Monthly Archives: December 2019

Can Mold Spores Cause Allergies and Asthma?

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Can Mold Spores Cause Allergies and Asthma?

Can Mold Spores Cause Allergies and Asthma?

Even if you don’t normally suffer from allergies, extended exposure to mold spores can lead to a number of physical symptoms ranging from unpleasant to serious. Our Manhattan mold removal experts offer helpful information on the various health risks linked to mold spores.

Do You Have Mold Allergies?

Indoor mold and dampness are generally associated with upper respiratory ailments. When mold spores are inhaled, they trigger a response from the immune system including sneezing, coughing, congested sinuses and itchy, watery eyes. People with certain sensitivities may develop skin irritation if they come into contact with mold.

What Are Other Mold-Related Illnesses?

Some individuals are particularly vulnerable to mold-related illnesses:

* People with pre-existing respiratory conditions such as asthma or obstructive lung disease

* People with weakened immune systems

These individuals are at risk for more serious diseases, including mold-related infections such as aspergillosis or hypersensitivity pneumonitis, which is inflammation of the lungs that can cause scarring.

Children can be greatly affected by exposure to mold. In a 2004 study, the Institute of Medicine (IOM) found evidence suggesting a link between indoor mold and respiratory illness in otherwise healthy children. Other research suggests a possible link between early exposure to mold and development of asthma in some children, especially if they’re genetically prone to the disease.

Protect Your Health with Manhattan Mold Removal by Stern Mold

If you suspect the presence of mold, don’t wait until you or your family develop symptoms. Contact us to schedule a free mold inspection by our technicians.

 

 

Posted in Mold & Your Health, Mold Information, News

What You Must Know About Mold Spores

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Got Toxic Mold? Do You Have Enough for a Lawsuit?

Got Toxic Mold? What You Need to Know.

Everyone recognizes mold as a fungus found on dead plants and trees, but how much do you know about the effects of mold that finds its way indoors? Here’s a look at the role of mold spores and the importance of NYC mold removal.

How Mold Spores Function

Mold spores are the vehicles by which mold reproduces. While they’re similar in concept to a plant seed, they don’t contain pre-formed embryos. The dusty appearance of mold colonies is due to proliferation of spores on the surface.

Since mold spores are present indoors and outdoors, we inhale them every day. Concentrations are lower outdoors, so spores generally don’t pose a problem. Health risks arise from prolonged exposure to spores indoors, where space is constricted and air has less opportunity to circulate.

Control Mold Growth to Reduce Mold Spores

While it’s impossible to completely eliminate mold spores, controlling mold growth will keep them at a manageable level. Moisture is essential for mold to grow, so it’s imperative to keep indoor humidity low and immediately repair broken pipes or any conditions causing excessive moisture.

Approximately 20 percent of people are allergic to mold and suffer from symptoms such as sneezing, scratchy throat and watery eyes, known collectively as hay fever. Outdoor mold triggers allergies mainly during summer, whereas allergic reactions to indoor mold occur year-round.

Need NYC Mold Removal? Contact Stern Mold

Our MoldExterm program removes mold safely and effectively while creating a barrier to future growth. Contact us today for more information.

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

How to Limit Mold Growth in December and January

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How to Limit the Growth of Mold

How to Limit the Growth of Mold

You may be able to keep the cold out of your home during December and January, but preventing mold growth is a little trickier. Limit the need for Manhattan mold removal during winter months with these helpful tips.

Control Indoor Humidity

Moisture is literally the lifeblood of mold. Once a mold spore lands on a damp surface, it’s ready to start multiplying. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) says controlling indoor humidity is the most important factor in limiting mold growth. Aim for a level below 45 percent. Dehumidifiers are helpful, although it’s best to find and correct the underlying problem.

Run Ceiling Fans in Reverse

When ceiling fans are set to run clockwise, they pull cold air up and push warm air down. In addition to cutting back on heating bills, the improved circulation prevents condensation from developing on walls and windows, which discourages mold growth.

Install and Use Exhaust Fans

Kitchens and bathrooms are the usual suspects as far as likely locations for mold. Exhaust fans should be used in both places, along with any other areas where excess moisture can accumulate.

Maintain Roof Gutters

Roof gutters clogged with leaves and other debris don’t allow water to drain properly. Be sure the ground around the downspouts is slightly graded so water doesn’t pool around the foundation.

Manhattan Mold Removal for All Seasons

Mold is an unwelcome presence any time of year. Contact Stern Mold and receive friendly and professional service for all your Manhattan mold removal needs.

Posted in Mold Information, Mold Remediation, News, NJ Mold Removal, NYC Mold Removal

Sorry, Freezing Weather Does Not Kill Mold Spores

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Sorry, Freezing Weather Does Not Kill Mold Spores

Sorry, Freezing Weather Does Not Kill Mold Spores

People often wrongly assume that when the weather is colder, their mold problems will go away. Unfortunately, that’s not correct. While freezing temperatures may help you salvage some of the items you thought you lost to mold, they are not an overall solution to the problem. Let’s review this in more detail.

Can Freezing Moldy Items Save Them?

Once something you own is damaged by mold, it can be difficult to stop the mold colony from growing. But freezing is one option you have available to you. If this is something you decide to do because mold has developed on items you love, please take the following steps:

• Make sure to wear protective gloves and clothing. Mold can cause serious health and breathing problems, so you want to make sure you don’t touch it.

• Place the items on top of trash bags in a space with a lot of open air. This will allow them to dry out, which is very important.

• Freeze the items at 0 degrees Fahrenheit. Please note that this will not kill the mold, but it will deactivate it.

• Remove the items after 24 hours. Use a fungicide and rags to remove the mold from the items. Also, run an air dehumidifier to reduce the chance of mold re-growth.

Talk With Your NYC Mold Removal Professionals

Moldy possessions are often a sign of a more serious problem. Your NYC mold removal professionals can help. We offer free inspections to help us determine what you need. Contact us!

Posted in Mold Identification, Mold Information, Mold Tips, News, NJ Mold Removal, NYC Mold Removal

Interior Mold is a Winter Problem

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Interior Mold is a Winter Problem

Interior Mold is a Winter Problem

A lot of people falsely believe that mold isn’t a problem they need to worry about during the winter. They think that because the atmosphere is naturally colder, conditions aren’t as good for it to grow. Unfortunately, your Manhattan mold removal experts have seen more than their fair share of mold problems during this time of year. When it comes to mold in your home, staying vigilant during the winter months is very important.

Where is Mold More Likely to Occur During Winter?

A lot of people complain about mold in their homes during the winter months. The air is dryer, but that doesn’t mean your home isn’t at risk. You’re most likely to see mold growing in your attic and your basement during this time of year. It can also grow inside your home’s walls.

Any humidity in your home is likely to rise to the attic, which is where mold is most likely to form. It can affect the wooden rafters as well as your attic’s insulation.

Your Manhattan Mold Removal Experts Stop Mold in its Tracks

There are several things you can do prior to calling a professional to deal with your mold problem. You can:

• Attempt to clean the mold using either bleach or vinegar.

• Fix any leaks in your kitchen or basement, and keep these areas dry.

• Check and fix any ventilation problems in your attic.

If you need Manhattan mold removal services, please contact us for a free inspection!

Posted in Mold Identification, Mold Information, Mold Tips, News
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