The holidays are a joyful time, but for some people with allergies and asthma, the winter months - particularly the holiday season - can present special challenges for staying healthy. Additional time indoors, dusty decorations, bountiful evergreens, scented candles, crackling fire logs, higher stress levels, busier than ever schedules. . . the list of potential triggers goes on and on!
Here are some tips that can help you and your loved ones breathe a little easier this holiday season:
Leaves and Logs
There are a number of fungal species that aid in the decomposition of wood, leaves and other plant matter. Chores like raking leaves or moving and stacking firewood can stir up mold spores. To minimize the effects, wear protective equipment such as gloves and a dust mask. Remove leaves in your gutters and around the foundation of your home. Place a tarp over outdoor wood piles, and only bring in as much wood as you need for that night when using your fireplace. Also, don't forget to check your chimney flue each year.
Holiday Greenery
If you use an artificial tree and garlands, make sure to dust them each year. In between seasons, store them under plastic or in a sealed container to minimize contamination. For pieces that were used outdoors, make sure they are completely dry before packing them away.
For live evergreen trees, inspect the tree trunk and branches for signs of visible mold or pollen before purchasing. Once you get your tree home, rinse it and allow it to dry thoroughly before bringing it inside, if time allows. Otherwise, consider using a leaf blower in a well ventilated area to give your tree a once over before bringing it indoors. After the holidays, get your tree outside as quickly as possible.
Candles and Potpourri
Limit the use of heavily scented candles, particularly those that are petroleum-based. Also minimize the use of potpourri and other holiday scented items (think cinnamon pine cones!) or air fresheners. Remember that some holiday plants and even strong baking odors can aggravate allergy and asthma symptoms as well.
HVAC System
Schedule a preventative maintenance inspection of your home's HVAC system with a licensed contractor. Have the humidity levels in your home checked to ensure they are within recommended guidelines. Remember to clean or change your air filters regularly.
With a little extra preparation, you can reduce the effects of mold and indoor allergens this holiday season and all winter long.
Air Matters LLC has performed mold inspection and testing services in the Raleigh NC area since 2002. The owner, Renee Ward, has over 22 years of safety and environmental experience and holds both her Bachelor of Science and Masters degrees in engineering. Renee is also a member of the American Industrial Hygiene Association and the American Indoor Air Quality Council. Contact Air Matters at (919) 961-2221.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Friday, October 30, 2009
Stricter Rules on Radon Tied to Lung Cancer
The World Health Organization (WHO) has significantly lowered their guidelines on how much radon is permissible in homes without leading to adverse health effects. Their new "Handbook on Indoor Radon" issued September 22 called for public health authorities and the construction industry to reduce exposures to radon, calling it a "major and growing public health threat in homes". Radon is widely considered to be a leading cause of lung cancer, second only to smoking.
What is Radon?
Radon is a gaseous radioactive element that people cannot see, smell or taste. It occurs naturally through the decay of uranium in the soil. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) the average home indoor radon level is about 1.3 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) in the United States. The average outdoor level is about 0.4 pCi/L.
How Does Radon Get Into Your Home?
Radon is most common in homes with basements, where it seeps in from the soil and through the walls. However, many homes without basements also have radon problems. The amount of radon that escapes from the soil into the home can depend on the soil composition, soil moisture, and building construction. In some cases, radon enters the home through well water.
How Much Radon is Acceptable?
The EPA's recommended exposure level is 4 pCi/L, which has been their standard for 40 years. WHO's new standard is more restrictive, only allowing for 2.7 pCi/L. WHO strongly emphasizes the importance of radon testing by all home owners or buyers looking to purchase a home. WHO studies indicate that most radon induced lung cancers occur from exposure to low and medium doses of radon in residential structures.
Should You Be Concerned About Granite Countertops?
Some people attribute a rise in radon to the widespread use of granite in today's home. The EPA believes the principal source of radon in homes is from the soil in contact with basement floors and walls. While natural rocks such as granite may emit radiation and radon gas, the levels attributable to such sources are not typically high.
What Are the Health Effects of Radon?
