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Guaranteed Property and Mold Inspections, Inc. Home Inspector

Home Inspection, mold and environmental inspections. energy conservation audits.

Guaranteed Property and Mold Inspections, Inc.

2372 Morse Ave. Suite 257 Irvine, CA 92614

Office: (949) 239-3727

Attic Mold

February 4, 2019 By Joseph Gutierrez

A roof leak happens, what to do next? The answer to that is simple, call a licensed roofer out as soon as possible to fix the issue. Although this is the proper approach to take, what most homeowners do not know is that most leaks go unidentified for prolonged periods of time. Catching the leak as soon as possible is crucial, mold can begin to grow in as little as 24 hours. Mold only needs time and a sufficient moisture source to begin growth. We are going to outline how to identify mold in your attic and how to remedy the issue.

Some of the most common causes of mold growth in your attic are:

  • Roof Leaks
  • Improper roof ventilation
  • Improper venting into the attic

 

 

 

Roof Leaks

Roof leaks from rain can lead to mold growth if gone undetected. Below are some ways to check for a roof leak.

  • Check for moisture staining on insulation and wood components of the attic.
  • Observe the skylights, chimneys, attic windows and any portion of the attic/roof where dissimilar materials join each other (including flashing). These places are hotbeds for potential moisture intrusion.
  • Check for condensation build up on vapor barriers (if present) this can indicate a possible moisture issue within the attic.
  • Checking roof coverings for damages or deficiencies that would allow moisture intrusion.

Improper Ventilation 

Improper ventilation at the attic can lead to mold growth. The biggest we see here is insulation covering up attic vents. Do not cover up attic vents with insulation! Air from the home travels up to the attic anywhere from cooking and showering produces moisture and if the attic vents are blocked by insulation this will result in moisture being trapped inside the attic and will cause mold growth.

 

 

Improper venting into the Attic

Kitchen exhausts from cooking and bathroom exhaust fans are designed to terminate outside of the home normally through the roof. You want to ensure that these systems are not venting into the attic. This condition can result in moisture damage to the roof structure itself and promote mold growth.

If you suspect mold may be hiding in your attic we recommend contacting us at 949-230-6800, we can have a ACAC certified mold inspector to your home same day to perform a comprehensive mold inspection and asses the damage to develop a proper remediation protocol (scope of work).

After the mold inspection is complete and mold has been confirmed by your inspector we highly recommend that you retain an ACAC board certified mold remediation professional to perform mold abatement at the impacted areas. We will work closely with the remediation company to ensure that all mold efforts have been executed properly and your attic is mold free.

 

 

 

Filed Under: Mold Inspection Tagged With: attic mold, black mold, certified mold inspector, moisture damage, mold clearance, mold inspection, mold inspector, real estate inspection, remediation clearance, roof leak, roof ventilation

Mold Has Been Linked to Student Virus Death

December 10, 2018 By Joseph Gutierrez

A University of Maryland student recently died of the same type of virus that killed 11 children at a medical center in New Jersey.

The University of Maryland student died of an “adenovirus-associated illness,” school officials announced Tuesday afternoon.

Her family identified her as Olivia Paregol. She had been sick since the beginning of the and developed pneumonia. Her father, Ian Paregol, said when they learned she had adenovirus Nov. 13, she was already in intensive care and it was too late.

“For a parent, this is as bad as it can get,” he said.

Paregol said his daughter had mold in her dorm at the start of the semester and questions whether that could have contributed to her illness.

Dr. David McBride, who heads the campus health center, said there’s no consistent connection between mold and the virus.

“Otherwise healthy people are very unlikely to have this tragic course,” he said.

At least five other cases of the illness have been reported at UMD. School officials say they learned on Nov. 19 that one specimen they sent to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention was confirmed to be Adenovirus 7, a strain that can cause more severe illness.

“Families send their children to the university with the expectation that at the very least the university is going to ensure their safety,” Ian Paregol said. “I don’t think they met the standard in Olivia’s case.”

Eleven “medically fragile” children at the Wanaque Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation in Passaic County, New Jersey, recently died after being exposed to an adenovirus outbreak at the center.

Adenovirus symptoms are similar to those of a cold, including a sore throat, fever or pink eye.

