5 Common Types of Molds Found in Homes

Posted by Kiran on October 7, 2019

Mold infested property, systems or structures can trigger subject deterioration in addition to harming your health. Most people believe that only older homes are vulnerable to mold infestation and this is a misconception.

Identifying whether your house is infested with mold is ideal, but the knowledge of different types of house molds can help you to take the next action, which can be crucial.

This will help you to save valuable time and effort as you can take precautionary steps to contain or prevent further mold growth prior to reviewing the situation and deciding on whether to hire a mold removal specialist.

This post features five mold types that are commonly observed within households along with the consequences of exposure and some steps to prevent any related hazards.

Alternaria

With a high growth rate in temperatures between 20-25 degree Celsius, Alternaria is a rapid growth mold which matures in just five days. The ability of this mold type to thrive in windy and dry conditions gives way to airborne spread.

The mold growth that you see in your sink or shower can be alternaria. They can grow both indoors and outdoors, usually in damp areas. This mold type can cause asthma and allergic reactions.

Aspergillus fumigates

Aspergillus fumigatus is the most common and dangerous mold type belonging to the Aspergillus mold family. They appear with cotton texture and can be in a combination of blue-green or grey color.

Aspergillus fumigatusis an indoor mold type that usually does not trigger any potential health hazards to humans. However, prolonged exposure can trigger health concerns like respiratory infections and lung inflammation.

Aureobasidium

This mold type commonly affects wooden furniture, walls, and surfaces. This mold variant is identified as pink and black spots that you may observe around windows or painted walls. As they are commonly observed in households, people usually develop allergies, which if left untreated are escalated to other severe reactions.

Chaetomium

Is your house suffering from water damage? If yes, you might come across Chaetomium. Keep an eye out for grayish-green colored mold formation on any substance that contains cellulose. This mold type feeds freely and quickly on materials containing cellulose such as paper, drywall, and fabrics.

This mold type is the common trigger for the musty and old odor within your house.

Cladosporium

Cladosporium is commonly found in carpets and wooden floorboards. The fact that this mold type can thrive in both cool and warm conditions make it more dangerous.

This mold type develops as colonies that trigger airborne spores contributing to its wide and quick spread. Allergies and asthma are the main health concerns that Cladosporium can trigger.

There are more than 1000 different types of molds out there. For an individual without much experience about mold and the related hazards, it is impossible to identify each mold type. If left unchecked, mold can easily become a major hazard within your house. Foresee all these factors and consider performing early water damage and mold checkups for your property at least once a year.

fungus in gypsum ceiling interior building damaged from water leaking

Mold Remediation and Repair in West Palm Beach

Posted by Travis Bumgarner on May 19, 2019

For West Palm Beach homeowners, mold is almost an afterthought once they have restored their residence after a thunderstorm, or another severe weather event. While mold may not be as noticeable as the hole in the roof knocked by 70mph and higher winds, it still costs our fellow Floridians millions of dollars in remediation and repair costs each year.

At Titan Restoration, we step in after mold remediation and repair the damage to West Palm Beach homes. Unless the mold colony grew unnoticed for years, much of what we do is cosmetic, and we can return each home to its original state fairly quickly.

As an example, a cleanup service usually has to dispose of affected drywall and ceiling tiles completely. Our construction specialists can quickly hang new walls and return the interior to a livable condition with privacy in a day or two. As a full-service restoration company, Titan Restoration can also paint and wallpaper the interior, so it looks as it did before the mold. Our design team can also assist homeowners in choosing a new look to match the new construction.

As we work, we understand that our job site is still your home. Each team leader works carefully, so his crew takes every precaution to prevent accidental damage. If there is a lighting fixture that is a valuable antique, or a family treasure passed down three generations, we cover it to prevent paint spills or accidentally striking it with a ladder or scaffolding. If your home has brand new carpeting or wood floors, we cover it with plastic sheeting and drop cloths to avoid spills and tracking in soil from the outside.

As a locally owned company, Titan Restoration construction crews know that we are helping not just customers, but our neighbors with every task. If you need us to hang new walls, paint ceilings, and more to put a mold infestation behind you, call us at 561-345-3751 today to schedule a service call and receive an estimate of services and cost.

Click here for more information about the city of West Palm Beach.

Worried Young Woman With Blue Napkin Looking At Sink Pipe Leakage In Kitchen

Repairing and Restoring West Palm Beach Residential and Commercial Water Damage

Posted by Travis Bumgarner on March 24, 2019

West Palm Beach is one of the most sought after communities on the Florida east coast. The beautiful homes and business fronts that make up our city are often the advertising backdrop for everything from vacation rentals to encouraging movie companies to film in our state.

Despite our reputation for extreme weather events, most water damage repairs for residential and commercial properties in West Palm Beach come from failed plumbing issues. Quickly rebuilding is important to keep costs down and prevent further damage. Titan Restoration Construction does not come in remove water and dry carpets. Our teams specialize in repairing the structure where possible and replacing what is not repairable.

As a licensed, experienced contractor (CGC# 1522221), our personnel starts by fixing the source of the damage. With trained plumbers on staff, we can fix every issue from replacing old, corroded pipes leading to a residential bathroom shower to installing a new eye-wash station pulled away from the wall in an emergency.

Titan Restoration Construction builders can quickly install new walls as well. Leaking pipes or a sprinkler system that soaked a breakroom over a weekend can destroy drywall panels and warp the framing behind them by Monday morning. For our personnel, constructing new wall framing is one of the simpler tasks they perform in many homes or business job sites.

With the new framing in place, team members can swiftly hang new drywall to separate that wide, open area back into the familiar rooms of your facility or residence. We also have experts that can finish out the work with ceiling and floor trim and then paint everything with the color of your choice.

If your home or business has flooding now or if you still need repairs after a cleanup company has removed the water on your floor, call Titan Restoration Construction at 561-345-3751 today. One of our inspectors can quickly determine how we can help you put everything back together.

Click here to learn more about West Palm Beach.

