vice President of Laboratory services of PRO-LAB millions of homes across America have hidden water leaks that are promoting mold growth that can expose homeowners to mold spores. Mold has a potential to cause health problems like allergies, irritation (to lungs, eyes, skin, throat, nose) and are potentially toxic. Inhaling and touching mold spores may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals and normally healthy individuals may become sensitive to mold after exposure.

The EPA states that, "It is important to take precautions to limit your exposure to mold and mold spores. Avoid breathing in mold or mold spores". The EPA also recommends that if you suspect you have a hidden mold problem you should consider hiring an experienced professional to avoid exposure to potentially massive doses of mold spores.

Mold damages what it grows on. The longer it grows the more damage it can cause. If there is a mold problem in your home, you should clean up the mold promptly. Mold can be hidden, growing on the water from a hidden leak, and can develop into a potentially large problem if not caught in time.

Testing your home on a regular basis is a prudent way to prevent small problems from growing into a costly and unhealthy situation, and always avoid exposing yourself and others to mold.

From Buying a home? Get a mold test. - InterNACHI http://www.nachi.org/testformold.htm#ixzz2OlR6KjJU

New Day Homes specializes in Mold Inspections in the Magnolia Texas area area.

10 Mold Resistant Building Materials

2013-05-06T08:19:00.000-05:00

More and more, mold resistant building materials are beginning to appear on the market. In addition to helping prevent mold growth, several of these materials are also being certified by institutions monitoring environmental impact, such as the GREENGUARD Environmental Institute and the LEED Green Building Rating System. Here is a list of ten great mold resistant products to use in your next construction adventure.

FrameGuard® Mold Resistant Wood

1. Mold Resistant Wood: Another great choice for preventing mold is mold resistant wood. Companies like Frame-Guard® manufacture wood that has been treated with anti-mold chemicals. In addition to staving off mold, this product also keeps termites away. Another great attribute of this product is that Frame-Guard® wood is certified by Greenguard to not release any harmful emissions into the air.

2. Mold Resistant Insulation: Even though fiberglass is inherently resistant to mold, there are companies producing insulation that has been treated with a fungicide. Companies like Nu-Wool manufacture a Premium Cellulose Insulation that is one of the few insulation products which contains a fungicide registered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). In addition, the fungicide being used by Nu Wool is low in toxicity making it a safer choice when considering treated insulation.

3. Mold Resistant Drywall: This type of drywall has fiberglass facing instead of the traditional paper facing. The use of fiberglass removes the “organic material” aspect from the drywall (mold feeds on organic material). Even though mold resistant drywall does not completely prevent mold growth, it greatly reduces occurrence. Top mold resistant drywall brands include U.S. Gypsum (Sheetrock® Brand Humitek®) and Georgia Pacific (DensArmor® Plus).

4. Mold Resistant Drywall Tape: Providing more protection against mold than paper tape, mold resistant drywall tape is the ideal tape to compliment to mold resistant paperless drywall market. One brand, FibaTape® a, produces a tape that is covered by an anti-microbial coating; their tape achieved a perfect 10 rating on the ASTM D3273 mold test.

5. Mold Resistant Paint: More and more, there are paints being offered that contain fungicides. The point of using a mold resistant paint is to discourage the growth of mold on the paint surface (the wall). However, it should be noted that if there is already mold present before the paint is applies, the paint will not kill the mold; any mold must be removed at its source before paint is applied. An example of a great mold resistant paint is “Perma-White®” by Zinsser. It is guaranteed to prevent the growth of mold on the paint film for at least 5 years as shown in independent laboratory tests.

6. Mold resistant Stucco: Mold conscious builders now have a choice when it comes to exterior finishes. Mold resistant Stucco, such as Amerimix® Water, Mold & Mildew Resistant, offers excellent protection against mold and offers double-duty protection against water damage. Mold resistant Stucco is pre-blended with a waterproofing and anti-microbial product, and is easily found at stores like Home Depot.

7. Mold Resistant Carpet: Carpets made of Olefin (polypropylene) fibers or acrylic fibers offer resistance to mold growth, although, acrylic carpets are being less used in today’s market because of their poor resilience. Polypropylene carpets can be found almost anywhere today.

8. Mold Resistant Caulk: On the market, this tends to be sold as “Mildew Proof” or “Mildew Resistant” caulk. Because mildew isn’t necessary the mold you see in your home, (See The Difference Between Mold and Mildew), we choose to call it Mold Resistant Caulk. Manufacturers like Dap® have introduced products like Kwik Seal Plus Adhesive Caulk with Miocroban®. The caulk is treated with fungicide so it helps prevent mold growth on the caulk as well as stains and odors. In addition, the caulk emits low VOCs.

9. Mold Resistant Sealant: Easily applied to wood, OSB, concrete, stucco, brick, tile, gypsum, and other surfaces in the home, mold resistant sealant is a protective coating that has been blended with anti-microbial chemicals. Mold resistant sealants come in either spray or non-spray forms. Brands like Fiberlock IAQ 6040 Mold Resistant Sealant® can be used on wood, OSB, wallboard, concrete and other construction materials to withstand the moist, humid conditions that provide the ideal environment for fungal growth.

10. Mold Resistant Shower Pan: A great alternative on the market is the Tile Redi Barrier Free Black Shower Floor®. Claiming to be the best water intrusion solution available, Tile Redi® produces a shower floor that is ready for tile and is set on the shower pan floor with epoxy. The product is leak free and mold resistant. Tile Redi® also states that no further waterproofing will be required with use of their product.

While there are more products being manufactured to help resist mold growth, it is important to note that if there is a mold problem to begin with, the mold must be removed at its source. Nevertheless, mold resistant building materials provide great building blocks for a mold-free property and help prevent having to endure the process of mold removal. Especially when used in high-humidity and mildew-prone areas, mold resistant materials can significantly increase indoor air qualityas well as help maintain a mold-free environment.

Mold Free Links

Mold and Mildew Prevention and Remediation - Green Building
Installing Mold and Mildew Resistant Fiberglass-Faced Wallboard - BobVila.com
Watch Installing Mold and Mildew Resistant Fiberglass-Faced Wallboard - BobVila.com video in the BobVila.com Video Archive
Installing Mold-Resistant Drywall - BobVila.com
Watch Installing Mold-Resistant Drywall - BobVila.com video in the BobVila.com Video Archive
Mold, Fungal Decay, Termites : FrameGuard Wood Coating
FrameGuard coating protects wood againast mold, fungal decay and termites.
Nu-Wool :: Premium Cellulose Insulation :: Home Page
Established in 1949, Nu-Wool is a leading manufacturer of eco- friendly cellulose insulation. Superior in its performance, green in its manufacturing, and perfect for any residential or commercial construction.