Radon is the number one cause of lung cancer among non-smokers, according to EPA estimates. Overall, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer. Radon is responsible for about 21,000 lung cancer deaths every year. About 2,900 of these deaths occur among people who have never smoked. Dr. Richard H. Carmona, the U.S. Surgeon General, issued a national health advisory on radon.
For additional information on radon in North Carolina, contact the NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources NC Radon Program at http://www.ncradon.org/.
Air Matters has performed mold inspection and testing services in the Raleigh NC area since 2002. The owner, Renee Ward, has over 22 years of safety and environmental experience and holds both her Bachelor of Science and Masters degrees in engineering. Renee is also a member of the American Industrial Hygiene Association and the American Indoor Air Quality Council. Contact Air Matters at (919) 870-6748.
What is Radon?
Radon is a gaseous radioactive element that people cannot see, smell or taste. It occurs naturally through the decay of uranium in the soil. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) the average home indoor radon level is about 1.3 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) in the United States. The average outdoor level is about 0.4 pCi/L.
How Does Radon Get Into Your Home?
Radon is most common in homes with basements, where it seeps in from the soil and through the walls. However, many homes without basements also have radon problems. The amount of radon that escapes from the soil into the home can depend on the soil composition, soil moisture, and building construction. In some cases, radon enters the home through well water.
How Much Radon is Acceptable?
The EPA's recommended exposure level is 4 pCi/L, which has been their standard for 40 years. WHO's new standard is more restrictive, only allowing for 2.7 pCi/L. WHO strongly emphasizes the importance of radon testing by all home owners or buyers looking to purchase a home. WHO studies indicate that most radon induced lung cancers occur from exposure to low and medium doses of radon in residential structures.
Should You Be Concerned About Granite Countertops?
Some people attribute a rise in radon to the widespread use of granite in today's home. The EPA believes the principal source of radon in homes is from the soil in contact with basement floors and walls. While natural rocks such as granite may emit radiation and radon gas, the levels attributable to such sources are not typically high.
What Are the Health Effects of Radon?
Radon is the number one cause of lung cancer among non-smokers, according to EPA estimates. Overall, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer. Radon is responsible for about 21,000 lung cancer deaths every year. About 2,900 of these deaths occur among people who have never smoked. Dr. Richard H. Carmona, the U.S. Surgeon General, issued a national health advisory on radon.
For additional information on radon in North Carolina, contact the NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources NC Radon Program at http://www.ncradon.org/.
Air Matters has performed mold inspection and testing services in the Raleigh NC area since 2002. The owner, Renee Ward, has over 22 years of safety and environmental experience and holds both her Bachelor of Science and Masters degrees in engineering. Renee is also a member of the American Industrial Hygiene Association and the American Indoor Air Quality Council. Contact Air Matters at (919) 870-6748.
Saturday, October 10, 2009
What Does Chinese Drywall Have To Do With Mold?
This fall, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has confirmed that over 6.2 million sheets of Chinese drywall have been imported into the United States during the past five years. The actual numbers are certain to be much higher. Although some of the sheetrock is clearly marked "Made in China", other shipments may contain no markings at all. Chinese drywall has been distributed all over the country, but the majority of the product has been found in Florida and Louisiana.
Signs and Symptoms
The Chinese drywall in question contains sulfur, which is not present in wallboard produced in the U.S. In addition, the CPSC found that the Chinese product contained compounds normally found in acrylic paints and 10 times more Stontium (an alkaline earth metal that turns yellow when exposed to air) than American drywall. Residents with Chinese drywall complained of rotten egg smells throughout their homes and reported such health problems as asthma, headaches, coughing, and insomnia.
Where Damage Occurs
The sulfur, increased Strontium levels, and other compounds in the Chinese drywall have led to failures of air conditioning coils, corrosion of electrical wiring, and corrosion of plumbing fixtures - particularly copper pipes and fittings.
Resulting Mold Issues
When corrosion of HVAC system components, plumbing systems, or electrical wiring occurs, this can result in failure of that system. Back-up of condensation and leaks are common with system failures and can result in water or moisture intrusion into the home. In turn, this leads to an increased potential for fungal growth inside the home, particularly when the water or moisture intrusion goes undetected for some period of time.
