Chicago – Water Damage Restoration and Mold Remediation 773-885-8528

Black Mold Removal Chicago

BLACK MOLD HIDING IN THE SHADOWS

 DID YOU KNOW that mold can develop in your home and all it takes are three common things?

1.    Moisture: Mold needs moisture to grow, which is why you see it all the time in showers and baths… and, unfortunately, in basements. You can clean up the mold in a shower or bath, but when you see it in other parts of the home, it’s best to call a pro.  It is not just enough to use vinegar or bleach to satisfy getting rid of or killing the toxic substance.  As a bacteria mold can mutate and adapt to various environments.  Thus, the method used to get rid of it has to adjust as well.

2.    Food: Mold is alive, and needs to eat. So usually you won’t see mold growing on plastic surfaces in your home. It will grow on wood and other organic surfaces. However, dirt in the carpet or on the floor can be a food source, so keeping your house super clean is smart.  Mold has a way of searching out and finding food so that it can survive.  You can stop it in its tracks by keeping your home or property as spotless, dust-free as possible.  Sometimes the aid of equipment is needed such as a dehumidifier, or an air purifier to generate good, clean, fresh air.

3.    Darkness: Mold likes the shadows of your home, and grows quickly in the dark. That’s why basements are often the first place mold is discovered.  Not that mold can’t grow in other well lit places.  As we said previously, it can mutate.  But it favors hidden and dark areas.  By the time the property owner realizes what has taken place in the dark corners or crevices it has spread to a proportion where a professional mold remediation company in Lincolnwood IL is needed.

Do it yourself mold removal?

If you are going to clean up some mold in your house, it’s important to protect yourself. A professional mold remediation company in Lincolnwood IL knows the dangers of mold, and if you hire a pro, you will see him all suited up and protected against possible contamination.

For cleaning up very small amounts of mold, like you might find in a shower stall, be sure to wear rubber gloves, the type that come up to your elbows. And wear a good mask, the type the EPA recommends (like an N-95 from your hardware store) so that you don’t inhale mold spores. Spores are actually the dangerous part of mold, and they are very tiny and float in the air, which means you can breathe them in. Eye protection goggles are also smart, but avoid goggles that have holes in them.

Remember, do-it-yourself mold removal is only for those common molds like in showers and baths. Anything else? Call a pro, like The CleanUP Guys in Chicago!

Black Mold Removal in Lincolnwood IL

Hi Interested Ones.  Sherm Here.  In your neck of the woods this week.  Have some good info on black mold removal in Lincolnwood IL.  Each homeowner dreads it. The musty smell may possibly be the very first indication that it can be happening and then the moment you take a few moments to look around, you'll see it. The dreaded black mold is lurking within the little cracks, crevices and individuals difficult to reach places. It may even be in plain view taunting you. So, now you could have mold and you might have to figure out how to have rid of it prior to it becomes an even larger difficulty.

Black mold removal may be a nuisance and not a fun experience. It might be time consuming and seem like it has to become done more than and more than again. If moisture and humidity in your household is really a struggle, it may well seem like black mold removal is surely happening too typically. The fact is - mold loves moisture and does not take really long to grow. The moment it starts, it spreads quite rapidly and then it can turn out to be hazardous to not only your home, but to your health too. The 1st step in black mold removal is always to possibly determine how and why it truly is happening. The most typical rooms for mold growth are in bathrooms and basements. All those two locations are known for having high amounts of moisture present in them and which is something that might be changed. If your bathroom does not have an exhaust fan, install one. The key is usually to remove the moisture from the room. Perhaps you possibly can get a dehumidifier for your basement. If you might have both of all those deterrents in place, then you might have to obtain a bit far more creative. Lighting can also be a dilemma for mold. Installing brighter lights or light bulbs is usually a slight support in black mold removal at the same time.