New Day Homes specializes in Mold Inspections in the Magnolia Texas area.

Indoor mold poses key asthma risk for babies

2013-05-05T16:24:00.002-05:00

When infants are exposed to mold in the home, their risk for developing asthma more than doubles, according to a study published Tuesday in the Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. The study doesn't prove mold causes asthma, but it does suggest that exposure to mold during infancy is linked to the development of chronic inflammation of the lung airways, which causes wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing.

Previous studies have shown that mold spores can travel, according to lead study author Tiina Reponen, a professor of environmental health at the University of Cincinnati. But she says this is the first study to suggest mold exposure in children under the age of one seems to play a critical role in a child developing asthma. The risk went up even more if one of the parents had asthma, according to the research.

This study is part of a larger research project called the Cincinnati Childhood Allergy and Air Pollution Study.

Researchers visited the homes of babies born in Cincinnati, Ohio, and Northern Kentucky back in 2001 to 2003, where at least one parent was allergic to at least one of 15 common airborne allergen. The homes of 176 children were inspected for mold when they were 1 and 7 years old. Half of the homes had visible mold and the other half didn't, says Reponen. All the children were offered allergy tests at age 1, 2, 3, 4 and 7. Researchers inspected the homes by looking for and smelling for mold and also by taking dust samples from the room where each child spend most of his or her time. The dust samples then underwent DNA testing for 36 different mold species from that sample, using a standardized tool developed by the EPA.

The study authors found that if children were exposed to mold as infants, they were at a significantly increased risk for asthma at 7 years of age. Being exposed to mold as a child at about 7 years old, (which is when children are old enough to have proper lung-function tests to get a more accurate diagnoses), doesn't seem to predict if a child will get asthma. Neither was the presence of a dehumidifier, carpets, age of the home or visible mold.

However, Reponen says the results from the dust samples show "it's the mold you can't see that is a risk factor."

"Damp environments are not healthy environments," Dr. James Sublett, chairman of the Indoor Environments Committee for the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, who was not involved with this study.

The research suggests that expectant parents or families with babies should try to eliminate any situation that can lead to mold growing.

Sublett, who is an expert on the effects of air pollution on human health and the section chief of Pediatric Allergy at the University of Louisville School of Medicine, says if you're aware of a moisture problem, get it fixed. Just because you can't see mold doesn't mean it isn't there. Moisture could be building up in the home because of a leaky roof or broken pipe, flooding in the basement, or simply from the steam in your bathroom. "If you are in a situation where humidity is trapped in your home, you have a higher risk of mold exposure." He adds that moisture can also accumulate from something as simple as an overflowing gutter or leaky windows.

Children who got asthma tended to live in homes lacking air conditioning, which can help keep moisture levels down. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, if you can see mold, you don't need to test for it.

However, if you've had water damage and can't see any mold yet but want to be sure, the EPA suggests hiring a professional to do the testing. Sublett suggests having one expert test for mold and hiring someone else to do the clean-up if mold is found. "You want to disconnect the detection process with the fixing process to avoid a conflict of interest," he says.

If you suspect your child may have been exposed to mold and shows symptoms of asthma, Sublett suggests getting a referral to a board-certified allergist, who can evaluate potential risks a child may have been exposed to, identify which mold a child may be allergic to and develop a treatment plan.

Post by: Miriam Falco - CNN Medical Managing Editor

Filed under: Asthma • Children's Health

New Day Homes specializes in Mold Inspections in the Magnolia Texas area area.

Biological Pollutants in the Home

2013-05-03T14:50:00.001-05:00

Outdoor air pollution in cities is a major health problem. Much effort and money continue to be spent cleaning up pollution in the outdoor air. But air pollution can be a problem where you least expect it, in the place you may have thought was safest -- your home. Many ordinary activities, such as cooking, heating, cooling, cleaning and redecorating, can cause the release and spread of indoor pollutants at home. Studies have shown that the air in our homes can be even more polluted than outdoor air. Many Americans spend up to 90% of their time indoors, often at home. Therefore, breathing clean indoor air can have an important impact on health. People who are inside a great deal may be at greater risk of developing health problems, or having problems made worse by indoor air pollutants. These people include infants, young children, the elderly and those with chronic illnesses. Many factors determine whether pollutants in your home will affect your health. They include the presence, use and condition of pollutant sources, the level of pollutants both indoors and out, the amount of ventilation in your home, and your overall health.

What are Biological Pollutants?

Biological pollutants are or were living organisms. They promote poor indoor air quality and may be a major cause of days lost from work and school, and of doctor and hospital visits. Some can even damage surfaces inside and outside your house. Biological pollutants can travel through the air and are often invisible. Some common indoor biological pollutants are:

animal dander (minute scales from hair, feathers, or skin);
dust mite and cockroach parts;
infectious agents (bacteria and viruses); and
pollen.

Some of these substances are in every home. It is impossible to get rid of them all. Even a spotless home may permit the growth of biological pollutants. Two conditions are essential to support biological growth: nutrients and moisture. These conditions can be found in many locations, such as bathrooms, damp or flooded basements, wet appliances (such as humidifiers and air conditioners), and even some carpets and furniture. Modern materials and construction techniques may reduce the amount of outside air brought into buildings, which may result in high moisture levels inside. Using humidifiers, unvented heaters, and air conditioners in our homes has increased the chances of moisture forming on interior surfaces. This encourages the growth of certain biological pollutants.

The Scope of the Problem

Most information about sources and health effects of biological pollutants is based on studies of large office buildings and surveys of homes in the northern U.S. and Canada. These surveys show that 30% to 50% of all structures have damp conditions which may encourage the growth and buildup of biological pollutants. This percentage is likely to be higher in warm, moist climates. Some diseases and illnesses have been linked with biological pollutants in the indoor environment. However, many of them also have causes unrelated to the indoor environment. Therefore, we do not know how many health problems relate only to poor indoor air.

Health Effects of Biological Pollutants

All of us are exposed to biological pollutants. However, the effects on our health depend on the type and amount of biological pollution and the individual person. Some people do not experience health reactions from certain biological pollutants, while others may experience one or more of the following reactions:

allergic;
infectious; and/or
toxic.