If You Suspect Chinese Drywall In Your Home
It is difficult to performs inspections or testing that positively identify where Chinese drywall is present in a home. Some disassembly of walls is required, and then positive identification is still not always possible. A special coalition has been formed in Florida to help builders, contractors, and home owners deal with the removal of Chinese drywall. For more information on the coalition and their guidance, go to www.chinesedrywallprotocol.org.
Air Matters has performed mold inspection and testing services in the Raleigh NC area since 2002. The owner, Renee Ward, has over 22 years of safety and environmental experience and holds both her Bachelor of Science and Masters degrees in engineering. Renee is also a member of the American Industrial Hygiene Association and the American Indoor Air Quality Council. Contact Air Matters at (919) 870-6748.
Signs and Symptoms
The Chinese drywall in question contains sulfur, which is not present in wallboard produced in the U.S. In addition, the CPSC found that the Chinese product contained compounds normally found in acrylic paints and 10 times more Stontium (an alkaline earth metal that turns yellow when exposed to air) than American drywall. Residents with Chinese drywall complained of rotten egg smells throughout their homes and reported such health problems as asthma, headaches, coughing, and insomnia.
Where Damage Occurs
The sulfur, increased Strontium levels, and other compounds in the Chinese drywall have led to failures of air conditioning coils, corrosion of electrical wiring, and corrosion of plumbing fixtures - particularly copper pipes and fittings.
Resulting Mold Issues
When corrosion of HVAC system components, plumbing systems, or electrical wiring occurs, this can result in failure of that system. Back-up of condensation and leaks are common with system failures and can result in water or moisture intrusion into the home. In turn, this leads to an increased potential for fungal growth inside the home, particularly when the water or moisture intrusion goes undetected for some period of time.
If You Suspect Chinese Drywall In Your Home
It is difficult to performs inspections or testing that positively identify where Chinese drywall is present in a home. Some disassembly of walls is required, and then positive identification is still not always possible. A special coalition has been formed in Florida to help builders, contractors, and home owners deal with the removal of Chinese drywall. For more information on the coalition and their guidance, go to www.chinesedrywallprotocol.org.
Air Matters has performed mold inspection and testing services in the Raleigh NC area since 2002. The owner, Renee Ward, has over 22 years of safety and environmental experience and holds both her Bachelor of Science and Masters degrees in engineering. Renee is also a member of the American Industrial Hygiene Association and the American Indoor Air Quality Council. Contact Air Matters at (919) 870-6748.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
What is Triggering Your Fall Allergies?
Just like spring, fall is prime time for many people with allergies. Many people blame spending additional time indoors with mold and mildew irritants for their increase in allergy symptoms. What are some of the other common triggers to be on the lookout for?
Ragweed
The most common fall outdoor irritant is ragweed. Ragweed blooms in mid-August and continues into late October. It is common on roadsides, in vacant lots, or in other large grassy areas. In an average season, each ragweed plant can produce up to one billion grains of ragweed pollen. These grains can travel up to 400 miles in the air, due to their lightweight texture.
Dust Mites
Allergies to dust mites are common in the home. Dust mites are particularly prevalent in warm, moist areas with ready access to dead flakes of human skin, such as bedding, upholstered furniture, or plush carpeting. Studies show that close to 85% of U.S. homes have a bedroom with easily detectable levels of dust mite allergens.
Pet Dander
People often associate pet allergies with the hair, fur, or feathers of the animal. In fact, the dander (tiny pieces of dead skin that flake off from just beneath the hair, fur or feathers) is usually to blame. Pet dander is easily airborne and can spread to all areas of your home, even where pets are not allowed.
Cockroaches
Cockroach allergens comes from the feces, saliva, and bodies of the bugs. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, when one roach is seen in the basement or kitchen, it is safe to assume that at least 800 roaches are hidden under the kitchen sink, in closets, and the like. Studies show that almost 3/4 of urban homes have some level of cockroach infestation.
