Monthly Archives: June 2016

What Are the Most Common Types of Mold?

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There are more than 100,000 species of mold.

Just as the word “flower” encompasses thousands of different types of plants, there are more than 100,000 species that fit under the term “mold.” Here’s a look at the distinguishing characteristics found in some of the more common types of mold.

• Stachybotrys atra is the species that has come to be referred to as “black mold” due to its dark greenish-black color. While the mold itself is not toxic, it does produce mycotoxins that can cause a variety of health problems depending on a person’s sensitivity and length of exposure. Hidden black mold can sometimes be detected by its distinctive musty odor.

• Aspergillus is found both indoors and outdoors, so you inhale these spores every day, usually with no ill effects. This species, however, is a powerful allergic irritant, so individuals with allergies are susceptible to upper respiratory symptoms such as coughing and sinus congestion. People with lung conditions or weakened immune systems are vulnerable to a disease called aspergillosis.

• Cladosporium has a black pepper-like appearance and is often found in toilet tanks or on window sills. This variety of mold does not produce mycotoxins, but like aspergillus it can trigger upper respiratory distress in some people.

• Orange- or red-colored mold is usually found outdoors, where it serves to break down dead trees and other organic materials. Mold that appears white is generally in an early stage of development.

Rely on Stern Mold for Cost-Effective, Non-Intrusive Mold Remediation

Regardless of the species, our proprietary MoldExterm process removes mold more thoroughly and safely than traditional mold remediation. Contact Stern Mold today to schedule a free mold inspection for your NYC or northern NJ home.

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

What Does the CDC Say About Mold Exposure

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Let Us Help Exterminate Your Mold Today!

Let Us Help Exterminate Your Mold Today!

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is an organization under the Department of Health and Human Services that is charged with fighting disease and other threats to public health. Here’s some valuable information they provide about mold and its effects.

Where is Mold Found?

Any warm, humid area can provide a potential breeding ground for mold. Outdoor mold is most commonly found growing on decomposing organic materials such as felled trees, while indoor mold generally occurs in damp, humid areas such as bathrooms and basements.

How Does Mold Affect People?

Mold can trigger allergic symptoms such as wheezing, sinus congestion and red, itchy eyes. People with serious allergies or preexisting lung conditions can experience fever, shortness of breath and other strong reactions.

How Can You Limit Exposure to Mold?

Mold needs moisture to survive, so humidity levels should be kept low and water leaks or floods should be cleaned up immediately. If you find an infestation in your home, you should arrange for professional mold remediation regardless of what type it may be.

Should You Seek Medical Assistance?

If you’ve had extensive exposure to mold, don’t take chances with your health. Consult your primary care physician, who will determine whether or not your symptoms are severe enough for a referral to an allergist or other specialist.

State-of-the-Art Mold Treatment in NYC and Northern NJ

As the CDC recommends, you shouldn’t attempt mold remediation on your own. Our friendly and professionally trained technicians will remove mold and take measures to prevent its return. Visit our website to learn more about our efficient, effective and eco-friendly MoldExterm process.

Posted in Mold Information, Mold Law

What Color Can Mold Be? Is It Always Black?

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Unsure of What Mold Lurks in Your Office?

Unsure of What Mold Lurks in Your Office?

Do you know what color mold is? If your answer is “black,” you’re only partially correct. While black mold gets most of the attention, mold comes in thousands of varieties and a wide range of colors.

Here’s an overview of the most commonly found types of mold and their colors. Experts agree that regardless of the color, interior mold growth should be treated with professional mold remediation.

Greenish-Black

Stachbotrys, the scientific name for black mold, is more accurately described as greenish-black. This species feeds on high-cellulose, low-nitrogen materials, such as drywall or paper, that have a constant source of moisture from flooding, leaks or humidity.

Yellow, Green or Black

These colors are often a sign of Aspergillus, a mold that’s frequently found both indoors and outdoors. Since this mold is so widespread, you inhale the spores nearly every day without ill effects. Aspergillus can cause a serious illness called Chronic Pulmonary Aspergillosis in people with preexisting lung problems or compromised immune systems.

Blue, Green or White

Lighter colors are usually associated with Penicillum, which is often found on food. Penicillum was the genesis for the discovery of the penicillin antibiotic.

Black or Grey

Black or grey Alternaria is generally found outdoors around damp soil and plants. However, one study found Alternaria in more than 90 percent of the household dust samples that were tested.

Need Mold Treatment in Your NYC or Northern NJ Home?

Traditional mold remediation is no longer the standard treatment. We use an eco-friendly two-step process that can usually be completed in one day, and without any structural damage. Contact Stern Mold today to schedule your free mold inspection.

Posted in Mold Identification, Mold Information

Introducing Our New Mold Information Resource

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Get the Information You Need on Mold!

Get the Information You Need on Mold!

In recent years, the problem of interior mold growth and its effect on building occupants has gained an increasing amount of attention. With everything that’s being written on the topic, how can you tell the difference between facts and misinformation?

Our experts at Stern Mold have created a Mold Information Center on our website to promote understanding of these fungi along with how and why it should be treated. Here are some of the questions you will find addressed in the Center.

What are the Top Five Types of Mold Found Inside Homes and Buildings?

Mold is a far-ranging category that includes more than 100,000 identified varieties. Only biologists and other scientific researchers need to go into that amount of depth, so we provide an overview of the types of mold most commonly found indoors.

Is All Mold Toxic?

Much of the reporting about mold has focused on toxic or black mold, so some people have come to believe that those terms apply to any type of mold found in homes and other buildings. We explain the true meanings of those two terms as they refer to mold.

What Are Mold Spores? Why is Treatment Important?

One shortcoming of traditional mold remediation is that it can actually spread infestations by dispersing spores. Learn why effective treatment includes elimination of spores as well as the actual growth.

Stern Mold: Serving NYC and Northern NJ since 1995

Our two-stage MoldExterm treatment is more effective and less invasive than traditional mold remediation, and it provides protection against future infestations. Visit our website for more information and schedule your free mold inspection by our professionally trained technicians.

Posted in Mold Identification, Mold Information, Mold Tips

Black Mold Health Symptoms, What Are They?

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Black Mold Symptoms

Black Mold Symptoms

Black mold generally occurs in chronically damp areas like laundry rooms, bathrooms, pool rooms and spas. But it can also grow if there are leaking pipes, flooding or in any situation where water and dampness are present over a prolonged period of time. The only way to rid these areas of black mold is through mold treatment.

Symptoms to Look For

If you have been exposed to toxic black mold, here are some of the symptoms to be on the lookout for. They generally cause respiratory distress in one way or another, so that should be the first clue.

• Chronic coughing

• Chronic sneezing

• Watery and itchy eyes

• Irritation of the nose and throat

• Fatigue

• Persistent headaches

• Red blotchy rashes on the body

A severe allergic reaction may entail:

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Bleeding from the lungs, nose and mouth

Free Mold Inspection

Of course, these are just general symptoms, and some of them may have other causes. But if you do have any of these symptoms and fear a black mold infestation, call in the professionals at Stern Mold for a free mold inspection.

The Bottom Line

Mold treatment is the only way to eliminate a toxic black mold infestation. If you have noticed toxic black mold, or exhibit any of the chronic symptoms above, don’t take any chances. Rely on the professionals at Stern Mold to rid your home of toxic black mold. We’re part of the Stern Environmental Group and we will answer all of your questions or schedule a free mold inspection for your residence. Stern Mold has been serving the New Jersey, New York City, and Long Island area since 1995.

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