Except for the spread of infections indoors, allergic reactions may be the most common health problem with indoor air quality in homes. They are often connected with animal dander (mostly from cats and dogs), with house dust mites (microscopic animals living in household dust), and with pollen. Allergic reactions can range from mildly uncomfortable to life-threatening, as in a severe asthma attack. Some common signs and symptoms are:

watery eyes;
runny nose and sneezing;
nasal congestion;
itching;
coughing;
wheezing and difficulty breathing;
headache; and
fatigue.

Health experts are especially concerned about people with asthma. These people have very sensitive airways that can react to various irritants, making breathing difficult. The number of people who have asthma has greatly increased in recent years. The number of people with asthma has gone up by 59% since 1970, to a total of 9.6 million people. Asthma in children under 15 years of age has increased 41% in the same period, to a total of 2.6 million children. The number of deaths from asthma is up by 68% since 1979, to a total of almost 4,400 deaths per year.

Talking to Your Doctor

Are you concerned about the effects on your health that may be related to biological pollutants in your home? Before you discuss your concerns with your doctor, you should know the answers to the following questions. This information can help the doctor determine whether your health problems may be related to biological pollution.

Does anyone in the family have frequent headaches, fevers, itchy and watery eyes, a stuffy nose, dry throat, or a cough? Does anyone complain of feeling tired or dizzy all the time? Is anyone wheezing or having difficulties breathing on a regular basis?
Did these symptoms appear after you moved into a new or different home?
Do the symptoms disappear when you go to school or the office or go away on a trip, and return when you come back?
Have you recently remodeled your home or done any energy-conservation work, such as installing insulation, storm windows, or weather stripping? Did your symptoms occur during or after these activities?
Does your home feel humid? Can you see moisture on the windows or on other surfaces, such as walls and ceilings?
What is the usual temperature in your home? Is it very hot or cold?
Have you recently had water damage?
Is your basement wet or damp?
Is there any obvious mold or mildew?
Does any part of your home have a musty or moldy odor?
Is the air stale?
Do you have pets?
Do your house plants show signs of mold?
Do you have air conditioners or humidifiers that have not been properly cleaned?
Does your home have cockroaches or rodents?

Infectious diseases caused by bacteria and viruses, such as the flu, measles, chicken pox, and tuberculosis, may be spread indoors. Most infectious diseases pass from person to person through physical contact. Crowded conditions with poor air circulation can promote this spread. Some bacteria and viruses thrive in buildings and circulate through indoor ventilation systems. For example, the bacterium causing Legionnaire's Disease, a serious and sometimes lethal infection, and Pontiac Fever, a flu-like illness, have circulated in some large buildings.

Toxic reactions are the least studied or understood health problem caused by some biological air pollutants in the home. Toxins can damage a variety of organs and tissues in the body, including the liver, the central nervous system, the digestive tract, and the immune system.

Checking Your Home

There is no simple or cheap way to sample the air in your home to determine the level of all biological pollutants. Experts suggest that sampling for biological pollutants is not a useful problem-solving tool. Even if you had your home tested, it is almost impossible to know which biological pollutant(s) cause various symptoms or health problems. The amount of most biological substances required to cause disease is unknown and varies from one person to the next. Does this make the problem sound hopeless? On the contrary, you can take several simple, practical actions to help remove sources of biological pollutants, to help get rid of pollutants, and to prevent their return.

Self-Inspection: A Walk Through Your Home

Begin by touring your household. Follow your nose, and use your eyes. Two major factors help create conditions for biological pollutants to grow: nutrients and constant moisture with poor air circulation.

Dust and construction materials, such as wood, wallboard and insulation, contain nutrients that allow biological pollutants to grow. Firewood also is a source of moisture, fungi and bugs.
Appliances, such as humidifiers, kerosene and gas heaters, washers and clothes dryers, dishwashers and gas stoves, add moisture to the air.

A musty odor, moisture on hard surfaces, and even water stains, may be caused by:

air-conditioning units;
basements, attics and crawlspaces;
bathrooms;
carpets;
heating and air-conditioning ducts;
humidifiers and dehumidifiers; and
refrigerator drip pans.

What You Can Do About Biological Pollutants

Before you give away the family pet or move, there are less drastic steps you can take to reduce potential problems. Properly cleaning and maintaining your home can help reduce the problem and may avoid interrupting your normal routine. People who have health problems, such as asthma, or who are allergic, may need to do this and more. Discuss this with your doctor.

Moisture Control

Water in your home can come from many sources. Water can enter your home by leaking or by seeping through basement floors. Showers and even cooking can add moisture to the air in your home. The amount of moisture that the air in your home can hold depends on the temperature of the air. As the temperature goes down, the air is able to hold less moisture. This is why, in cold weather, moisture condenses on cold surfaces (for example, drops of water form on the inside of a window). This moisture can encourage biological pollutants to grow.

There are many ways to control moisture in your home:

Fix leaks and seepage. If water is entering the house from the outside, your options range from simple landscaping to extensive excavation and waterproofing. (The ground should slope away from the house.) Water in the basement can result from the lack of gutters or a water flow toward the house. Water leaks in pipes and around tubs and sinks can provide a place for biological pollutants to grow.
Put a plastic cover over dirt crawlspaces to prevent moisture from coming in from the ground. Be sure crawlspaces are well-ventilated.
Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens to remove moisture to the outside (not into the attic). Vent your clothes dryer to the outside.
Turn off certain appliances (such as humidifiers and kerosene heaters) if you notice moisture on windows and other surfaces.
Use dehumidifiers and air conditioners, especially in hot, humid climates, to reduce moisture in the air, but be sure that the appliances themselves don't become sources of biological pollutants.
Raise the temperature of cold surfaces where moisture condenses. Use insulation and storm windows. (A storm window installed on the inside works better than one installed on the outside) Open doors between rooms (especially doors to closets which may be colder than the rooms) to increase circulation. Circulation carries heat to the cold surfaces Increase air circulation by using fans and by moving furniture from wall corners to promote air and heat circulation. Be sure that your house has a source of fresh air and can expel excessive moisture from the home.
Pay special attention to carpet on concrete floors. Carpet can absorb moisture and serve as a place for biological pollutants to grow. Use area rugs, which can be taken up and washed often. In certain climates, if carpet is to be installed over a concrete floor, it maybe necessary to use a vapor barrier (plastic sheeting) over the concrete and cover that with sub-flooring (insulation covered with plywood) to prevent a moisture problem.
Moisture problems and their solutions differ from one climate to another. The Northeast is cold and wet, the Southwest is hot and dry, the South is hot and wet, and the Western Mountain states are cold and dry. All of these regions can have moisture problems. For example, evaporative coolers used in the Southwest can encourage the growth of biological pollutants. In other hot regions, the use of air conditioners which cool the air too quickly may not be left running long enough to remove excess moisture from the air. The types of construction and weather for the different climates can lead to different problems and solutions.