General Contracting Services In Palm Beach Gardens You Can Count On

Posted by Travis Bumgarner on August 16, 2017

Looking for the right contractor to perform work on your property can be rough. There are far too many available in the area, making the decision difficult. However, many of them lack the qualifications you should be looking for, a fully licensed, bonded, and insured expert, with years of experience.

You want someone dedicated to providing your Palm Beach Gardens home with general contracting of the highest quality. Someone who can bring advances in technology into your project that meet building codes and other requirements while providing noticeable differences to even the smallest job. A professional, like those available at TITAN RESTORATION CONSTRUCTION, helps improve the aesthetic appeal of your home as well as making any possible improvements to your living environment. Our contractors understand what it takes to change the temperature and humidity levels of a room making quality changes to improve every aspect of your home.

TITAN RESTORATION CONSTRUCTION provides you with expertly trained personnel who can provide simple repairs or full room additions. We do everything from simple caulking jobs, drywall patches, replacement of broken windows, or installation of screens throughout your property. Our team can replace broken cabinet fronts, rehang doors, and help make it easier to clean and maintain every area of your home.

If you are looking to make improvements, our team specializes in customization. TITAN RESTORATION CONSTRUCTION works with you to perform kitchen or bathroom remodels and make additions to your home that complement any style. You can let your imagination soar, adding a basement, great room, or even a den. Any choices you make can greatly increase the aesthetic and resale value of your home; we work to make your dreams a reality.

Our services involve making you a part of the process. You are an essential partner that makes improvements easier, every step of the way. Get the help you need to address accidents that happen, perform much-needed maintenance, or enhance the overall appearance and functionality of your home, today.

Contact TITAN RESTORATION CONSTRUCTION for access to contractors who work hard to make your dreams a reality. (561) 345-3751

For more information regarding Palm Beach Gardens, click here

Mold Inspection in Boyton Beach

Posted by Travis Bumgarner on June 19, 2017

Why is a mold inspection so critical to your Boyton Beach home? First, there is the physical damage. Even a small mold infestation can cost thousands of dollars in labor costs for demolition and removal of structural and personal property. Add to that, the replacement costs if the mold goes undetected or untreated for too long.

Then there is the health concern. Mold does not cause respiratory problems for everyone, but for residents with a pre-existing condition like asthma; it keeps them out of the home until a restoration company removes the mold damage threat. Only after that can the rebuilding of your home begin.

At Titan Restoration, this is where we come in. There are many choices when it comes to hiring a company to inspect and clean your home. There are very few, however, that are licensed, insured, and bonded with the State of Florida to rebuild your home, sometimes from the ground up.

Depending on the size of a room, our team can lay a new wooden floor in a matter of days. For large, open areas like a foyer, the task may require two or three weeks. We can install a new vinyl or laminate flooring in your kitchen just as fast, and a new carpet takes our experts only a day or two to stretch and install depending on the shape and size of the area.

Since we have licensed carpenters on the payroll, not only can we rebuild your home, we can also make it better. Moving interior walls around is simple for us. As long as your plans do not compromise the structural integrity of support beams, we can reframe the walls to make the living room larger, expand the kitchen a bit, create a walk-in closet, or turn a bedroom into an office with floor-to-ceiling bookcases.

When it comes to roofs, our crews are experts when it comes to replacing roof panels and laying new tile across the entire surface if needed. Unlike other restoration companies, we also have the equipment and skills to remove and replace the center beam if necessary. Our crews can also install clean insulation and hang an entirely new rain gutter and drainage system if needed.

Rebuilding your home starts with hiring a professional, licensed service. Titan Restoration has the experience and personnel to not just return your home to its pre-mold state but to also make a little better as well. If you are removing mold or other damaged property now, call us today at 561-345-3751 to get started.

For more information regarding Boyton Beach, click here

Building inspection checklist home delray

Commercial Site Condemned? Restoration can Save Your Investment and Much More in Delray

Posted by Travis Bumgarner on March 1, 2017

It sometimes happens that building inspections create problems for business owners. Changing regulations and building codes can work against those who own older buildings. An angry employee can also create problems that result in a condemned building notice.

Business owners in Delray can bring their building back up to code and have condemned orders removed with commercial restoration. Titan Restoration Construction ensures that all issues in the condemned order are addressed. Repairing broken water lines, rewiring substandard electrical outlets, rebuilding stairwells for increased safety, and other minor repairs are often all that is needed.

When restoration requires more intense work, we are also ready. No job is too large or complicated for Titan. Poured concrete walls with reinforcements can replace current ones that suffer from disintegration, roofs with shingles that have failed can be removed, allowing the roof to be reshingled and restored, destroyed concrete blocks can be disposed of, and new ones can be installed.

For cases where damage has contributed to the condemnation of a building, we have partnered with SERVPRO. After they have removed any smoke, fire, water, or mold damage, we will restore your entire building to a state that is at or above the requirements of code regulations.

We work with all mediums and in all types of commercial enterprises. We already have the proper protective gear required, and the equipment your facility needs no matter how extensive the work required. We want your business to remain operational. We know that your business’s health depends on this, and on us. We always work quickly so that your time spent in a closed-down state remains at a minimum.

Demolition does not need to be in your company’s future. Choosing to rebuild and restore can also continue traditions that were started at your company, and preserve a part of the history of the area in which your building is located.

Call TITAN RESTORATION CONSTRUCTION for any restoration work you need at 561-345-3751. We know how important your business is, not only to you but also to your employees and their families.

Water Damage

Posted by Travis Bumgarner on May 27, 2014

Do you have a backed up drain, water supply that is leaking, or has your neighborhood flooded into your home?

We quickly remedy all of these issues as well as leaking roofs, shower pans, toilets, flooding from a storm, or damage from a ceiling fire sprinkler system, as well as any other sort of water damage risk a home or business owner may encounter. Rest assure that Titan Restoration is more than equipped to properly extract, cleanup, & properly rebuild and reconstruct what ever damage there has been due to water.

We offer 24 hour & emergency services for water cleanup, extraction, and emergency repairs including Insurance claims and personal pay.

