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    Black Mold Removal Guide – Best Air Purifier for Mold and Mildew - October 1, 2017 by Mr HomeBuilder

    Blueair Classic 405

    Another name that can be trusted when it comes to choosing the best air purifier for removing mold and mildew is the Blueair Classic 450 air purifier. This is a mid-level air purifier that offers excellent air purification results. This is a well-designed machine properly engineered to do exactly as per the requirements of its users. ionization in this filter is excellent and effective at the same time. It eliminates pollutants efficiently provided it is used in the proper manner. it is a seamless air purifier offering excellent performance in cleaning the air in medium-sized areas. This air purifier does not make much noise even on its highest setting. it can be controlled using Blueairs very own mobile application called Blueair Friend. The purifier also offers Wi-Fi connectivity making it very easy for the users to use it in the most convenient manner.

    Austin Air HealthMate

    Austin Air HealthMate is the leader in home air purification offering superior quality air purification. The air purifiers available from Austin are great at outperforming their competitors in the market. therefore, it would not be a wrong choice to go for Austin Air HealthMate. This air purifier has been engineered to great perfection and can be used in a very simple manner. the purifier makes use of medium particulate filter, pre-filter, zeolite filter, medical grade HEPA filter and carbon filter for ensuring maximum air filtration.

    Conclusion

    It is always very essential to make use of high quality air purifiers for removing mold and mildew. Air purifiers specifically engineered to work 24/7 are the best air purifiers for this purpose. Read more atblackmoldremovalguide.com

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    Black Mold Removal Guide - Best Air Purifier for Mold and Mildew

    Mold Remediation Companies – Thumbtack – Consider it done - October 1, 2017 by Mr HomeBuilder

    We are here to help you with all your project needs. Urso Remodeling, Inc. has been serving Maryland since 1971. Our focus is to provide superior customer service and high-quality craftsmanship to all our clients. We want you as our customer for life! It is a simple philosophy that has made us very popular with all our clients. We have maintained that small-company feel and strong customer service that is missing from most companies today. Almost all our work is aquired by referrals from previous customers. That tells you a lot about a company. Also, all projects come with a five-year workmanship labor warranty and a manufacturer's warranty, where applicable, to give you real peace of mind. Give us a try. You'll be very satisfied, and possibly become our customer for life! We always offer free estimates, and we give discounts to our seniors, military, fire and law enforcement personnel and return loyalty customers. Our services offered include the following:* Additions and Sunrooms* Fire, Water, and Storm Damage Repairs* Basement Finishing* Porch and Deck Roofs* Garage and Sheds* Wood and Composite Decks* Screen Rooms* Kitchen and Bathroom Renovations* Concrete Sidewalks* Interior Doors and Lock Sets* Bi-Fold and Sliding Doors* Custom Closets* Built-In Cabinets and Shelves* Ceramic Tile Walls and Flooring* Laminate Wood Flooring* Vinyl Floor Tile* Interior and Exterior Painting* Roof Repairs* Shingle and Flat Roof Replacement* Roof Shingle Mold and Stain Removal* Steps and Driveways* Vinyl Replacement Windows and Patio Doors* Wood and Metal Entry Doors* Vinyl Siding* Aluminum Wood Coverage* Vinyl Soffit Overhangs* Seamless Aluminum Gutters and Much MoreWe do kitchens, bathrooms, finished basements, windows, doors, drywall additions, painting, tiling, flooring, carpeting, roofing, concrete work, siding, gutters, power washing, solar electric panels, and more!Visit our website for current promotions. Please contact us today.

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    Mold Remediation Companies - Thumbtack - Consider it done

    Mold Remediation and Removal Costs | HGTV - September 27, 2017 by Mr HomeBuilder

    If mold removal were as simple as Kung Fu fighting, then there's no doubt about it, you would have it nailed. But, unfortunately, cost is a large factor when considering mold remediation and the size of your bill often depends on the extent of the infestation.

    The good news is that if the area is small, then you can typically treat it for a small investment in some solid cleaning supplies, like a scrub brush, store-bought mold killer and rubber gloves.

    However, for large areas, you may be calling in a the bug guys. The remediation cost will be larger, but it's worth it to ensure further damage is not done to your home. Mold remediation specialist will inspect ductwork, attic spaces, walls and even crawlspaces. The cost can average anywhere from $500 to $6,000 and is hard to identify until the entire scope of the infestation is considered.

