Apr
15
Exposure to mold isn’t healthy for anyone. Yet for some people, the risks of mold exposure are increasingly higher.
- Young children
- Individuals with existing respiratory conditions, such as allergies or asthma
- Persons with a weakened immune system, including people with HIV, cancer, or other chronic diseases
- The elderly
People that fall into these categories also vary in their sensitivities to 
mold. Some indoor molds, such as Fusarium and Stachybotrys, have varying levels of toxic properties, called mycotoxins. Mycotoxins are not always present, and depend on where the mold is growing, on what type of surface, and under what conditions.
When mycotoxins are present, they occur in both the living and dead mold spores, and may also exist on the materials in which they grew. So even if you have found mold spores and begin cleaning, the mold spores can become airborne and begin producing on another surface.
Currently there is no test available to determine whether mold growth is producing dangerous toxins. Likewise, there is no blood or urine test to determine the exposure to spores or its toxins.
Instead, its important to keep watch for mold exposure, and clean the area thoroughly if any mold growth is found. Use appropriate prevention measures, and contact a mold remediation contractor with any questions.
Apr
10
We live with mold every day. 
Leave a loaf of bread in the cupboard too long and you’ll soon see a green mold begin to grow.
The problem comes in wet locations where a greenish-black fungi called Stachybotrys Chartarum starts to form. This fungus is considered to be a toxic mold, and can be a major health risk for many people. In particular, it likes high-cellulose material such as dry wall, carpet, wall paper, ceiling tiles, and thermal insulation.
When major flooding occurs in our homes, it’s fairly obvious we need immediate cleanup to avoid potential risks down the road. But it’s not just the large incidents that can bring on the most problems. Plumbing problems, house water leaks, drain blockage, condensation – all can cause major damage over time, and be susceptible to highly toxic mold.
For some people, exposure to toxic mold may have little or no impact or risk. To others, the health hazard is extremely high, often with life threatening results. The trouble is there is no way to assess who is at high risk until the situation arises and it’s too late.
Toxic mold can bring on the following 10 health risks:
1. headaches
2. flu like symptoms
3. sore throats
4. nose bleeds
5. chronic fatigue
6. depression
7. allergic relations
8. aspergillosis, or lung conditions
9. cancer
10. brain damage
Because of the potential life threatening illnesses related to mold, immediate removal is required. The quicker you start the process, the less likely chance of being affected by mold related illnesses.
Please read our other mold related articles:
3 Tips To Keep Mold Out Of Your Home
How To Choose A Mold Remediator In Colorado
Apr
2
How To Choose A Mold Remediator In Colorado
Filed Under Mold | 2 Comments
We live in Colorado; it’s to dry to worry about mold, right?
Think again.
Colorado actually ranks 9th in the United States for incidence of mold and mold intrusion. If you suspect mold in your home, take care of the problem as soon as possible to avoid future potential risks.
Many people start searching for do it yourself mold removal tips online. But once they find out about the hidden dangers and potential problems, many revert back to allowing an expert control the situation, ridding the home of mold.
Here are three tips to helping you find the right mold remediator:
Choose a mold remediator that is certified.
A company that has gone through proper training and certification understands how to deal with mold. An isolated mold problem can easily turn into a huge nightmare if certain procedures aren’t followed. It’s better to rely on a trained expert to get the job done right in the first place.
Find a mold remediator that will inspect first, and provide you with a proposal for the work to be done.
Because mold has many hidden implications, find a company that knows how to look at the entire picture before work is begun. Talk with companies and find out the entire procedure, from beginning to end. Do they test for asbestos and lead, especially in older homes? How often do they test for mold in air quality? A company that thoroughly understands mold remediation will stand behind their work, and give you full disclosure on work to be done.
Look for guarantees.
A company that stands behind their work is the best in the business. What kind of warranty do they have? Are they confident enough to back up their services if mold reappears in a short period of time? Make sure you understand all warranties, and get things in writing.
Apr
1
3 Tips To Keep Mold Out Of Your Home
Filed Under Mold | Leave a Comment
How old is your home? 