After you identify and fix the source of moisture, you'll be able to move on towards the actual black mold removal itself. You could wish to have any kids or family members vacate the property for a while when you take on the challenge. Just before you start, make certain that your windows are open and your residence is ventilated. Also, turn off the air conditioning and heating units too. You do not need to have those people mold spores being distributed into other rooms to cause chaos where there does not have to be chaos. Your black mold removal project ought to be contained to only the affected rooms and not be noticed throughout the residence. After you're ready to begin your black mold removal, you'll find some things to maintain in mind. If the mold is dry, make it wet. Not soaking wet, but mist it so that you can maintain the spores contained. The moment the mist is provided, it is possible to commence the mold removal with soap and water. Use a cloth which you do not mind throwing away after you're finished.

You could wish to wear gloves at the same time and old clothing. Utilizing soap and water is the finest way to start black mold removal, but make sure that that you just use disinfectants instantly afterwards. Even if it looks clean towards the naked eye, people black mold spores do still remain. Use whatever disinfectant you want, but something containing bleach would be ideal. All in all, black mold removal on typical surfaces isn't challenging. It can be time consuming, annoying and frustrating. But, it really is feasible as well as the very best thing which you can do would be to take precautions to ensure that it does not continue to happen. When the proper steps are taken, your black mold removal days will grow to be merely memories!

For more information on black mold removal in Lincolnwood IL follow this link:

https://www.thecleanupguys.com/mold-removalremediation

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Mold Growth and Professional Mold Removal Chicago

Sherm Here!  Got a mold removal issue in your area?  Read this and learn more about Mold Removal Chicago.  Mold removal is essential to keeping a home and the people in it safe, healthy, and comfortable. Mold, mildew, rot, and dust mites can cause serious health issues, including asthma, allergies, eye and respiratory issues, and much more. Mold can also reduce a home's property value and lead to costly structural damage. Continue reading to learn more about rot and how to control, remove, and prevent mold growth in your home.

Mold Can Be Sneaky and Prevalent

Mold affects indoor air quality, and, unfortunately, can grow very quickly. In fact, mold can begin to grow in a home with humidity over 60% in under 48 hours. Mold can even grow and thrive in cold spaces, such as a refrigerator, as long as the temperature is above 40-degrees Fahrenheit. "Hidden" rot can also secretly grow in fiberglass insulation, and behind wallpaper and drywall. Even though you may not be able to visibly see the rot, it doesn't mean that it's not there and causing damage to your home and your health.

Serious Effects of Mold Growth

The presence of mold in a home has many negative effects. People can be exposed to rot through direct skin contact, breathing, or ingestion. Mold exposure can cause a number of health-related issues, including breathing difficulties, asthma and topical skin rash. Black mold is rare but highly-toxic and contains carcinogenic mycotoxins that are linked to certain types of cancer, liver and nervous system damage, and more.

Mold can also cause structural damage and destroy the value of your home-- no one wants to buy or move into a home with a serious mold problem!

Mold growth can also seriously impact your wallet for two reasons: 1) if left in-tact, mold will continue to grow and become increasingly expensive to remove; and 2) due to a rising number of rot-related lawsuits, many home insurance companies now exclude mold insurance from homeowner policies.

Mold Prevention

A simple yet effective way to prevent mold growth is to invest in an energy-efficient dehumidifier. Because mold loves dark, damp, humid spaces, it naturally thrives in basements and crawl spaces. Investing in a dehumidifier can significantly lower your home's humidity levels, making it impossible for mold to grow or survive.

Professional Mold Removal

Mold can be a scary thing, but fortunately, it's not something that is impossible to control or remove. Experts know that mold must have two things to survive and thrive: moisture and humidity. A mold removal specialist can visit your home to identify places where mold is growing or has previously grown.

Such specialists can then thoroughly seal your home so that it is fully waterproofed and protected from future mold growth. If necessary and applicable, the mold removal specialist may also wish to install a crawl space vapor barrier system to protect both your home and your health.

If you suspect mold growth in your basement or other areas of your home, contact a mold removal specialist as soon as possible. Remember: a musty-smelling home is an unsafe home. Take the necessary steps to protect your family and your property by investing in mold removal services today!