Adenoviruses are common viruses that can cause a range of illnesses, according to the CDC. Adenoviruses can pose serious complications to certain people, particularly those with weakened immune systems, respiratory issues and cardiac disease.

Paregol had a weakened immune system due to Crohn’s syndrome.

Information about the prior health of the UMD student was not released.

According to the CDC, adenoviruses are typically spread from an infected person to others through close personal contact such touching or shaking hands; through the air by coughing and sneezing; or by touching an object or surface with adenoviruses on it, then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes before washing your hands.

UMD is advising students and staff members to be conscientious about hygiene.

“On campus, we are being vigilant cleaning high-touch surfaces,” McBride said. “Unfortunately because there’s no specific treatment for this virus in people who aren’t hospitalized, really what we need to do is hammer those prevention messages home.”

Filed Under: Mold Inspection Tagged With: allergies, indoor mold, mold allergies, mold evaluation, mold inspection, mold inspector, mold toxicity

Molds in Gypsum Drywall compared to Plaster

October 16, 2018 By Joseph Gutierrez

Starting in the 1940s, gypsum drywall began replacing plaster and lathe in the U.S. home construction industry. Our goal was to evaluate whether some mold populations differ in water- damaged homes primarily constructed with gypsum drywall compared to plaster. The dust samples from the 2006 Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) American Health Homes Survey (AHHS) were the subject of this analysis. The concentrations of the 36 Environmental Relative Moldiness Index (ERMI) molds were compared in homes of different ages. The homes (n = 301) were built between 1878 and 2005. Homes with ERMI values > 5 (n = 126) were defined as water-damaged. Homes with ERMI values > 5 were divided in the years 1976 to 1977 into two groups, i.e., older (n = 61) and newer (n = 65). Newer water-damaged homes had significantly (p = 0.002) higher mean ERMI values than older water-damaged homes, 11.18 and 8.86, respectively. The Group 1 molds Aspergillus flavus, Ammophilus fumigatus, Aspergillus ochraceus, Cladosporium sphaerospermum and Trichoderma viride were found in significantly higher concentrations in newer compared to older high-ERMI homes. Some mold populations in water-damaged homes may have changed after the introduction of gypsum drywall.

Graphical abstract

Image 1

Filed Under: Mold Inspection Tagged With: ERMI, indoor mold, mold inspection, mold inspector, toxic mold

Sleep and mold

September 19, 2018 By Joseph Gutierrez

Sleep and mold

LAST UPDATED ON AUGUST 22, 2018 AMELIA WILLSON

https://www.tuck.com/sleep-and-mold/

The World Health Organization estimates that 10% to 50% of residential homes and commercial buildings have damp conditions. That means up to 50% of buildings worldwide could provide ripe environments for mold to grow and thrive.

Mold can slowly destroy your home and your belongings. If you have a mold allergy, you can expect uncomfortable symptoms like nasal congestion, watery eyes, and more. Plus, it’s just plain gross to look at.

Of all the rooms in your home, having mold in your bedroom is one of the most high-risk, simply due to the significant amount of time you spend in there asleep, exposing yourself to mold.

Whether you own or rent your home, it’s up to you to protect yourself from mold exposure by preventing mold growth and removing it promptly whenever you find it. Keep reading to learn more about mold, how to prevent and remove it from your bedroom, and how to recognize the symptoms of mold exposure so you can enjoy mold-free sleep.

 

What is mold?

DEFINITIONMold is a type of fungus. It can live outdoors or indoors, any time of year, as long as it has a damp, warm environment. All it needs to thrive is humidity.

Due to their high levels of moisture, bathrooms and basements are the most likely rooms in a home to harbor mold, but mold can grow anywhere – including your bedroom.

When mold reproduces, it forms spores that travel through the air, enabling mold to spread throughout the area. These spores can survive even when they’re in a dry area not conducive to growing mold. Once the area develops moisture, the mold will grow.

There are different kinds of mold, but the ones you’re most likely to encounter at homeinclude cladosporium, penicillium, aspergillus, alternaria, and stachybotrys chartarum.

common household molds

 

 

Molds vary in appearance as well as where you’re most likely to find them. For instance, stachybotrys chartarum is colloquially known as “black mold” based on its appearance. You’re most likely to spot it on paper or household surfaces that have collected dust or lint, or within the building materials, such as wood, gypsum board, or fiberboard.