More Information on Water Damage

Water damage restoration is the process of restoring a property back to pre-loss condition after sustaining any level of water damage. While there are currently no government regulations in the United States dictating procedures, two large certifying bodies, the IICRC and the RIA, do recommend standards of care. Most companies use the IICRC procedural standard, which is the S500. It is based on reliable restoration principles, research and practical experience with extensive consultation and information gathered from numerous sources. These include the scientific community, the international, national and regional trade associations serving the disaster restoration industry, chemical formulators and equipment manufacturers, cleaning and restoration schools, restoration service companies, the insurance industry, allied trades persons and others with specialized experience. The S500 water damage guide is subject to further revision as developments occur in technology, testing and processing procedures.

The IICRC S500 provides a specific set of practical standards for water damage restoration. It does not attempt to teach comprehensive water damage restoration procedures, rather it provides the foundation and basic principles of proper restoration practices. Prior to specifying the job scope and procedures, the S500 must be reviewed. This is important so that the individual circumstances of each restoration job is taken into account. Users of the S500 must be in pace with technology and follow all rules and regulations of a country whether it may be federal, state, provincial or local law. Federal, State and local laws might also determine who can do the water damage restoration assessment and who can authorize remediation procedures. In British Columbia (Canada) the Insurance Council of British Columbia has determined that an Insurance Adjuster working for an Insurer (to mitigate a loss or potential loss) can authorize restoration efforts on private property even though it may not be a covered peril; but, the Adjuster is not accountable for the outcome of any restoration effort, even if the Insured party was, or could be, knowingly placed in harms way. Each case of a water damage may be unique and common sense may require deviation from the S500.

Loss assessment and evaluation

A professional water damage restoration service will document the materials which were affected by the water damage and refer to industry standard pricing guides in order to determine the proper value of the residence’s materials lost and their service.

Water damage services include the inspection of the affected area(s) with water sensing equipment such as probes and other infrared tools in order to determine the source of the damage, and possible extent of area affected. Restoration services would then be rendered to the residence in order to dry the structure, sanitize any affected or cross contaminated areas, and deodorize all affected areas and materials. After the labor is completed, water damage equipment including, but not limited to, air movers, air scrubbers, dehumidifiers, wood floor drying systems, and sub floor drying equipment is left in the residence. After a period of two to three days after the labor is completed, a reevaluation of the residence is taken to monitor the drying process, and any equipment not further needed is removed as to keep the charges under control.

Categorization

Water, under the IICRC’s S-500 Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Water Damage Restoration, has been broken off into three categories. These categories are based upon the level of contamination present, or presumed present, in the source water.

Category 1 is water from a clean or sanitary source. Previously known as clear water, this descriptor has since been removed to reduce confusion. These can include water from broken clean water supply lines; clean water from toilet tank or bowl; faucets; and bottled water. Although the source may be from a clean source, category 1 water can quickly degrade into category 2 or 3 depending upon such factors as time, temperature, and contact with contaminants.

Category 2 is water with some level of contaminants that could cause discomfort or illness if ingested. Previously known as grey water, this descriptor has since been removed to avoid confusion. Sources for category 2 water may include washing machine overflow; toilet overflow with some urine, but no feces; dishwasher overflow. Category 2 water can quickly degrade into category 3 depending upon such factors as time, temperature, and contact with contaminants.

Category 3 water is grossly unsanitary, and could cause severe illness or death if ingested. Previously known as black water, this descriptor has since been removed to avoid confusion. Sources for category 3 water include, but are not limited to, sewage; flooding from rivers or streams; Wind driven rain, water from beyond the toilet trap; water from the toilet bowl with feces; and standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

Classifications

Water damage is classified into one of the following classes:^[1]

Class 1 Water Damage – (least amount of water, absorption and evaporation): Water losses that affect only part of a room or area, or larger areas containing materials that have absorbed minimal moisture. Little or no wet carpet and/or cushion are present.

Class 2 Water Damage – (large amount of water, absorption and evaporation): Water losses that affect at least an entire room or carpet and cushion(pad). Water has wicked up walls less than 24”. There is moisture remaining in structural materials (e.g., plywood, particleboard, structural wood, concrete).

Class 3 Water Damage – (greatest amount of water, absorption and evaporation): Water wicked up over 24″, or water may have come from overhead affecting ceilings, walls, insulation, carpet, cushion and sub-floor. The entire area are saturated.

Class 4 Water Damage – (Specialty Drying Situations): These consist of wet materials with very low permeance/porosity (hardwood, plaster, brick, concrete, stone). Typically, there are deep pockets of saturation, which requires very low specific humidity.

Principles in drying

Structural and contents consideration

When working within a residence, it is often the case that those who are performing the water damage restoration must work with and around the contents of the home. This includes, but is not limited to, furniture, electronics, books, and any other materials that may have been affected by the water damage. The moving around of the said contents is often referred to “contents manipulation.” Water damage restoration firms often bill content manipulation on a per hour basis.

Contents may also require treatment due to the effects of water damage. This may include, but is not limited to,sterilization, sanitization, deodorization, drying, and storing of said contents. Other contents may simply be unsalvageable or the cost of having it salvaged would exceed its current value. In these cases, the contents would be discarded.

Monitoring

It is important to be proactive in the monitoring process. Many questions have to be asked and answered: Is the drying equipment set up properly? Are the personnel qualified to adjust equipment placement and conduct new techniques? Are the machines in good working order and are they maintained properly? Perform a background check and ask for references prior to hiring a contractor to restore your dwelling back to its pre-loss state.

After the water has been extracted and any non-salvageable materials have been removed, water damage professionals should place drying equipment according to industry guidelines for capacity in the affected areas. Industry standards state that drying vendors should return to the residence at regular time intervals, preferably every twenty-four hours, to monitor the equipment, temperature, humidity, and moisture content of the affected walls, contents, or other affected materials. Should one area be dry and another affected area still wet, the firm will relocate or remove equipment accordingly.

Completion

Once the temperature, humidity, and moisture content is deemed acceptable and safe according to industry standards, the water damage restoration equipment would be removed and the water damage restoration process would be complete.

