Are You Suffering from Sick Building Syndrome?

"Sick Building Syndrome" is a term that is used to describe when somebody experiences health or personal comfort effects that seem to be linked to the amount of time spent in a particular building, but they are unable to positively identify a specific cause or health condition responsible for these effects.

These effects may only be felt when in one particular room or area of a building, or they may be experienced throughout the facility. Also, they may be limited to one individual or can affect a large number of building occupants.

The complaints differ and can include many symptoms such as headaches; dry, itching, red or watery eyes; sensitivity to odors; coughing; dry or itchy patches or skin including rashes; dizziness; nausea; or fatigue.

Two things that do seem to be consistent with Sick Building Syndrome are the fact that an immediate cause of the symptoms is not known and that people who are suffering report a relief from these symptoms once they are away from the building.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the following factors are often responsible for causing or contributing to complaints of Sick Building Syndrome:

1. Biological Contaminants
This includes mold, mildew, bacteria, pollens, and insect or bird droppings. These contaminants may breed in stagnant water that has collected around building leaks or in ducts, drain pans, or humidifiers.

2. Indoor Chemical Contaminants
Adhesives, carpeting, upholstery (including fabric cubicle walls), manufactured wood products (particularly press board), copy machines, pesticides, cigarette smoke, and cleaning products may all emit volatile organic compounds (VOC's), including formaldehyde.

3. Outdoor Chemical Contaminants
The outdoor air that enters a building, particularly through poorly positioned air intake vents, doors or windows can also be a source of chemical pollution. Common contaminants may include motor vehicle exhausts, plumbing vents, kitchen fumes, or bathroom exhausts.

4. Inadequate Ventilation
Energy conservation measures and construction methods have resulted in buildings today being more tightly sealed than ever before. As a result, there has been a decrease in the outdoor air exchange. Inadequate ventilation may also occur when the HVAC system is not properly sized, balanced or maintained for the square footage and type of occupancy intended and is unable to effectively distribute conditioned air to the occupants of the building.

A professional indoor air quality investigation is one tool to help identify potential risk factors that may be contributing to symptoms of Sick Building Syndrome.

For more information on Sick Building Syndrome, check out this document available from the EPA: www.epa.gov/iaq/pubs/sbs.html.

Air Matters LLC has performed mold testing services in the Raleigh NC area since 2002. The owner, Renee D. Ward, has over 22 years of safety and environmental experience and holds both her Bachelors and Masters degrees in engineering. Renee is also a member of the American Industrial Hygiene Association and the American Indoor Air Quality Council. You may contact Air Matters at (919) 961-2221 or info@AirMattersMoldTesting.com.

Resolve to Improve Your Indoor Air Quality in 2010!

So, we are a little half way through January. How are those New Year's resolutions going? Eating right, exercising more, getting enough sleep every night. . . you know these things are good for you. That doesn't make them easy. Breathing -- now that's easy. But what about monitoring what you are breathing into your body each day? That's a little tougher!

The toxins that you breathe in every day (air quality) often go unnoticed simply because they are invisible. Things that are invisible (unlike smoking cigarettes, really bad for you foods, and toxic friends) are easy to overlook. The Kingston Whig Standard offers these tips for improving your personal air quality today:

1. Quit smoking. Cigarette smoke contains known carcinogens (cancer-causing agents) and a host of chemicals. If you can't quit just yet, be sure to smoke outdoors. (NOTE: In North Carolina restaurants and bars, you have no choice but to smoke outdoors. Yeah!!)

2.Change furnace filters monthly. Reduce the dust and allergens in the air by changing your furnace or air conditioning system filters on a monthly basis. Also vacuum intake vents. You can consider having ductwork cleaned by a professional service, too. (NOTE: Air Matters LLC recommends you review the following document published by the Environmental Protection Agency prior to having your ducts cleaned. http://www.epa.gov/iaq/pubs/airduct.html)

3. Fill the house with plants. Plants naturally filter the air and give off fresh oxygen. Plus, they're nice to look at!

4. Avoid pressboard furniture. Many composite wood products contain formaldehyde and other chemicals. These can sneak into the air over time.