Air Matters has performed mold inspection and testing services in the Raleigh NC area since 2002. The owner, Renee Ward, has over 22 years of safety and environmental experience and holds both her Bachelor of Science and Masters degrees in engineering. Renee is also a member of the American Industrial Hygiene Association and the American Indoor Air Quality Council. Contact Air Matters at (919) 870-6748.
Ragweed
The most common fall outdoor irritant is ragweed. Ragweed blooms in mid-August and continues into late October. It is common on roadsides, in vacant lots, or in other large grassy areas. In an average season, each ragweed plant can produce up to one billion grains of ragweed pollen. These grains can travel up to 400 miles in the air, due to their lightweight texture.
Dust Mites
Allergies to dust mites are common in the home. Dust mites are particularly prevalent in warm, moist areas with ready access to dead flakes of human skin, such as bedding, upholstered furniture, or plush carpeting. Studies show that close to 85% of U.S. homes have a bedroom with easily detectable levels of dust mite allergens.
Pet Dander
People often associate pet allergies with the hair, fur, or feathers of the animal. In fact, the dander (tiny pieces of dead skin that flake off from just beneath the hair, fur or feathers) is usually to blame. Pet dander is easily airborne and can spread to all areas of your home, even where pets are not allowed.
Cockroaches
Cockroach allergens comes from the feces, saliva, and bodies of the bugs. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, when one roach is seen in the basement or kitchen, it is safe to assume that at least 800 roaches are hidden under the kitchen sink, in closets, and the like. Studies show that almost 3/4 of urban homes have some level of cockroach infestation.
Air Matters has performed mold inspection and testing services in the Raleigh NC area since 2002. The owner, Renee Ward, has over 22 years of safety and environmental experience and holds both her Bachelor of Science and Masters degrees in engineering. Renee is also a member of the American Industrial Hygiene Association and the American Indoor Air Quality Council. Contact Air Matters at (919) 870-6748.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Indoor Air Quality Testing for LEED Certification
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is the U.S. Green Building Council’s program for green building design, construction, operation and maintenance. This certification program provides third-party verification that energy savings, water efficiency, CO2 emissions reduction, indoor environmental quality, and resource conservation are optimized.
The Indoor Environmental Quality category of the LEED certification program awards points for measuring and improving indoor air quality and considers the impact of temperature, humidity and airborne contaminants.
Air Matters LLC uses advanced equipment and methods to provide indoor air quality services that assist our clients in meeting LEED Certification or Re-certification criteria:
Documentation of Data
The Indoor Environmental Quality category of the LEED certification program awards points for measuring and improving indoor air quality and considers the impact of temperature, humidity and airborne contaminants.
Air Matters LLC uses advanced equipment and methods to provide indoor air quality services that assist our clients in meeting LEED Certification or Re-certification criteria:
Documentation of Data
- Visual inspection of physical condition of premises with deficiencies noted
- Temperature and relative humidity readings recorded using an A.W. Sperry Hygrometer, Model STK-3026RH
- Electronic moisture level detection readings recorded using a GE Surveymaster Protimeter Dual-Function Moisture Meter, Model BLD5360
- Indoor air quality sampling using high volume air pump and Air-O-Cell cassettes
- A minimum of two indoor affect samples and two outdoor baseline samples to ensure adequate comparison and data analysis
- Written report including copy of laboratory analysis
Professional Qualifications
- Testing services performed by engineer with over 22 years of experience
- Sampling conducted according to American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienist (ACGIH) Bioaerosol Guidelines
- Laboratory facility used for sample analysis is EMLAP and IHLAP certified by the American Industrial Hygiene Association
Pricing Information
Package prices start as low as $399. A number of preferred pricing options are also available to our clients based on the number of suites or buildings tested and the frequency of services required. A written proposal will be provided to best address the needs of each individual client organization. Contact us today for more information!
Air Matters has performed mold inspection and testing services in the Raleigh NC area since 2002. The owner, Renee Ward, has over 22 years of safety and environmental experience and holds both her Bachelor of Science and Masters degrees in engineering. Renee is also a member of the American Industrial Hygiene Association and the American Indoor Air Quality Council. Contact Air Matters at (919) 870-6748.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
US Surgeon General and Federal Government on Mold and Healthy Homes
The U.S. Surgeon General's Office, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and other federal agencies are coming together to try and help raise awareness on the health effects of poor indoor air quality within the home.