Some homeowners, property managers, building maintenance operators use their own personnel to perform water damage restoration to save on the growing costs, it is prescribed to hire a professional water damage restoration company to perform these services since there are defining criteria and methods to be used for assessing water damage and establishing restoration procedures. Because of the unique circumstances of every water damage restoration project, it is impractical to issue blanket rules intended to a situation. In extenuating circumstance, deviation from portions of the S500 may be appropriate. In performing a job, carelessness is never acceptable and common sense should always prevail.

References

IICRC S500 standard for Professional Water Damage Restoration.

Mold Remediation

Posted by Travis Bumgarner on March 14, 2013

Molds are ubiquitous in nature, and mold spores are a common component of household and workplace dust. However, when spores are present in large quantities, they are a health hazard to humans, potentially causing allergic reactions and respiratory problems.

Some molds also produce mycotoxins that can pose serious health risks to humans and animals. The term “toxic mold” refers to molds that produce mycotoxins, such as Stachybotrys chartarum, not to all molds.^[1] Exposure to high levels of mycotoxins can lead to neurological problems and in some cases death. Prolonged exposure, e.g., daily workplace exposure, can be particularly harmful.

Symptoms of mold exposure

Symptoms of mold exposure can include:^[2]

Nasal and sinus congestion, runny nose
Eye irritation, such as itchy, red, watery eyes
Respiratory problems, such as wheezing and difficulty breathing, chest tightness
Cough
Throat irritation
Skin irritation, such as a rash
Headache
Sneezing/Sneezing fits

Health effects linking to asthma

Infants may develop respiratory symptoms as a result of exposure to a specific type of fungal mold, called Penicillium. Signs that an infant may have mold-related respiratory problems include (but are not limited to) a persistent cough and/or wheeze. Increased exposure increases the probability of developing respiratory symptoms during their first year of life. Studies have shown that a correlation exists between the probability of developing asthma and increased exposure Penicillium. The levels are deemed no mold to low level, from low to intermediate, from intermediate to high.^[3]

Mold exposures have a variety of health effects depending on the person, some people are more sensitive to mold than others. Exposure to mold can cause a number of health issues such as; throat irritation, nasal stuffiness, eye irritation, cough and wheezing, as well as skin irritation in some cases. Exposure to mold may also cause heightened sensitivity depending on the time and nature of exposure. People at higher risk for mold allergies are people with chronic lung illnesses, which will result in more severe reactions when exposed to mold.

There has been sufficient evidence that damp indoor environments are correlated with upper respiratory tract symptoms such as; coughing, and wheezing in people with asthma.^[4]

Causes & growing conditions

Molds are found everywhere inside and outside, and can grow on almost any substance when moisture is present. Molds reproduce by spores, which can be carried by air currents. When these spores land on a moist surface that is suitable for life, they begin to grow. Mold is normally found indoors at levels that do not affect most healthy individuals.

Because common building materials are capable of sustaining mold growth, and mold spores are ubiquitous, mold growth in an indoor environment is typically related to water or moisture indoors. Mold growth may also be caused by incomplete drying of flooring materials such as concrete. Flooding, leaky roofs, building maintenance problems, or indoor plumbing problems can lead to mold growth inside. Interior moisture vapor commonly condenses on surfaces cooler than the moisture containing air which enables mold to flourish.^[5] This moisture vapor passes through walls, ceilings and condenses typically in the winter months in climates where the heating cycle is extended. Floors over crawlspaces and basements (without vapor barriers or with dirt floors) are also problem areas. (The “doormat test” is very good at detecting moisture vapor emanating from under concrete slabs that are missing a sub-slab vapor barrier.^[6] )

For significant mold growth to occur, there must be a source of water (which could be invisible humidity), a source of food and a substrate capable of sustaining growth. Common building materials, such as plywood, drywall, furring strips, carpets, and carpet padding are food for molds. In carpet, invisible dust and cellulose are the food sources (see also dust mites). After a single incident of water damage occurs in a building, molds grow inside walls and then become dormant until a subsequent incident of high humidity; this illustrates how mold can appear to be a sudden problem, long after a previous flood or water incident that did not produce such a problem. The right conditions reactivate mold. Studies also show that mycotoxin levels are perceptibly higher in buildings that have once had a water incident (source: CMHC).

Although this home suffered only minor exterior damage from Hurricane Katrina, small leaks and inadequate air flow permitted this mold infestation.

Spores need three things to grow into mold:

Nutrients: Cellulose is a common food for spores in an indoor environment. It is the part of the cell wall of green plants.
Moisture: Moisture is required to begin the decaying process caused by the mold.
Time: Mold growth begins between 24 hours and 10 days from the provision of the growing conditions. There is no known way to date mold.

Mold colonies can grow inside building structures. The main problem with the presence of mold in buildings is the inhalation of mycotoxins. Molds may produce an identifiable smell. Growth is fostered by moisture. After a flood or major leak, mycotoxin levels are higher in the building even after it has dried out (source: CMHC).

Food sources for molds in buildings include cellulose-based materials, such as wood, cardboard, and the paper facing on both sides of drywall, and all other kinds of organic matter, such as soap, fabrics, and dust containing skin cells. If a house has mold, the moisture may be from the basement or crawl space, a leaking roof, or a leak in plumbing pipes behind the walls. People residing in a house also contribute moisture through normal breathing and perspiration. Insufficient ventilation can further enable moisture build-up. Visible mold colonies may form where ventilation is poorest, and on perimeter walls, because they are coolest, thus closest to the dew point.

If there are mold problems in a house only during certain times of the year, then it is probably either too air-tight, or too drafty. Mold problems occur in airtight homes more frequently in the warmer months (when humidity reaches high levels inside the house, and moisture is trapped), and occur in drafty homes more frequently in the colder months (when warm air escapes from the living area into unconditioned space, and condenses). If a house is artificially humidified during the winter, this can create conditions favorable to mold. Moving air may prevent mold from growing since it has the same desiccating effect as lowering humidity. Molds grow best in warm temperatures, 77 to 86 °F (25 to 30 °C), though some growth may occur anywhere between 32 and 95 °F (0 and 35 °C).^[7]

Removing one of the three requirements for mold reduces or eliminates the new growth of mold. These three requirements are:

Moisture
Food source for the mold spores (dust, dander, etc.)
Warmth (mold generally does not grow in cold environments).

