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mclamb10011636 · 5 years ago

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Is it Safe to Clean Black Mold Yourself?

It’s time to answer one of the most persistent questions seen on MoldBlogger and other sites: Is it safe to clean black mold yourself?

Whether you’re a headstrong homeowner or you simply can’t afford professional mold remediation, you’ve certainly been wondering the same thing lately. Is the risk worth it—and what is the risk anyway? That’s what we’re about to find out!

Can Black Mold Kill You?

Yes, black mold can kill you, but there are a great many factors that must take place before that’s a possibility.

For one, the type of exposure to black mold is important. A one-time exposure may produce unbearable and debilitating symptoms for a period of time, but if the person is treated correctly and never exposed again, the chances of the symptoms becoming a chronic and eventual death threat are extremely low. That said, some one-time exposures have the capacity to become chronic if the person suffers from a weakened immune system or an immunodeficiency. They are at a greater risk of developing long-term and life-threatening mycotoxicosis symptoms (toxic mold sickness). Even a poor lifestyle—poor eating and exercising habits—can lead to a weakened immune system that is vulnerable to a great variety of life-threatening disease—not just black mold toxicity.

One-Time Exposure Black Mold Poisoning Symptoms:

a long, painful headache

a tightening in the chest

burning sensations in airways

cough

difficulty breathing

fever

fits of sneezing

nose bleeds

skin irritation

stuffy nose

watery or itchy eyes

wheezing

Repeat exposure, such as working or living in a mold-infested environment presents the greatest possibility of chronic black mold poisoning symptoms and death to both immunocompromised individuals and those at peak health. When exposure is persistent, the immune system experiences a bombardment of intense attack that affects the whole body. From the throat and lungs to the digestive system, to the bowels and skin, toxic mold symptoms act very much like a poison on the entire system. There is only so much even the healthiest of bodies can take before it becomes completely incapacitated and meets a fatal outcome.

Repeat-Exposure Black Mold Poisoning Symptoms:

asthma

autoimmune disease

cold and flu

emphysema-like disease

fatigue

memory loss

migraine-like headaches

muscle aches

nosebleeds

pulmonary hemorrhage

rashes and dermatitis

sore throat

vomiting and diarrhea (especially in infants)

How Long Does It Take for Black Mold to Kill You?

There have been many cases of toxic black mold sicknesses and death in public record for the past thirty years, but often, the issue is denied outright or the blame is shifted to keep landlords and businesses from being held accountable for their poor property maintenance.

In the 1990s, Cleveland, OH saw an inexplicable rise in pulmonary hemorrhage (bleeding in the lungs) of children. On average, such a severe affliction occurs in only one out of a million children worldwide from time to time, but when every pediatrician in Cleveland suddenly began seeing five or more patients each week suffering from the same symptoms, it was determined that cases in that region alone had risen to one in every one-thousand children. A two-year investigation into the incident identified exposure to Stachybotrys chartarum—toxic black mold—as the cause. Sadly, it took the deaths of several children before the results could be concluded. Those years were warmer and wetter than usual, and Cleveland’s general mismanagement of moisture-damaged rental buildings was to blame, yet many rose up to deny mold sickness was even possible, claiming it to be an imagined disease and downplaying the dangers of black mold. (See: U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Acute pulmonary hemorrhage/hemosiderosis among infants—Cleveland, January 1993-November 1994. MMWR 1994;43:881-3.)

In 2009, St. Joseph’s Hospital in Tampa, FL lost three young cancer patients in less than a month due to mold inhalation. The cause was the hospital’s construction project that exposed and released toxic black mold into the pediatric cancer wing of the hospital. The children were trapped in poorly-ventilated rooms while microscopic black mold spores attacked their chemo-weakened bodies. Only the three deaths were admittedly due to this mold exposure, but more families are claiming their children suffered from chronic negative effects and even death due to the same negligent exposure.

Periodically, reports will come in regarding farmers, construction workers, handymen, and DIY homeowners who have been exposed to black mold and died from it. As most are usually middle-aged and very fit, the problem was repeat exposure as they worked in silos or on building or renovation projects. For some, it took years before they passed; for others, it took only months.

How long does it take black mold to kill you? As you can see, it depends entirely on your age and current state of health. Those who are most-likely to experience black mold poisoning symptoms and lose their lives because of it are:

infants and children

older adults

people with allergies or asthma

people with weakened immune systems

What complicates matters is that black mold exposure has also been linked to certain seemingly-unrelated diseases and cancers. This means that the death rate from black mold exposure could be significantly higher, but there is no way to know for sure until medical providers, landlords, and lawmakers take mold toxicity more seriously.

Is it Safe to Clean Black Mold Yourself?

Now that you have a better understanding of the dangers revolving around black mold exposure, surely you’re wondering if cleaning it on your property is worth the risk. The answer is: “Yes, but it depends.”

In most cases of illness and death, the victims did not use the proper equipment when cleaning or removing black mold from their home. Even if the cleaner wears the right protection, the other inhabitants are often exposed because not enough care was taken to ensure the issue was resolved before allowing them back in the home. If you must tackle this problem yourself, you must do it right the first time. You and your loved ones depend on every precaution being executed correctly.

Preparing the Home for Black Mold Removal

Any attempt to resolve mold issues in a home will disturb the mold and release millions—if not billions—of mold spores into the environment. These spores are invisible to the naked eye and completely unavoidable. They spread through every room within minutes—even seconds—so do not think for even a moment that your family is safe in another part of the house. Even if the spores finally settle, you can expose your family by introducing them on your clothing or opening a door and causing them to rise up again on air currents.

This is why a complete strategy must be in place before you make any removal attempt at all.