In conjunction with this, acting Surgeon General Steven K. Galson recently released a report titled "The Surgeon General's Call to Action to Promote Healthy Homes". Galson told the media that the purpose of the report was to promote discussions about the importance of healthy homes.
He stated that "We can prevent many diseases and injuries that result from health hazards in the home by following the simple steps outlined in this Call to Action."
The report addresses many indoor contaminants, including mold. It includes many suggestions to improve the air quality in your home such as prohibiting smoking and eliminating exposure to second hand smoke, installing carbon monoxide and radon detection devices, and controlling moisture and water intrusion to reduce the potential for mold growth.
The full text of the report can be read on the Surgeon General's information website at: http://www.surgeongeneral.gov/topics/healthyhomes/calltoactiontopromotehealthyhomes.pdf
Air Matters has performed mold inspection and testing services in the Raleigh NC area since 2002. The owner, Renee Ward, has over 22 years of safety and environmental experience and holds both her Bachelor of Science and Masters degrees in engineering. Renee is also a member of the American Industrial Hygiene Association and the American Indoor Air Quality Council. Contact Air Matters at (919) 870-6748.
In conjunction with this, acting Surgeon General Steven K. Galson recently released a report titled "The Surgeon General's Call to Action to Promote Healthy Homes". Galson told the media that the purpose of the report was to promote discussions about the importance of healthy homes.
He stated that "We can prevent many diseases and injuries that result from health hazards in the home by following the simple steps outlined in this Call to Action."
The report addresses many indoor contaminants, including mold. It includes many suggestions to improve the air quality in your home such as prohibiting smoking and eliminating exposure to second hand smoke, installing carbon monoxide and radon detection devices, and controlling moisture and water intrusion to reduce the potential for mold growth.
The full text of the report can be read on the Surgeon General's information website at: http://www.surgeongeneral.gov/topics/healthyhomes/calltoactiontopromotehealthyhomes.pdf
Air Matters has performed mold inspection and testing services in the Raleigh NC area since 2002. The owner, Renee Ward, has over 22 years of safety and environmental experience and holds both her Bachelor of Science and Masters degrees in engineering. Renee is also a member of the American Industrial Hygiene Association and the American Indoor Air Quality Council. Contact Air Matters at (919) 870-6748.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Should You Have the Air Ducts in Your Home Cleaned?
Summer in North Carolina means two things: heat and humidity. Maybe the air conditioner in your home has not been able to keep up, so you call your regular HVAC servicing company. One of the things they might suggest is having your duct work cleaned to remove dust and mold spores and improve the air flow into your home. Is this really necessary?
Despite the claims of many companies that perform duct cleaning, it has never been proven to have any substantial health benefits. Addressing the other pollutants in your home such as cooking, cleaning products, smoking, or pets can often have a more immediate impact on the air quality inside your home.
What if the service provider tells you that your ductwork or your HVAC system is contaminated with mold?
Always ask to see it. Many areas within the HVAC system or ducts are not easily accessible. Even if you see a substance that you suspect is mold, remember that positively identifying mold requires testing and laboratory analysis. Mold on hard non-porous surfaces (such as sheet metal) can be cleaned, while contaminated insulation or other such materials will need to be replaced.
However, there are times when duct cleaning may be beneficial. You should consider having your air ducts professionally cleaned if:
If you determine that having the air ducts in your home cleaned is necessary, here are some tips from the Environmental Protection Agency on selecting a service provider :
Finally, remember that the best way to avoid needing to have the air ducts in your home cleaned is to prevent dirt and water from entering your heating and cooling system.
Air Matters has performed mold inspection and testing services in the Raleigh NC area since 2002. The owner, Renee Ward, has over 22 years of safety and environmental experience and holds both her Bachelor of Science and Masters degrees in engineering. Renee is also a member of the American Industrial Hygiene Association and the American Indoor Air Quality Council. Contact Air Matters at (919) 870-6748.