PLACES WHERE MOLD CAN GROW IN YOUR HOME
Shower stalls
Bathtubs
Under sinks or around plumbing
Drywall
Carpet
Wallpaper
Furniture
Closets
Damp clothing
Any area with high humidity, moisture, or water damage

In the natural world, mold serves a purpose, facilitating the decomposition of plant life like leaves and compost. When it enters our artificial world through our homes, it poses an issue. Mold exposure can be dangerous for humans and it can damage the areas or objects in your home where it grows.

 

Can you get sick from mold in your house?

Mold itself is not dangerous or toxic, although there are some types of mold that produce toxic mycotoxins, such as black mold. For most people, however, it is the mold allergy or sensitivity that leads to uncomfortable symptoms. Fortunately, these go away once the mold is removed.

It’s common for people to be allergic to mold, although reactions vary from mold to mold and person to person. If you have a mold allergy, you will start reacting as soon as you are exposed to the mold. People experiencing an allergic reaction may display any of the following symptoms:

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF MOLD EXPOSURE?
Watery, itchy, or red eyes
Wheezing, sneezing or coughing
Runny nose
Skin rash

In some cases, the symptoms may be more severe. According to the Institute of Medicine, indoor mold exposure has been linked with:

  • Upper respiratory tract issues, coughing, and wheezing in otherwise healthy people
  • Asthma attacks in people with asthma
  • Hypersensitivity pneumonitis in people with compromised immune systems
A mold allergy can go from uncomfortable to dangerous for people with an already compromised immune system, such as infants and children, the elderly, and those with chronic lung disease, HIV, cancer, or liver disease.

Currently, the CDC acknowledges that indoor mold exposure may be a risk factor for asthma in young children, but more research needs to be conducted for confirmation. Likewise, research is still inconclusive as to a possible link between black mold and acute idiopathic pulmonary hemorrhage among infants and memory loss.

Because reactions can vary, and there’s no way to predict your reaction, it’s best to avoid mold growth in your bedroom and to treat it as soon as it is found.

 

Signs of mold in your bedroom

Unfortunately, while everyone agrees that mold poses a health risk, there are as yet no governmental guidelines for residential buildings to follow regarding acceptable levels of mold. That means it is up to you, as a homeowner or renter, to know the warning signs of mold growth in your bedroom so you can keep yourself safe.

WARNING SIGNS OF MOLD IN BEDROOM
You can see visible mold (fuzzy or slick black, grey, white, or brown spots)
A musty odor is present
You and/or your sleeping partner are displaying the allergic symptoms we listed above
Recent flooding or water damage

Mold is fairly easy to spot, pun intended. You may notice spots, perhaps with a fuzzy appearance, that have a brown, gray, green or black appearance. There may be a slight musky odor, too.

If you are experiencing allergy symptoms or smell mold, but you can’t see it, look for it in harder-to-find areas, such as on or underneath your carpet, floor, or ceiling; inside your walls; around the window sills; on any upholstered furniture or your mattress; or in your air ducts.

Since mold can develop in areas you can’t see, such as inside your walls or under the carpet, it’s important to maintain mold prevention best practices in your home.

How does mold get in your bedroom?

Mold can develop anywhere that is a moist or humid environment. Depending on the climate where you live, the quality of insulation in your home, and even the location of your bedroom within your home (basement-level bedrooms are most at risk), your bedroom may be more or less likely to develop mold.

Mold spores can also enter from outside your home, through an open window, or by traveling inside on your clothing or your pets.

Mold can also develop on your mattress, due to moisture from your sweat. Mattressesinclude soft, porous materials in their construction, such as cotton covers or foam comfort layers. Any of these can absorb moisture and cause your mattress to develop mold.

If you have found mold in one area of your bedroom, do a thorough sweep to ensure it’s not anywhere else in your home, as mold can spread easily.

Is it safe to sleep in a room with mold?

No, it is not safe to sleep in a bedroom with mold. Indoor mold of any exposure is worrisome, but mold in the bedroom is especially so, simply due to the number of hours you spend in your bedroom breathing it in while you sleep.

Beyond the immediate allergy symptoms, mold exposure often cause sleep issues, too.

 

Can mold cause sleep problems?