Where Biological Pollutants May Be Found in the Home

dirty air conditioners;
dirty humidifiers and/or dehumidifiers;
bathroom without vents or windows;
kitchen without vents or windows;
dirty refrigerator drip pans;
laundry room with an unvented dryer;
an unventilated attic;
carpet on damp basement floor;
bedding;
closet on outside wall;
dirty heating/air-conditioning system;
pets; and
water damage (around windows, the roof, the basement).

Maintain and Clean All Appliances that Come in Contact with Water

Have major appliances, such as furnaces, heat pumps and central air conditioners, inspected regularly by a professional InterNACHI inspector. Change filters on heating and cooling systems according to manufacturer's directions. (In general, change filters monthly during use.) When first turning on the heating or air conditioner at the start of the season, consider leaving your home until it airs out.
Have window and wall air-conditioning units cleaned and serviced regularly by a professional, especially before the cooling season. Air conditioners can help reduce the entry of allergy-causing pollen. But they may also become a source of biological pollutants if not properly maintained. Clean the coils and rinse the drain pans, according to the manufacturer's instructions, so water cannot collect in pools.
Have furnace-attached humidifiers cleaned and serviced regularly by a professional, especially before the heating season.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions when using any type of humidifier. Experts differ on the benefits of using humidifiers. If you do use a portable humidifier (approximately 1- to 2-gallon tanks), be sure to empty its tank every day and refill it with distilled or demineralized water, or even fresh tap water, if the other types of water are unavailable. For larger portable humidifiers, change the water as recommended by the manufacturer. Unplug the appliance before cleaning. Every third day, clean all surfaces coming in contact with water with a 3% solution of hydrogen peroxide, using a brush to loosen deposits. Some manufacturers recommend using diluted household bleach for cleaning and maintenance, generally in a solution of one-half cup bleach to 1 gallon of water. With any household chemical, rinse well to remove all traces of chemical before refilling the humidifier.
Empty dehumidifiers daily and clean often. If possible, have the appliance drip directly into a drain. Follow manufacturer's instructions for cleaning and maintenance. Always disconnect the appliance before cleaning.
Clean refrigerator drip pans regularly, according to manufacturer's instructions. If refrigerator and freezer doors don't seal properly, moisture may build up and mold can grow. Remove any mold on door gaskets, and replace faulty gaskets.

Clean Surfaces

Clean moist surfaces, such as showers and kitchen counters.
Remove mold from walls, ceilings, floors and paneling. Do not simply cover mold with paint, stain, varnish, or a moisture-proof sealer, as the mold may resurface.
Replace moldy shower curtains, or remove them and scrub them well with a household cleaner, and rinse them before rehanging them.

Dust Control

Controlling dust is very important for people who are allergic to animal dander and mites. You cannot see mites, but you can either remove their favorite breeding grounds or keep these areas dry and clean. Dust mites can thrive in sofas, stuffed chairs, carpets and bedding. Open shelves, fabric wallpaper, knickknacks, and venetian blinds are also sources of dust mites. Dust mites live deep in the carpet and are not removed by vacuuming. Many doctors suggest that their mite-allergic patients use washable area rugs rather than wall-to-wall carpet.

Always wash bedding in hot water (at least 130° F) to kill dust mites. Cold water won't do the job. Launder bedding at least every seven to 10 days.
Use synthetic or foam rubber mattress pads and pillows, and plastic mattress covers, if you are allergic. Do not use fuzzy wool blankets, feather or wool-stuffed comforters, and feather pillows.
Clean rooms and closets well. Dust and vacuum often to remove surface dust. Vacuuming and other cleaning may not remove all animal dander, dust mite material, and other biological pollutants. Some particles are so small, they can pass through vacuum bags and remain in the air. If you are allergic to dust, wear a mask when vacuuming and dusting. People who are highly allergy-prone should not perform these tasks. They may even need to leave the house when someone else is cleaning.

Before You Move

Protect yourself by hiring an InterNACHI inspector to inspect your potential new home. If you identify problems, have the landlord or seller correct them before you move in, or even consider moving elsewhere.

Have professionals check the heating and cooling system, including humidifiers and vents. Have duct lining and insulation checked for growth.
Check for exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens. If there are no vents, do the kitchen and bathrooms have at least one window in each room? Does the stovetop have a hood vented outside? Does the clothes dryer vent outside? Do all vents exhaust to the outside of the building, and not in attics or crawlspaces?
Look for obvious mold growth throughout the house, including attics, basements and crawlspaces, and around the foundation outside. See if there are many plants close to the house, particularly if they are damp and rotting. They are a potential source of biological pollutants. Downspouts from roof gutters should route water away from the building.
Look for stains on the walls, floor or carpet (including any carpet over concrete floors) as evidence of previous flooding or moisture problems. Is there moisture on windows and surfaces? Are there signs of leaks or seepage in the basement?
Look for rotted building materials, which may suggest moisture or water damage.
If you or anyone else in the family has a pet allergy, ask if any pets have lived in the home.
Examine the design of the building. Remember that in cold climates, overhanging areas, rooms over unheated garages, and closets on outside walls may be prone to problems with biological pollutants.
Look for signs of cockroaches. (Carefully read instructions for use and any cautionary labeling on cleaning products before beginning cleaning procedures.)
Do not mix any chemical products. Especially, never mix cleaners containing bleach with any product (such as ammonia) which does not have instructions for such mixing. When chemicals are combined, a dangerous gas can sometimes be formed.
Household chemicals may cause burning or irritation to skin and eyes.
Household chemicals may be harmful if swallowed or inhaled.
Avoid contact with skin, eyes, mucous membranes, and clothing.
Avoid breathing vapor. Open all windows and doors, and use an exhaust fan that sends the air outside.
Keep household chemicals out of reach of children.
Rinse treated surface areas well to remove all traces of chemicals.

Correcting Water Damage

What if damage is already done? Follow these guidelines for correcting water damage:

Throw out mattresses, wicker furniture, straw baskets and the like that have been water damaged or contain mold. These cannot be recovered.
Discard any water-damaged furnishings, such as carpets, drapes, stuffed toys, upholstered furniture, and ceiling tiles, unless they can be recovered by steam cleaning or hot-water washing and thorough drying.
Remove and replace wet insulation to prevent conditions where biological pollutants can grow.