If you must do this on your own:

purchase the proper personal protection equipment (PPE)—wear and use it at all times!

have your family and pets removed completely from the home for several days

invest in an air purifier that combines HEPA and Activated Carbon filters

be willing to throw away any items that are fibrous or porous, such as wood or fabrics

if replacing elements of the home, purchase only mold-resistant drywall, paint, sheet rock, and other materials

use black mold removal products or cleaners, or make them yourself from anti-fungal essential oils—NO BLEACH!

document the entire process with videos, photographs, and/or journaling (in case of litigation)

safeguard yourself and your family with anti-fungal meals and supplements

maintain mold-inhibiting temperatures and moisture levels in the home

Conclusion

Cleaning black mold yourself can be a daunting task—and one that you should never take lightly. If it is at all possible, I urge you to seek professional assistance. That said, if you choose to move forward regardless of what you have read here, you are doing so with the full knowledge of what the risks are. My only advice is to be unwavering in your precautions and planning. Never move forward without the proper equipment. Do not cut corners. Do not compromise safety for “cheap” or “easy” solutions. Your life and the lives of those you love are at stake.

If you’re in need of black mold removal solutions for specific materials or situations (such as: “how to remove black mold from wood,” “how to get rid of black mold on walls,” or many other topics), please feel free to use the search bar on MoldBlogger. Every week, more topics and solutions will be posted to help you with your mold problems, so check back frequently.

If you’ve ever found black mold in your home, please share your experience in the comments below—it could greatly benefit other readers. What led you to search out the mold—did you experience symptoms beforehand? Where did you find it? What steps did you take to remove it? What black mold removal products did you use? Ultimately, do you believe it is safe to clean black mold yourself or do you think it is wiser to invest in the help of professionals?

Article by Amanda Demsky.

#RSSMix.com Mix ID 8291996

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mclamb10011636 · 5 years ago

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How to Build a Mold-Resistant Home or Commercial Building

Mold infestation can occur on almost any organic surface, and it is not a good look. When we think of mold, we think of rotten food that’s been left in the fridge for too long. But any place with moisture can attract mold and serve as a breeding ground.

No one likes having an unwelcomed outsider in their house, and mold in your homes can be extremely annoying. Getting rid of mold can be quite costly, and not only is it a bad look on your home, but it also causes many health problems.

So, instead of waiting around for your place to get infested with mold or taking precautions, it is safer to build a mold-resistant home or any building. Mold can make a living hard for the habitants and reduce the market value of your place as well. Here are some ways you can prevent this from happening in the first place:

Construction Strategies

You can get advice from a mold prevention consultant before you get started with your property’s blueprint. You can incorporate strategies in your building designs and water installation plans. Many construction materials are made of stuff that can withstand moisture and airflow.

You can use water-resistant material when you start the construction process, and you can have it installed for your walls, flooring, and roofs. Often, during rain or snowfall, water seeps into your walls and roofs, which can lead to mold infestation.

To prevent this from happening, you need to utilize well-coated moisture-proof wood or any other building material. Often, people design their building structure in a way that keeps water and rain from seeping inside your building’s foundations.

Keep the Building Dry

Just like when food is left in a place with heavy moisture, it can grow mold. The same thing can happen if any space or corner of your building is wet, and it can lead to mold. You can invest in a dehumidifier if you live in a place where the weather is often humid.

Mold can often start growing in places you don’t even think of! Cracks in your walls, cupboards, and cabinets are some of the paces you should look into immediately. Make sure to seal and repair any cracks in your walls and roof as soon as possible.

You can use water-proof materials to install an extra layer on top of your flooring and roofs to make sure there is no room for anything to grow. Invest in the best quality plumbing equipment and materials, so there are no chances of any water leakage after a few years.

Get Rid of Any Sources of Humidity

A lot of time, a mold infestation can be tricky, and if you’re in charge of a commercial building, you might not be aware of all the places responsible for the spread of mold. Get the help of an expert to take a look at your structure and inform you about any possible sources of humidity.

Sometimes drying-in isn’t sufficient to dispose of dampness, and the mold can keep on spreading. That generally happens when there is another source of humidity in the house. For example, people often remove their drywalls to redesign their house or get rid of asbestos, and water is used in the process, which leads to humidity.

One method of getting rid of this new humidity source is to wait for a few days, until the moisture evaporates and then proceed with the construction. However, it’s always best not to have any potential sources to prevent future disasters.

Double-Check Everything Beforehand

Once you are done with the construction and getting everything set up, it is essential to look all around the house or building because mold is supposed to be sneaky. Most of the time, we notice it after months when it has already spread too far.

It’s better to be safe than sorry; make sure you check everything beforehand:

Having a water-resistant rooftop

Utilizing water-resistant exteriors on the house

Having water-tight windows

Water-proofing each opening around the windows, entryways, and different regions

Ventilate During Construction

During construction in hotter and humid regions, doors and windows need to be kept open to ensure there is enough room for ventilation and natural drying of all the materials like cement, concrete, and in the end paint.

Ensure that you avoid using any heaters to dry out the building compounds and the paint because they add more humidity into the air. However, mechanical equipment like dryers or fans can be used to have low-humidity in the air and overall reduce any moisture.

Install Drains for Water to Exit

At times, because of heavy rainfall or snow, water can gather around on a rooftop, make its way to your walls and become a home for mold. You need to install proper drains on different places like your rooftop or shower to make sure the water exits easily.

You can make sure your structure is designed in a way, so it stays on a slope that is directed towards the drains. Unfortunately, if any water gets inside your wall, you can have water barrier designs installed to prevent this from happening.

Takeaway- Keep Mold Out of Your Buildings

A mold is never a good sign no matter where it appears because it leads to surface damage and health problems. It’s a huge risk for any business as well; imagine if your consumers are looking for professional carpet cleaning services in London and they come to you, but see your mold-infested floors. They are bound to reconsider hiring your services.

Keeping your place dry and mold-free can be a complex procedure. You will need to be consistent, careful, and look out for any signs of mold. These tips can be helpful if you’re thinking of building a house or any building. Take preventative measures as a way to secure your building’s foundations from mold.

