Fungus/Mold Remediation

Inspector 12 is a National Association of Mold Professionals (NAMP) certified organization that provides mold inspections, remediation, air quality, and sample test services. (For more info, visit:  www.moldpro.org ).  In an effort to provide our clients with an accurate analysis of their structure, we utilize the most modern technology.  Infrared camera imaging, protimeter, borascopes, Anderson air sample and moisture meters are just a few of the tools we use to accurately analyze the structure. We can test the mold spore count in your home or business, classify the types of airborne particles captured and supply an accredited laboratory analysis report.  The lab report provides a detailed explanation of the affects of each fungus sampled, along with a strategic plan targeting the cause of poor air quality conditions.

What you should know!                                           

Louisiana's encounter with mold development has created new concerns about air quality. It has become a key issue for those who are fearful about the health effects in their current environment. Unfavorable conditions such as mold and/or poor air quality according to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention(CDC) can cause symptoms such as nasal stuffiness, eye irritation, wheezing, or skin irritation.  (See: http://www.cdc.gov/mold)  Others with more serious allergies reported by the Environmental Pollution Agency (EPA) may have more severe reactions such as fever, shortness of breath, and obstructive lung disease, which can develop mold infections in the lungs. (See http://www.epa.gov/iaq/molds/moldresources.html)

What are molds?

Molds are fungi that can be found both indoors and outdoors. No one knows how many species of fungi exist but estimates range from tens of thousands to perhaps three hundred thousand or more. Molds grow best in warm, damp, humid conditions which spread and reproduce by making spores. Mold spores (Mycotoxins) can survive harsh environmental conditions and can be the origin for poor air quality.

What are some of the common indoor molds?

Cladosporium  - Causative agents of skin lesions, sinus, asthma, and pulmonary infections.

Penicillium - Causative agent of asthma and allergies in susceptible individuals.

Fusarium - Causative agents of superficial and systemic infections in humans.

Aspergillus - The second most common fungal infection requiring hospitalization in the United States.

New Orleans FYI

Many of the structures located in New Orleans, LA encountered days of standing water intake. As a result, conditions for mold and mold spores developed at an alarming rate. In an effort to economically eliminate mold growth, many homeowner and contractors utilize bleach (99% water), soap based products (a mold host), along with more water (pressure washing), which was the initiating factor for mold development from Hurricane Katrina. Such ineffective methods are continuous practices by non professional facilitators of mold and have subjected many homes to be re-gutted and consumers paying more to professionally remediate mold.  Prior to the rebuilding of a devastated property it is advised that a check list is considered to identify a professional mold operator and a few standard practices for remediation.