HVAC systems can create all three requirements for significant mold growth. The A/C system creates a difference in temperature that allows/causes condensation to occur. The high rate of dusty air movement through an HVAC system may create ample sources of food for the mold. And finally, since the A/C system is not always running – the ability for warm conditions to exist on a regular basis allows for the final component for active mold growth.

Because the HVAC system circulates air contaminated with mold spores and sometimes toxins, it is vital to prevent any three of the environments required for mold growth. A) Highly effective return air filtration systems are available that eliminate up to 99.9% of dust accumulation (as compared to 5% elimination by typical HVAC air filters). These newer filtration systems usually require modification to existing HVAC systems to allow for the larger size of electrostatic 99.9% filters. However, thorough cleaning of the HVAC system is required before usage of high efficiency filtration systems will help. Once mold is established, the mold growth and dust accumulation must be removed. B) Insulation of supply air ducts helps to reduce or eliminate the condensation that ultimately creates the moisture required for mold growth. This insulation should be placed externally on the air ducts, because internal insulation provides a dust capture and breeding ground for mold.

Assessment

The first step in an assessment is to determine if mold is present. This is done by visually examining the premises. If mold is growing and visible this helps determine the level of remediation that is necessary. If mold is actively growing and is visibly confirmed, sampling for specific species of mold is unnecessary.^[8]

These methods, considered non-intrusive, only detect visible and odor-causing molds. Sometimes more intrusive methods are needed to assess the level of mold contamination. This would include moving furniture, lifting and/or removing carpets, checking behind wallpaper or paneling, checking in ventilation duct work, opening and exposing wall cavities, etc.

Careful detailed visual inspection and recognition of moldy odors should be used to find problems needing correction. Efforts should focus on areas where there are signs of liquid moisture or water vapor (humidity) or where moisture problems are suspected. The investigation goals should be to locate indoor mold growth to determine how to correct the moisture problem and remove contamination safely and effectively.

Sampling

In general the EPA does not recommend sampling unless an occupant of the space is symptomatic. When sampling is necessary it should be performed by a trained professional who has specific experience in designing mold-sampling protocols, sampling methods, and the interpretation of findings. Sampling should only be conducted to answer a pertinent question: examples “what is the spore concentration in the air”, or “is a particular species of fungi present in the building.” The following additional question should be asked before sampling: “what action can or should a person take upon obtaining data.”

The sampling and analysis should follow the recommendations of Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA). Most importantly, when a sample is taken the proper chain of custody should be adhered to. The AIHA offers lists of accredited laboratories that submit to required quarterly proficiency testing.

Three types of sampling include but are not limited to::

Air sampling: the most common form of sampling to assess the level of mold. Sampling of the inside and outdoor air is conducted and the results to the level of mold spores inside the premises and outside are compared. Often, air sampling will provide positive identification of the existence of non-visible mold.
Surface samples: sampling the amount of mold spores deposited on indoor surfaces (tape, and dust samples)
Bulk samples: the removal of materials from the contaminated area to identify and determine the concentration of mold in the sample.

When sampling is conducted, all three types are recommended by the AIHA, as each sample method alone has specific limitations. For example, air samples will not provide proof of a hidden source of mold. Nor would a tape sample provide the level of contamination in the air.^[9]

Though it may not be recommended, air sampling following mold remediation is usually the best way to ascertain efficacy of remediation, when conducted by a qualified third party.^[10]

Remediation

The first step in solving an indoor mold problem is stopping the source of moisture. Next is to remove the mold growth. Common remedies for small occurrences of mold include:

Sunlight
Ventilation
Wall insulation/Dry Wall
Non-porous building materials
Household cleansers
Dehumidifiers

There are many ways to prevent mold growth; see heating, ventilating, improved insulation and air conditioning. There are also cleaning companies that specialize in fabric restoration – a process by which mold and mold spores are removed from clothing to eliminate odor and prevent further mold growth and damage to the garments.

Improper methods for cleaning mold include exposure to high heat, dry air, sunlight (particularly UV light), ozone, and application of fungicides. These methods may render the mold non-viable, however, the mold and its by-products can still elicit negative health effects. As noted in following sections, the only proper way to clean mold is to use detergent solutions that physically remove mold. Many commercially available detergents marketed for mold clean-up also include an anti-fungal agent.

Significant mold growth may require professional mold remediation to remove the affected building materials and eradicate the source of excess moisture. In extreme cases of mold growth in buildings, it may be more cost-effective to condemn the building rather than clean the mold to safe levels.

The goal of remediation is to remove or clean contaminated materials in a way that prevents the emission of fungi and dust contaminated with fungi from leaving a work area and entering an occupied or non-abatement area, while protecting the health of workers performing the abatement.^[11]

Cleanup and removal methods

The purpose of the clean-up process is to eliminate the mold and fungal growth and to remove contaminated materials. As a general rule, simply killing the mold with a biocide is not enough. The mold must be removed since the chemicals and proteins, which cause a reaction in humans, are still present even in dead mold.

Evaluating mold exposures

Before beginning mold remediation you should make sure you assess the area infected with mold to ensure safety, you clean up the entire moldy area, and properly approach the mold.^[8]

Assess the area infected with mold, checking for any hidden mold
Fix moisture problems before you remove and clean up the moldy area to prevent future mold growth issues
If the area of mold is large you should get a remediation manager to properly dispose of the mold
Be sure to identify the source of water or moisture that caused the mold growth to begin with
Check all air ducts, ventilation systems and air handling units so that the mold problems do not persist in the indoor environment
Consult a qualified professional if you have any problems or if you are not confident that you can properly remove all mold or sources of mold growth

Cleaning recommendations

These steps should always be done by a trained professional.^[12]

