New York / New Jersey Mold Inspections

Spring is almost here!

Spring is almost here! The temperature is starting to even out and we know that soon, April showers will be upon us helping new buds to spring up on trees and setting us up for the summer. Of course, this time of year can bring increasing humidity as the rain falls more than usual. We at HNST Mold Inspections know that mold loves moisture and it thrives during this time of year. That’s why this time of year is a great time to get your home inspected for mold and to get the mold removed before the moisture arrives.

Since there is usually a checklist for a homeowner for spring cleaning, spring lawn cleanup and other things to do around the home, adding mold inspection to the list fits in perfectly. As you work to remove dust, clean debris and go through the basement you may run into signs of moisture problems, or even visible mold. This is particularly true for unpacking stored air conditioners, give these portable or window units a good cleaning and inspect them for mold. You want to make sure that they are completely clean before use.

In the case of central air, this is not so easy and it is best for you to call in a certified inspector who can ensure that your air ducts are free and clear of mold. Experts can also offer you tips to keep your home free of mold such as reducing moisture. Call us for your spring mold inspection and get ahead of the game!

Types of Mold: Alternaria

The third common indoor mold that we are highlighting in our series is Alternaria. If you haven’t read our previous two blogs in the series highlighting Cladosporium and Aspergillus you can check them out too. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Immunology in 2006 highlighted Alternaria and its association with asthma in US homes. You can read more about this study from the National Institute of Health (NIH).

Alternaria is commonly found in soil, plants or other vegetation and generally it is dubbed an outdoor allergen. However, the exposure to these fungi in the home is still possible due to spores coming into the home from an outdoor source. Think: plants, flowers, dirt from shoes, etc. Spring is the beginning of the rise in Alternaria spores in the environment and they thrive throughout the fall.

In contrast to some of the other common indoor molds that we’ve been highlighting, Alternaria is one of the ones that actually thrives in dry, windy conditions as well as moist conditions. The spores are easily transported this way with the wind and this helps them to enter the home as well through open windows and doors.

This allergen can cause allergy symptoms such as allergic rhinitis and can cause issues with patients who have allergies to mold. Alternaria is a known risk factor for asthma as well (see study above).

Since it is impossible to completely avoid contact with these common indoor molds, the most important thing that we can do is to minimize exposure! This means, if you see mold in the home or think your symptoms are not just common allergies, you should have your home tested for mold.

In the News! Mold photos go viral

If you are an avid social media user, there is no doubt you saw the alleged pictures of mold spreading throughout a barracks at Fort Gordon, GA. While we cannot confirm that these pictures are in fact true of the claims, we love when mold hits the headlines so that we can further educate the public on what a true health concern it is. Click here for the story.

The alleged photos show mold on a chair, on the sink, on a pool table, pillow case and the ceiling! Mold can grow ANYWHERE is the important lesson here. The soldier who claims the room is covered in mold stated that the room was bleached, but that the mold came back after a few days. This is a huge point we like to address; bleach does not always kill mold! Once the mold has become visible and spread to multiple places, especially in this case, bleach and at home treatments won’t do the job.

This story stands out to the public as we always worry about the health effects of anyone exposed to mold. When exposure is directly related to chronic health problems that can be prevented, it makes everyone take a second look.

The facts are this; a mold problem needs to be dealt with immediately at the first sign. At home mold treatments, DIY treatments, and bleach are not necessarily going to completely get rid of your problem. There are a lot of other things at play when talking about the growth of mold including humidity, temperature and type. It is important to realize that there are times where an expert is needed and to get the help you need with serious problems fast.

We at HNST Mold Inspections pride ourselves on the principles of honesty and integrity. This means we always provide independent, non-biased opinions and solutions to our clients. If you have a mold problem, contact the experts at HNST Mold Inspection today.

Decrease your exposure to mold

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), mold is found in virtually every environment, both indoors and outdoors. Knowing that mold exposure can increase the development of diseases such as asthma and allergies, people are left wondering how they can decrease their exposure.

To begin, people who are sensitive to allergens or mold should try to avoid or limit their time in areas that are more likely to have mold. These areas include, but are not limited to:

  • Shady damp areas outside
  • Basements
  • Antique shops
  • Greenhouses
  • Saunas
  • Farms
  • Mills
  • Construction areas
  • Flower shops
  • Cottages

These areas have something in common, humidity. Any place that humidity is high (over 50%) throughout the day, can be a breeding ground for mold. For more information on the health concerns of mold, click here.  If there is visible mold growth in your home or in a place that you frequent, don’t let it continue! Contact HNST Mold Inspections today and schedule your mold inspection.