Despite the claims of many companies that perform duct cleaning, it has never been proven to have any substantial health benefits. Addressing the other pollutants in your home such as cooking, cleaning products, smoking, or pets can often have a more immediate impact on the air quality inside your home.
What if the service provider tells you that your ductwork or your HVAC system is contaminated with mold?
Always ask to see it. Many areas within the HVAC system or ducts are not easily accessible. Even if you see a substance that you suspect is mold, remember that positively identifying mold requires testing and laboratory analysis. Mold on hard non-porous surfaces (such as sheet metal) can be cleaned, while contaminated insulation or other such materials will need to be replaced.
However, there are times when duct cleaning may be beneficial. You should consider having your air ducts professionally cleaned if:
- you can see large accumulations of suspected (or confirmed) mold growth
- there is an infestation of rodents or insects evident inside the ductwork
- visible discharge is emitted from your air supply vents when the system is running
If you determine that having the air ducts in your home cleaned is necessary, here are some tips from the Environmental Protection Agency on selecting a service provider :
- Do not hire duct cleaners who make sweeping claims about the health benefits of duct cleaning -- such claims are unsubstantiated. Do not hire duct cleaners who recommend duct cleaning as a routine part of your heating and cooling system maintenance. You should also be wary of duct cleaners who claim to be certified by EPA. EPA neither establishes duct cleaning standards nor certifies, endorses, or approves duct cleaning companies.
- Do not allow the use of chemical biocides or chemical treatments unless you fully understand the pros and the cons of the products being used.
- Check references to be sure other customers were satisfied and did not experience any problems with their heating and cooling system after cleaning.
- Contact your county or city office of consumer affairs or local Better Business Bureau to determine if complaints have been lodged against any of the companies you are considering.
- Interview potential service providers to ensurethat they are experienced in duct cleaning and have worked on systems like yours; they will use procedures to protect you, your pets, and your home from contamination; and they comply with the National Air Duct Cleaning Association's air duct cleaning standards.
- Ask the service provider whether they hold any relevant state licenses. The following states require air duct cleaners to hold special licenses: Arizona, Arkansas, California, Florida, Georgia, Michigan and Texas. Other states may soon require them as well.
- If the service provider charges by the hour, request an estimate of the number of hours or days the job will take, and find out whether there will be interruptions in the work. Make sure the duct cleaner you choose will provide a written agreement outlining the total cost and scope of the job before work begins.
Finally, remember that the best way to avoid needing to have the air ducts in your home cleaned is to prevent dirt and water from entering your heating and cooling system.
Air Matters has performed mold inspection and testing services in the Raleigh NC area since 2002. The owner, Renee Ward, has over 22 years of safety and environmental experience and holds both her Bachelor of Science and Masters degrees in engineering. Renee is also a member of the American Industrial Hygiene Association and the American Indoor Air Quality Council. Contact Air Matters at (919) 870-6748.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
What You Should Know About Common Sources of Indoor Moisture
The key to controlling mold growth inside the home is to eliminate or control common sources of indoor moisture. Mold cannot grow without the proper level of moisture. Suggested ways to control common sources of indoor moisture include:
General
- Clean up all water or liquid spills immediately- Use air conditioning to lower indoor humidity levels
- Operate ceiling fans to increase ventilation and airflow
- Keep gutters clean, in good repair, and directed away from the foundation
- Ensure flashing is properly installed around doors and windows
- Replace damaged or rotting siding, window frames, or door frames
Laundry Room
- Vent the clothes dryer to the outside
- Install an overflow pan under the washing machine
- Inspect washing machine hoses and fittings periodically
Kitchen
- Exhaust moisture from cooking or dishwashing to the outside
- Ensure there are no leaks in faucets, sprayers, etc.