Beach Cities Moisture Control is your resource for mold information: prevention and removal! Contact them today for a free estimate for Oxnard, CA mold removal. They also serve all nearby areas!

For more information on Mold Removal Chicago please follow this link:

https://www.thecleanupguys.com/mold-removalremediation

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Samantha_Walton/678326

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When to Call a Mold Remediation Specialist Chicago IL

Hey interested readers!  Sherm here!  Check out this post on mold remediation Chicago. Indoor mold outbreaks can cause wall, furniture, carpet, drapery, book, and important paper document damage. Molds can also cause allergic reactions such as bronchial irritation and asthma attacks. The common molds seen in most home and work environments can actually become a major issue if not addressed quickly.

There are a few steps you can take to help reduce the chances of a mold outbreak happening in your home or business. However, if you have found extensive mold growth already, contact a professional mold remediation company right away to get started on clean-up.

The most important tool you can have in your arsenal against mold growth is knowledge. What is mold? In what types of environments does mold thrive? How can mold colonies be safely removed? Knowing what you're up against will make it that much easier to prevent and treat mold colonies.

What is Mold?

Molds are microscopic fungi that grow in humid environments. Unlike plants that require photosynthesis to thrive, molds survive by secreting enzymes onto the organic matter they are inhabiting and then absorbing the degraded remains of that matter. Because molds don't require a high level of nutrients to survive they can grow on nearly any organic matter, from food products to paper products.

Why Should It Be Removed?

Many people will develop allergic reaction to the spores put off by large mold colonies. If a person touches a mold colony in anyway, there is the chance they could develop a form of dermatophytes, like athlete's foot or jock itch. Mycotoxins are liquid or gaseous compounds secreted by most mold colonies and are considered some of the most toxic chemicals on the planet. If this is ingested, both humans as well as animals can get seriously ill. This is why prompt attention and mold clean-up is necessary.

How Can I Prevent Mold?

To reduce the risk of developing a mold problem, lower the humidity levels in your home or office. Mold spores can live on most any organic matter but they will not survive in dry climates. If you discover a water leak, get it fixed right away. If floods have damaged your home or office, dry the affected area as soon as possible. Every day that goes by in which a mold outbreak is not treated is property lost.

How Can I Tell If I Have a Mold Outbreak?

A professional mold detection service can help you determine if mold has taken up residence in your home or office. However, professional help is not always necessary. Mold spores are easily spotted, even in smaller colonies, and sometimes put off a musky, earthy smell. If parts of your building are cool, dark, and humid, you can be pretty sure you have mold growing there.

Can I Clean It Myself?

If your mold outbreak is fairly small and contained, you may want to try removing the mold yourself. Wet vacuum cleaners can help remove water from floors and carpets quickly, helping to eliminate the chances of a mold outbreak. Once the carpet or upholstery has been cleaned, however, you must also clean the vacuum itself, as mold can accumulate inside the tank and hose. Damp removal, such as scrubbing the affected areas with water and detergent, is simple and easy but not always effective for established mold colonies.

If you do take on mold yourself, be sure to wear protective rubber gloves and a facemask. Also make sure the cleaned area dries quickly to prevent new mold colonies from developing.

When Should I Call a Mold Professional?

If you are uncomfortable with or unsure how to properly treat a mold problem you should hire a mold remediation services. Professionals use advanced mold detection and cleaning technologies to safely clean-up a mold outbreak and restore materials and structures. Once problem areas are detected, trained mold removal experts are able to use advanced HEPA vacuums and chemical treatments to fully rid the area of spores. Some remediation services will even offer to install special dehumidifying systems after the clean up is complete.

If you are experiencing mold problems that go beyond your abilities to handle, research your mold removal options online or contact a professional remediation service.

