Mold Testing & Inspection Experts in Staten Island NY
Mold, often called mildew, is a kind of fungus that grows both indoors and outdoors. Mold can be good for the environment because it breaks down animal and plant matter. Unfortunately, mold can also be harmful because it grows just about anywhere that moisture and organic matter are present.
Generally, mold growth shows up wherever there is evidence of water damage or humid conditions. A leaky roof and pipes are prime suspects as are bathrooms, basements, and crawl spaces. Mold is also one of the major downsides of flooding. If a heavy storm leaves standing water in your household, mold can grow very quickly without proper remediation.
Call us today at 646-600-MOLD if you suspect mold growth and allow Mold Authority to give you the peace of mind you deserve.
Mold and Health Problems
By the time mold is visible on wood or drywall, it is already a problem. Indeed, mold can lurk behind walls or duct work for a long time before it becomes visible. A high mold count inside your home can be dangerous because it can cause health problems such as sneezing and coughing; irritation to eyes, nose, and throat; recurring headaches; and rashes.
How Do I Clean Up After a Flood?
It is important to take precautions such as wearing protective gear when reentering your home after a flood. Standing water can be especially hazardous because it may be electrified; it may also contain sewage and other hazardous chemicals. For this reason, you should wear gloves, boots, and a mask when going through an area that’s been flooded.
If you need to pump water out of underground areas, go slowly because water can weaken a house’s structure. Pumping water out too fast could cause damaged walls to cave in. Once you have eliminated all standing water, you are ready to start cleaning up. Before you begin, however, grab your camera. You need to document everything for help with insurance claims and repairs later. This also includes taking photos of anything you have to toss out.
What Do I Save and What Do I Throw Away?
Any porous materials that got wet should be considered contaminated by sewage and discarded. Anything that was not fully sealed and cannot be cleaned should also be thrown away. This includes toiletries, mattresses, clothing, and sofas. It also applies to appliances since water often ruins electronics.
In addition, flooring, insulation, and walls will probably have to replaced even in case of minor flooding. As soon as drywall gets wet, its strength is gone, and it will mold. You want to eliminate any items that could become moldy. Unfortunately, it only takes a few inches to do major damage. What often happens is that people hold onto items that they should discard. A sofa, for instance, will not dry out properly; it will mildew and run the risk of developing mold.
Mold and Flood Remediation for Staten Island Homeowners
At Mold Authority, we begin with a visual inspection of the entire household from the basement to the attic, including HVAC ducts and any other areas mold might be present. After flooding, we inspect all areas that were exposed to water. As part of our mold inspection, we take both indoor and outdoor air and surface samples and send them to the lab for testing. These tests help to identify the type of mold, if it is toxic, and how much is present and why. We can then make recommendations based on these findings.
Homeowners in Staten Island NY in need of mold or flood damage mitigation will receive a full report from Mold Authority with the lab results, a plan for mold remediation, and suggestions regarding preventive maintenance.
Although it is nearly impossible to keep a home free of mold, it is possible to limit the spread of mold by limiting the amount of moisture. A mold inspection report from Mold Authority can pinpoint problem areas in your home or help with the restoration process after heavy flooding.
If you live in or near Staten Island New York call us today at 646-600-MOLD and speak to one of our trained staff about our mold inspection and remediation process.
Mold and Health Problems
Molds produce allergens (substances that can cause allergic reactions) and irritants. Inhaling or touching mold or mold spores may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Allergic responses include hay fever-type symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rash. Molds produce allergens (substances that can cause allergic reactions) and irritants. Inhaling or touching mold or mold spores may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Allergic responses include hay fever-type symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rash. Read more about health issues caused by mold on https://www.epa.gov/mold/mold-and-health