Reducing Exposure to Biological Contaminants

General good housekeeping, and maintenance of heating and air-conditioning equipment, are very important. Adequate ventilation and good air distribution also help. The key to mold control is moisture control. If mold is a problem, clean up the mold and get rid of excess water and moisture. Maintaining the relative humidity between 30% to 60% will help control mold, dust mites and cockroaches. Employ integrated pest management to control insect and animal allergens. Cooling-tower treatment procedures exist to reduce levels of Legionella and other organisms.

Install and use exhaust fans that are vented to the outdoors in kitchens and bathrooms, and vent clothes dryers outdoors. These actions can eliminate much of the moisture that builds up from everyday activities. There are exhaust fans on the market that produce little noise, an important consideration for some people. Another benefit to using kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans is that they can reduce levels of organic pollutants that vaporize from hot water used in showers and dishwashers. Ventilate the attic and crawlspaces to prevent moisture build-up. Keeping humidity levels in these areas below 50% can prevent water condensation on building materials.

If using cool mist or ultrasonic humidifiers, clean appliances according to the manufacturer's instructions and refill with fresh water daily. Because these humidifiers can become breeding grounds for biological contaminants, they have the potential for causing diseases such as hypersensitivity pneumonitis and humidifier fever. Evaporation trays in air conditioners, dehumidifiers, and refrigerators should also be cleaned frequently.

Thoroughly clean and dry water-damaged carpets and building materials (within 24 hours, if possible), or consider removal and replacement. Water-damaged carpets and building materials can harbor mold and bacteria. It is very difficult to completely rid such materials of biological contaminants.

Keep the house clean. House dust mites, pollens, animal dander, and other allergy-causing agents can be reduced, although not eliminated, through regular cleaning. People who are allergic to these pollutants should use allergen-proof mattress encasements, wash bedding in hot water (130° F), and avoid room furnishings that accumulate dust, especially if they cannot be washed in hot water. Allergic individuals should also leave the house while it is being vacuumed because vacuuming can actually increase airborne levels of mite allergens and other biological contaminants. Using central vacuum systems that are vented to the outdoors, or vacuums with high efficiency filters may also be of help.

Take steps to minimize biological pollutants in basements. Clean and disinfect the basement floor drain regularly. Do not finish a basement below ground level unless all water leaks are patched and outdoor ventilation and adequate heat to prevent condensation are provided. Operate a dehumidifier in the basement, if needed, to keep relative humidity levels between 30% to 50%.

Health Effects From Biological Contaminants

Some biological contaminants trigger allergic reactions, including hypersensitivity pneumonitis, allergic rhinitis, and some types of asthma. Infectious illnesses, such as influenza, measles and chicken pox, are transmitted through the air. Molds and mildews release disease-causing toxins. Symptoms of health problems caused by biological pollutants include sneezing, watery eyes, coughing, shortness of breath, dizziness, lethargy, fever and digestive problems.

Allergic reactions occur only after repeated exposure to a specific biological allergen. However, that reaction may occur immediately upon re-exposure, or after multiple exposures over time. As a result, people who have noticed only mild allergic reactions, or no reactions at all, may suddenly find themselves very sensitive to particular allergens. Some diseases, such as humidifier fever, are associated with exposure to toxins from microorganisms that can grow in large buildings' ventilation systems. However, these diseases can also be traced to micro-organisms that grow in home heating and cooling systems and humidifiers. Children, elderly people, and people with breathing problems, allergies, and lung diseases are particularly susceptible to disease-causing biological agents in the indoor air. Mold, dust mites, pet dander, and pest droppings or body parts can trigger asthma. Biological contaminants, including molds and pollens, can cause allergic reactions for a significant portion of the population. Tuberculosis, measles, staphylococcus infections, Legionella and influenza are known to be transmitted by air.

Combustion Pollutants

Combustion appliances are those which burn fuels for warmth, cooking or decorative purposes. Typical fuels are gas, both natural and liquefied petroleum (LP), kerosene, oil, coal and wood. Examples of the appliances are space heaters, ranges, ovens, stoves, furnaces, fireplaces, water heaters, and clothes dryers. These appliances are usually safe. However, under certain conditions, these appliances can produce combustion pollutants that can damage your health, or even kill you.

What are Combustion Pollutants?

Combustion pollutants are gases and particles that come from burning materials. The combustion pollutants come from burning fuels in appliances. The types and amounts of pollutants produced depend on the type of appliance, how well the appliance is installed, maintained and vented, and the kind of fuel it uses. Some of the common pollutants produced from burning these fuels are carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, particles, and sulfur dioxide. Particles can have hazardous chemicals attached to them. Other pollutants that can be produced by some appliances are unburned hydrocarbons and aldehydes. Combustion always produces water vapor. Water vapor is not usually considered a pollutant, but it can act as one. It can result in high humidity and wet surfaces.

Where do Combustion Pollutants Come From?

Combustion pollutants found indoors include outdoor air, tobacco smoke, exhaust from car and lawn mower internal combustion engines, and some hobby activities, such as welding, woodburning and soldering. Combustion pollutants can also come from vented or unvented combustion appliances. These appliances include space heaters, gas ranges and ovens, furnaces, gas water heaters, gas clothes dryers, wood and coal-burning stoves, and fireplaces. As a group, these are called "combustion appliances."

Appliances

Vented appliances are appliances designed to be used with a duct, chimney, pipe, or other device that carries the combustion pollutants outside the home. These appliances can release large amounts of pollutants directly into your home if a vent is not properly installed, or is blocked or leaking. Unvented appliances do not vent to the outside, so they release combustion pollutants directly into the home. Many of these problems are hard for a homeowner to identify. A professional is needed.

What are the Health Effects of Combustion Pollutants?

The health effects of combustion pollutants range from headaches and breathing difficulties to death. The health effects may show up immediately after exposure, or occur after being exposed to the pollutants for a long time. The effects depend on the type and amount of pollutants, and the length of time of exposure to them. They also depend upon several factors related to the exposed person. These include the age and any existing health problems. There are still some questions about the level of pollutants or the period of exposure needed to produce specific health effects. Further studies to better define the release of pollutants from combustion appliances and their health effects are needed.

The sections below discuss health problems associated with some common combustion pollutants. These pollutants include carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, particles, and sulfur dioxide. Even if you are healthy, high levels of carbon monoxide can kill you within a short time. The health effects of the other pollutants are generally more subtle and are more likely to affect susceptible people. It is always a good idea to reduce exposure to combustion pollutants by using and maintaining combustion appliances properly.

