Winter Mold Prevention Tips

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Are Mold Allergies More Prevalent in the Winter?

Are Mold Allergies More Prevalent in the Winter?

When it comes to NYC mold removal, there’s no off-season. Winter dampness plus less ventilation equals prime conditions for mold spores to grow and multiply. Use these helpful tips to keep indoor mold infestations at bay during the winter months.

Tips to Prevent Winter Mold Growth

• Keep air circulating, especially in kitchens and bathrooms where mold growth is common. Install and use ventilation fans and open a window briefly as needed.

• Inspect the basement for cracked or damaged mortar that can allow water to seep in.

• If your home has a crawlspace, spread heavy roofing paper or polyethylene plastic film over the soil to create a moisture barrier.

• Add insulation to pipes to prevent cracking or bursting. If a pipe does break, turn off the water flow and have it repaired immediately.

• Double-check door and window seals to make sure they’re in good condition.

• Condensation on doors, windows and walls is a red flag indicating excess moisture. Dry the area thoroughly and address the source of the dampness, whether it’s broken pipes or high humidity levels.

• If your home experiences flooding, disconnect all electronic equipment and remove as much standing water as possible.

• Dispose of moldy items in a sealed bag to prevent mold spores from dispersing.

Effective NYC Mold Removal for All Seasons

Cleaning mold is only part of the solution. Stern Mold uses MoldExterm, a unique two-step program that removes mold and prevents it from returning. Contact us to schedule a free mold inspection and learn more about MoldExterm.

Posted in Mold Remediation, Mold Tips, News

Are Mold Allergies More Prevalent in the Winter?

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Are Mold Allergies More Prevalent in the Winter?

Are Mold Allergies More Prevalent in the Winter?

With most plant life going dormant during cold weather, winter is not usually considered part of the “allergy season,” but mold allergies are a threat year-round. Here’s a look at why Manhattan mold removal still matters in winter months.

Mold Doesn’t Hibernate

When cold weather hits, closed-up buildings and poor humidity control are a recipe for mold growth. Between hot showers and more frequent cooking, moisture can build up quickly, especially with lack of ventilation.

The great outdoors isn’t safe from mold during winter, either. Frost doesn’t kill mold, and damp air encourages growth on dead vegetation. In addition, raking leaves or creating a disturbance to any source can disperse mold spores throughout the air to be inhaled, triggering allergic symptoms.

Watch for Likely Areas of Mold Growth

Be vigilant for conditions that can cause mold growth, even if an infestation isn’t currently visible. Leaky pipes, condensation on window panes, and water stains are signs of excess moisture that should be corrected as soon as possible. Keep careful watch on any areas where water or steam collect.

Tips to Ease Symptoms of Mold Allergies

• Wear a face mask during yard work or indoor cleaning.

• Use a humidity gauge to monitor indoor moisture levels.

• Keep sinuses clear with a neti pot or other sinus irrigation system.

• Stay inside during damp, foggy weather.

Effective Manhattan Mold Removal 12 Months a Year

Stern Mold is ready to solve your mold problem during any season of the year. Contact us to schedule a free mold inspection.

Posted in Mold Information, News

Why Does Mold Love to Grow in Unheated Houses or Condos?

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Here are the Tell-Tale Symptoms of Chronic Mold Exposure, be on the Lookout!

Here are the Tell-Tale Symptoms of Chronic Mold Exposure, be on the Lookout!

Why does mold love to grow in unheated homes and condos? The NYC mold removal experts at Stern Environmental treat a lot of mold issues resulting from this scenario, and we’re here to explain why.

Temperature & Humidity Fluctuations

Although humidity levels are lower in chilly winter weather, certain conditions make your home a breeding ground for mold. One reason for this is the difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures. When a cold snap is followed by warmer, more humid weather, condensation forms when warm humid air contacts cold surfaces.

Leaks

Moisture from the bath or kitchen, or that permeates the house from the crawlspace or through leaks around windows and doors, can build up in your home, leading to ideal mold-growth conditions.

Omnipresent Food

Mold can feed on any organic material, from leftover crumbs on the counter to clothing, upholstery, and even furniture. When mold spores, which are everywhere, land on these materials, they set up residence.

What Does that Have to Do with Not Having a Heating System?

Heating and cooling systems do two things to control mold in your home:

1. They increase circulation to prevent moisture from appearing on your walls. 

2. They reduce humidity levels in your home as part of their normal operation. 

Without the circulation and dehumidification provided by a home air conditioning system, it’s easy for mold to quickly get out of control.

Give mold the boot. Take back your home with the help of the NYC mold removal experts at Stern Mold today.

Posted in Mold Identification, Mold Information, News

How Do Mold Spores Get in the Air?

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How Do Mold Spores Get in the Air?

How Do Mold Spores Get in the Air?

Mold spores pose a double threat to homes and businesses. Spores are the vehicles by which mold grows and colonizes as well as the trigger for allergic reactions. Here’s a look at how mold spores get in the air and why controlling spores is important for Manhattan mold removal.

Mold Spores Are Everywhere

While mold spores aren’t visible to the naked eye, they constantly surround us indoors and out. Outdoor spores aren’t generally a cause for concern except during summer months, but prolonged exposure to indoor spores can pose a health risk any  time of year.

Controlling Mold Spore Levels

It’s not possible to eliminate all indoor mold spores. Since mold growth generates more spores, preventing infestations will keep spores at a manageable level.

Moisture is key to mold growth. Once a spore lands on a spot of moisture, it begins reproducing immediately. Be proactive by repairing leaks, cleaning up floods and spills and reducing the amount of humidity.

If you do find mold in your home or business, cleaning it up is only part of the solution. Determine what created the conditions for mold development, such as a leaky pipe or poor ventilation, and take appropriate steps to correct the problem.

Turn to Stern Mold for Safe and Effective Manhattan Mold Removal

Put an end to mold with our two-step MoldExterm program which removes infestations and leaves a barrier to prevent reoccurrences. Contact Stern Mold today for a free inspection by our cheerful and experienced Manhattan mold removal experts.

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

Find Out How to Report Mold Found in Your Workplace

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Find Out How to Report Mold in the Workplace

Find Out How to Report Mold in the Workplace

Mold problems aren’t limited to residential buildings. Any structure with organic materials and moisture can be a breeding ground for mold infestations. Our NYC mold removal experts offer helpful tips on reporting mold found in your workplace.

How to Report Mold in the Workplace

• Notify your manager or supervisor as soon as you discover signs of mold. Send it via email so your report is documented.

• Lead off by stating where and when you first saw mold and approximately how large of an area it covered.

• Include details about the location, including signs of moisture or water damage such as condensation, leaky pipes, dark surface stains or structural damage.

• If you don’t receive a response to your email within a couple of days, have a follow-up conversation with your manager or supervisor. Contact the human resources department or a higher-ranking manager if no action is taken.

• The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards call for wet materials to be thoroughly dried and cleaned with 24 to 48 hours after a flood or other event involving water. Remind management of this recommendation if the workplace sustains any water damage.

• If your company fails to address a mold issue, contact the local OSHA office.

Stern Mold: The Leader in Residential and Commercial NYC Mold Removal

Our NYC mold removal technicians are experienced in effective treatment for both residential and commercial buildings. Contact us to schedule a free mold inspection and consultation.

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