    A great thing to consider when purchasing the insurance that comes along with buying a home is some type of protection from mold. Discuss your options with an agent. That way, if a problem should arise within your home, then your insurance will help to at least partially offset the cost of mold removal.

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    Mold Remediation and Removal Costs | HGTV

    Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings Guide - August 13, 2017 by Mr HomeBuilder

    Introduction

    Concern about indoor exposure to mold has been increasing as the public becomes aware that exposure to mold can cause a variety of health effects and symptoms, including allergic reactions. This document presents guidelines for the remediation/cleanup of mold and moisture problems in schools and commercial buildings; these guidelines include measures designed to protect the health of building occupants and remediators. It has been designed primarily for:

    It should serve as a reference for potential mold and moisture remediators. Using this document, individuals with little or no experience with mold remediation should be able to make a reasonable judgment as to whether the situation can be handled in-house. It will help those in charge of maintenance to evaluate an in-house remediation plan or a remediation plan submitted by an outside contractor1. Contractors and other professionals who respond to mold and moisture situations in commercial buildings and schools may also want to refer to these guidelines.

    Molds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any organic substance, as long as moisture and oxygen are present. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, foods, and insulation. When excessive moisture accumulates in buildings or on building materials, mold growth will often occur, particularly if the moisture problem remains undiscovered or unaddressed. It is impossible to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment. However, mold growth can be controlled indoors by controlling moisture indoors.

    Photo 2: Extensive mold contamination of ceiling and walls.

    Molds reproduce by making spores that usually cannot be seen without magnification. Mold spores waft through the indoor and outdoor air continually. When mold spores land on a damp spot indoors, they may begin growing and digesting whatever they are growing on in order to survive. Molds gradually destroy the things they grow on.

    Many types of molds exist. All molds have the potential to cause health effects. Molds can produce allergens that can trigger allergic reactions or even asthma attacks in people allergic to mold. Others are known to produce potent toxins and/or irritants. Potential health concerns are an important reason to prevent mold growth and to remediate/clean up any existing indoor mold growth.

    Since mold requires water to grow, it is important to prevent moisture problems in buildings. Moisture problems can have many causes, including uncontrolled humidity. Some moisture problems in buildings have been linked to changes in building construction practices during the 1970s, 80s and 90s. Some of these changes have resulted in buildings that are tightly sealed, but may lack adequate ventilation, potentially leading to moisture buildup. Building materials, such as drywall, may not allow moisture to escape easily. Moisture problems may include:

    Moisture problems in portable classrooms and other temporary structures have frequently been associated with mold problems. For more information see IAQ Design Tools for Schools - Portable Classrooms.

    When mold growth occurs in buildings, adverse health problems may be reported by some building occupants, particularly those with allergies or respiratory problems. Remediators should avoid exposing themselves and others to mold-laden dusts as they conduct their cleanup activities. Caution should be used to prevent mold and mold spores from being dispersed throughout the air where they can be inhaled by building occupants.

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    Footnotes:

    1: If you choose to use outside contractors or professionals, make sure they have experience cleaning up mold, check their references and have them follow the recommendations presented in this document, the guidelines of the American Conference of Government Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) and/or guidelines from other professional organizations. See

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    The key to mold control is moisture control. Solve moisture problems before they become mold problems!

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    Photo 3A: Mold growing in closet as a result of condensation from room air.

    Photo 3B: Front side of wall-board looks fine, but the back side is covered with mold.

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    Assess the size of the mold and/or moisture problem and the type of damaged materials before planning the remediation work. Select a remediation manager for medium or large jobs (or small jobs requiring more than one person). The remediation plan should include steps to fix the water or moisture problem, or the problem may reoccur. The plan should cover the use of appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and include steps to carefully contain and remove moldy building materials to avoid spreading the mold.(2) A remediation plan may vary greatly depending on the size and complexity of the job, and may require revision if circumstances change or new facts are discovered.

    The remediation manager's highest priority must be to protect the health and safety of the building occupants and remediators. It is also important to communicate with building occupants when mold problems are identified.(3) In some cases, especially those involving large areas of contamination, the remediation plan may include temporary relocation of some or all of the building occupants.

    The decision to relocate occupants should consider:

    If possible, remediation activities should be scheduled during off-hours when building occupants are less likely to be affected.

    Remediators, particularly those with health-related concerns, may wish to check with their doctors or health care professionals before working on mold remediation or investigating potentially moldy areas. If you have any doubts or questions, you should consult a health professional before beginning a remediation project.