Myrah Abrar is a computer science graduate with a passion for web development and digital marketing. She writes blog articles for Carpet Cleaning London.

#RSSMix.com Mix ID 8291996

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mclamb10011636 · 5 years ago

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How to Get Rid of Mold on Concrete Block Walls

According to the 2021 Old Farmer’s Almanac, this winter is going to be warmer and wetter than usual. Perhaps that’s what brought you here today. Is your basement collecting more moisture this winter? Have you noticed a musty smell or discoloration on your basement walls? If so, then the most-likely culprit is mold. It’s time to figure out how to get rid of mold on concrete block walls—and fast!

Why Concrete Blocks are Susceptible to Mold

Concrete blocks are made up of water, aggregate (gravel, rock, or sand), and Portland cement. The aggregate acts as a filler while the Portland cement acts as a binding agent. Many of the ingredients in Portland cement (what is commonly used in poured concrete today) are anti-fungal, such as lime. Portland cement is created by crushing, milling, and measuring out specific proportions of the following materials: o Alumina, Al2O3: from bauxite, recycled aluminum, or clay. o Gypsum, CaSO4.2H20: found together with later limestone ingredients. o Iron, Fe2O3: from clay, iron ore, scrap iron, or fly ash. o Lime or calcium oxide, CaO: from limestone, chalk, shells, shale, or calcareous rock. o Silica, SiO2: from sand, old bottles, clay, or argillaceous rock. Cinder blocks (often confused with their concrete cousin) tend to be antiquated but can still be found in older buildings. They contained cement and cinder ash. Today, new composites of cinder blocks are being manufactured that have a special blend of concrete ingredients and volcanic pumice or coal. Volcanic pumice and coal are both anti-fungal, as well. Fun Fact: Roman concrete was an ideal choice for building. Not only was its hydraulic-setting composition (meaning: it could pour and cure under water) unique in all the world, many of the Roman concrete structures remain to this day because the composite contains volcanic ash, which made an inhospitable environment for mold and other microbials that would have molecularly broken down the blocks over time. Sadly, the exact secret composition of Roman concrete was lost alongside the fall of the Roman Empire itself around 476 A.D. Whether you have concrete blocks, poured cement, or old or new cinder blocks, the ingredients are relatively the same and provide the same amount of protection against mold growth within and throughout the structure itself. The problem lies in the fact that both concrete and cinder blocks allow for the re-absorption of water. Strangely enough, this actually restrengthens the molecular structures of the blocks themselves. At the same time, however, because they are so porous and have a high proclivity toward moisture, this allows for the risk of mold growth. Thankfully, the concrete or cinder block itself does not supply mold with a food source. Unfortunately, it is the layer of dust and other contaminates that settle on the surface over time that can provide plenty of nutrients for a mold to grow.

How to Get Rid of Mold on Concrete Block Walls

Theoretically, if you kept your concrete or cinder block walls clean of dust and debris, and were able to control the temperature and moisture level of the room, your mold problem would dry up, so to speak. Unfortunately, even if these measures are taken regularly, it is still possible for mold to simply lie dormant as it waits for the ideal conditions to arise again. Therefore, if a mold problem has already arisen, you will have to take extra mold-fighting steps in addition to maintaining the clean, dry conditions, as well. Before we get into the specifics of how to remove mold from concrete basement walls, you will need to have the right gear. Going in unprepared could put you at risk for mold infection and toxicity. I suggest reading up about mold containment and personal protection equipment (PPE) against mold. After you have decided on the appropriate PPE—and are wearing it!—your first task will be to remove the moisture issue in the afflicted room. Is it a spill, a leak, or just the result of the climate? Whatever it is, clean up any puddles and repair any broken pipes. Then, well-ventilate the room by opening windows or consider investing in a dehumidifier to control the humidity immediately and long-term. (Further reading: how a dehumidifier can help get rid of mold in your basement.) Your second task will be to clean the room and concrete or cinder block walls thoroughly, clearing away dust, debris, and/or mold itself. Whether it’s mold on the surface of concrete blocks or mold inside cinder block walls, a liquid solution comprised of a mold-killing ingredient is best and you’ll need to seal it afterward with mold-preventive vinegar. What you will need to clean mold off concrete: • PPE (mask, goggles, gloves, etc.) • hard bristle brush (here are some options on Amazon; don’t use a wire brush, as it will damage the walls) • anti-fungal laundry detergent diluted by hot-water in a spray bottle (you can use a simple dilution of borax, but I highly suggest this recipe) • white vinegar water-diluted in a spray bottle • anti-fungal essential oils to add to the vinegar to veil the strong scent—optional • hot water in a spray bottle • rags and towels you are willing to throw away • a trash bag Please note: All spray bottles should have a misting option—not a jet spray. IMPORTANT: While laundry detergent is suggested, please do not use anything but a detergent that specifically highlights its anti-fungal properties. This usually entails an all-natural detergent made with essential oils. If you are unable to find such a detergent, create your own from the recipe link provided, or stick strictly with borax. Any other detergent will only provide nutrients to the mold and allow it to grow back exponentially worse.

