Monthly Archives: February 2015

How Do You Test for Mold?

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You might think that any possible mold infestation is easy to spot, but if you suspect a problem it’s important that you have a test performed. The results will confirm whether or not it actually is mold and if so, what type. Testing can also indicate the presence of mold even if it’s out of sight.

NJ mold treatment includes three different types of mold testing. Here is a look at each along with the pros and cons.

  • Air testing involves taking samples for examination under a microscope to determine the concentration of mold spores. This is a good way to detect mold that might not be visible to the eye. On the other hand, the amount of spores in the air can change significantly in a short period of time, making the results less accurate.
  • Surface testing is similar to air testing, except the samples are collected by swabbing or tape lifting from surfaces around your home or building. Once again, the uneven distribution of mold spores can cause the results to vary. In addition, this method cannot identify the concentration of spores in the air.
  • Bulk testing uses actual pieces of materials from your home or building. This method can confirm a mold problem as well as zero in on the concentration of mold particles.

Mold testing is also recommended if someone in your household is suffering allergic symptoms as well as post-mold removal to ensure the success of the treatment.

Our experienced NJ mold treatment specialists can perform an free inspection of your building. Visit our website to learn more about our effective and cost-efficient MoldExterm system.

Posted in Mold Identification, News

LA Library Battles Mold Growth on Rare Books and Documents

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If you have a chronic mold problem in your home or business, have you had your HVAC system checked recently? Shreve Memorial Library is spending more that a quarter of a million dollars in an effort to save their rare and historical books and documents.

The third floor of the library in Shreveport houses rare Louisiana books, periodicals and microfilm along with documents relating to petroleum, government and law. Mold treatment had been completed in 2007, but in 2013 staffers noticed mold growing on microfilm and book jackets.

The Larkin Edwards room holding the library’s special collection was also found to be infested. While the room has been sanitized, it is no longer in use and all items have been moved to other locations in the library.

Pollution control company EnviroCare was engaged to test the air in the library, which was found to be safe for staff and patrons. EnviroCare then brought in engineering firm Storer Services to evaluate the HVAC system. It was determined that the system was functioning poorly, allowing high levels of humidity. Excessive moisture creates a prime setting for mold growth.

Plans are underway to renovate the entire HVAC system during the first half of this year. Staff members have marked mold-stained materials with yellow dots to alert patrons.

Your building doesn’t have to store rare items to be at risk for mold. Our proprietary MoldExterm system provides safe and effective mold treatment that is normally completed in only one day. Contact us to schedule a free mold inspection.

Posted in MoldExterm, News

Do Certain Building Materials Promote Mold?

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Mold can grow unnoticed inside the walls of a home or in areas like basements and closets for a long time. The mold spores are tiny and easily inhaled. Living in a home with mold is harmful to anyone and can cause an allergy that occupants did not have previously. To keep your home free of mold it is helpful to understand which materials are more conducive to its growth.

Paper faced gypsum board

Mold thrives on organic material for nutrients. If walls are kept free of moisture, it is not going to be a problem area for mold. Once damage occurs from a roof leak or plumbing problem, some type of NJ Mold Treatement is necessary to prevent future occurrences of mold. Areas like your tub and shower should not have any paper faced gypsum board. Use cement board, mortar, or some type of non-paper faced gypsum in these areas.

Wood

The dark corners of a damp basement or crawl space are ideal environments for mold to grow unnoticed. Minor plumbing leaks can saturate insulation and provide the moisture mold needs to flourish in obscure areas of your home. It is important to replace old pipes before they start to leak. Replacing damaged wood in these difficult to reach areas can be very expensive.

One of the best things you can do to prevent mold problems in your home is to have a thorough inspection done by one of the NJ Mold Treatement experts from Stern Mold. If mold is present, our experts will consult with you on the best method to safely treat it and prevent it from coming back.

 

Posted in Mold & Your Health, Mold Identification, Mold Treatment, News

Can You Sell Your Home With Mold Inside

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Can You Sell It?

Can You Sell It?

How would you feel if you found the house of your dreams and it turned out to have mold? The answer to that question should be your guide if you are putting your house up for sale and discover a mold infestation. It can be done ethically and successfully, but only if you take responsibility for addressing the problem immediately.

Drawbacks of Selling a House with Mold

People today have a greater awareness of the health dangers associated with mold. They are not going to take a chance on buying a house affected by mold, especially if they have or are planning to have children.

The problem also has financial ramifications. Potential buyers are not going to  take on the cost of NJ mold treatment when they can find houses without mold for the same price or even less.

Legal consequences are an even more serious matter. You could be facing a major lawsuit if you sell your home and mold is detected immediately afterwards.

Steps for Dealing with a Mold Problem

The sooner you’re aware of a mold problem, the better. Make it a point to regularly inspect your home for signs of mold, paying particular attention to damp areas such as bathrooms and basements.

If you do discover mold, have a professional conduct a thorough removal. Document all activities related to the mold disposal to protect yourself from charges that you ignored the situation.

Our proprietary MoldExterm NJ mold treatment method is less costly and intrusive than remediation. In addition, it works to reduce the moisture problem that caused the mold in the first place. Contact us to schedule a free inspection.

Posted in Mold Tips, Mold Treatment, News