Several studies have documented a link between mold exposure and sleep problems among different age groups:

  • In otherwise healthy adults: A 1994 study of over 5,000 adults found that those who lived in damp housing were nearly three times more likely to report sleep problems than those in dry housing. They were also more likely to report poorer health overall, which increased according to the level of dampness in their home. Similarly, a 2005 study of over 16,000 adults found that those who lived in damp homes were significantly more likely to report insomnia.
  • In children: A 2015 study of over 1,700 children compared the sleep quality of children living in damp bedrooms against those in dry bedrooms. Unsurprisingly, the children of parents who had spotted visible mold in their bedroom, as opposed to just dampness, tended to have a higher risk of sleep problems. These children were more than twice as likely to have difficulty sleeping through the night and to not get enough sleep overall (defined as 9 hours or more for children).
  • In older adults: A 2015 study examined the effects of the mold odor alone on senior adults. Those who lived in buildings with a musty smell or mildew odor were more likely to have poorer overall health, including asthma attacks, skin rash, chronic bronchitis, sneezing, and sleep problems.

As the studies above make clear, the symptoms associated with mold exposure are not only uncomfortable, but, if the mold is not addressed, they can significantly lower both the quality of your sleep and your overall health.

Common sleep issues associated with mold

MOLD-RELATED SLEEP PROBLEMS
Snoring or sleep apnea
Insomnia
Sleep deprivation
Daytime fatigue

When you sleep, it is essential for your body to breathe as easily as possible. Otherwise, your brain has to focus harder on keeping you breathing, lowering the quality of your sleep. As a result, people who sleep in bedrooms with mold may suffer from the following sleep problems:

  • Snoring refers to any sort of noisy breathing during the night. Snoring may not wake you up, but it can cause insomnia for your sleeping partner, and it is an indication that something is disrupting the quality of your sleep. Snoring can also cause dry mouth.
  • Sleep apnea is a serious form of sleep-disordered breathing where the individual literally stops breathing momentarily during sleep, resulting in a loud gasping or snoring sound while their brain catches their breath. Obstructive sleep apnea occurs from a blockage or narrowing of the airways, as can happen from the nasal congestion associated with mold exposure.
  • Insomnia describes a difficulty falling or staying asleep. If you are dealing with wheezing, watery eyes, or a runny nose from mold, you may have trouble falling asleep. Meanwhile, the congestion you experience may make it difficult to stay asleep. Either way, being exposed to mold in your bedroom can result in insomnia, and prevent you from getting a full night of restful sleep.
  • Sleep deprivation refers to the physical, mental, and emotional state a person is in when they have missed out on a night of full sleep (defined as 7 hours or more for adults) on a temporary or chronic basis. When we’re sleep-deprived, we’re moodier, less focused, and at increased risk of social isolation and health conditions like diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. Sleep deprivation can also occur if you are ostensibly getting enough sleep, but the sleep is not high-quality, as can be the case when you’re snoring or experiencing apneas due to mold exposure.
  • Daytime fatigue is one of the most recognizable signs of sleep deprivation. When a person is fatigued, they have lower energy and motivation, and their productivity and emotional well-being suffer.

People with allergies of any kind report poorer sleep than people without allergies, and the more severe their allergic reaction, the more their sleep suffers as a result. If you are experiencing a mold allergy, you may experience more, or more extreme, instances of these sleep issues.

 

How do I stop mold growing in my bedroom?

The best defense against mold in your bedroom is a preventative defense. Mold spores can survive even in dry environments, so you should focus on preventing moisture from developing in your bedroom in the first place.

Follow these tips to prevent mold in your bedroom. Some of these tips you’ll want to follow on a daily basis; others can be done annually or less frequently to maintain your home and prevent mold.