Carbon Monoxide:

Each year, according to CPSC, there are more than 200 carbon monoxide deaths related to the use of all types of combustion appliances in the home. Exposure to carbon monoxide reduces the blood's ability to carry oxygen. Often, a person or an entire family may not recognize that carbon monoxide is poisoning them. The chemical is odorless, and some of the symptoms are similar to common illnesses. This is particularly dangerous because carbon monoxide's deadly effects will not be recognized until it is too late to take action against them. Carbon monoxide exposures especially affect unborn babies, infants, and people with anemia or a history of heart disease. Breathing low levels of the chemical can cause fatigue and increase chest pain in people with chronic heart disease. Breathing higher levels of carbon monoxide causes symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and weakness in healthy people. Carbon monoxide also causes sleepiness, nausea, vomiting, confusion and disorientation. At very high levels, it causes loss of consciousness and death.

Nitrogen Dioxide:

Breathing high levels of nitrogen dioxide causes irritation of the respiratory tract and causes shortness of breath. Compared to healthy people, children, and individuals with respiratory illnesses such as asthma, may be more susceptible to the effects of nitrogen dioxide. Some studies have shown that children may have more colds and flu when exposed to low levels of nitrogen dioxide. When people with asthma inhale low levels of nitrogen dioxide while exercising, their lung airways can narrow and react more to inhaled materials.

Particles:

Particles suspended in the air can cause eye, nose, throat and lung irritation. They can increase respiratory symptoms, especially in people with chronic lung disease or heart problems. Certain chemicals attached to particles may cause lung cancer, if they are inhaled. The risk of lung cancer increases with the amount and length of exposure. The health effects from inhaling particles depend upon many factors, including the size of the particle and its chemical make-up.

Sulfur Dioxide:

Sulfur dioxide at low levels of exposure can cause eye, nose, and respiratory tract irritation. At high exposure levels, it causes the lung airways to narrow. This causes wheezing, chest tightness, and breathing problems. People with asthma are particularly susceptible to the effects of sulfur dioxide. They may have symptoms at levels that are much lower than the rest of the population.

Other Pollutants:

Combustion may release other pollutants. They include unburned hydrocarbons and aldehydes. Little is known about the levels of these pollutants in indoor air and the resulting health effects.

What do I do if I suspect that combustion pollutants are affecting my health?

If you suspect you are being subjected to carbon monoxide poisoning, get fresh air immediately. Open windows and doors for more ventilation, turn off any combustion appliances, and leave the house. You could lose consciousness and die from carbon monoxide poisoning if you do nothing. It is also important to contact a doctor immediately for a proper diagnosis. Remember to tell your doctor that you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning is causing your problems. Prompt medical attention is important. Some symptoms from combustion pollutants -- including headaches, dizziness, sleepiness, coughing, and watery eyes -- may also occur because of common medical problems. These medical problems include colds, the flu, and allergies. Similar symptoms may also occur because of other indoor air pollutants. Contact your doctor for a proper diagnosis.

How can I reduce my exposure to combustion pollutants?

Proper selection, installation, inspection and maintenance of your appliances are extremely important in reducing your exposure to these pollutants. Providing good ventilation in your home and correctly using your appliance can also reduce your exposure to these pollutants. Additionally, there are several different residential carbon monoxide detectors for sale. These detectors alert consumers to harmful carbon monoxide levels in the home. They may soon be widely available to reduce deaths from carbon monoxide poisoning.

Appliance Selection

Choose vented appliances whenever possible.
Buy only combustion appliances that have been tested and certified to meet current safety standards. Examples of certifying organizations are Underwriters Laboratories (UL) and the American Gas Association (AGA) Laboratories. Look for a label that clearly shows the certification.
All currently manufactured vented gas heaters are required by industry safety standards to have a safety shut-off device. This device helps protect you from carbon monoxide poisoning by shutting off an improperly vented heater.
Check your local and state building codes and fire ordinances to see if you can use an unvented space heater, if you are considering purchasing one. They are not allowed to be used in some communities, dwellings, and certain rooms in the house.
If you must replace an unvented gas space heater with another, make it a new one. Heaters made after 1982 have a pilot light safety system called an oxygen depletion sensor (ODS). This system shuts off the heater when there is not enough fresh air, before the heater begins producing large amounts of carbon monoxide. Look for the label that tells you that the appliance has this safety system. Older heaters will not have this protection system.
Consider buying gas appliances that have electronic ignitions rather than pilot lights. These appliances are usually more energy-efficient and eliminate the continuous low-level pollutants from pilot lights.
Buy appliances that are the correct size for the area you want to heat. Using the wrong size heater may produce more pollutants in your home and is not an efficient use of energy.
All new wood stoves are EPA-certified to limit the amounts of pollutants released into the outdoor air. For more information on selecting, installing, operating, and maintaining wood-burning stoves, write to the EPA Wood Heater Program. Before buying a wood stove, check your local laws about the installation and use of wood stoves.

Ventilation

To reduce indoor air pollution, a good supply of fresh, outdoor air is needed. The movement of air into and out of your home is very important. Normally, air comes in through cracks around doors and windows. This air helps reduce the level of pollutants indoors. This supply of fresh air is also important to help carry pollutants up the chimney, stovepipe or flue to the outside.

Keep doors open to the rest of the house from the room where you are using an unvented gas space heater or kerosene heater, and crack open a window. This allows enough air for proper combustion, and reduces the level of pollutants, especially carbon monoxide.
Use a hood fan if you are using a range. They reduce the level of pollutants you breathe if they exhaust to the outside. Make sure that enough air is coming into the house when you use an exhaust fan. If needed, open a door or window slightly, especially if other appliances are in use. For proper operation of most combustion appliances and their venting systems, the air pressure in the house should be greater than that outside. If not, the vented appliances could release combustion pollutants into the house rather than outdoors. If you suspect that you have this problem, you may need the help of a qualified person to solve it.
Make sure that your vented appliance has the vent connected and that nothing is blocking it. Make sure there are no holes or cracks in the vent. Do not vent gas clothes dryers or water heaters into the house for heating. This is unsafe.
Open the stove's damper when adding wood. This allows more air into the stove. More air helps the wood burn properly, and prevents pollutants from being drawn back into the house instead of going up the chimney. If there is isible smoke or a constant smoky odor inside the home while using a wood-burning stove, this is a sign that the stove is not working properly. Soot on furniture in the rooms where you are using the stove also tells this. Smoke and soot are signs that the stove is releasing pollutants into the indoor air.