~Ben Anton, 2008

For more information on mold remediation Chicago follow this link:

https://www.thecleanupguys.com/mold-removalremediation

Mold colony outbreaks can be overwhelming and dangerous. We invite you to checkout Rapid Refile and find out why people call them the industry leader in mold remediation services.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Ben_Anton/29144

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Mold Remediation in Commercial Buildings and Schools in Chicago IL

Hey there!  Sherm here, with valuable information on black mold removal Chicago. Mold can be found almost anywhere. It simply needs oxygen and moisture to flourish. Mold gradually destroys the things it grows on. Controlling moisture and mold minimizes damage to building materials and furnishings, saves money and avoids potential health risks. During mold remediation, it is necessary to clean up mold contamination, not just to kill the mold. Dead mold is still allergenic, and some dead molds are potentially toxic. If a building develops a moisture problem - including roof leaks, landscaping or gutters that direct water into or under the building, and un-vented appliances - it is early detection and the addressing of the moisture problem that aids in controlling mold growth. Mold can eventually cause structural damage to a building if the problem remains unaddressed for a long time.

Identifying the source of the moisture problem is the first step in the mold remediation process. Delayed maintenance or insufficient maintenance can be associated with moisture problems in schools and large buildings. Performing regular building/HVAC inspections and maintenance is an essential part of a prevention plan.

Once the source of the moisture problem is identified and fixed, the following actions are critical in executing an effective mold remediation plan:

• Completely clean up mold and dry water-damaged areas. Mold can hide on the backside of drywall, wallpaper, paneling, the top of ceiling tiles, the underside of carpets and pads, etc.

• Select appropriate cleaning and drying methods for damaged/contaminated materials. Mold can damage building materials and furnishings. Materials and furnishings being saved must be completely clean and dry.

• Carefully contain and remove moldy building materials. Mold-contaminated materials should be placed in a sealed bag before they are removed. This minimizes the dispersion of the mold spores throughout the building.

• Use appropriate Personal Protective Equipment. In the mold remediation process, actions that stir up the mold or spores, such as breaking up wallboard or stripping wallpaper, should only be taken while using protective gear. The airborne spores should not be inhaled or have contact with skin.

• Arrange for outside professional support if necessary.

When managing office buildings or schools the important decision of whether to relocate the occupants must be made. If the building occupants are reporting serious health concerns, consult a health professional. It is best to conduct the mold remediation tasks in hours when the building is not occupied.

Mold remediation is an important investment in the health of the building, its contents and its occupants.

For more information on black mold removal Chicago follow this link:

https://www.thecleanupguys.com/mold-removal-and-remediation

Mold Remediation

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Maggie_Sluder/989902

Bath Fans and Poor Ventilation Equal Attic Mold Removal Chicago

Sherm here!  Got attic mold?  You need advice on Attic Mold Removal Chicago! Throughout the year, attic ventilation is critical element in maintaining attic temperatures. In the summertime, vents help remove excess heat. In the wintertime, air vents prevent the excess moisture from building up and water condensation from accumulating due to the temperature differences between the attic and the floor directly below.

Aside from an actual leak in your roof, the winter months are the time when moisture can lead to the growth of attic mold. During cold weather, warm air from the house can escape to the cold attic area. When warm air meets the cold surface of the roof boards of the floor below, ice crystals and water droplets can form. This moist environment, combined with a food source comprised of wood creates the perfect conditions for attic mold infestation and wood rot.

This problem can be compounded by bathroom exhaust fans that vent directly into the attic or into the soffit areas rather than outside the house. Moisture from bathroom fans is often the source of the attic mold contamination.

A balanced ventilation system is important. Incoming and outgoing air should be equal within the attic. It is important that bathroom fans are insulated around the exiting vent pipe. This helps to prevent moisture from condensing within the pipe - and creating another potential haven for mold to grow.

One of the most common ventilation mistakes is when homeowners combine different ventilation systems. This may occur when incoming air enters into the attic through soffits in the underside of the roof overhang. When these are combined with a different type of exhaust ventilation, problems can occur. For example, combining a ridge vent and a box vent can cause the ridge vent to draft moisture-laden air from the box vent. This can cause a cycle of attic moisture accumulation that can lead to significant damage. Mold releases enzymes that can rot and destroy wood. Exposure to mold can cause a wide range of potential health problems.