First, make sure to remove any object near the insulation system that may have been contaminated from floodwater. Properly dispose of the contaminated materials according to your local, state, and Federal regulations. (The insulation you might removed may be contaminated with asbestos. Always make sure to call a trained professional to avoid serious injury or death)
Make sure to remove the contaminated HVAC filter media to ensure your HVAC system is not bringing in contaminated air. Make sure to dispose of it reading the same regulations listed above.
Remove any debris and insulation; clean all components of the HVAC system to ensure nothing becomes contaminated and/or more contaminated from floodwater. Use a HEPA-filtered vacuum, cleaner to make sure you get rid of all the debris, dirt, and microorganisms. Pay special attention to the drain pans, filter areas, curves, and air ducts since debris often collects in these places.
Disinfect all components of the HVAC system after turning off the HVAC system. To clean use 1 cup of normal household chlorine bleach mixed with a gallon of water, do not mix this with cleaning products containing ammonia.
Be sure to use fans to create filtration by blowing the contaminated air outdoors, to protect the health of the workers.
After cleaning all components with bleach rinse with clean water to eliminate the potent bleach smells.
- Important: You must remove and properly discard the HVAC components that are contaminated with floodwater to prevent the growth of mold if it cannot be cleaned, and replace them with new components.
After the HVAC has been properly cleaned and disinfected, replace the insulation in the HVAC system with an external, smooth-surfaced insulation to prevent future floodwater contamination.
To ensure safety have your HVAC system tested by a qualified professional before you begin using your HVAC system again.

What to wear when removing mold

When cleaning up mold it is important to avoid breathing in mold or mold spores, as this can have major health implications. To avoid airborne mold exposure you should wear a respirator to protect your lungs. Half-face or full-face respirators have removable cartridges that will stop the mold spores from entering your nose or mouth. A full-face respirator will also protect your eyes. Be sure to follow the directions carefully, if it does not fit properly or is not put on correctly it may be ineffective.

Filters used with the respirator should ideally be rated P-100. Some cartridges also come with an activated carbon element. The carbon helps to remove the odor given off by mold and mildew.

Protective clothing should also be worn. Disposable hazmat coveralls are available to keep out particles down to one micrometer. Protective suits keep mold spores from entering any cuts on the skin.

Next be sure to wear gloves to ensure protection from mold. You should wear gloves made of rubber, nitrile, polyurethane, or neoprene so that no mold or disinfectant materials get through to your skin.

If a half-face respirator mask is used, goggles should be worn to keep mold spores from entering the mucus membrane and propagating. Appropriate goggles should not have ventilation holes so that no mold particles will get in. Full face respirators have an advantage here as the air breathed in is directed to the inside of the lens first which keeps it from fogging as you work.^[8]^[11]

Dry brushing or agitation device

These systems are known for the removal of the biological material in the ductwork that the mold spores feed upon. A good brushing or agitation machine will break the static bond and remove the hard and soft debris in the ductwork. Dry brushing introduces nothing foreign into the HVAC system and is the only system that sweeps all surfaces.

Dry ice blasting

Recently, some companies have begun using dry ice blasting to remove mold from suitable surfaces, such as wood and cement. Soda Blasting is also a good method to remove the mold. Media Blasting, which removes mold is a preferred method to encapsulation, which only cover the mold.

Vacuum

Wet vacuum cleaners are designed to remove water from floors, carpets and other hard surfaces where water has accumulated. Wet vacuuming should only be used on wet materials, as spores may be exhausted into the indoor environment if insufficient liquid is present. After use, this equipment must be thoroughly cleaned and dried as spores can adhere to the inner surfaces of the tank, hoses, and other attachments.

Damp wipe

Damp wipe is the removal of mold from non-porous surfaces by wiping or scrubbing with water and a detergent. Care must be exercised to make sure the material is allowed to quickly dry to discourage any further mold growth. With surfaces such as metal, glass, hardwood, plastics, and concrete, mold should be scraped off as much as possible. Then, scrub the surface with a moldicide or fungicide cleaner.^{[citation needed]}

HEPA vacuum

High Efficiency Particulate Air filtered vacuum cleaners are used in the final cleanup of remediation areas after materials have been thoroughly dried and all contaminated materials have been removed. HEPA vacuum cleaners are recommended for the cleanup of the outside areas surrounding the remediation area. During this process the workers wear proper personal protective equipment (PPE) to prevent exposure to mold and other contaminants. The collected debris and dust should be stored in impervious bags or containers in a manner to prevent any release of debris.

Disposal of debris and damaged materials

Building materials and furnishings contaminated with mold should be placed into impervious bags or closed containers while in the remediation area. These materials can usually be discarded as regular construction waste.

Equipment

Several types of equipment may be used in the remediation process and may include:

Moisture meter: a tool that measures the moisture level in building materials. It can also be used to measure the progress of the drying of damaged materials. Pin moisture meters have a small probe that is inserted into the material. Pinless moisture meters usually have a flat sensing area that is pressed directly against the material’s surface. Moisture meters can be used on carpet, wallboard, woods, brick, and other masonry.
Humidity gauge: measures the amount of humidity in the indoor environment. Often gauges are paired with a thermometer to measure the temperature.
Borescope: a hand-held tool that allows the user to see potential mold problems inside walls, ceilings, crawl spaces, and other tight spaces. It consists of a camera on the end of a flexible “snake”. No major drilling or cutting of dry wall is required.
Digital camera: used to document findings during assessment.
Personal protective equipment (PPE): includes respirators, gloves, impervious suit, and eye protection. These items can be used during the assessment and remediation processes.
Thermographic camera : Infrared thermal imaging cameras are often used (and effective) in addition to moisture meters to double check moisture meter findings, and look at the broader picture. They help mainly in identifying auxiliary points of moisture intrusion.

Protection levels

During the remediation process, the level of contamination dictates the level of protection for the remediation workers. The levels of contamination are described as Levels I, II, III, and IV. Each has specific requirements for worker safety. The levels are as follows:^[13]^[14]

Level I

Small Isolated Areas (10 sq ft (0.93 m²) or less) for example, ceiling tiles, small areas on walls.