How to Remove Mold From Concrete Basement Walls, Steps 1 – 6:

Step 1: Once you have donned your PPE and brought everything on the list into the affected room, remember to keep the room well-ventilated or leave your dehumidifier running. Then, spray the walls generously with your detergent mixture, soaking them thoroughly. (There is no need to wait for a specific period of time before you go on to the next step. Step 2: Start at the first area you sprayed and scrub vigorously every inch of the wall until you have finished scrubbing the entire room. The bristle brush is meant to break up and pull out from the concrete pores any visible and non-visible particles of mold-food or mold growth. (While poured concrete in the floors is less likely to have mold growth, it is wise to hit that area, too. I suggest a floor-scrubbing bristle brush instead of getting on your hands and knees with a handheld brush, though. You can find those in the Amazon link provided above, as well.) Step 3: Spray the walls (and floor) with hot water from a spray bottle in segments one by one and then use rags or towels (you are willing to throw away) to wipe the walls and floors down. Remember to replace the towels frequently between segments so that you are not merely spreading the moldy mess. (The reason for spraying hot water is that, by the time you have finished scrubbing, the detergent and debris will have dried up and you’ll need to remoisten the walls in order to wipe them away.) Step 4: After the walls (and floor) have been wiped clean, they will most-likely still be a little moist. That is perfectly fine. Now it is time to apply the vinegar spray. This, too, should be applied generously, which is why you might want to add an anti-fungal essential oil to it, like lavender—to help stave off that awful vinegar smell. Step 5: Remember to safely remove and throw away the bristle brush, the rags and towels, and the PPE in the trash bag you brought with you once you are finished. It might seem like a waste of money instead of washing these things, but these items have so many nooks and crannies where mold can live, that it is best to toss them out to ensure they do not contaminate the rest of your house. This is especially important if you are dealing with toxic black mold. Step 6: Shower and scrub your body and hair thoroughly, then opt to eat a dinner infused with plenty of garlic. You can find many anti-fungal food suggestions on MoldBlogger. If you want to be extra thorough, add anti-fungal essential oils to your hot water bottle and repeat Step 3 twice before moving on to Step 4. This will ensure that there is absolutely no residue of detergent or mold remaining. That’s it!

Conclusion

The answer to “How to get rid of mold on concrete block walls?” is a simple one, but if you live in a hot and humid climate, you may have to repeat this process once or twice a year. There are commercial mold sprays, but I cannot in good conscience suggest them due to their highly corrosive ingredients. Some PPE will not be able to keep your mucous membranes (mouth, nose, throat, eyes) safe from such chemicals, and it would be a shame if, in the process of saving you and your loved ones from mold, you inadvertently exposed them to chemical burns via inhalation. That is a very likely outcome if you are working on an entire room that had poor ventilation to begin with. If you are still curious as to why ingredients such as borax and vinegar are worthy mold fighters, please feel free to read these articles that can answer the following questions: How to clean mold off basement walls with borax? (This article is all about Borax and why it is a useful and safe mold cleaner.) Will vinegar clean mold on concrete? (This article describes how vinegar can kill about 82% of known molds and help prevent future outbreaks.)

Article by Amanda Demsky

#RSSMix.com Mix ID 8291996

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mclamb10011636 · 5 years ago

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Can Mold Make Your Dog Sick?

Whether your dog ate mold or you’re simply preparing for possible problems in the future, you have come to the right place. Can mold make your dog sick? Yes. But, are dog mold allergy symptoms too difficult or expensive to treat? No. There is hope for your furry friend and I’d like to share that hope with you today.

Mold Exposure and Immune Response

Mold exposure comes in three forms for both dogs and humans. There is the inhalation of mold spores, the skin-contact of mold, and the ingestion of mold. All three types of exposure can either be benign or dangerous, depending on the type of mold and the body’s immune function. A sensitive immune system can overreact to the most benign exposure and the least dangerous mold. A well-functioning immune system will handle most exposures effortlessly and the dog or person will show little to no symptoms at all. The good news about a dog’s immune system is that it was designed to handle some of life’s grittiest encounters. Dogs are able to heal from the nastiest and dirtiest (bacterial) animal bites, recover from the filthiest and most toxic foods (think: garbage), and handle some of the most polluted habitats known on the planet (Chernobyl, anyone?). In other words, it is very unlikely that a one-time exposure to mold will cause your dog anything long-lasting. That said, it would still be beneficial if you knew a few worse-case scenarios and how to manage them if your dog’s mold exposure was severe or he has an overly-sensitive immune response to mold.

Molds Dogs Are Most Commonly Exposed To:

• Alternaria–common during Spring and Fall • Aspergillus–vegetation, basements • Fusarium—cereal crops (dog food), plants • Helminthosporium—soil in Summer • Hormodendrum—both living and decaying leaves • Penicillium—vegetation, stored food products • Phoma—quick-growing after Autumn rains • Spondylocladium—plants, building air ducts

Some of these molds produce mildly-irritating mycotoxins (which the body can adapt to and fight easily), while others produce the most dangerous mycotoxins, known as aflatoxins. Aflatoxins are both carcinogens (cancer-causing) and mutagens (DNA-altering). With aflatoxic molds, a one-time exposure is enough to disrupt the health of your dog for long periods of time or cause their immune system to be overly responsive (think: self-destructive inflammation) or less responsive (think: extreme vulnerability to weak microbes), which can result in chronic and devastating sickness and possible death. There is even evidence to suggest that aflatoxins are responsible for liver disease in dogs, as well (See: “Can mold cause liver disease in dogs?”).

If you suspect your dog has been exposed in a dangerous way to mold, you will need to know what symptoms to look out for. It may not be enough to remove the dog from the mold-infested habitat, bathe him, or change his diet; you may need to take him in to a veterinarian. Some of the less worrisome dog mold allergy symptoms will include temporary sneezing, coughing, and itching that improve upon removal from a habitat, the cleaning of a habitat, or a bath with hypoallergenic shampoo. Such symptoms are only a concern if they persist for several days. Other more immediate and severe symptoms will not always include respiratory indicators like symptoms of black mold poisoning in humans. Instead, severe dog mold allergy symptoms will often manifest themselves in a dog’s skin, as later mentioned, despite whether the mold was breathed in, touched, or consumed.

Your Dog Breathed in Mold

If you suspect your dog has inhaled large quantities of mold spores or has persistently been in a habitat contaminated by mold, there is good news and bad news.