There is usually some level of accumulated moisture in your attic. This is usually due to extreme temperature differences between the air temperature outside and the interior attic temperature. If large black or colored areas of mold appear in the attic, it should inspected by a professional. If mold does exist, it can be treated and removed in a way that will prevent future growth.

Getting removing attic mold is important, preventing it in the first place is even more important. Your home's bathroom ventilation and air exhaust should be designed to put moisture as far out and away from your home as possible -no matter the time of year!

For more information on Attic Mold Removal Chicago go here:

https://www.thecleanupguys.com/mold-removalremediation

Call H&H Environmental Construction and Consulting for your New York City mold removal problems. We service Queens, the Bronx and Manhattan mold removal needs.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Harold_Kevin/329542

Attic Mold in Chicago, Why is it Growing Under the Roof? And a Mold Solution

Hey!  Sherm here.  With some tips on attic mold in Chicago. Let's dig into the attic mold and find out why is it growing in your attic.

There are actually several different reasons that might be responsible for the mold to appear under the house roof... and sometimes compromise your perfectly going real estate transaction. The "house selling" is just one of the reasons, why attic evaluation and attic mold treatment (if you're out of luck) should be performed before even putting your house on the market.

Unfortunately, the attic is one of those completely off limits house areas for many homeowners. Whatever happens there, often stays there, without anyone ever noticing it. Therefore, I decided to bring a little House Attic Mold awareness into your daily routines, and hope you'll find it helpful.

Why is mold growing under your roof?

10 major factors that might cause attic mold to grow on your roof decking

1. #1 cause of attic mold growth in cold climates is an inadequate attic ventilation
2. Improperly designed attic ventilation - combination of vents that instead of exchanging the air between exterior and interior, they trap, create pockets of "dead air" which condensates on roof decking during the cold season
3. Dryer / kitchen / bathroom vent discharging into the attic often causes condensation, frost and mold growth on decking surface
4. Inadequate / missing attic floor insulation - allows for heat transfer from your house into the attic area
5. Improperly insulated cathedral ceilings and skylight chases are often contaminated with mold
6. Furnaces and water heaters produce heat and if installed in a poorly ventilated attic (not contained within a dedicated / enclosed area), could be responsible for condensation and mold
7. Plumbing vents open into the attic discharge moisture saturated sewer gases
8. Uninsulated forced air heating system ducts - in cold climates they waste precious energy and increase chances for mold in your attic
9. Poorly insulated ceiling penetrations, attic access panels, kitchen soffits open into the attic, etc.
10. Leaking roof - mold in the attic caused by the failing house roof protecting surface will be usually concentrated in leakage area and below it. However, poor attic ventilation could significantly accelerate mold growth.

Combining just first two items responsible for attic mold could transform your attic into the steamy, mold-contaminated room during the cold season. Any warm air trapped under the roof will cause condensation to form on framing, decking surfaces, and roofing nails creating mold nesting habitat.

Some homes have more than one attic and upper one, usually located above the bedrooms and bathrooms is always more susceptible of being contaminated with mold. Warm air from lower parts of the house will naturally rise up, transfer through the ceiling and all its penetrations into the attic.

Attic mold solution: it has two parts and both must be executed at the same time:

1. Attic mold removal - procedure often depends on the extent of the contamination
2. Correction of factors responsible for attic mold - without it, attic mold will most likely re-appear within one season

Once everything is properly corrected, you won't have to worry about any attic mold growth. However, I still highly recommend to periodically monitor the attic. Since you already know, why is the mold growing in the attic it is time to do some investigation above the ceiling.

Be extremely careful, if you don't feel comfortable with accessing the attic, find somebody else to do it for you!

Pick a cool day for this trip, powerful flashlight and a dust mask. Attic access might be as easy as pulling down folding attic stairs, but sometimes it is a challenge as far as size of an opening and its location.