- Inspect dishwasher, icemaker, or other hidden water lines periodically
Bathrooms
- Exhaust moisture from bathing and showering to the outside
- Use shower curtains or doors to minimize water on the floors or walls
- Install an overflow pan under the tub or shower drain area
- Ensure caulking and grout is sealed and maintained in good condition
Air Matters has performed mold inspection and testing services in the Raleigh NC area since 2002. The owner, Renee Ward, has over 22 years of safety and environmental experience and holds both her Bachelor of Science and Masters degrees in engineering. Renee is also a member of the American Industrial Hygiene Association and the American Indoor Air Quality Council. Contact Air Matters at (919) 870-6748.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
What You Should Know About Mold
What is mold?
Molds (and mildew) are forms of fungi that are found everywhere – inside and outside. Fungi are necessary for recycling organic material, which is required to sustain plant and animal life. There are more than 100,000 types of mold. These species can be any color, including white, orange, green, brown or black. The most common indoor molds are Cladosporium, Penicillium, Aspergillus, and Alternaria. Fewer than 200 species of molds have been classified as human pathogens that can cause infections.
How does mold get inside my house?
Many molds grow naturally in the indoor environment. Mold spores may enter your house through open doorways, windows, or HVAC systems. Spores may attach themselves to family members, pets, clothing, shoes, or bags and be brought indoors.
How does mold grow?
Mold reproduces by releasing tiny spores. These spores settle on surrounding surfaces, and begin to grow in favorable conditions. Growth requires three things: moisture, an organic food source (examples include carpet, sheetrock, wallpaper, paint, upholstery, wood, leather, or even dust) and a suitable temperature between 40-100 degrees Fahrenheit. It is important to note that mold does not need light to grow. When one of the three conditions becomes unsatisfactory, the mold becomes dormant. It can resume activity when the conditions are restored to favorable.
What is the “killer mold” or “black mold” I have heard about?
Sensationalized media reports refer to a specific type of mold called Stachybotrys that has been nicknamed the “killer mold” or “black mold”. It is less common than other mold species. There are only a few molds that are truly black, although many can appear black. Not all mold that appears to be black is Stachybotrys. This specific type of mold grows on cellulose materials, such as paper, cardboard, sheetrock, or framing. It requires a very high, constant moisture level to grow, which usually occurs after something has been wet for several weeks. Stachybotrys can release potentially toxic substances called mycotoxins, which cling to the mold spores. The health effects of these toxins are unproven and are currently being studied.
Molds (and mildew) are forms of fungi that are found everywhere – inside and outside. Fungi are necessary for recycling organic material, which is required to sustain plant and animal life. There are more than 100,000 types of mold. These species can be any color, including white, orange, green, brown or black. The most common indoor molds are Cladosporium, Penicillium, Aspergillus, and Alternaria. Fewer than 200 species of molds have been classified as human pathogens that can cause infections.
How does mold get inside my house?
Many molds grow naturally in the indoor environment. Mold spores may enter your house through open doorways, windows, or HVAC systems. Spores may attach themselves to family members, pets, clothing, shoes, or bags and be brought indoors.
How does mold grow?
Mold reproduces by releasing tiny spores. These spores settle on surrounding surfaces, and begin to grow in favorable conditions. Growth requires three things: moisture, an organic food source (examples include carpet, sheetrock, wallpaper, paint, upholstery, wood, leather, or even dust) and a suitable temperature between 40-100 degrees Fahrenheit. It is important to note that mold does not need light to grow. When one of the three conditions becomes unsatisfactory, the mold becomes dormant. It can resume activity when the conditions are restored to favorable.
What is the “killer mold” or “black mold” I have heard about?
Sensationalized media reports refer to a specific type of mold called Stachybotrys that has been nicknamed the “killer mold” or “black mold”. It is less common than other mold species. There are only a few molds that are truly black, although many can appear black. Not all mold that appears to be black is Stachybotrys. This specific type of mold grows on cellulose materials, such as paper, cardboard, sheetrock, or framing. It requires a very high, constant moisture level to grow, which usually occurs after something has been wet for several weeks. Stachybotrys can release potentially toxic substances called mycotoxins, which cling to the mold spores. The health effects of these toxins are unproven and are currently being studied.
How do I know if I have mold?