The good news: A dog’s lungs—much like a person’s—is a very inhospitable environment for microbes. This is because there is no nutrition available in the lungs to both bacteria and fungi, which reduces the chance of long-term residence should such microbes get past the carina (where the airways branch off into the lungs). Most importantly, however, the respiratory system itself is under constant surveillance by the immune system.

It should be noted that an immediate sneeze or cough response to mold exposure is actually a good sign that the respiratory line of defense is working properly. A persistent cough lasting for several days, however, is a sign that inflammation and infection have taken hold of your beloved pooch and he needs medical attention.

The bad news: For centuries, dog breeding has custom-tailored a subjective preference on dog behavior and appearance. This has caused not only a great variety of dog breeds, but a vast watering-down of certain breeds’ capacity for good health and longevity. In other words, some dog breeds are more susceptible to respiratory issues. We may feel a fierce cute-aggression response to squished pug and bulldog faces, but the truth of the matter is that the adorable shape and size of their snout makes them weak and vulnerable to respiratory strife and disease.

The nasal passages are a dog’s respiratory system’s first defense against mold. The shorter the snout, the less likely it can stop mold spores from entering the lungs. It isn’t just the snout of these types of breeds—their lungs are naturally weak from centuries of inbreeding, as well. Some long-snouted dogs have the same inbred lung weaknesses as the severely short-snouted dogs. The most mold-vulnerable breeds will be short-snouted and/or small breeds. The least mold-vulnerable breeds will be mutts and large breeds with a less narrow ancestry of breeding. Ages of greatest susceptibility will be newborn puppies and geriatric dogs of all breeds.

Breeds with weak respiratory function or individual dogs with compromised immune systems, can easily develop a fungal infection of the respiratory system called pneumocystis carinii. P. carinii infiltrates the body’s weakened defenses, multiplying and growing to critical levels in the lungs.

Symptoms of P. carinii include the following:

• coughing • diarrhea • difficulty in regular exercises • gradual weight loss • cachexia—physical wasting (muscle loss and weakness)

Regardless of your dog’s breed, please be aware that an inhalation of large quantities of mold or a recurring inhalation of mold is not something to take lightly, even if you have a so-called “healthy” breed.

Your Dog Touched Mold

The skin of both humans and dogs is the greatest barrier and defense against mold. Rarely will skin contact with mold cause a noteworthy reaction. However, this only applies to dry and well-groomed dogs (and people). Long-haired dogs and dogs that are kept outdoors are more likely to experience mold-induced rashes or mold infections because the fur is not clean or dry, which traps moisture, decaying organic material, and heat—mold’s favorite habitat. In addition, open wounds and mucus membranes (i.e. eyes, genitals, nose) are more susceptible to fungal infiltration and infection.

If your dog and his living conditions are kept clean and dry and his wounds from all his daily adventures are cleaned and treated quickly, mold on dog skin is no danger, but you will still need to take precautions against mold contact.

Dog mold allergy symptoms in the skin will reveal themselves by the following indicators: • chewing of the paws • chronic ear infections • excessive licking • hair loss • hot spots • pruritus (excessive itching and scratching) • pustules (pus-filled zit-like bumps, usually within a hair follicle—causes hair to fall out) • redness and scaliness of the skin • secondary skin infections • shaking of the head and ears • thickened and odorous skin

Your Dog Ate Mold

If you’re certain your dog ate mold, you can also be relatively certain that his body is equipped to remedy and resolve the issue rather quickly. A dog’s gut—the stomach and intestines—is very acidic, which is typical of any carnivore. Their digestive system is designed to process large quantities and great varieties of meat and bone, as well as manage dangerous microbes from decaying flesh. During digestion, a dog’s stomach acid can reach a pH level well below 1.0. For comparison’s sake, a human’s stomach pH generally stays between 2.0 and 3.5, which allows for many types of bacteria and fungi to sneak through unscathed. A vulture, for example, has probably the most corrosive stomach acid on the planet because it was designed to clean up rotting carcasses, which are jam-packed full of biotoxins. Your dog’s stomach acid is nearly on the same level as the vulture’s, which means only the most cantankerous molds will have a fighting chance of survival and colonization throughout the dog’s digestive tract. In addition to a well-fortified digestive system, your dog also has a very sensitive and reactive gag-reflex when the gut detects a health risk in its food. Many an owner can attest to this, as most dogs throw up at least once a year. (The trick is keeping them from eating it again, am I right?) Dog mold allergy symptoms from the consumption of mold will include the following: • foul-smelling or chronic gas • diarrhea • retching (dry heaving or productive throwing up) The truth is that every dog consumes mold on a daily basis. This is because mold is present in all grain-based foods. Most dogs have a high tolerance for molds, and others—like those with compromised immune systems—will react badly with the aforementioned symptoms. Still, it is possible for even the most healthy dogs to have bad reactions if they encounter a particularly dangerous mold in their food—such as aflatoxins. If you find that your dog does not respond well to his food, try adjusting his diet before taking him to the veterinarian. Grain is not a necessary component of a dog’s diet—it is merely filler put into dog food to make it more affordable for the owner and tastier and more filling to the dog. Grain food is also the reason a lot of pets become obese. Therefore, switching to another brand or type of dog food might be beneficial in more ways than one. There are more grain-free dry, wet, and raw versions of dog food available today than ever before. To start your journey, read about the grain-free dog food brands praised by DogFoodAdvisor.

How Do You Treat a Dog with Mold?

