Is There Such a Thing as Non-Toxic Mold?

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Mold May Affect Your Lungs

Mold May Affect Your Lungs

The term “toxic” is often used in conjunction with mold in reports of Manhattan mold removal. Is it redundant, or is there such a thing as non-toxic mold?

Types of Toxic Mold

Toxic mold, sometimes called black mold, refers to particular species that emit dangerous substances called mycotoxins. When you hear or read about toxic mold, it generally involves these types:

• Stachybotrys chartarum has a greenish-black, soot-like appearance, although dampness can add a slimy sheen to the surface. High moisture and cellulose content plus low nitrogen content provide the perfect breeding ground for Stachybotrys chartarum, which is why this species is so often found in water-damaged buildings.

• In contrast to Stachybotrys chartarum, Aspergillus niger is dark black to gray in color and dry in appearance. The two species do share the common feature of producing mycotoxins that create serious health risks.

While a number of other mold species may be black in color, not all of them are toxic. Cladosporium is the most common type of non-toxic mold. Other non-toxic species include Dresclera, Alternaria and Ulocladium.

Can Non-Toxic Mold Affect Health?

Side effects of non-toxic mold are not as serious as those caused by the toxic variety, but any type of mold can trigger allergic symptoms. Seek professional Manhattan mold removal any time you suspect an infestation in your home or building.

Efficient and Cost-Effective Manhattan Mold Removal

Our trained technicians are skilled at finding and eliminating mold in homes and buildings. Contact Stern Mold to schedule a free inspection.

Posted in Mold Identification, Mold Information, News

How to Identify Problem Mold

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Moisture Breeds Mold. Ensure You Are Keeping Your Humidity Under Control!

Moisture Breeds Mold. Ensure You Are Keeping Your Humidity Under Control!

Mold and mold spores surround us every day. How do you know when a problem requires NYC mold removal? Here’s a look at the signs of an indoor mold situation that needs attention.

Signs of a Mold Infestation

• Visible mold growth is the easiest to identify. Unfortunately, mold thrives in out-of-the-way places, so a mold colony in plain sight often means more is hidden elsewhere.

• Mold has a distinctive musty smell generated by escaping gases known as microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs). While the smell is often associated with basements, it clearly indicates the presence of mold, which should never be considered a normal condition.

• Prolonged exposure to mold frequently triggers allergic reactions in the upper respiratory system. If you have no history of allergies but you begin to experience symptoms such as sneezing, coughing and watery eyes, mold is usually the culprit. Symptoms of mold-related allergies also tend to subside when you’re away from the source.

What About Black Mold?

Much of the concern about mold is centered on stachybotrys, the so-called “black mold.” Stachybotrys emits mycotoxins that can pose serious health risks, especially for children, elderly people and those with compromised immune systems. Many other species of mold are black in appearance, so any infestation should be inspected and evaluated by NYC mold removal experts.

Expert Help for All NYC Mold Removal Needs

Do you suspect the presence of mold in your home or building? Contact us for a free inspection by our friendly and experienced technicians.

Posted in Mold Identification, Mold Information, Mold Law, News

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
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