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    Do not run the HVAC system if you know or suspect that it is contaminated with mold. If you suspect that it may be contaminated (it is part of an identified moisture problem, for instance, or there is mold growth near the intake to the system), consult,

    Photo 4A: Contaminated fibrous insulation inside air handler cover.

    Photo 4B: Mold growth on air diffuser in ceiling.

    Photo 4C: Moldy air duct.

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    Photo 5: Mold growth behind wallpaper.

    In some cases, indoor mold growth may not be obvious. It is possible that mold may be growing on hidden surfaces, such as:

    Possible locations of hidden mold can include:

    Some building materials, such as dry wall with vinyl wallpaper over it or wood paneling, may act as vapor barriers, (5) trapping moisture underneath their surfaces and thereby providing a moist environment where mold can grow. You may suspect hidden mold if a building smells moldy, but you cannot see the source, or if you know there has been water damage and building occupants are reporting health problems. Investigating hidden mold problems may be difficult and will require caution when the investigation involves disturbing potential sites of mold growthmake sure to use personal protective equipment (PPE). For example, removal of wallpaper can lead to a massive release of spores from mold growing on the underside of the paper. If you believe that you may have a hidden mold problem, you may want to consider hiring an experienced professional. If you discover hidden mold, you should revise your remediation plan to account for the total area affected by mold growth.

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    Table 1 presents strategies to respond to water damage within 24-48 hours. These guidelines are designed to help avoid the need for remediation of mold growth by taking quick action before growth starts. If mold growth is found on the materials listed in Table 1, refer to Table 2 for guidance on remediation. Depending on the size of the area involved and resources available, professional assistance may be needed to dry an area quickly and thoroughly. See:

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    Table 2 presents remediation guidelines for building materials that have or are likely to have mold growth. The guidelines in Table 2 are designed to protect the health of occupants and cleanup personnel during remediation. These guidelines are based on the area and type of material affected by water damage and/or mold growth. Please note that these are guidelines; some professionals may prefer other cleaning methods. See

    If you are considering cleaning your ducts as part of your remediation plan, you should consult EPA's publication entitled, "Should You Have the Air Ducts In Your Home Cleaned?" (8). If possible, remediation activities should be scheduled during off-hours when building occupants are less likely to be affected. See:

    Although the level of personal protection suggested in these guidelines is based on the total surface area contaminated and the potential for remediator and/or occupant exposure, professional judgment should always play a part in remediation decisions. These remediation guidelines are based on the size of the affected area to make it easier for remediators to select appropriate techniques, not on the basis of health effects or research showing there is a specific method appropriate at a certain number of square feet. The guidelines have been designed to help construct a remediation plan. The remediation manager will then use professional judgment and experience to adapt the guidelines to particular situations. When in doubt, caution is advised. Consult an experienced mold remediator for more information.

    A more cautious or conservative approach to remediation is indicated in cases in which:

    Always make sure to protect remediators and building occupants from exposure to mold.

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    Photo 6: Heavy mold growth on underside of spruce floorboards.

    Mold can eventually cause structural damage to a school or large building, if a mold/moisture problem remains unaddressed for a long time. In the case of a long-term roof leak, for example, molds can weaken floors and walls as the molds feed on wet wood. If you suspect that mold has damaged building integrity, you should consult a structural engineer or other professional with expertise in this area.

    A variety of mold cleanup methods are available for remediating damage to building materials and furnishings caused by moisture control problems and mold growth. The specific method or group of methods used will depend on the type of material affected, as presented in Table 2. Please note that professional remediators may use some methods not covered in these guidelines; absence of a method in the guidelines does not necessarily mean that it is not useful. (9). See

    Wet vacuums are vacuum cleaners designed to collect water. They can be used to remove water from floors, carpets and hard surfaces where water has accumulated. They should not be used to vacuum porous materials, such as gypsum board. They should be used only when materials are still wet wet vacuums may spread spores if sufficient liquid is not present. The tanks, hoses and attachments of these vacuums should be thoroughly cleaned and dried after use since mold and mold spores may stick to the surfaces.

    Whether dead or alive, mold is allergenic, and some molds may be toxic. Mold can generally be removed from nonporous (hard) surfaces by wiping or scrubbing with water, or water and detergent. It is important to dry these surfaces quickly and thoroughly to discourage further mold growth. Instructions for cleaning surfaces, as listed on product labels, should always be read and followed. Porous materials that are wet and have mold growing on them may have to be discarded. Since molds will infiltrate porous substances and grow on or fill in empty spaces or crevices, the mold can be difficult or impossible to remove completely.

    HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) vacuums are recommended for final cleanup of remediation areas after materials have been thoroughly dried and contaminated materials removed. HEPA vacuums are also recommended for cleanup of dust that may have settled on surfaces outside the remediation area. Care must be taken to assure that the filter is properly seated in the vacuum so that all the air must pass through the filter. When changing the vacuum filter, remediators should wear PPE to prevent exposure to the mold that has been captured. The filter and contents of the HEPA vacuum must be disposed of in well-sealed plastic bags.

    Building materials and furnishings that are contaminated with mold growth and are not salvageable should be double-bagged using 6-mil polyethylene sheeting. These materials can then usually be discarded as ordinary construction waste. It is important to package mold-contaminated materials in sealed bags before removal from the containment area to minimize the dispersion of mold spores throughout the building. Large items that have heavy mold growth should be covered with polyethylene sheeting and sealed with duct tape before they are removed from the containment area.

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    If the remediation job disturbs mold and mold spores become airborne, then the risk of respiratory exposure goes up. Actions that are likely to stir up mold include:

    The primary function of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is to avoid inhaling mold and mold spores and to avoid mold contact with the skin or eyes. The following sections discuss the different types of PPE that can be used during remediation activities. Please note that all individuals using certain PPE equipment, such as half-face or full-face respirators, must be trained, must have medical clearance and must be fit-tested by a trained professional. In addition, the use of respirators must follow a complete respiratory protection program as specified by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. For more information see .

    Photo 7: Remediation worker with limited PPE.

    Gloves are required to protect the skin from contact with mold allergens (and in some cases mold toxins) and from potentially irritating cleaning solutions. Long gloves that extend to the middle of the forearm are recommended. The glove material should be selected based on the type of materials being handled. If you are using a biocide (such as chlorine bleach) or a strong cleaning solution, you should select gloves made from:

    If you are using a mild detergent or plain water, ordinary household rubber gloves may be used. To protect your eyes, use properly fitted goggles or a full-face respirator with HEPA filter. Goggles must be designed to prevent the entry of dust and small particles. Safety glasses or goggles with open vent holes are not acceptable.

    Respirators protect cleanup workers from inhaling airborne mold, mold spores and dust.

    Disposable clothing is recommended during a medium or large remediation project to prevent the transfer and spread of mold to clothing and to eliminate skin contact with mold.

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    The purpose of containment during remediation activities is to limit release of mold into the air and surroundings, in order to minimize the exposure of remediators and building occupants to mold. Mold and moldy debris should not be allowed to spread to areas in the building beyond the contaminated site.

    The two types of containment recommended in Table 2 are limited and full. The larger the area of moldy material, the greater the possibility of human exposure and the greater the need for containment. In general, the size of the area helps determine the level of containment. However, a heavy growth of mold in a relatively small area could release more spores than a lighter growth of mold in a relatively large area. Choice of containment should be based on professional judgment.(10) The primary object of containment should be to prevent occupant and remediator exposure to mold. See

    Limited containment is generally recommended for areas involving between 10 and 100 square feet (ft2) of mold contamination. The enclosure around the moldy area should consist of a single layer of 6-mil, fire-retardant polyethylene sheeting. The containment should have a slit entry and covering flap on the outside of the containment area. For small areas, the polyethylene sheeting can be affixed to floors and ceilings with duct tape. For larger areas, a steel or wooden stud frame can be erected and polyethylene sheeting attached to it. To minimize the migration of contaminants to other parts of the building, certain places within the containment area must be sealed with polyethylene sheeting, including:

    Heavy mold growth on ceiling tiles may impact HVAC systems if the space above the ceiling is used as a return air plenum. In this case, containment should be installed from the floor to the ceiling deck, and the filters in the air handling units serving the affected area may have to be replaced once remediation is finished.

    The containment area must be maintained under negative pressure relative to surrounding areas. This will ensure that contaminated air does not flow into adjacent areas. This can be done with a HEPA-filtered fan unit exhausted outside of the building. For small, easily contained areas, an exhaust fan ducted to the outdoors can also be used. The surfaces of all objects removed from the containment area should be remediated/cleaned prior to removal. The remediation guidelines outlined in Table 2 can be implemented when the containment is completely sealed and is under negative pressure relative to the surrounding area. See

    Photo 8: Full containment on large job

    Full containment is recommended for the cleanup of mold-contaminated surface areas greater than 100 ft2 or in any situation in which it appears likely that the occupant space would be further contaminated without full containment. Double layers of polyethylene should be used to create a barrier between the moldy area and other parts of the building. A decontamination chamber or airlock should be constructed for entry into and exit from the remediation area. The entryways to the airlock from the outside and from the airlock to the main containment area should consist of a slit entry with covering flaps on the outside surface of each slit entry. The chamber should be large enough to hold a waste container and allow a person to put on and remove PPE. All contaminated PPE, except respirators, should be placed in a sealed bag while in this chamber. Respirators should be worn until remediators are outside the decontamination chamber. PPE must be worn throughout the final stages of HEPA vacuuming and damp-wiping of the contained area. PPE must also be worn during HEPA vacuum filter changes or cleanup of the HEPA vacuum.