Mold detox for dogs begins with their environment or habitat. Check the home and yard for an abundance of moisture and decaying organic material (mold’s nourishment). Find the point of exposure, entry, and/or growth. The faster you remedy the point of mold exposure, the faster your dog will experience relief of symptoms. Second, wash your dog and/or change his diet. The best shampoos for mold on dog skin will not only be anti-microbial but soothing with ingredients like oatmeal and aloe vera. Most itch-relief shampoos will have the ingredients necessary to give your dog relief from mold. If your dog continues to suffer long after the bath and you’re willing to move forward without a vet’s advice, try an over-the-counter antihistamine and/or a steroid cream—be sure your dog does not lick where you apply it. (Any gentle anti-fungal cream that you would use on yourself is generally safe for dogs, as long as they do not lick it or get it in their eyes.) As for an antihistamine, Benadryl is a safe histamine blocker for dogs, but be certain your dog does not have the following conditions before administering it: • cardiac conditions • currently pregnant • glaucoma • low blood pressure If you know your dog does not have these conditions and you are willing to move forward without a vet’s advice and take full responsibility for any results, you may administer 1mg per pound of body weight, 2-3 times a day to your dog until symptoms subside completely. Most Benadryl tablets are only 25mg, which is the perfect dose for a 25-lb. dog. Third, if necessary, take your dog to a veterinarian and explain your concerns of mold exposure. If your vet sees recurring or severe dog mold allergy symptoms, he or she may introduce inflammation therapy or hyposensitization techniques. Inflammation therapy involves the use of corticosteroids and antihistamines. Coupled with Omega-3 supplements, these medications can boost the dog’s recovery. Hyposensitization techniques usually involve incremental doses of allergen injections that may eventually desensitize your dog to unavoidable mold exposure. Fourth, commit to a routine—in the home and performed on the dog—that lowers the chances of mold exposure and mold infection in the future, such as: • frequent bathing and brushing (make sure the dog’s fur is dry before bed or outside play) • frequent habitat cleaning (including dog beds, dog houses, and keeping the yard and house as dry as possible) • grain-free dog food • Omega-3 supplements

Concluding Thoughts

By far—for both people and dogs—the most dangerous type of mold exposure is prolonged exposure. A one-time encounter will rarely, if ever, have devastating consequences for your dog—unless they have a compromised immune system to begin with. It is the prolonged exposure to mold that can facilitate a compromised immune system or cause an overly-reactive immune response. Consider it your dog’s body’s way of saying, “Enough is enough! Help me already!”

Lastly, remember that if your dog has been exposed to mold, so have you. Be mindful of changes in your own body and do not delay in remedying any mold-encouraging conditions in your home or among your daily habits.

All things considered, the dog is a resilient creature with an impressive immune system that has survived some of the grossest and most dangerous things on the planet. Not only do they tend to recover quickly from mold exposure in most cases, they also have a knack for sniffing out and avoiding mold altogether. Dogs aren’t just used to detect drugs or bombs, well-trained mold detection dogs are also quite adept at detecting and differentiating between over 18 different types of mold, which has saved countless human lives over the past few decades. Just think, if they’re able to point out mold for praise or a treat, then it’s safe to assume that most dogs are aware enough to avoid dangerous molds for their own safety. Then again, they do like to roll in corpses and fecal matter and lap up their own vomit. Still, one can hope…

If your dog has experienced dog mold allergy symptoms, we would appreciate you sharing his or her story with us down in the comments below. What was the first sign of mold exposure that you noticed? How long did the symptoms last? What mold treatment worked best? Don’t be shy! Your fuzzy friend’s experience could help others identify and alleviate their own dog’s mold problems. For more information regarding mold, mold prevention, and mold solutions, please check out the rest of MoldBlogger.com. About the Author: Amanda Demsky is the mother and personal chef of two boys, the domestic technician of a desert home, and occasionally, a freelance writer and editor. If you have questions regarding this topic or suggestions for related topics, please feel free to comment below to receive a direct response from the author herself.

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mclamb10011636 · 5 years ago

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Celebrate Korean-American Day Mold-Free with Kimchi and Cheonggukjang!

With Korean-American Day here at last, it seems only fitting to celebrate our beloved brothers and sisters of Korean descent by sharing a little-known fact about Korean cuisine. Thanks to centuries of Korean ingenuity, recent research reveals that Korean food health benefits go well beyond the scope of essential nutrients. Two of America’s favorite Korean dishes—kimchi and cheonggukjang—are in the spotlight today as we celebrate Korean-Americans and their anti-fungal contributions to this great nation’s diverse menu!

Happy Korean-American Day!

The journey and integration of the first 100+ Koreans to the United States of America in 1903 was arduous and rife with hardship, but their courage and their foresight to make this country their home has enriched American culture (and diet!) for over 118 years. The Korean-American story is a fascinating one and further learning of their history and experience is highly encouraged. For additional information, please check out the following links: National Today’s spotlight on Korean-American Day KEI’s Virtual Celebration of Korean-American Day The National Association of Korean-Americans By clicking on these links, you are not only acknowledging the significance of Korean-American Day, you are also enhancing your understanding of their struggle and important impact on American society. Please wish your Korean brothers and sisters a “Happy Korean-American Day!” and feel free to share additional links and information regarding Korean-American history and Korean food culture in the comments below.

Korean Food Health Benefits

While I look forward to possible discussions on Korean-American Day in the comment section, we must first get down to the business of mold talk—after all, this is MoldBlogger. Today, I am excited to share with you the anti-fungal properties of America’s two favorite Korean dishes—kimchi and cheonggukjang! It may come as a surprise to many MoldBlogger readers that the spotlight falls on fermented Korean food health benefits, considering there have been two anti-fungal diet do’s and don’ts articles in the past that mention the fungal-risk of fermented foods. However, recent research suggests there may be an exception to this rule which would allow mold-sufferers and lovers of Korean dishes to indulge guilt- and mold-free on this special day!

Is Korean Food Good for You?

