Mold Remediation

Mold has always been around us. There are different kinds of mold, some molds can be harmful if found in excess in an indoor environment. Our normal living conditions are similar to those that mold grows in; low light, little air movement, and temperatures at 68-86 Fahrenheit degrees. Airtight buildings contribute to high mold growth. Buildings that have or have had moisture problems/leaks are at a higher risk of having excessive mold. Mold breaks down organic matter and feeds on items such as carpet, wood, paper, drywall, paneling and ceiling tiles. Prudent public health practice indicates removal through cleanup (remediation) as quickly as possible to avoid risk of illness.

 

Once mold is discovered we proceed with caution and work closely with a certified Industrial Hygienist to determine the scope of contamination and follow their recommended remediation. This procedure ensures that our work is safe, effective and demands minimum material replacement where possible. Moisture detection equipment is used to find moisture in the walls. We record and monitor the moisture levels and detect areas where mold may be present. As part of the remediation process, dehumidifiers and HEPA air scrubbers are put in place to eliminate mold growth and purify the air prior to and during remediation.

 

Stemar's assistance in loss determinations, replacement cost determinations, litigation support, project management, report generation and presentations can prove to be beneficial to owners and insurance companies.

 

We understand that you must react quickly, so we must react quickly, you must take corrective action appropiate to the situation and that you must quickly identify those conditions that could cause mold growth.

 

What are the concerns when dealing with mold?

Some molds can produce mycotoxins which can cause health problems for infants/children, elderly, people with inmune-compromised systems. People with respiratory problems, and pregnant woman are particularly vulnerable to illnesses. Adverse health effects reported have included reccurring nosebleeds, headaches, rashes, extreme fatigue, dizziness, memory loss, asthma, intestinal distress. We are learning more every day about high exposures to mold and its negative effects on our health.

 

10 things to know about Mold

1. Potential health effects and symptoms associated with mold exposures include allergic reactions, asthma, and other respiratory complaints.
2. There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.
3. If mold is a problem in your home or school, you must clean up the mold and eliminate sources of moisture.
4. Fix the source of the water problem or leak to prevent mold growth.
5. Reduce indoor humidity (to 30-60%) to decrease mold growth by: venting bathrooms, fryers, and other moisture-generating sources to the outside; using air conditioners and de-humidifiers; increasing ventilation, and using exhaust fans whenever cooking, dishwashing and cleaning.
6. Clean and dry any damp or wet building materials and furnishings within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.
7. Clean mold of hard surfaces with water and detergent, and dry completely. Absorbent materials such as ceiling tiles, that are moldy, may need to be replaced.
8. Prevent condensation: Reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces (i.e., windows, piping, exterior walls, roof, or floors) by adding insulation.
9. In areas where there is a perpetual moisture problem, do not install carpeting (i.e., by drinking fountains, by classroom sinks, or on concrete floors with leaks or frequent condensation).
10. Molds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any substance, providing moisture is present. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, and foods.