Ashburn Inspections
Proudly Serving the Pittsburgh Area
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Mold & Indoor Air
Ashburn Inspections is certified to test for indoor mold. Mold is in every home and usually does not represent an issue unless there is a moisture problem that allows the mold spores to multiply and spread through the home. Direct swab and air grab sample are taken in accordance with the EPA protocol. Samples are typically taken after an examination of the house is performed. If there is a musty or damp smell in the home, there usually is a mold problem.
Michael J. Ashburn 724-516-1665 or 412-856-1665
What are molds?
What are some of the common indoor molds?
* Cladosporium
* Penicillium
* Alternaria
* Aspergillus
How do molds affect people?
Some people are sensitive to molds. For these people, exposure to molds can cause symptoms such as nasal stuffiness, eye irritation, wheezing, or skin irritation. Some people, such as those with serious allergies to molds, may have more severe reactions. Severe reactions may occur among workers exposed to large amounts of molds in occupational settings, such as farmers working around moldy hay. Severe reactions may include fever and shortness of breath. Some people with chronic lung illnesses, such as obstructive lung disease, may develop mold infections in their lungs.
Where are molds found?
Molds are found in virtually every environment and can be detected, both indoors and outdoors, year round. Mold growth is encouraged by warm and humid conditions. Outdoors they can be found in shady, damp areas or places where leaves or other vegetation is decomposing. Indoors they can be found where humidity levels are high, such as basements or showers.
How can people decrease mold exposure?
Sensitive individuals should avoid areas that are likely to have mold, such as compost piles, cut grass, and wooded areas. Inside homes, mold growth can be slowed by keeping humidity levels between 25% and 35%, and ventilating showers and cooking areas. If there is mold growth in your home, you should clean up the mold and fix the water problem. Mold growth can be removed from hard surfaces with commercial products, soap and water, or a bleach solution of no more than 1 cup of bleach in 1 gallon of water.
If you choose to use bleach to clean up mold:
* Never mix bleach with ammonia or other household cleaners. Mixing bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products will produce dangerous, toxic fumes.
* Open windows and doors to provide fresh air.
* Wear non-porous gloves and protective eye wear.
* If the area to be cleaned is more than 10 square feet, consult the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guide titled Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings. Although focused on schools and commercial buildings, this document also applies to other building types. You can get it free by calling the EPA Indoor Air Quality Information Clearinghouse at (800) 438-4318, or by going to the EPA web site at
http://www.epa.gov/mold/mold_remediation.htmlExternal Web Site Icon .
* Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using bleach or any other cleaning product.
Specific Recommendations:
* Keep the humidity level in the house between 40% and 60%.
* Use an air conditioner or a dehumidifier during humid months.
* Be sure the home has adequate ventilation, including exhaust fans.
* Add mold inhibitors to paints before application.
* Clean bathrooms with mold killing products.
* Do not carpet bathrooms and basements.
* Remove or replace previously soaked carpets and upholstery.