With today’s newer homes, bathrooms are built up to code, and have specific items in place to reduce the chances of mold. Ventilation fans and windows both can help control the origination and spread of mold over time.
Older homes may not have things in place to ward off mold, but there are simple things you can do to keep mold-free, and avoid expensive and timely clean up projects down the road.
1. Old ventilation systems can often be the cause of mold buildup. Check your old systems regularly. Better yet, install exhaust fans in locations where moisture may occur, such as in laundry rooms, kitchens and bathrooms. This is especially important in rooms built without access to a window.
2. Replace old, outdated HVAC systems. Dirt builds up over time, and leaks can slowly start spreading within old system. Older systems are often beyond repair, and produce more damage to your home environment than good. A new system will heat and cool your home more efficiently, and will reduce the chance of allergens and mold spores being introduced into your home.
3. Change your landscaping. Older homes may not be properly graded, allowing water to build up around your foundation. The longer water sits, the higher your chance of mold, especially in the basement or crawl space walls. Change your landscaping so water drains off away from your home. Place landscaping and water efficient plants by your home that require less water; less water means less chance of water buildup.
[If mold has appeared in your home, take control immediately. Denver’s leading water damage, mold removal, and restoration expert can help you get your home back to original condition.]
Mar
31
Can I Use Bleach To Kill Mold?
Filed Under Colorado Restoration Services, Mold | 1 Comment
Mold. It’s something we always live with, yet may never give much thought. As long as we clean regularly and avoid water damage, we’ll never have trouble with mold. Right? 
Well its not always that simple. Mold is always present in our living environments. It’s triggered by the two things it loves most: a food source and a little moisture. It’s pretty easy to spot, appearing as white or black spots. It can show up on paper, drywall, wood, paint, tiles, grout, and many other surfaces that surround a moist environment. It’s also accompanied by an odor that’s musty and unpleasant.
When the first signs of mold appear, its natural to get out the cleaning products and start to clean. And it’s also natural to pull out the bleach, thinking it will kill the bacteria and get rid of mold. Bleach will remove mold temporarily, but it is important to note that it isn’t permanent.
Bleach is diluted, and is too weak to completely eradicate mold. Especially on soft or porous locations, like tiles in the shower and bath, bleach will never completely remove mold. It simply removes a portion of the mold that you can see, allowing the original problem to continue growing.
So if bleach doesn’t work, what does? Containing the mold, killing it, removing it, and protecting the area from further attack.
All mold is caused by a source of water. It’s important to find the source, and cut off the supply completely. This may entail water damage restoration.
Then a fungicide should be used to kill all existing mold, and to prevent reoccurrence in the future. The entire area should be cleaned to remove all traces of mold. Even dead, mold can be harmful and trigger allergies in some people.
Finally, protect the area from future growth. Check the area regularly to ensure against future mold development.
[Have a mold problem? Paul Davis Restoration in Denver can help eradicate the problem safely. We’re here to help you with all of your water damage and mold problems.]
Mar
27
How To Get Rid Of Mold
Filed Under Mold | Leave a Comment
Mold is a particular dangerous problem that can lead to a variety of harmful side effects. 
If you decide to try and rid your home of mold by yourself, make sure you follow strict safety rules.
1. If mold is caused by water damage, be sure to eliminate the water damage before you work at removing the mold. Mold continues to grow in wet or damp situations, so its important to eliminate all water damage first.
2. Clean and disinfect all surfaces with nonpolluting cleaners and solutions.
3. Protect yourself as you work. Mold is a contaminant, and presents a variety of health hazards. Mold spores can be inhaled, and will cause respiratory infections. Be sure to wear disposable plastic gloves, a respirator system with filter, goggles, disposable full body clothing, including rubber boots or foot coverings. Thoroughly disinfect your hands and body after working with mold.
4. Thoroughly clean ventilation systems if mold spores are detected in filters or ducts. Mold will continue to grow if its fed through movement in the systems.
Because of the environmental hazards caused by mold, you may also choose to get a second opinion. A mold specialist can advise you of proper cleanup, and assist in getting your home back to original condition.
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