Before we touch on the anti-fungal properties of kimchi and cheonggukjang, let’s delve into the beauty and health benefits of the Korean cuisine as a whole. While the vast majority of Koreans are not vegetarian, the Korean diet itself boasts a significant inclusion of vegetables into nearly every dish. With the Standard American Diet (affectionately coined “S.A.D.”) consisting of mostly processed carbohydrates and mold-infested grains, it is safe to say that Korean food influences upon American society are much-needed and should rightly be a part of the Korean-American Day celebrations. It may be true that international vegetables have infiltrated Korean dishes for over 100 years now, but the staple of Korean food recipes revolves around vegetables native to Asia, such as cabbages, radishes, spinach, peppers, and bean sprouts. Because all vegetables and spices contain anti-fungal properties, a Korean diet containing spices and over 2/3s vegetables is less likely to allow exposure to mold or exacerbate mold toxicity symptoms, which makes many Korean dishes an acceptable diet for today’s festivities if you are concerned about a current mold-induced condition.

What is Kimchi?

One of the most popular Korean dishes in America is kimchi. Kimchi can act as both an entrée and an appetizer. Traditionally, Koreans enjoy kimchi with every meal, even breakfast. Kimchi is comprised of vegetables (cabbage, radishes, etc.), garlic, ginger, chili peppers, salt, and a sauce base—usually fish sauce, but there are vegan alternative recipes that use a soy sauce and nori (seaweed) base for the same “ocean” flavor. Because of its unique preparation and fermenting process, kimchi’s greatest health benefit is its abundance of probiotics, namely those of the Lactobacillus family. Kimchi offers millions of distinct varieties of live microbes, unlike most of the probiotic supplements you can buy online or at your local store. While not unhelpful, many probiotic supplements tend to consist of a monocrop of probiotic strains, which lack the ideal variety for optimal gut health that kimchi provides. Because of its ingredients and fermentation process, kimchi is hailed as one of the most health-beneficial Korean dishes thanks to its anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties.

What is Cheonggukjang?

Cheonggukjang (chun-yük-jang) is a thick paste made from fermented soybeans and red chili powder. Popular in Korea and Korean-American cuisine, this paste is used to flavor stews full of vegetables and oftentimes tofu, among other ingredients. It has an umami taste to it, which is the Japanese term that means a rich “savoriness.” There is a common saying about cheonggukjang: “You either hate it or love it, there is no in between.” This is certainly true of cheonggukjang, as it has a range and depth of flavor similar in intensity to other pastes and broths like miso and doenjang. What does cheonggukjang have in common with kimchi? Just like kimchi, this spicy paste undergoes a fermenting process that breeds the same gut-beneficial strains of probiotics, making it kimchi’s equal when it comes to fermented Korean food health benefits.

What Exactly Makes Kimchi and Cheonggukjang Anti-Fungal?

A recent scientific article—“Healthy and Safe Korean Traditional Fermented Foods: Kimchi and Chongkukjang”—concluded that not only were these two fermented goodies capable of effectively inhibiting the growth of foodborne pathogens, they also contained within them very special anti-fungal strains of bacteria—Lactobacillus plantarum, L. cruvatus, L. lactis, L. casei, L. pentosus, L. acidophilus, and L. sake—and acidic properties that render dangerous microscopic mold spores ineffective and unable to grow and colonize. Overall, these types of studies reveal that kimchi and cheonggukjang are not only anti-fungal, they’re anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-oxidant, anti-cancer, anti-obesity, and anti-aging, as well.

In Conclusion

Thankfully, those suffering from mold-induced conditions now have two fermented foods they can enjoy without worrying about further mold exposure and aggravation. In other words, pass the kimchi! Break out the cheonggukjang! It’s time—and perfectly safe!—to celebrate Korean-American Day! For more information regarding mold, mold prevention, and mold solutions, please check out the rest of MoldBlogger.com. About the Author: Amanda Demsky is the mother and personal chef of two boys, the domestic technician of a desert home, and occasionally, a freelance writer and editor. If you have questions regarding this topic or suggestions for related topics, please feel free to comment below to receive a direct response from the author herself.

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mclamb10011636 · 5 years ago

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5 Lifehacks to Keep Mold From Ruining Your Life

Emergencies are not often planned for, yet when they crop up as a difficulty or crisis, it can be life-changing. Usually surprises are not easily preventable, because they aren’t predictable, but sometimes there are things we can do to save ourselves from experiencing certain life-changing issues, such as mold.

Mold is an opportunistic organism that will wreak havoc in your home if given the opportunity. Often just a little bit of neglect, or an unfortunate event such as a leak or flooding, will bring with it a mold invasion. Although leaks and flooding are not always issues that are completely preventable, there are some hacks that can help you keep on top of any issues that could lead to mold so that it doesn’t have a chance to grow into a major catastrophe.

Check Roof and Plumbing Regularly

When water gets in your house, mold will find it’s way in as well. That is why leaks from the roof or from plumbing in your home can be a serious issue. It may start out small, but soon after a leak begins, the water damage and mold will be a challenge to face. Mold can begin growing on a damp surface within 24 to 48 hours. That doesn’t give you a whole lot of time to notice a leak before mold can really get out of hand and require extensive repairs and remediation. That is why it is crucial to be aware of any possible entry points for water and keep up with roof maintenance and repairs. If you notice a leak do not put off getting it repaired.

Invest in a Dehumidifier

If you live in a humid area, or have issues with humidity in the home from cooking and showering, or notice condensation on your windows, your humidity levels may be too high and attractive for mold. Home ventilation is an important key for a healthy home, but dehumidifiers are another option to remedy the problem. According to the EPA, the ideal humidity level to prevent mold is between 30 and 50 percent. If your humidity level is above the recommended amount, a simple dehumidifier can help remedy the problem and reduce your risk of developing mold in your home.

Avoid Homes Prone to Flooding and Water Damage

If you are looking to buy or rent a home, be sure to check that there are no signs of water damage or flooding. Research flood maps to confirm that you are not in a flood zone. Mold is a serious issue in flood zones and moving into a home that floods not worth the risk.

