Mold is a fungus commonly found in damp and wet areas, and spreads by spores carried by water or air. These spores are present almost everywhere, both indoors and outdoors. When a home or business experiences water damage, mold spores thrive in the moist environment and can begin growing into colonies in as little as 24 to 48 hours. If you’re unsure if mold is present, there are a few warning signs to look for:
– Dark spots on the floors, walls, or ceilings, or fuzzy patches on textiles
– Strong, musty odors
– Peeling paint or wallpaper
– Peeling caulk or grout
– Respiratory or allergy flare-ups, such as congestion and coughing
Safely removing these fungi requires the experience of a professional team. Using the latest technology and equipment, our experts thoroughly inspect the extent of mold damages present, contain affected areas, and safely remove the mold. Specialized air filters are utilized to remove mold spores from the air and help prevent the mold from spreading to further areas.
No matter which category the mold is classified as, Tip Top Restoration of Pasadena’s priority is to create a healthy, mold-free environment for your home. The three types of mold categories are based on their impact on one’s health:
– Allergenic molds include some species of Penicillium, Alternaria, and Cladosporium. While less dangerous than other types of molds, these trigger allergic reactions and can exacerbate asthma symptoms.
– Pathogenic molds can cause infections or diseases. Individuals with compromised immune systems are at a higher risk, though chronic exposure or exposure to a large quantity can affect otherwise healthy people. Aspergillus, for example, can cause aspergillosis, a lung infection.
– Toxic molds pose serious health risks to humans and animals due to the mycotoxins produced. High levels of exposure can lead to neurological problems, and in some cases, death. Stachybotrys chartarum is well-known for its toxicity, going by the common name of black mold.
Various factors can cause mold, and identifying the source of moisture that created the optimal growing environment is crucial to ensure the mold doesn’t return. Tools like moisture meters and infrared cameras are imperative during the initial inspection and assessment to determine the source of moisture. Common causes include the following:
– High humidity levels
– Poor ventilation
– Standing or hidden water
– Water damage that occurred from a storm, burst plumbing pipe, or leaky roof; or from firefighting efforts.
After proper removal and remediation, restoration can take place, returning your home to its pre-loss condition. The extent of restoration can vary from minor repairs such as painting, to more significant reconstruction if the mold has weakened the structural integrity of the building.
Naturally, after remediating mold, the first thought is how to prevent it from coming back. Dehumidifiers, especially around warm areas such as kitchens and bathrooms, reduce excess moisture in the air. Proper ventilation and air flow can help prevent moisture from getting trapped in areas. The EPA recommends keeping indoor humidity between 30-60%
Mold remediation coverage can vary depending on the policy. Oftentimes, standard homeowners insurance will only cover mold during sudden, accidental events. Burst pipes, or the resulting water damage from extinguishing a fire, are two examples of sudden events. Mold caused by long-term issues is often not covered for remediation. Flooding, however sudden to the homeowner, is often excluded from general policies. Those in high-risk areas may want to consider purchasing additional separate flood insurance. Reading your policy carefully and going over the details with your insurance agent can save time and prevent future headaches.
Tip Top Restoration of Pasadena are available 24/7, call now and schedule a Mold testing to your home