In many cases, visible mold growth will allow you to confirm the presence of mold in your home. Mold may also be hidden on the backside of sheetrock or wallpaper, the underside of carpet and padding, inside ductwork, or around pipes. Musty, moldy odors may also be an indication of hidden mold. Investigating hidden mold usually requires disturbing the mold growth site. This can lead to a massive release of mold spores, so you should consider hiring a professional if you suspect you might have hidden mold.
How do I get rid of mold?
Beware of companies who claim they can totally eliminate mold from your home. More than 1,000 different kinds of indoor molds have been found in US homes, and it is impossible to get rid of all the mold in your home. The concern is around the growth of mold spores, and they will not be able to grow and create problems unless moisture is present. The key to controlling indoor mold growth is to control moisture.
What are some examples of ways I can control moisture?
Act quickly to correct water leaks or spills. In most cases, it takes 24-48 hours before mold begins to grow.
Vent your clothes dryer to the outside.
Use exhaust fans when showering, cooking, running the dishwasher, etc.
Increase air movement with fans.
Use air conditioners during humid weather.
Install proper exterior wall insulation.
Make sure the ground slopes away from the foundation of your house.
Clean and repair your roof gutters regularly.
Keep air conditioning drip pans clean and drain lines unobstructed.
Does mold make you sick?
Molds do have the potential to cause health problems, although most people have no reaction to molds. Molds can produce allergens, irritants, and in some cases potentially toxic substances called mycotoxins. Allergic reactions to mold are most common. Common symptoms may include sneezing, runny nose, wheezing, red eyes, or mild skin irritation. Like other types of allergies, different people will react differently to the same mold exposure. Certain groups of people who may be bothered more include infants or small children, elderly people, pregnant women, individuals with respiratory conditions or allergies and asthma, and people with weakened immune systems. Since the health effects of mold remain largely unproven, steps should be taken to remove mold and control any sources of moisture.
Air Matters has performed mold inspection and testing services in the Raleigh NC area since 2002. The owner, Renee Ward, has over 22 years of safety and environmental experience and holds both her Bachelor of Science and Masters degrees in engineering. Renee is also a member of the American Industrial Hygiene Association and the American Indoor Air Quality Council. Contact Air Matters at (919) 870-6748.
Gutter Problems Contribute to Mold Issues
In the May 11th article from Consumer Reports titled Home Repairs not to Ignore, there are several points regarding moisture and how it can lead to expensive problems with mold growth. "If there are 10 things that can go wrong with a house, 15 of them have to do with water, says Bill Loden, a Madison, Ala., home inspector." The article goes on to provide several useful tips for homeowners including:
Air Matters often sees gutter and landscaping issues such as these contributing to excess moisture in the crawlspace or basement of a home. Remember that in order to control the mold, you have to eliminate the moisture.
Air Matters has performed mold inspection and testing services in the Raleigh NC area since 2002. The owner, Renee Ward, has over 22 years of safety and environmental experience and holds both her Bachelor of Science and Masters degrees in engineering. Renee is also a member of the American Industrial Hygiene Association and the American Indoor Air Quality Council. Contact Air Matters at (919) 870-6748.
- Gutters, downspouts, and leader pipes collect rainwater and channel it away from the house. In very wet regions, leaders should extend at least 5 feet from the house.
- Check the entire gutter system seasonally for proper pitch and for clogs, corrosion, broken fasteners, and separation between connections and where gutters meet the fascia board.
- When inspecting gutters, extend straight ladders 3 feet beyond the roof at a 75 degree angle to the ground.
- The soil around the foundation should slope away from the house at least 1 inch per foot for 6 feet or more.
- If you have planting beds along the foundation, make sure the grading of the bed, its edging, or the edge of the lawn isn't keeping water from draining away from the house.
Air Matters often sees gutter and landscaping issues such as these contributing to excess moisture in the crawlspace or basement of a home. Remember that in order to control the mold, you have to eliminate the moisture.
Air Matters has performed mold inspection and testing services in the Raleigh NC area since 2002. The owner, Renee Ward, has over 22 years of safety and environmental experience and holds both her Bachelor of Science and Masters degrees in engineering. Renee is also a member of the American Industrial Hygiene Association and the American Indoor Air Quality Council. Contact Air Matters at (919) 870-6748.
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