Mold and mildew has become more of a concern over the last 10 years due to the increase coverage by the news, the home buying and selling community and research that is being done on mold at major medical center throughout the world. The word stachybotrys chartarum known to the public as black mold or toxic mold had created much panic and numerous questions about the safety of anyone dealing with these issues. Large settlements were awarded to individuals who initiated lawsuits against their insurance companies or land lords. In the past people have demolished or just left their properties when they discovered mold growing.
Toxic mold is a type of mold that has the potential to produce dangerous byproducts, called mycotoxins. The elderly, pregnant women, children individuals with respiratory conditions, allergies or any type of auto immune conditions are at greater risk for having serious medical related conditions. These mycotoxins are microscopic and travel through the air and have the potential to land on almost anything.
Stachybotrys chartarum is typically a slimy, greenish-black mold that love moisture-laden materials that contain cellouse, like wood, paper, ceiling tiles, wall paper glue, drywall or gypsum board to name a few. Some areas that you should inspect for mold would include basements, attics, crawl spaces, utility rooms, roof leaks, and bathrooms with poor ventilation, leaky pipes or areas that have been recently flooded clothes dryers that are not vented to the outside.
If you house has recently been flooded you are at high risk for developing mold in as little as 24 to 48 hours. Your immediate attention should be directed to clean up completely, quickly and water damage. In many cases you will need to hire a certified water extractions company who can assess and bring in commercial dehumidifiers, air blowers to help accomplish quick and complete drying which will help to prevent secondary damage.
Regardless of the type of Black Mold that is identified you home the most important factor that is must be removed for the safety of the structure of your home and the health of your love ones. This removal should be done by a certified train professional. Just as you look for the most skilled, experienced Physician you should seek the most skilled qualified mold remediator in the business. You will be successful when you ask the right questions such as What certifications do you have, are you a member of Angie’s list, Are you licensed, Ask for references from previous clients, what type of guarantee do you offer, what type of remediaton service are available, and after gathering information go with your gut feeling and always ask question and have regular conversations with the remediator you choose
Once the mold has been removed and your post clearance test reveals that your indoor air quality is back to acceptable the next step is prevention. To prevent re-occurrences use your eyes and nose to smell or seen anything that looks suspicious and take immediate action as necessary.