Shine your light beam above your head and onto the roof decking / framing surface, check carefully areas where attic floor meets the roof, because that's where attic mold usually starts appearing.

If you see no discoloration, clean wood surface with no residue on it, than everything might be OK and you are one of those who don't have to worry about attic mold.

For more information on attic mold in Chicago go here

https://www.thecleanupguys.com/mold-removalremediation

For more valuable information from Dariusz Rudnicki, on how to maintain your real estate property, correct most common problems, and prevent serious disasters by doing repairs the right way, please visit http://www.checkthishouse.com

Dariusz is a licensed Illinois home inspector who has been in this business for over eleven years, crawling through the areas you'd newer expect that even exist in your house... just to let you know that everything is working properly... or not. If you have some attic mold, or any home maintenance related questions, you can always ask him for help.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Dariusz_Rudnicki/269526

Mold Inspection Mold Removal 773-885-8528

10 QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR MOLD INSPECTOR

Not all businesses are created equal. The same can be said about professionals, like mold inspectors. While many mold inspectors are credible, experienced, certified and up to speed on all of the latest industry techniques and practices, others are everything but – and only looking to make money off of a homeowner’s misfortune of discovering (or thinking that they may have discovered) mold growth in the home.

Most of the time, you can separate the good inspectors and remediation companies from the bad ones by simply browsing their website or doing some research on consumer-oriented sites like Angie’s List. But aside from this background vetting, it’s never a bad idea to get a feel for their qualifications for yourself as well, whether it’s over the phone or in person at a mold estimate appointment. With that being said, here’s a look at 10 questions to ask your mold inspector so you know you’re not getting ripped off:

ARE YOU FAMILIAR WITH THE IICRC S520?

The IICRC, or International Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification, has published the S520 standard – its official reference guide for mold remediation. While mold inspectors aren’t required by law to follow this, the credible ones generally do. The IICRC is a leading trade association serving cleaning and restoration/remediation professionals.

Chicago Mold Facts and Information

ARE YOU WRT OR AMRT CERTIFIED?

WRT, or water restoration technician, and AMRT, or applied microbial remediation technician, are two certifications offered by the aforementioned IICRC. Ideally, your mold inspector should have both, but in this case, the AMRT one is more important. Such certifications require continuing education credits to uphold.

ARE YOU A CIE?

In addition to the above certifications, ask if your mold inspector is a CIE, or a certified indoor environmentalist. This is another credible title to have in the industry.

ARE YOU GOING TO TEST/SAMPLE THE MOLD?

If you simply want the mold remediated, there’s really no reason why mold has to be tested to determine what species it is. All molds are removed by the same technologies. So if they’re planning to send the mold out for testing, it could end up costing you extra. Sampling/testing is recommended, however, if you’re unsure if a certain substance is mold or if you smell a musky odor that you think may be mold, but aren’t sure where it is coming from.

WHERE DOES THE SAMPLE GO TO BE TESTED?

If they say “we buy test kits from the local hardware store,” then run. The most credible inspectors have testing labs that they do their work out of.

DO YOU ALSO REMEDIATE THE MOLD?

Some mold professionals or mold companies inspect and remediate mold, though there are some exceptions to avoid conflict of interest. If a mold inspector simply does the inspection, make sure they can recommend you to a qualified company for the remediation.

WHAT TECHNOLOGIES DO YOU USE TO REMEDIATE MOLD?

Generally speaking, mold professionals either remediate using mold-killing and removing chemicals or via media blasting. If a mold inspector tells you anything different, make sure it’s legit.

WHAT OTHER SERVICES DO YOU PROVIDE?

Most good remediation companies specialize only in mold inspection or removal, environmental remediation (i.e. asbestos, lead) or related services, like water damage restoration. Anyone who does an abundant of other services (i.e. handyman, HVAC maintenance, landscaping, etc.) may be the sign of a bad company. Just how qualified and specialized are they?