Daily mold prevention tips

  1. Whenever water spills in your bedroom, clean and dry the area immediately.
  2. Keep your carpet clean with regular vacuuming and cleaning. Use a HEPA vacuum cleaner to remove spores while you clean.
  3. If you live in an area that’s prone to humidity, regularly run your air conditioner and ceiling fans, or use a dehumidifier to keep the inside air dry. Ideally, your indoor humidity level should be below 50%. Purchase a hygrometer so you can monitor your indoor humidity levels throughout the day.
  4. Keep your bedroom door open to ensure air flow circulation.
  5. If your bedroom is connected to a bathroom, open the window or run the exhaust fan for 30 minutes after you shower. Hang your towel afterward to allow it to dry, instead of letting it clump up on the floor or in a hamper in your closet, where mold can grow. Don’t store body wash and shampoo bottles in the shower as they can develop mold. Keep your bathroom clean, paying particular attention to the corners of your shower, under your sink, and the shower curtain.
  6. Your bedroom closet can be another danger spot for mold, since many clothes, like outwear, are not cleaned regularly and can bring in mold spores from the outdoors. Ensure all clothes are fully dry after cleaning them, and do not fold them or put them away until they are. If you store clothes for the winter, ensure they are dry before you seal them in a box with can trap in any moisture.
  7. Place bedroom furniture slightly away from the walls, to enable air flow and prevent mold growth. Wipe down all furniture regularly to remove dust.
  8. If you have plants in your bedroom, regularly check them for mold, particularly the soil. If you see any gray, there is mold. Scoop out the offending soil and repot the plant with new soil. To avoid mold, add anti-fungal to the soil.

Annual mold prevention tips

  1. Have your home inspected for water damage or faulty plumbing. Check the walls, windows, and ceilings for mold.
  2. Regularly maintain your air vents and clean drip pans to keep air circulating properly.
  3. Ensure your windows, roof, and floor are properly insulated and check them regularly. This will minimize condensation as well as prevent mold spores from entering your home.
  4. During colder months, keep your house warm to prevent moisture or condensation from forming.
  5. If your bedroom is located on a lower floor or in a basement, avoid using carpets. Use area rugs instead that you can regularly clean. Also regularly inspect outdoor areas to ensure water can’t enter your home from the outside.
  6. If you repaint your bedroom, add mold inhibitor to the paint or purchase anti-mildew paint.

Mattress-specific tips

Due to body sweat and other moisture, mattresses are one of the top spots mold can grow in your bedroom. Worse, since it’s covered with your bedding, you may not realize the mold is there.

Follow these tips to prevent mold growing in your mattress.

  1. Use a waterproof mattress cover. This not only prevents your mattress from the moisture of body sweat, but also from stains and other damage, helping you extend the longevity of your mattress.
  2. Purchase a hypoallergenic mattress. While any mattress could potentially develop mold, some mattress types are more allergy-resistant than others. All-latex beds or organic mattresses are your best options.
  3. Clean your mattress regularly. This is one of the best ways you can prevent mold growth, and it’s easier than you think. Read our guide for tips on how to keep your mattress fresh.
  4. Finally, try to sleep in a way that minimizes how much you sweat during the night. Some of us are hot sleepers, but many of us also keep our bedrooms hotter than they should be. Set your bedroom temperature to 60 to 67 degrees Fahrenheit. Sleep naked, or wear pajamas made from breathable materials. Likewise, invest in breathable bedding, and use multiple layers so you can remove any if it gets too hot.

 

How to remove mold from your bedroom

If you’ve found mold in your bedroom, take action to remove it immediately. It doesn’t matter what type of mold it is; it’s all bad.The action you take depends on the scope of the problem.

In cases of small mold:

  • If it’s on a hard surface, such as your floor or wall, scrub vigorously with a stiff-bristled brush and cleaning product, soap and water, or a mix of 1 cup laundry bleach and 1 gallon of water. (If you use bleach, don’t mix it with any other household cleaning products, open your windows and doors, and wear protective gloves and eyewear). Ensure the area dries completely.
  • If it’s on a soft surface, such as your carpet, clothes, mattress, bedding, drywall, or furniture, throw it away.
  • Never handle mold with your bare hands, even when cleaning. Always use gloves.

In cases of large mold (the CDC defines this as an area of 10 square feet or larger):

  • Call a mold removal professional. If the mold has spread significantly, these people are experts in identifying all areas that have been infected, and removing the mold entirely from your home. Many offer free in-home consultations, as well.

If you find mold in your mattress:

  • Don’t just clean it off. Get rid of it, as per our advice for any soft-surface items with mold in your home. Here’s how to safely and responsibly dispose of an old mattress.

After you’ve removed the mold and cleaned the area, follow the mold prevention tips we outlined above to keep the area as dry as possible moving forward.