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    Photo 9: Moisture meter measuring moisture content of plywood subfloor

    Moisture meters may be helpful for measuring the moisture content in a variety of building materials following water damage. They can also be used to monitor the process of drying damaged materials. These direct reading devices have a thin probe which can be inserted into the material to be tested or can be pressed directly against the surface of the material. Moisture meters can be used on materials such as carpet, wallboard, wood, brick and concrete.

    Humidity meters can be used to monitor humidity indoors. Inexpensive ($50) models are available that monitor both temperature and humidity.

    A humidistat is a control device that can be connected to the HVAC system and adjusted so that, if the humidity level rises above a set point, the HVAC system will automatically come on.

    Use high-quality filters in your HVAC system during remediation. Consult an engineer for the appropriate efficiency for your specific HVAC system and consider upgrading your filters if appropriate. Conventional HVAC filters are typically not effective in filtering particles the size of mold spores. Consider upgrading to a filter with a minimum efficiency of 50 to 60% or a rating of MERV 8, as determined by Test Standard 52.2 of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers. Remember to change filters regularly and change them following any remediation activities.

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    Is sampling for mold needed? In most cases, if visible mold growth is present, sampling is unnecessary. You may consider sampling as part of your site evaluation in specific instances, such as:

    Surface sampling may also be useful in order to determine if an area has been adequately cleaned or remediated. Sampling should be done only after developing a sampling plan that includes a confirmable theory regarding suspected mold sources and routes of exposure. Figure out what you think is happening and how to prove or disprove it before you sample.

    If you do not have extensive experience and/or are in doubt about sampling, consult an experienced professional. This individual can help you decide if sampling for mold is useful and/or needed, and will be able to carry out any necessary sampling. It is important to remember that the results of sampling may have limited use or application. Sampling may help locate the source of mold contamination, identify some of the mold species present and differentiate between mold and soot or dirt. Pre- and post-remediation sampling may also be useful in determining whether remediation efforts have been effective. After remediation, the types and concentrations of mold in indoor air samples should be similar to what is found in the local outdoor air. Since no EPA or other Federal threshold limits have been set for mold or mold spores, sampling cannot be used to check a building's compliance with Federal mold standards.

    Sampling for mold should be conducted by professionals with specific experience in designing mold sampling protocols, sampling methods and interpretation of results. Sample analysis should follow analytical methods recommended by the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA), the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH), or other professional guidelines (see Resources List). Types of samples include:

    A number of pitfalls may be encountered when inexperienced personnel conduct sampling:

    Budget constraints will often be a consideration when sampling; professional advice may be necessary to determine if it is possible to take sufficient samples to characterize a problem on a given budget. If it is not possible to sample properly, with a sufficient number of samples to answer the question(s) posed, it would be preferable not to sample. Inadequate sample plans may generate misleading, confusing and useless results.

    Keep in mind that air sampling for mold provides information only for the moment in time in which the sampling occurred, much like a snapshot. Air sampling will reveal, when properly done, what was in the air at the moment when the sample was taken. For someone without experience, sampling results will be difficult to interpret. Experience in interpretation of results is essential.

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    2. Molds are known allergens and may be toxic. You may wish to use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) while investigating a mold problem, as well as during remediation/clean-up situations. The minimum PPE includes an N-95 respirator, gloves, and eye protection.

    3.