5. Use all-natural cleaners. Chemical-laden cleaners don't simply smell strongly, they can actually be very harmful if breathed in. Also, never mix cleaning products (such as bleach and ammonia). It can produce a toxic gas. Lemon juice, vinegar, baking soda, and other all-natural items can be used as very effective cleaners.

6. Vacuum carpets regularly. Carpets and fabrics can harbor dust and other allergens. Some newer carpets are created to reduce allergens, but most carpets should be cleaned two to three times a week, primarily in high-traffic areas and in homes with pets. (NOTE: Air Matters LLC recommends that you invest in a HEPA-vacuum.)

7. Eliminate leaks. Drippy faucets or a damp basement can lead to the growth of mold and mildew. While many types of these fungi are harmless, there are some that are very harmful if breathed in. If you have a mold or mildew problem, call in a professional for a threat assessment and advice on proper cleaning. (NOTE: If you want to confirm the presence and identity of fungal species, that would be Air Matters LLC. . .)

8. Test for hidden dangers. Radon, carbon monoxide, and asbestos could be lurking in your home. Testing eliminates threats and can safeguard your family.

9. Call in a cleaning crew. Regular cleaning can limit the amount of particles floating around in the air. Keeping the house spic-and-span is a way to clean the air as well. Having a regular cleaning service come in can be a way to fit a thorough cleaning into your busy schedule.

10. Dial down the humidity. Run the exhaust fans in bathrooms and invest in a dehumidifier. Mold and mildew, as well as dust mites, thrive in moist conditions.

11. Launder sheets and pillowcases every 10 days. Buy machine- washable pillows and bed linens.

12. Kick out pests. Allergens from roaches are a major cause of asthma, and airborne protein from dried rodent urine is a potent allergen.

13. Air it out. On low-particulate days, throw open the windows and let the fresh air in.

14. Check the venting. All appliances should be properly vented. Make sure vents are free of obstructions. Appliances should be serviced according to the manufacturer's maintenance schedule to avoid combustion byproduct buildup and reduce dust and particulate accumulation.

Resolve to improve the indoor air quality in your home, and you can breathe easier in 2010!


Air Matters LLC has performed mold inspections 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 Bachelors 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.

Check for Mold Before Buying Foreclosures

The American economy is still reeling from the recession, and the housing market remains one of the hardest hit areas. As foreclosures continue to mount, many of those who do have cash to spare are looking to invest in bargain real estate.

However, bargain hunters need to beware of potential unseen problems that could quickly drain their profits -- including hidden mold. Home owners who were foreclosed upon likely did not have the money to perform routine repairs and maintenance, which may have grown into larger problems. In addition, foreclosed properties may have been vacant for some time and many issues may have gone unnoticed.

RIS Media, a well-known source for news and information in the real estate industry, offers these 10 trouble spots to consider when purchasing a foreclosed home:

These 10 Signs May Indicate That Trouble is Around the Corner

1. Unheated house in winter months. If the home has been properly winterized, there's no need for heat. But if the home has not been properly winterized, pipes will burst and cause water damage.

2. Missing sinks, toilets and other fixtures. Make sure they've been properly removed and not ripped from walls and floors.

3. Peeling, bubbling, and discolored paint; swelling in walls or ceilings (especially around kitchens and bathrooms) or a musty odor all indicate water damage and, potentially the presence of moisture and mold.

4. Fungus growth inside cabinets, behind drawers and built-ins. Fungus could mean that there has been water damage. Since water falls down, look for a source above the mold.

5. Blocked drains or pipes will cause future problems and may have already created sewage backups.

6. Black cobwebs, greasy gray residue on walls and/or a strong oily odor. This could point to potential soot damage or a malfunctioning furnace.

7. An older home with extensive renovations. Check with the city for pulled permits in order to get remodeling details. If asbestos is present and has been disturbed, be sure it's been remediated by a certified specialist.

8. Excessive painting of every nook, cranny, door and floor may mean that the seller is covering up mold.

9. Discolored sub flooring. From the basement, check the sub flooring above for stains and small holes, both caused by mold.

10. Air Quality. The air quality within a home tells a lot about the home's condition. Be sure to include air an surface testing in your home inspection. It's a few hundred dollars well spent!


Air Matters LLC has performed mold inspections 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 Bachelors 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.

Mold and Allergens During the Holiday Season

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.

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 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.

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.