How diffusing essential oils relates to mold remediation Diffusers and essential oils can be helpful before, during and after remediation. The best diffusers for mold challenges do not use water, since water fuels the growth of mold. I have had good experience with these two diffusers: TheraPro by Young Living Aroma Ace by Diffuser […]
Resources for mold testing & remediation In this post, I will share with you where to find mold sampling professionals, the standards they should be using, and the right questions to ask. 7 places to find mold sampling professionals Local Engineer or Architect Referrals – Licensed professionals are have lots of education & liability […]
Do-It-Yourself Guide for How To Start: Very toxic mold can be completely concealed. You may not smell it. Some people exposed to toxic mold will feel fine. But the mold is still there and it may be compromising your health or the health of people you care about without event knowing it. Do not completely […]
How to evaluate your buildings for water damage Discovering water damage and mold, especially concealed sources, can require detective work and close attention to details. Start with this list and compare your notes based on what you find to help focus additional investigation. Here are the first 5 steps to take to evaluate your buildings […]
Signs of water damage There are lots of signs of water damage that can be found if you know to look for them. Below are six indications that water damage might be a problem in your building: Musty smells Musty odors indicate mold is present. But also know that lack of a musty smell […]
Use ANSI Standards as a Guide While there is little regulation of the mold remediation industry in the U.S., keep in mind that there are standards that are based on solid science and are recommended, but they are not required. Many mold professionals say they use these standards, however, it’s important to know these procedural […]
Here is the process to follow when hiring a quality mold testing and remediation contractor to avoid getting scammed. Always compare qualifications Compare the qualifications of contractors/industrial hygienists/remediators through reputable organizations. Keep in mind, however, that just being connected to any organization does not ensure quality performance or qualify as a recommendation, but it […]
Materials are always a hot topic when discussing mold. But any materials-only focus when talking mold avoidance is misguided. Does avoiding bio-based materials ensure a mold-free environment? Commercial buildings are mostly ‘non-organic,’ but more and more steel, concrete and masonry structures are proving to be highly toxic and moldy. Repairs and remediation often costs […]
NO BLEACH For Cleaning Porous Materials – Including Wood! I noticed an error in advice from the American Wood Council (AWC) regarding mold and mildew on structural wood members, in the FAQ section. It seems there are many, very reputable sources on the internet with poor information related to the cleaning of porous materials such […]
The flooding as a result of Hurricane Harvey has created environmental hazards of catastrophic proportion. Below are three resources that describe potential health effects or exposure to water damage and related mold and bacteria. The health effects for individuals exposed to water damage, mold, and bacteria manifest in both physical and psychological stress and are […]