 

Additional resources

Sleep resources from Tuck

  • How To Allergy-Proof Your Bedroom: Read more tips for reducing allergens in your bedroom, so you can enjoy more restful sleep.
  • How to Clean a Mattress: Learn how to regularly clean your mattress, preventing mold, bed bugs, stains and more.
  • The Best Natural Organic Mattress: Mattresses made from organic materials are naturally more mold-resistant. Read this buyer’s guide of the best-rated organic mattresses.

Fact sheets on mold

  • The CDC Fact Sheet on Mold summarizes the latest study findings from the Institute of Medicine and provides mold prevention tips.
  • The 2009 WHO Guidelines for Indoor Air Quality: Dampness and Mold were compiled by the World Health Organization, to provide governments, regulatory agencies, and building professionals and homeowners with education on the symptoms of mold exposure and how to prevent mold growth.

Study findings on mold and sleep

  • “Insomnia is more common among subjects living in damp buildings” and “Damp housing and adult health” are two large-scale studies which both found a correlation between damp housing and insomnia in adults.
  • “Exposure to visible mould or dampness at home and sleep problems in children”focused on children specifically, finding that children exposed to mold in their bedrooms are also more likely to have sleep problems.
  • “Indoor mildew odour in old housing was associated with adult allergic symptoms, asthma, chronic bronchitis, vision, sleep and self-rated health” found that the presence of a mildew odor in senior housing correlated with poorer health and sleep outcomes.

Filed Under: Mold Inspection Tagged With: insomnia, mold, mold contamination, mold illness, mold inspection, mold inspector, mold testing, mold toxicity, sleep

EPA is continuing research on DNA mold test.

June 12, 2018 By Joseph Gutierrez

The EPA is continuing research on  DNA mold test that will be suited to screen homes for mold. Based on published data from Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) researchers, the Environmental Relative Mold Index (ERMI) test has been developed as a research tool to evaluate the potential risk of indoor mold growth and associated health effects. Mold and its health effects present a growing concern for home owners, physicians, real estate professionals and home buyers.

Because the ERMI was developed using a nationally representative sampling of homes, the EPA and HUD researchers believe that one can compare any newly sampled home in the United States to ERMI, and assess the home’s mold burden relative to the national sampling of 1,096 homes (i.e., lowest 25 percent, highest 25 percent, etc.).

Using ERMI protocols, targeted mold species are to be quantified bio-chemically. Mold species are divided into two groups by the ERMI. The first group of 26 indicator species represents molds associated with water damage, while the second group represents common indoor molds. The ERMI report includes the detection and concentrations of 36 specific mold species along with the combined ERMI value itself. The overall ERMI measurement provides a rank of the “moldiness” to compare the results to a national scale. An ERMI score is also used in conjunction with individual mold species quantification’s to determine mold conditions.

EPA researchers have applied ERMI in childhood asthma studies in cities across the United States, including Cincinnati, Chapel Hill, Detroit, Boston, Kansas City and San Diego. The studies have found higher ERMI values in homes of asthmatic children compared to controls. The EPA readily acknowledges that MSQPCR and ERMI are research protocols and have not been validated or peer reviewed by EPA for public use. Ongoing research by Dr. Richie Shoemaker M.D. and others show promising mold illness patient outcomes utilizing ERMI testing data.

Filed Under: Environmental Hazards, Mold Inspection Tagged With: ERMI testing, mold inspection, mold inspector, mold sampling, mold testing

Proper Drainage System.

May 31, 2018 By Joseph Gutierrez

The importance of a proper drainage system for your home is crucial. A proper drainage system will help keep water from soaking into the building and potentially damaging the interior and structural components.

Having a proper drainage system will help in reducing the risk of mold growth inside the structure. If a proper drainage system is not installed water can deteriorate the roof surface allowing moisture into the interior which can impact the structures ceiling causing mold growth. Microbial growth damages standard building materials and can also threaten the health and well being of individuals inside.

Proper roof drainage is especially important for flat roofs. 

Flat roofs do not have the pitched sections of a traditional roof, so it is harder to direct the water off the roof. Despite the relative difficulty of guiding water from a flat roof, a well-engineered one is able to drain the water efficiently. Even though a flat roof does not appear to have a slope to it, a properly constructed flat roof surface will have a slight angle built in to direct the water pooling on it towards the drain and gutter system.

