The potential health hazards of mold are very important reasons to prevent mold infestation. Some symptoms of mold exposure include fatigue, headache, burning of the eyes, difficulty breathing & flu like symptoms.

We can help before mold gets out of hand.

Mold & mildew are present in our indoor & outdoor environments.  It is only when certain conditions are introduced to the already present spores that problems begin. When moisture is present, normally dormant spores become active.  The moisture can be from a broken pipe or similar type of damage or from humid weather conditions.  Moisture, lack of air movement, little or no light, ambient temperatures and a food source are things that make mold grow.  Mold thrives on materials such as paper, sheet rock and wood, as well as organic materials found in things like carpets and upholstery fabrics.  Mold also grows on food.  Left untreated, mold can grow rapidly on many building materials.   Even materials that may not be visible such as joists, studs and insulation can be affected.  Mold can spread quickly behind walls, necessitating the removal of drywall & insulation.  Anywhere there is moisture & low light conditions there, is a potential for mold growth.

In the majority of mold damage losses, we recommend the use of an industrial hygienist.  A hygienist will take samples of the mold to determine what types of mold are present and the spore count.  He/She will provide Flood Fire Pro with a mold remediation protocol indicating exactly where the spores were found and procedures are necessary to eradicate existing mold.  Although most mold can be seen, not all mold is visible.  This is why testing by an experienced professional is so important, before and after cleanup. A hygienist’s sampling of indoor & outdoor air may show the same types of mold present in both environments.  It may be harmless outdoors, but indoors, if the conditions are right, could prove to be potentially hazardous.  Individuals with compromised immune systems, respiratory ailments such as asthma, those suffering with allergies and young children  will be more sensitive to growing mold and their mycotoxins.   Once we have performed mold remediation, the hygienist will retest.  When we are given clearance, all containment barriers and equipment are removed.

Some common types of mold are Aspergillus, Stachybotrys & Cladosporium although there are thousands
of varieties.  Most molds are harmless; some even beneficial like those that produce penicillin.  Mold can vary in color from black, green, brown, yellow, white or even red.  Some molds produce a musty smell, making them easier to locate.  Spores can be carried through open windows and  ventilation systems such as air conditioning.  Mold spores can be brought indoors by humans & pets unknowingly on their clothing & fur.  Most of us are not affected by the presence of mold in small quantities.  Long term exposure to mold can make certain people very sensitive to the slightest amount of mold.  Some symptoms of mold exposure include fatigue, headache, stuffy sinuses, itching or burning of the eyes, difficulty breathing & flu like symptoms.