    4. Although this document has a residential focus, it is applicable to other building types.

    5. Resources List has more information on vapor barriers and building construction. It is important that building materials be able to dry; moisture should not be trapped between two vapor barriers or mold may result. See

    6. Please note that Table 1 and Table 2 contain general guidelines. Their purpose is to provide basic information for remediation managers to first assess the extent of the damage and then to determine whether the remediation should be managed by in-house personnel or outside professionals. The remediation manager can then use the guidelines to help design a remediation plan or to assess a plan submitted by outside professionals. See:

    7. Please note that Table 1 and Table 2 contain general guidelines. Their purpose is to provide basic information for remediation managers to first assess the extent of the damage and then to determine whether the remediation should be managed by in-house personnel or outside professionals. The remediation manager can then use the guidelines to help design a remediation plan or to assess a plan submitted by outside professionals. See:

    8. Although this document has a residential focus, it is applicable to other building types.

    9. If you are unsure what to do, or if the item is expensive or of sentimental value, you may wish to consult a specialist. Specialists commonly listed in phone books include:

    Be sure to ask for and check references; look for affiliation with professional organizations.

    10. For example, a remediator may decide that a small area that is extensively contaminated and has the potential to distribute mold to occupied areas during cleanup should have full containment, whereas a large wall surface that is lightly contaminated and easily cleaned would require only limited containment.

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    Table 1 presents strategies to respond to water damage within 24-48 hours. These guidelines are designed to help avoid the need for remediation of mold growth by taking quick action before growth starts. If mold growth is found on the materials listed in Table 1, refer to for guidance on remediation. Depending on the size of the area involved and resources available, professional assistance may be needed to dry an area quickly and thoroughly.

    PDF Version of this Table

    * If mold growth has occurred or materials have been wet for more than 48 hours, consult Table 2 guidelines. Even if materials are dried within 48 hours, mold growth may have occurred. Items may be tested by professionals if there is doubt. Note that mold growth will not always occur after 48 hours; this is only a guideline.

    These guidelines are for damage caused by clean water. If you know or suspect that the water source is contaminated with sewage, or chemical or biological pollutants, then Personal Protective Equipment and containment are required by OSHA. An experienced professional should be consulted if you and/or your remediators do not have expertise remediating in contaminated water situations. Do not use fans before determining that the water is clean or sanitary.

    If a particular item(s) has high monetary or sentimental value, you may wish to consult a restoration/water damage specialist.

    The subfloor under the carpet or other flooring material must also be cleaned and dried. See the appropriate section of this table for recommended actions depending on the composition of the subfloor.

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    Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings Guide

    A1 Mold Testing | Mold Testing | Mold Removal | Mold … - August 13, 2017 by Mr HomeBuilder

    IS MOLD AN ISSUE IN YOUR HOME OR BUSINESS?

    Water can get into your Nebraska house in many ways: flooding, leaky roofs, basement walls, plumbing leaks, burst pipes, even rain or sprinkler water against the house. Sometimes, you can see discoloration on the walls or ceiling, or you see your floors have warped. Maybe, there is a musty odor in certain rooms of the house or perhaps condensation on the walls.

    Unwanted water intrusions can lead to mold growth and if the growth is extensive, some people may become sensitized to high spore levels and develop allergies or other health problems. Gone unchecked, mold growth can damage furnishings, clothes and shoes, as well as the structural elements in your house.

    It is generally recognized that exposure to indoor mold is not healthy for anyone. A1 Mold Testing and Remediation Services, Inc. can help locate the source of the water intrusion, the mold growth that has resulted from it, as well as safely and efficiently remove the mold from the personal items and structural elements.Use the websites listed on the "links" page of our website to learn what mold is, how mold grows and what it grows on.

    Learn about "Black Mold" and "Toxic Mold", as well as the health effects from mold exposure. You will find out why some molds are more hazardous than others, what some of the symptoms are and who is at greatest risk.

    In Lincoln, NE - call (402) 474-MOLD (6653)In Omaha, NE - call (402) 964-2080All other areas - call (866) 875-MOLD (6653)

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    A1 Mold Testing | Mold Testing | Mold Removal | Mold ...

    | Mold Remediation Information - August 13, 2017 by Mr HomeBuilder

    Mold (sometimes spelled mould)is a type of fungi of which there are well over 100,000 species. The original thought that molds feed on decaying leaves and wood is only the beginning. Mold will consume anything organic if you add water or moisture: all plant products such as wood and paper which includes paper, drywall, furniture, clothes, flowers (dead or dried); all dead animal products such as house dust, leather, old meat, dog (and cat) feces. Mold tends not to grow on concrete, plastics and resins, glass, ceramic tile unless there is an abundance of dust covering it and good moisture conditions. It is molds digestive result (excrement) that emits a gas that emits that moldy smell. Some molds release gas that has been proven toxic.