Not only it is important for your home to have a proper drainage system, it is also crucial that you have your gutters and drains cleaned as needed!

Last week while conducting a comprehensive mold inspection, we were on top of the flat roof where we observed a well complete roof drainage system which was constructed to direct water off the roof and away from the structure. The issue was that the clients drains were completely clogged allowing water to pond on the roof and eventually resulted in water deteriorating and penetrating the roof which caused moisture damage and mold growth at their homes ceiling.

Water is can penetrate your home through the smallest of openings. Taking the time to ensure your home is protected should be a priority. It is important to maintain and correct the your homes drainage system to avoid water damage.

Filed Under: Home Inspection, Mold Inspection Tagged With: drain inspection, gutter inspection, home inspection, home inspector, mold inspection, mold inspector, mold test, mold testing

Tree and Planter Dangers.

May 14, 2018 By Joseph Gutierrez

All About tree and planter dangers.

Trees and planters are generally a desirable feature of home landscaping, tree and planters can pose a threat to buildings in a number of different ways. Trees and planters installed too close to your structure can cause damage to the foundation or to the exterior wall causing stucco or cladding deterioration which is an easy access for moisture into your homes interior. In addition:

  • Roots can sometimes penetrate a building’s foundation through pre-existing cracks.
  • Large root systems that extend beneath a house can cause foundation uplift.
  • Roots can leech water from the soil beneath foundations, causing the structures to settle and sink unevenly.
  • Leaves and broken branches can clog gutters, potentially causing ice dams or water penetration into the building.
  • Tree roots can potentially penetrate underground drainage pipes, especially when they leak. Water that leaks from a drainage or sanitary pipe can encourage root growth in the direction of the leak, where the roots may eventually enter the pipe and obstruct its flow.

Recently we completed a mold inspection where a large tree and planter was installed next to the clients home. The tree was visibly touching the clients home as well as the planters soil was covering the entire weep screed and covering about 4 feet of the exterior wall. This poses a large risk for moisture intrusion. Soil and plants hold water and the longer that water impacts the exterior wall the greater risk for moisture intrusion. In this specific inspection, the tree in addition with the soil, had penetrated the exterior wall causing moisture intrusion to the interior also causing mold growth at the entire garage wall.

To make matters worse the area of the mold contamination had spread to a common shared wall with the master bedroom. The client had reported feeling very sick and suffering other symptoms related to mold exposure. We quickly found this source so that the client could begin mold remediation and start there journey to a healthy home.

If you suspect mold in your home or are weary of the indoor air quality of your home call Guaranteed Property and Mold inspections at 949-230-6800. You will have a FREE phone consultation with a CERTIFIED mold inspector, we can have a CERTIFIED mold inspector to your home the same day to assess your property.

 

 

 

 

Filed Under: Mold Inspection Tagged With: home inspection, home inspector, mold contamination, mold inspection, mold inspector, mold testing, toxic mold, toxic mold testing

What are Water Damaged Buildings?

May 11, 2018 By Joseph Gutierrez

What are Water Damaged Buildings?

There are many ways buildings become home to a toxic mix of microbes, fragments of microbes, and harmful chemicals. Buildings can promote the growth of fungi, bacteria, mycobacteria and actinomycetesas a result of construction defects like poor ventilation and HVAC systems; faulty construction of crawl spaces or inadequate building design; using failed technologies like flat roofs or fake stucco cladding without adequate caulking; incomplete basements exposed to saturated ground water conditions; or not correcting water intrusion/leaks; or remediation that doesn’t clean as its final requirement.

Today we completed a comprehensive mold inspection in Orange County where the client reported suffering symptoms related to mold exposure but could not get down to the root of the issue. We began the inspection and right off the bat noticed a defective flat roof system with signs of poor drainage and a neighboring tree impacting the clients home and foundation. The tree roots appeared to be growing under my clients home which opens the possibility for moisture intrusion and probable mold growth. Soon after, the inspection led us to the garage where we discovered the entire garage wall moisture damaged and covered in mold (which my clients bedroom shared a common wall with the area of contamination).

We discovered that the flat roof was allowing moisture penetration along with the neighboring tree causing structural damage. Mold knows no boundaries! If moisture intrusion occurs in your home it takes as little as 24 hours for mold to grow.