WHAT’S THE COST OF THE INSPECTION?

Get a cost breakdown, from inspection and sampling fees to the cost for remediation (should the inspector or company also perform that work).

HOW CAN I ENSURE THAT THE MOLD WON’T RETURN POST-REMEDIATION?

Most unethical inspectors/companies won’t be able to answer this question. Why? Because as long as they get paid for the work, they don’t care. But good companies will work with you to determine the source of the mold growth and get it resolved to eliminate future problems. Wherever moisture is present, there’s the potential for mold growth – and growth can occur in as little as 24 to 48 hours. Many good companies will offer warranties and guarantees that they’ll not only remove all of the mold, but will have solved your mold problem in a specific area once and for all.

It’s never fun to discover what appears to be mold in your attic, basement or elsewhere in the home. But perhaps just as frustrating is hiring an under-qualified and unethical professional to inspect and remediate it. To get a professional mold remediation company to handle your project, call the services of The CleanUP Guys in Chicago.

Get Rid of Mold 773-885-8528

10 QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR MOLD INSPECTOR

Not all businesses are created equal. The same can be said about professionals, like mold inspectors. While many mold inspectors are credible, experienced, certified and up to speed on all of the latest industry techniques and practices, others are everything but – and only looking to make money off of a homeowner’s misfortune of discovering (or thinking that they may have discovered) mold growth in the home.

Most of the time, you can separate the good inspectors and remediation companies from the bad ones by simply browsing their website or doing some research on consumer-oriented sites like Angie’s List. But aside from this background vetting, it’s never a bad idea to get a feel for their qualifications for yourself as well, whether it’s over the phone or in person at a mold estimate appointment. With that being said, here’s a look at 10 questions to ask your mold inspector so you know you’re not getting ripped off:

ARE YOU FAMILIAR WITH THE IICRC S520?

The IICRC, or International Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification, has published the S520 standard – its official reference guide for mold remediation. While mold inspectors aren’t required by law to follow this, the credible ones generally do. The IICRC is a leading trade association serving cleaning and restoration/remediation professionals.

Chicago Mold Facts and Information

ARE YOU WRT OR AMRT CERTIFIED?

WRT, or water restoration technician, and AMRT, or applied microbial remediation technician, are two certifications offered by the aforementioned IICRC. Ideally, your mold inspector should have both, but in this case, the AMRT one is more important. Such certifications require continuing education credits to uphold.

ARE YOU A CIE?

In addition to the above certifications, ask if your mold inspector is a CIE, or a certified indoor environmentalist. This is another credible title to have in the industry.

ARE YOU GOING TO TEST/SAMPLE THE MOLD?

If you simply want the mold remediated, there’s really no reason why mold has to be tested to determine what species it is. All molds are removed by the same technologies. So if they’re planning to send the mold out for testing, it could end up costing you extra. Sampling/testing is recommended, however, if you’re unsure if a certain substance is mold or if you smell a musky odor that you think may be mold, but aren’t sure where it is coming from.

WHERE DOES THE SAMPLE GO TO BE TESTED?

If they say “we buy test kits from the local hardware store,” then run. The most credible inspectors have testing labs that they do their work out of.

DO YOU ALSO REMEDIATE THE MOLD?

Some mold professionals or mold companies inspect and remediate mold, though there are some exceptions to avoid conflict of interest. If a mold inspector simply does the inspection, make sure they can recommend you to a qualified company for the remediation.

WHAT TECHNOLOGIES DO YOU USE TO REMEDIATE MOLD?

Generally speaking, mold professionals either remove mold using mold-killing and removing chemicals or via media blasting. If a mold inspector tells you anything different, make sure it’s legit.

WHAT OTHER SERVICES DO YOU PROVIDE?

Most good remediation companies specialize only in mold inspection or removal, environmental remediation (i.e. asbestos, lead) or related services, like water damage restoration. Anyone who does an abundant of other services (i.e. handyman, HVAC maintenance, landscaping, etc.) may be the sign of a bad company. Just how qualified and specialized are they?