Correct Use of Appliances

Read and follow the instructions for all appliances so that you understand how they work. Keep the owner's manual in a convenient place to refer to when needed. Also, read and follow the warning labels because they tell you important safety information that you need to know. Reading and following the instructions and warning labels could save your life.
Always use the correct fuel for the appliance.
Use only water-clear ASTM 1-K kerosene for kerosene heaters. The use of kerosene other than 1-K could lead to a release of more pollutants in your home. Never use gasoline in a kerosene heater because it can cause a fire or an explosion. Using even small amounts of gasoline could cause a fire.
Use seasoned hardwoods (elm, maple, oak) instead of softwoods (cedar, fir, pine) in wood-burning stoves and fireplaces. Hardwoods are better because they burn hotter and form less creosote, an oily, black tar that sticks to chimneys and stove pipes. Do not use green or wet woods as the primary wood because they make more creosote and smoke. Never burn painted scrap wood or wood treated with preservatives, because they could release highly toxic pollutants, such as arsenic or lead. Plastics, charcoal, and colored paper, such as comics and wrapping paper, also produce pollutants. Never burn anything that the stove or fireplace manufacturer does not recommend.
Never use a range, oven or dryer to heat your home. When you misuse gas appliances in this way, they can produce fatal amounts of carbon monoxide. They can produce high levels of nitrogen dioxide, too.
Never use an unvented combustion heater overnight or in a room where you are sleeping. Carbon monoxide from combustion heaters can reach dangerous levels.
Never ignore a safety device when it shuts off an appliance. It means that something is wrong. Read your appliance instructions to find out what you should do, or have a professional check out the problem.
Never ignore the smell of fuel. This usually indicates that the appliance is not operating properly or is leaking fuel. Leaking fuel will not always be detectable by smell. If you suspect that you have a fuel leak, have it fixed as soon as possible. In most cases, you should shut off the appliance, extinguish any other flames or pilot lights, shut off other appliances in the area, open windows and doors, call for help, and leave the area.

Inspection and Maintenance

Have your combustion appliance regularly inspected and maintained to reduce your exposure to pollutants. Appliances that are not working properly can release harmful and even fatal amounts of pollutants, especially carbon monoxide. Have chimneys and vents inspected when installing or changing vented heating appliances. Some modifications may be required. For example, if a change was made in your heating system from oil to natural gas, the flue gas produced by the gas system could be hot enough to melt accumulated oil-combustion debris in the chimney or vent. This debris could block the vent, forcing pollutants into the house. It is important to clean your chimney and vents, especially when changing heating systems. Always hire an InterNACHI inspector to perform your home inspections, as they all must pass the most comprehensive, rigorous training program available.

What are the Inspection and Maintenance Procedures?

The best advice is to follow the recommendations of the manufacturer. The same combustion appliance may have different inspection and maintenance requirements, depending on where you live. In general, check the flame in the furnace combustion chamber at the beginning of the heating season. Natural gas furnaces should have a blue flame with perhaps only a slight yellow tip. Call your appliance service representative to adjust the burner if there is a lot of yellow in the flame, or call your local utility company for this service. LP units should have a flame with a bright blue center that may have a light yellow tip. Pilot lights on gas water heaters and gas cooking appliances should also have a blue flame. Have a trained service representative adjust the pilot light if it is yellow or orange. Before each heating season, have flues and chimneys inspected before each heating season for leakage and for blockage by creosote or debris. Creosote buildup or leakage could cause black stains on the outside of the chimney or flue. These stains can mean that pollutants are leaking into the house.

From Biological Pollutants in the Home - InterNACHI

New Day Homes specializes in Mold Inspections in the Magnolia Texas Area area.

Air Sampling for Mold

2013-05-02T21:50:00.002-05:00

by Nick Gromicko and Ethan Ward...

Taking air samples during a mold inspection is important for several reasons. Mold spores are not visible to the naked eye, and the types of mold present can often be determined through laboratory analysis of the air samples. Having samples analyzed can also help provide evidence of the scope and severity of a mold problem, as well as aid in assessing human exposure to mold spores. After remediation, new samples are typically taken to help ensure that all mold has been successfully removed.

Air samples can be used to gather data about mold spores present in the interior of a house. These samples are taken by using a pump that forces air through a collection device which catches mold spores. The sample is then sent off to a laboratory to be analyzed. InterNACHI inspectors who perform mold inspections often utilize air sampling to collect data, which has become commonplace.

Air-Sampling Devices

There are several types of devices used to collect air samples that can be analyzed for mold. Some common examples include:

impaction samplers that use a calibrated air pump to impact spores onto a prepared microscope slide;
cassette samplers, which may be of the disposable or one-time-use type, and also employ forced air to impact spores onto a collection media; and
airborne-particle collectors that trap spores directly on a culture dish. These may be utilized to identify the species of mold that has been found.

When and When Not to Sample

Samples are generally best taken if visual, non-invasive examination reveals apparent mold growth or conditions that could lead to growth, such as moisture intrusion or water damage. Musty odors can also be a sign of mold growth. If no sign of mold or potential for mold is apparent, one or two indoor air samples can still be taken, at the discretion of the inspector and client, in the most lived-in room of the house and at the HVAC unit.

Outdoor air samples are also typically taken as a control for comparison to indoor samples. Two samples -- one from the windward side and one from the leeward side of the house -- will help provide a more complete picture of what is in the air that may be entering the house through windows and doors at times when they are open. It is best to take the outdoor samples as close together in time as possible to the indoor samples that they will be compared with.

InterNACHI inspectors should avoid taking samples if a resident of the house is under a physician’s care for mold exposure, if there is litigation in progress related to mold on the premises, or if the inspector’s health or safety could be compromised in obtaining the sample. Residential home inspectors also should not take samples in a commercial or public building.

Where to Sample and Ideal Conditions

In any areas of a house suspected or confirmed to have mold growth, air samples can be taken to help verify and gather more information. Moisture intrusion, water damage, musty odors, apparent mold growth, or conditions conducive to mold growth are all common reasons to gather an air sample. Samples should be taken near the center of the room, with the collection device positioned 3 to 6 feet off the ground.

Ten minutes is an adequate amount of time for the air pump to run while taking samples, but this can be reduced to around five minutes if there is a concern that air movement from a lot of indoor activity could alter the results. The sampling time can be reduced further if there is an active source of dust, such as from ongoing construction.