At Guaranteed Property and Mold Inspections we specialize in finding the SOURCE! If you feel you may have been exposed to mold in your home contact us at 949-230-6800 for a full home assessment.

 

Filed Under: Mold Inspection Tagged With: ERMI testing, mold contamination, mold exposure, mold inspection, mold inspector, mold testing

When You Should Consider a Mold Inspection!

April 17, 2018 By Joseph Gutierrez

When you should consider a mold inspection! A common issue with mold in your is most of the time you do not know where it is. Mold likes to hide in dark areas of the home. Most people notice an earthy mildew smell within their home and think nothing of it while others begin to feel sick and just don’t know why. Long exposure to mold can lead to negative health conditions that can worsen overtime. Some conditions include:

  • Causation of new asthma
  • Asthma attacks in those who already have asthma
  • Allergic rhinitis (sneezing, congested nose, or runny nose)
  • Upper respiratory symptoms, such as stuffy or congested nose or sinuses, sore throat, or irritated nose or throat
  • Lower respiratory symptoms, such as wheezing, difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, or cough
  • Respiratory infections such as acute bronchitis
  • Eye irritation (burning, watery, or reddened eyes)
  • Eczema and skin rashes or irritation

If you feel that you may have mold in your home or that the indoor air quality of your home has been compromised it might be time to consider a comprehensive mold inspection by a certified mold inspector. Having a comprehensive mold inspection will help expose the areas of contamination in your home. You can also utilize a variety of mold sampling techniques that will help identify the type of mold, level of contamination and the possible health related risks associated with the mold detected. If you feel you may be exposed to mold or mycotoxins please contact Guaranteed Property and Mold Inspections at 949-230-6800 for a free phone consultation.

Filed Under: Mold Inspection Tagged With: mold contamination, mold exposure, mold inspection, mold inspector, toxic mold

How to Prevent Mold in Your Home.

April 9, 2018 By Joseph Gutierrez

 

If you have an allergy that occurs over several seasons, you may have a mold allergy. Molds live everywhere.

  • Outdoor molds may cause allergy symptoms in summer and fall (or year-round in some climates)
  • Indoor molds may cause allergy symptoms year-round

Mold spores get into your nose and cause allergy symptoms. They also can reach the lungs and trigger asthma.

Indoor molds grow in areas in your home where there may be extra dampness. To prevent mold and mildew in your home, you need to remove sources of water or dampness.

  1. Improve air flow through your rooms. Due to outdoor allergies, you may need to close your windows this time of year. To keep air flowing, move furniture away from walls and keep inner doors open. Run a fan in rooms that may be prone to mold.
  2. Use exhaust fans in your kitchen and your bathrooms. Exhaust fans remove moist air from your home and vent it outside. If you do not have an exhaust fan, open the window to let moist air out when you shower or cook.
  3. Use central air conditioning or a dehumidifier.
    • Central air conditioning with a HEPA filter attachment can help trap mold spores from your entire home. Freestanding air cleaners only filter air in a limited area. Look for the asthma & allergy friendly® Certification Program Mark on these filters. The mark lets you know you are getting products scientifically proven to be suitable for those with asthma and allergies. Avoid devices that treat air with heat, electrostatic ions or ozone.
    • An electric dehumidifier removes moisture and keeps humidity in your house below 45 percent. Drain the dehumidifier regularly and clean the condensation coils and collection bucket.
  4. Fix any leaks quickly. Fix plumbing leaks in your kitchen or bathrooms. Repair roof leaks and roof gutters. Clean out your gutters to remove leaves and debris. When gutters are full or damaged, it can cause leaking into your home.
  5. Remove sources of dampness. Each room in your home may have a different source of water. Review our room-by-room guide on how to reduce mold in your home: 

  6. Make sure water drains away from your home. Rainwater needs to drain away from your home. Make sure your gutters are not full. The ground around your home should slope slightly down and away from your home. Remove dead leaves and vegetation near your home’s foundation.

If you suspect mold in your home and are unsure of the source or location please do not hesitate to call Guaranteed Property and Mold Inspections at 949-230-6800. Our certified mold investigators are specialized in detecting mold and moisture sources and will help you on your journey to a mold free home.

 

Filed Under: Mold Inspection Tagged With: mold allergies, mold contamination, mold exposure, mold inspection, mold inspector, mold testing

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