    Molds are a microscopic multi-cellular organism that for years were thought to be plants, even though they consume other organic matter. Then it was discover that molds lack that important plant ingredient, chlorophyll. This discovery has solidly placed mold outside both the plant and animal kingdom. The exact classification of mold has proven to be very elusive to scientists. Considering strange facts such as: mold does not have a stomach, can live dormant for hundreds of years and has been proven in tests to actually have a rudimentary intelligence. It is clear we are dealing with a very curious link in the Earths biota.

    Mold is nearly everywhere yet is not seen to the naked eye until it gathers in colonies. Its growth rate once provided with with water or even a small amount of moisture is typically exponential. Visible mold represents a lot of mold. 1 million spores per square inch is not an unusual count in a growth colony. Regarding the inside of an enclosed area such as a house or basement disturbing this mold even with the slightest breeze can send tens of thousands of mold spores into the air and unto other non affected areas. That is why mold removal and remediation is done under such strict measures of containment.

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    | Mold Remediation Information

    Update: Fort Bend ISD to post afternoon updates on WHS Mold Remediation Website – Fortbendstar.com - August 10, 2017 by Mr HomeBuilder

    As extensive cleanup efforts continue at Willowridge High School, Fort Bend ISD will begin posting daily afternoon updates on http://www.fortbendisd.com/WHSmoldremediation. The daily afternoon updates, posted at 3 p.m., will include general school announcements, as well as information about the continued remediation effort underway and efforts to support students and staff. Fort Bend ISD District leaders are currently finalizing plans for the start of the 2017-18 school year, as students and staff members will begin instruction at an alternative location on August 22.

    Tuesday, FBISD Superintendent Dr. Charles Dupre released a video to the community, thanking them for the outpouring of support and reaffirming the Districts commitment to replacing items that have been lost.

    As plans for the start of school are finalized later this week, details will be shared with students and staff members directly, posted on social media, and shared on the WHS mold remediation website.

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    Update: Fort Bend ISD to post afternoon updates on WHS Mold Remediation Website - Fortbendstar.com

    Relocation plan announced for Willowridge students displaced by … – Chron.com - August 10, 2017 by Mr HomeBuilder

    Willowridge High School

    Willowridge High School

    Relocation plan announced for Willowridge students displaced by mold infestation

    Fort Bend ISD announced Wednesday that the students displaced from Willowridge High School due to a severe mold infestation will start the school year at nearby Thurgood Marshall High School.

    The announcement comes less than two weeks before the first day of school and three weeks after Willowridge Principal Thomas Graham sent a letter to parents explaining that an aggressive mold infestation had taken over the nearly 40-year-old campus.

    According the district officials, the mold ravaged almost the entire high school destroying nearly everything in it when the school's air conditioning was turned off for several days during construction earlier in the summer. The district expects remediation efforts to cost upward of $2 million.

    BACK TO FOOTBALL: Meet Houston's new high school head football coaches

    Willowridge staff has been housed at the Marshall campus since the mold was discovered in early July.

    "Marshall High School has done a tremendous job of welcoming us into the campus and helping us in our time of need," said Graham in a video posted by the district Wednesday. "By having all of our students on one campus under one roof we can ensure that all of those educational needs are met during this very difficult time."

    Thurgood Marshall High School Principal Alfred Holland said in the district video that students of the two high schools, which are about five miles from each other in Missouri City, already interact with each other in the community.

    "They hang out on weekends together; they go to church together," Holland said. "So I think that this opportunity will help to bring the students even closer together in that they will be under the same roof to interact even more so."

    Graham added that the two student bodies will become one as long as the Willowridge students are housed on the Marshall campus.

    "For this transitional time, we will not have Willowridge students and we will not have Marshall students," he said. "We will have students that we will all service."

    Fort Bend ISD will hold a community town hall meeting and celebration to share further details about the remediation and transitional plan next Wednesday, Aug. 16 at 7 p.m. at Marshall High School, 1220 Buffalo Run in Missouri City.

    The district has created a page on its website about the Willowridge remediation and relocation that it is updated daily at 3 p.m.

    See the article here:
    Relocation plan announced for Willowridge students displaced by ... - Chron.com

    Commissioners work to reopen west wing of county jail – Commerce Journal - July 2, 2017 by Mr HomeBuilder

    Rockwall County commissioners have taken another step to deal with issues that shut down the west wing of the Rockwall County Detention Center about six months ago.

    County Judge David Sweet and commissioners Cliff Sevier and Lee Gilbert the only members of the court present for the Tuesday meeting voted to seek bids for a mold remediation project and HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) replacement in the wing.