Sampling should take place in livable spaces within the house under closed conditions in order to help stabilize the air and allow for reproducibility of the sampling and measurement. While the sample is being collected, windows and exterior doors should be kept shut other than for normal entry and exit from the home. It is best to have air exchangers (other than a furnace) or fans that exchange indoor-outdoor air switched off during sampling.

Weather conditions can be an important factor in gathering accurate data. Severe thunderstorms or unusually high winds can affect the sampling and analysis results. High winds or rapid changes in barometric pressure increase the difference in air pressure between the interior and exterior, which can increase the variability of airborne mold-spore concentration. Large differences in air pressure between the interior and exterior can cause more airborne spores to be sucked inside, skewing the results of the sample.

Difficulties and Practicality of Air Sampling

It is helpful to think of air sampling as just one tool in the tool belt when inspecting a house for mold problems. An air sample alone is not enough to confirm or refute the existence of a problem, and such testing needs to be accompanied by visual inspection and other methods of data collection, such as a surface sample. Indoor airborne spore levels can vary according to several factors, and this can lead to skewed results if care is not taken to set up the sampling correctly. Also, since only spores are collected with an air sample and may actually be damaged during collection, identification of the mold type can be more difficult than with a sample collected with tape or a cultured sample.

Air samples are good for use as a background screen to ensure that there isn’t a large source of mold not yet found somewhere in a home. This is because they can detect long chains of spores that are still intact. These chains normally break apart quickly as they travel through the air, so a sample that reveals intact chains can indicate that there is mold nearby, possibly undiscovered during other tests and visual examination.

In summary, when taken under controlled conditions and properly analyzed, air samples for mold are helpful in comparing relative particle levels between a problem and a control area. They can also be crucial for comparing particle levels and air quality in an area before and after mold remediation.

From Air Sampling for Mold Inspections - InterNACHI http://www.nachi.org/air-sampling-mold-inspection.htm#ixzz2Ll7OIgaF

New Day Homes specializes Mold Inspections in the Magnolia Texas area area. Air samples rates start at $125 per sample.

What Is a Mold Inspection and What Does Mold Testing Do?

2013-05-02T21:28:00.001-05:00

Stories about black mold, toxic mold, mold lawsuits, and mold sickness are plastered across the headlines these days. As a result many property owners and renters are making the decision to get their buildings inspected for mold.

Perhaps you are one of the growing numbers of people wondering if a mold inspection is right for your property. Is it worth it? What does the process entail? How do you search for the right mold inspection and testing company? This article will help to clarify some of the questions people have about what a mold inspection is and what mold testing can tell you about the health and safety of your property.

Let’s start at the top. Why should you get a mold inspection? People get mold inspections for many different reasons. Homeowners oftentimes get an inspection as part of the home buying or selling process, in order to make sure the house is free from mold before they move in or move out. Many people get mold testing done if they can see that there are areas of mold growth in their home. These people are interested in determining the exact nature of the mold—whether it’s harmful to human health, and whether or not they need professional help to remedy the situation.

Some people need an inspection with testing in order to get a proper estimate for remediation. The mold problem is probably extensive, and they want to take the first step towards restoration. Besides just being a visual blight on a property, mold can deteriorate walls and decompose wooden beams, weakening a home’s structural integrity.

Other people request an inspection because they merely suspect that there may be mold growing in their home. They could smell a musty odor or feel a dampness or mugginess inside their home. Mold might not be clearly visible. It could be growing inside walls, behind the dishwasher, or in a crawl space. A mold inspection with testing will determine if there is in fact mold present in the building.

Along the same lines, many people request a mold test or a mold inspection because although they don’t see any mold they feel some of the common health symptoms associated with mold exposure. Mold can cause a wide range of health effects in humans, depending on the specific person and the concentration of mold in the air. Most of the symptoms are associated with allergies and asthma. Some people feel as though they have the flu, complete with headaches, drowsiness, sneezing, coughing, wheezing, and eye irritation. The elderly, small children, and people with immune deficiencies or respiratory problems have the worst reactions to mold. “Black mold” (Stachybotrys) has even been linked to pulmonary hemorrhage, or bleeding of the lungs.

Now that we know why people get mold inspections done, let’s discuss what actually happens during the inspection. The most comprehensive mold inspections will involve four main processes:

Complete visual analysis of the premises: Mold inspectors are trained to locate the most common areas of mold growth, as well as some of the less obvious places where mold can develop in a building. Visual inspection alone cannot determine the presence of mold or the potential for mold within a structure, so more advanced techniques are also necessary.
Moisture testing with a digital moisture meter: Hand-held moisture meters can pick up the level of moisture present in wood, sheetrock, and other materials. If your building has high levels of moisture, it’s likely that rot, mold, and mildew will affect the structure’s stability.
Leak detection: Because mold growth in homes and apartments is almost always the result of unwanted water intrusion, inspectors should look for leaks in the roof, ceiling, and water pipes. Even small cracks in the exterior of a home can cause major damage if left unchecked.
Air and surface samples, with testing and analysis from a laboratory: A good mold inspection will take air samples from various places inside the building as well as a “base” sample from outside. The outdoor air sample will give the laboratory a standard air quality reading against which they will compare indoor samples. Results from a laboratory analysis of the samples will usually tell what kinds of molds are present in a building (including the presence of “toxic mold,” like Stachybotrys).

Some mold inspection companies will provide these services separately, and others include them in a complete package. Be wary of companies that offer free or extremely cheap inspections, as they likely charge more for estimates and results from a laboratory or offer different aspects of the inspection a la carte.

Additionally, many people request an inspection of their building with infrared thermal imaging equipment. This kind of service can detect minute changes in temperature on walls inside a home, which may determine where moisture levels are high and subsequently where mold is likely to grow.

Besides the use of high-tech equipment, a mold inspection needs to be conducted by a competent service professional. Mold inspectors should be certified through the Indoor Environmental Association (IEA) or other industry organizations which regulate standard practices and provide oversight for inspection procedures. Initial training courses and continued education will provide inspectors with the necessary information to conduct the most extensive of inspections. Many inspectors have educational backgrounds and experience in the biological sciences and building construction trades.

Although mold inspections and mold testing can be requested for a variety of reasons, all inspections should be performed by qualified professionals. Exhaustive inspections will include four main aspects: visual investigation, moisture readings, leak discovery, and air/surface sample testing. Homeowners, renters, property managers, and landlords should take the necessary steps to safeguard their properties from mold infestations.

New Day Homes specializes in Mold Inspections in the Magnolia Texas area area.