Remediation can be conducted by the regular building staff as long as they are trained on proper clean-up methods, personal protection, and potential hazards. This training can be performed as part of a program to comply with the requirements of OSHA Hazard Communication Standard ( 29 CFR 1910.1200).
Respiratory protection (for example, N-95 disposable respirator) is recommended. Respirators must be used in accordance with the OSHA respiratory protection standard (29 CFR 1910.134). Gloves and eye protection should also be worn.
The work area should be unoccupied. Removing people from spaces adjacent to the work area is not necessary, but is recommended for infants (less than 12 months old), persons recovering from recent surgery, immune-suppressed, or people with respiratory diseases.
Containment of the work area is not necessary. However, misting and dust suppression is recommended.
Contaminated materials that cannot be cleaned should be removed from the building in sealed impermeable plastic bags and disposed of as ordinary waste.
The work area(s) used by workers for access/egress should be cleaned with a damp cloth or mop and a detergent.
All areas should be left dry and visibly free of contamination and debris.

Level II

Mid-sized Isolated Areas (10-30 sq ft) – for example, individual wallboard panels.

Remediation can be conducted by the regular building staff as long as they are trained as for Level I. Respiratory protection, occupation of the work and adjacent areas, and handling of contaminated materials are the same as for Level I.
Surfaces in the work area that could become contaminated should be covered with sheet(s) of plastic that are secured in place. This should be done prior to any remediation process to prevent further contamination.
Dust suppression methods, such as misting (not soaking) surface prior to remediation, are recommended.
The work area(s) used by workers for access/egress should be HEPA vacuumed and cleaned with a damp cloth or mop and a detergent.
As with Level I, all areas should be left dry and visibly free of contamination and debris.

Level III

Large Isolated Areas (30-100 sq ft) – e.g., several wallboard panels

Industrial hygienists or other environmental health and safety professionals with experience performing microbial investigations and/or mold remediation should be consulted prior to remediation activities to provide oversight for the project.
It is recommended that personnel be trained in the handling of hazardous materials and equipped with respiratory protection (N-95 disposable respirator). Respirators must be used in accordance with OSHA respiratory protection standard (29 CFR 1910.134) Gloves and eye protection should also be worn.
Surfaces in the work area and areas directly adjacent that could become contaminated should be covered with a secured plastics sheet(s) before remediation to contain dust/debris and prevent further contamination.
Seal ventilation ducts/grills in the work area and areas directly adjacent with plastic sheeting.
The work area and areas directly adjacent should be unoccupied. Removing people from spaces adjacent to the work area is not necessary, but is recommended for infants (less than 12 month old), persons recovering from recent surgery, immune-suppressed or people with respiratory diseases.
Dust suppression methods, such as misting (not soakings) surface prior to remediation, are recommended.
Contaminated materials that cannot be cleaned should be removed from the building in sealed impermeable plastic bags and disposed of as ordinary waste.
The work area/areas used by workers for access/egress should be HEPA vacuumed and cleaned with a damp cloth or mop and a detergent.
All areas should be left dry and visibly free from contamination and debris.

Level IV

Extensive Contamination (greater than 100 contiguous sq. ft in an area).

Personnel trained in handling of hazardous materials and equipped with:
- Full face respirators with HEPA cartridges
- Disposable protective clothing covering the entire body including the head, shoes and hands
Containment of the affected area:
- Complete isolation of the work area from occupied spaces using plastic sheeting sealed with duct tape ( including ventilation duct/grills, fixtures, and other openings
The use of an exhaust fan with a HEPA filter to generate negative pressurization, a decontamination room, and airlocks
Contaminated materials that cannot be cleaned should be removed from the building in sealed impermeable plastic bags and disposed of as ordinary waste.
The contained area and decontamination room should be HEPA vacuumed and cleaned with a damp cloth or mopped with a detergent solution and be visibly clean prior to the removal of any isolation barrier.

In conclusion, after the moisture source has been eliminated and the mold growth removed, the premises should be revisited and then re-evaluated to ensure the mold growth and the remediation process was successful. The premises should be free of any moldy smells or visible growth.

Mold prevention and control

In order to avoid mold from growing in your home one should do the following:

Clean and repair roof gutters on a regular basis so that moisture will not seep into one’s house from the gutters
If one is using an air conditioning machine one should make sure to keep drip pans clean; also make sure the drain lines are not being obstructed by anything so that it can flow properly
Humidity in the indoor environment is a major problem that can lead to mold growth if it is not kept below sixty percent. If one is not certain what is the humidity level in your home one can purchase a humidity meter at any hardware store.
If one sees any moisture or condensation, one should act quickly by drying the wet surface and find the water source so it can be avoided in the future.
Any exposed structural wood or wood framing should be encapsulated with an EPA approved fungicidal encapsulation coating after pre-cleaning methods have been applied. Areas of typical concern can be found in homes that have a crawl space and unfinished basement. Attic’s with poor ventilation can have spikes of high humidity throughout the year and can benefit from using an EPA approved fungicidal encapsulation coating.^[8]

Hidden mold

After a major storm or flood one should look out for any signs of hidden mold growth. One can detect mold by the smell and any sign of water damage on the walls or ceiling. Mold can grow in many places that are not visible to the human eye in the indoor environment. Mold is often found behind wallpaper or paneling, the topside of ceiling tiles, back side of dry wall, or the underside of carpets or carpet padding. Piping inside the walls may also be a source of mold growth since pipes often leak and cause moisture and condensation. One must also check in roof materials above ceiling tiles since roofs often leak and water collects inside the walls and insulation. If one is suspicious about mold growth one should investigate with caution to prevent exposure to mold.^[8]

Fire Damage

Posted by Travis Bumgarner on March 5, 2013

Different restoration methods and measures are used depending on the type of fire damage that occurred. Fire damage can be performed by property management teams, building maintenance personnel, or by the homeowners themselves; however, contacting a certified professional fire damage restoration specialist is often regarded as the safest way to restore fire damaged property due to their training and extensive experience.^[29] Most are usually listed under “Fire and Water Restoration” and they can help speed repairs, whether for individual homeowners or for the largest of institutions.^[30]

Fire and Water Restoration companies are regulated by the appropriate state’s Department of Consumer Affairs – usually the state contractors license board. In California, all Fire and Water Restoration companies must register with the California Contractors State License Board.^[31] Presently, the California Contractors State License Board has no specific classification for “water and fire damage restoration.” Hence, the Contractor’s State License Board requires both an asbestos certification (ASB) as well as a demolition classification (C-21) in order to perform Fire and Water Restoration work.^[32]

Protection and prevention

Wildfire prevention programs around the world may employ techniques such as wildland fire use and prescribed or controlled burns. Wildland fire use refers to any fire of natural causes that is monitored but allowed to burn. Controlled burns are fires ignited by government agencies under less dangerous weather conditions.^[27]

Fire fighting services are provided in most developed areas to extinguish or contain uncontrolled fires. Trained firefighters use fire apparatus, water supply resources such as water mains and fire hydrants or they might use A and B class foam depending on what is feeding the fire.