    Mold in ductwork forced closure of the detention centers west wing about six months ago. The west wing normally houses 48 prisoners. Inmates have been transferred to Henderson County jail facilities on an as needed or overflow basis.

    County Auditor Lisa Constant Wyle told commissioners Tuesday that an architect hired by the county had drawn up documents for the bids process.

    County Maintenance Director Barry Compton is hopeful that going out for separate bids will work best from a time standpoint.

    He told commissioners of how he would like both projects to flow:

    It looks like what were going to hopefully be able to do is have the HVAC contractor do the demolition they need to do and in the time frame theyre waiting for their equipment it should be ordered when we give them the go-ahead therell be a window there while theyre waiting on equipment. That window is when we do the mold remediation and, hopefully, by the time thats done, we have HVAC equipment to have installed.

    He also told commissioners about plans for better exhaust fans to test for humidity.

    The better design, he said, involves exhaust fans bringing in fresh air and taking air out, which is why we had the mold issue, according to the reports.

    See the original post here:
    Commissioners work to reopen west wing of county jail - Commerce Journal

    Mold found on hundreds of APD DNA samples – KXAN.com - July 2, 2017 by Mr HomeBuilder

    Related Coverage

    AUSTIN (KXAN) Its one step forward and two steps back for the Austin Police Department and its shuttered DNA lab. According to a new city memo, mold was recently discovered on DNA samples dating back to the 1990s and early 2000s at an evidence storage facility.

    The department originally found out about the mold on April 25, 2017 when Signature Science, a lab that the city has contracted to conduct DNA analysis as its lab remains closed, notified them that at least one sexual assault kit sent to their lab seemed to have mold on it. The paperwork that arrived with the cases was also described as being damp.

    The following day, an inspection of the evidence warehouse walk-in refrigerator revealed mold on some boxes in the back of the cooler. According to the memo, none of the evidence in this particular walk-in cooler had been tested and, therefore, had never been considered as DNA evidence in the deliberation of any case already adjudicated.

    Travis County District Attorney Margaret Moore said that while this development is concerning, it does not affect any current or active prosecutions.

    As weve gotten the facts about the situation, were not alarmed. Right now, there really isnt any need to consider this something thats a debacle or a catastrophe in any way. There is no present impact on any cases in this office, said Moore.

    The walk-in refrigerator in question is different than the storage freezer that broke last year.

    An audit revealed of the 1,629 cases inspected, 780 had no visible mold and 849 had some signs of mold.

    APD says they immediately hired a company to seal all seams on the outside of the refrigerator on May 3 to prevent moisture from entering. The department also installed a dehumidifier on June 2 to bring the humidity level down.

    On June 21, Signature Science notified APD that no issues were observed with the samples processed from the case originally reported to have mold.

    While APD says they were starting remediation efforts with recommendations from the DPS Capital Area Lab Section Manager to address the mold found on the cases, they have placed it on hold pending further research on mold remediation. A nationwide request has been sent out seeking information on the best way to address the mold issue.

    Advocates for sexual assault survivors in Austin and Travis County say this is just another hit to the process, and the publics trust in the process, after the problems last year at the APD DNA lab.

    The DNA lab is one piece of a very long system that victims have to navigate in order to seek any kind of justice after a sexual assault, explained Emily LeBlanc, the co-chair of the Sexual Assault Response and Resource Team, or SARRT. My initial reaction, of course, is concern primarily for how this affects the publics confidence in the process and potential victims willingness to come forward.

    LeBlanc says Texas has a sexual assault reporting rate of only about nine percent.

    Very few sexual assaults get reported to law enforcement to begin with, and when they do, its often years before they reach the prosecution stage. We tend to see victims drop out of that process along the way because of how difficult that is. So, putting one more barrier in an already lengthy, difficult, heart-wrenching process for victims of a really horrible crime, is likely to make that reporting number go down.

    The mold discovery, LeBlanc says, is a symptom of a larger problem.

    We have a justice system that allowed kits to sit and crimes go un-prosecuted since the 90s, and those seem to be the kits that seem to be affected by this most recent development, LeBlanc said.

    She argues that something needs to be done.

    Whatever we can do to restore the publics confidence, to be as transparent as possible, and to really process that evidence as quickly as possible so that we dont see a three-year delay from the time someones assaulted to the time that case is taken to prosecution, the better off were going to be and the safer were going to be as a community.

    Survivors of sexual assault looking for information and resources, including legal aid, can call 1-844-303-7233 (SAFE).

    See more here:
    Mold found on hundreds of APD DNA samples - KXAN.com

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