Mold/Mildew Damage

Mold, or microbial, contamination is rampant in many buildings today for many reasons, including new energy-saving programs that require air conditioning to be turned off on weekends, holidays and other times the building is not occupied. The result is mold on books and paper, inside wall cavities and ceiling tiles, and employees complaining of runny noses, itchy eyes and sore throats.

The spores of fungi are always present in the air and on objects. They lie dormant, waiting for the perfect conditions of high humidity and warm temperatures to grow. Once growth begins, it spreads quickly. Dehumidification is effective in arresting the growth, but the active growth and spores must be removed, and the cause of the outbreak identified and corrected.

Some varieties of fungi can be highly toxic. Most molds colonize particularly well in high-cellulose materials, such as paper, books and cellulose-containing building materials, such as drywall, lint and dust. Strict remediation protocols must be followed during decontamination of fungi and mycotoxins to prevent further contamination and protect the health of building occupants and remediation personnel.