Fire prevention is intended to reduce sources of ignition. Fire prevention also includes education to teach people how to avoid causing fires.^[28] Buildings, especially schools and tall buildings, often conduct fire drills to inform and prepare citizens on how to react to a building fire. Purposely starting destructive fires constitutes arson and is a crime in most jurisdictions.

Model building codes require passive fire protection and active fire protection systems to minimize damage resulting from a fire. The most common form of active fire protection is fire sprinklers. To maximize passive fire protection of buildings, building materials and furnishings in most developed countries are tested for fire-resistance, combustibility and flammability. Upholstery, carpeting and plastics used in vehicles and vessels are also tested.

Where fire prevention and fire protection have failed to prevent damage, fire insurance can mitigate the financial impact.

Wind Damage

Posted by Travis Bumgarner on February 14, 2013

High winds are known to cause damage, depending upon their strength. Infrequent wind gusts can cause poorly designed suspension bridges to sway. When wind gusts are at a similar frequency to the swaying of the bridge, the bridge can be destroyed more easily, such as what occurred with the Tacoma Narrows Bridge in 1940.^[132] Wind speeds as low as 23 knots (43 km/h) can lead to power outages due to tree branches disrupting the flow of energy through power lines.^[133] While no species of tree is guaranteed to stand up to hurricane-force winds, those with shallow roots are more prone to uproot, and brittle trees such as eucalyptus, sea hibiscus, and avocado are more prone to damage.^[134] Hurricane-force winds cause substantial damage to mobile homes, and begin to structurally damage homes with foundations. Winds of this strength due to downsloped winds off terrain have been known to shatter windows and sandblast paint from cars.^[53] Once winds exceed 135 knots (250 km/h), homes completely collapse, and significant damage is done to larger buildings. Total destruction to man-made structures occurs when winds reach 175 knots (324 km/h). The Saffir-Simpson scale and Enhanced Fujita scale were designed to help estimate wind speed from the damage caused by high winds related to tropical cyclones and tornadoes, and vice versa.

Tornadoes

A dangerous rotating column of air in contact with both the surface of the earth and the base of a cumulonimbus cloud (thundercloud) or a cumulus cloud, in rare cases. Tornadoes come in many sizes but typically form a visible condensation funnel whose narrowest end reaches the earth and surrounded by a cloud of debris and dust.^[17]

Tornadoes wind speeds generally average between 40 miles per hour (64 km/h) and 110 miles per hour (180 km/h). They are approximately 250 feet (76 m) across and travel a few miles (kilometers) before dissipating. Some attain wind speeds in excess of 300 miles per hour (480 km/h), may stretch more than a mile (1.6 km) across, and maintain contact with the ground for dozens of miles (more than 100 km).^[18]^[19]^[20]

Tornadoes, despite being one of the most destructive weather phenomena are generally short lived. A long-lived tornado generally lasts no more than an hour, but some have been known to last for 2 hours or longer (for example, the Tri-State Tornado). Due to their relatively short duration, less information is known about the development and formation of tornadoes.^[21]

Downburst

Downbursts are created within thunderstorms by significantly rain-cooled air, which, upon reaching ground level, spreads out in all directions and produce strong winds. Unlike winds in a tornado, winds in a downburst are not rotational but are directed outwards from the point where they strike land or water. “Dry downbursts” are associated with thunderstorms with very little precipitation,^[22] while wet downbursts are generated by thunderstorms with large amounts. Microbursts are very small and macrobursts are large-scale downbursts.^[23] The heat burst is created by vertical currents on the backside of old outflow boundaries and squall lines where rainfall is lacking. Heat bursts generate significantly higher temperatures due to the lack of rain-cooled air in their formation.^[24] Derechos are longer, usually stronger, forms of downburst winds characterized by straight-lined windstorms.^[25]^[26]

Downbursts create vertical wind shear or microbursts, which are dangerous to aviation.^[27] They can also cause tornado-like damage on the ground and, depending on the size of the downburst, can generate winds at speeds of up to 168 miles per hour (270 km/h). Downbursts also occur much more frequently than tornadoes, with ten downburst damage reports for every one tornado.^[28]

Squall line

A squall line is an elongated line of severe thunderstorms that can form along or ahead of a cold front.^[29]^[30] The squall line typically contains heavy precipitation, hail, frequent lightning, strong straight line winds, and possibly tornadoes or waterspouts.^[31] Severe weather in the form of strong straight-line winds can be expected in areas where the squall line forms a bow echo, in the farthest portion of the bow.^[32] Tornadoes can be found along waves within a line echo wave pattern (LEWP) where mesoscale low pressure areas are present.^[33] Some^[which?] summer bow echoes are called derechos, and move quickly over large territories.^[25] A wake low or a mesoscale low pressure area forms behind the rain shield (a high pressure system under the rain canopy) of a mature squall line and is sometimes associated with a heat burst.^[34]

Squall lines often cause severe straight-line wind damage, and most non-tornadic wind damage is caused from squall lines.^[35] Although the primary danger from squall lines is straight-line winds, some squall lines also contain weak tornadoes.^[35]

Tropical cyclone

Very high winds can be caused by mature tropical cyclones (called hurricanes in the United States and Canada and typhoons in eastern Asia). A tropical cyclone’s heavy surf created by such winds may cause harm to marine life either close to or upon the surface of the water, such as coral reefs.^[36] Coastal regions may receive significant damage from a tropical cyclone while inland regions are relatively safe from the strong winds, due to their rapid dissipation over land. However, severe flooding can occur even far inland because of high amounts of rain from tropical cyclones and their remnants.

Category: Restoration