WHAT’S THE COST OF THE INSPECTION?

Get a cost breakdown, from inspection and sampling fees to the cost for remediation (should the inspector or company also perform that work).

HOW CAN I ENSURE THAT THE MOLD WON’T RETURN POST-REMEDIATION?

Most unethical inspectors/companies won’t be able to answer this question. Why? Because as long as they get paid for the work, they don’t care. But good companies will work with you to determine the source of the mold growth and get it resolved to eliminate future problems. Wherever moisture is present, there’s the potential for mold growth – and growth can occur in as little as 24 to 48 hours. Many good companies will offer warranties and guarantees that they’ll not only remove all of the mold, but will have solved your mold problem in a specific area once and for all.

It’s never fun to discover what appears to be mold in your attic, basement or elsewhere in the home. But perhaps just as frustrating is hiring an under-qualified and unethical professional to inspect and remediate it. To get a professional mold remediation company to handle your project, call the services of The CleanUP Guys in Chicago.

Toxic Black Mold Facts Chicago IL 773-885-8528

Top 15 Health Problems Caused By Black Mold in Chicago

What Is Black Mold? Why Is Black Mold Toxic?

 

If you are concerned that you may have toxic black mold in your home or business that requires removal, call The CleanUP Guys, (773) 885-8528 or send us an e-mail.

There are many types of mold, including Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Cladosporium.

The most common black mold is Stachybotrys mold, which is a dominant mold that will outgrow other mold species if the conditions are favorable.

Stachybotrys chartarum, also known as Stachybotrys atra, is the most common species of Stachybotrys mold. This mold species often grows indoors, feeding on decaying organic matter with a high cellulose content such as hay, straw, wood chips, and building materials such as ceiling tile, drywall, paper vapor barriers, wallpaper, insulation backing, cardboard boxes, and paper files.

Moisture and a relative humidity of 90% or higher are the ideal conditions for this black mold to begin the germination growth process.

Why Does Black Mold Spread?

When Stachybotrys mold is growing on wet material, the spores do not disperse as easily because the spores are held together by a sticky/slimy coating. When the material dries out or is disturbed, the spores will spread through the air.

The main concern of mold remediation professionals is to prevent the spread of the black mold. This is accomplished through containment, which is the process of creating a poly barrier around the area where the Stachybotrys mold is growing.

This procedure is so important because Stachybotrys spreads by releasing spores. Mold contaminated materials must be removed and disposed of because this mold does not just grow on the surface of the material; it has root-like tendrils called mycelia, meaning it is able to penetrate the surface.

Typically Stachybotrys mold grows in clusters at the end of stem-like structures known as hyphae.

15 Health Problems Caused By Toxic Black Mold

Stachybotrys produces a mycotoxin (i.e., poison from a fungus) named trichothecenes.

Stachybotrys black mold is a health concern because animal studies have shown that one of the major effects of trichothecenes is immuno-suppression.

In fact, even low level exposure can suppress the immune system resulting in bacterial and viral infections, coughing, skin irritation, and other allergic reactions, and there is some speculation that it may even cause cancer.

Listed below are the top 15 health conditions caused when toxic Stachybotrys black mold is inhaled or ingested:

1.   Sore/hoarse throat

2.   Cold and flu symptoms (headaches, slight fever, and muscle aches)

3.   Nosebleeds

4.   Tingling or burning of nose, mouth, and perspiration areas (under the arms or between the legs)

5.   Chronic fatigue

6.   Dizziness

7.   Nausea/vomiting

8.   Memory loss

9.   Attention deficit/concentration problems

10.  Personality changes such as irritability or depression

11.  Neurological disorders such as tremors

12.  Hair loss

13.  Coughing with blood

14.  Bleeding in the lungs (hemosiderosis)

15.  Damage to internal organs including blood, liver, kidneys, and lungs

Concerned about toxic black mold? Call The CleanUP Guys, (773) 885-8528 or send us an e-mail.