If you are already in a home with flooding, try to see what you can do to reduce your risk of future issues. Sump pumps, internal membranes that can be applied to basement cement walls, and proper drainage systems are all possible remedies to flooding and water issues.

If You Suspect Mold, Get It Checked Immediately

Mold is a time-sensitive issue. If you suspect you have a mold problem in your home you need to get it inspected as fast as you can, as mold can grow at a rate of one square inch per day! High levels of mold spores in your home can have a very negative impact on your health. There are several options for a mold inspection, but whatever choice you make, just be sure to get it checked and remediated as quickly as possible.

Avoid Moldy Foods

This hack is not so much about the health of your home, but maintaining your personal health. There are a number of foods that have been found to have high levels of mold. Though it is obviously important to throw out produce and food with visible mold, there are some foods with mold that might be surprising. Some of those moldy foods include peanuts, most coffees, certain condiments, etc. If you have a mold allergy, avoiding the high mold foods can be even more crucial.

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mclamb10011636 · 5 years ago

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Humidity and Mold

Like frizzy, untamed hair, mold thrives in humid conditions. The link between moisture levels and mold is a strong one – and one we should pay attention to if we want to maintain a mold-free home. As weather patterns and seasons come and go, it is important to keep track of the humidity levels within our home walls in order to preserve a healthy dwelling.

According to the EPA, the humidity in the home can supply enough moisture to grow mold if it is 60 percent or above, with the ideal level to prevent mold being between 30 and 50 percent. By knowing the humidity level of our residence we can better assess our mold risk. A simple meter to gauge the indoor water vapor in the air can help evaluate if mold might get cozy in your home.

Signs of Humidity

High humidity levels in the home often have warning signs, like when we get frizzy hair on a hot, muggy day. However, you may want something more reliable than the observable behavior of one’s hairstyle.

Condensation

Condensation occurs when humid air comes into contact with a cold surface, such as a window, and forms droplets of water. In short, it is the process of water going from the gas phase to liquid phase. If you discover condensation in your home, it is likely from too much humidity. This is usually observable in windows and window sills, and is a good place to check first.

Moisture Problems

Moisture can build up within a home or building due to lack of adequate ventilation. Other issues can cause too much moisture and mold growth as well, such as a leaking roof, plumbing leaks, and unvented appliances.

If you smell mold, it is a good indicator that you have a moisture or humidity issue that has caused the mold growth. Mold can cause a number of health problems that can also indicate that you have a moisture dilemma, especially if your health gets better when out of the house or the environment with the mold.

How to Reduce Humidity

Ventilation

Ventilation is key to a healthy home, it allows air flow to adequately keep the house dry by stopping condensation, and bringing in fresh air/keeping the air regulated (studies show indoor air can be more polluted than outdoor air). Good ventilation can even reduce concentrations of radon gas, as well as VOCs. Ventilation is key in mold prevention!

Dehumidifiers

If your home has humidity levels above the recommended 30-50 percent, you may want to purchase a dehumidifier for your home. Dehumidifiers will help regulate the moisture levels in your home, which reduces the humidity and condensation and will help prevent mold. There are a variety of dehumidifiers available depending on the system you’d like and the size of the area you’d like to reduce humidity levels in.

Fix Leaks

While leaks are not necessarily a humidity issue, it is another key in controlling moisture and water damage to prevent mold. Check your pumping for leaks often, such as under the sinks in bathrooms and kitchen, roof leaks, washing machine, etc.

Mold Prevention

High humidity can be a major problem for mold prevention, but with some of these simple remedies for humidity in your home, you can be assured that you are reducing your risk of mold in your house!

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mclamb10011636 · 5 years ago

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How To Spot Mold In Your New Home & What To Do About It

It happens, you can buy a new house, and a few weeks after moving into the property, discover it has a mold problem. This is even if you did a home inspection before concluding the purchase of the home. But you may ask, is mold not one of the reasons for doing the home inspection […]

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mclamb10011636 · 5 years ago

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Remediation Complete…What Next?

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3 Potent Anti-fungal Foods for Mold

Exposure to toxic mold can wreak havoc on the human body. Sometimes, when a person is continuously in an environment with high levels of harmful mold it can cause symptoms and health issues that can be difficult to reverse, even after removing the mold from the surroundings.

Mold Symptoms

Mold symptoms can come and go. Often, the symptoms worsen or return when you are in a moldy home or building. Some of the common mold symptoms can include the following:

headache

a tightening in the chest

burning sensations in airways

cough

difficulty breathing

fever

fits of sneezing

nose bleeds

skin irritation

stuffy nose

watery or itchy eyes

wheezing

Sometimes the exposure can cause more serious and chronic conditions, such as the following:

asthma

autoimmune disease

cold and flu symptoms

emphysema-like disease

fatigue

memory loss

migraine-like headaches

muscle aches

nosebleeds

pulmonary hemorrhage

rashes and dermatitis

sore throat

vomiting and diarrhea (especially in infants)

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to contact your health-care practitioner. However, it can be difficult to diagnose a mold-related illness. Make sure to check your home or work place for any signs of mold and relate any connection to mold and your symptoms to your doctor.

There are many wonderful anti-fungal foods that can help boost the body as it recovers from mold exposure. There are also some foods that are often contaminated with mold or potentially encourage mold growth, that should be avoided while trying to recover from mold or fungal issues. We will be examining three foods that can be helpful in dealing with fungal or mold concerns.

Antifungal Foods

Garlic

Garlic is one of the most well-known medicinal foods, with a host of benefits and uses. One of those medicinal qualities is a compound called allicin, which is recognized to have potent anti-fungal properties.

A great way to add some more garlic to your diet is by adding it raw (allicin is damaged by heat) to a host of different dishes, or as a topping. To gain the most allicin benefits, be sure to chop or crush the garlic about 5 to 10 minutes before consuming. This enzyme needs a little time and exposure to the air to reach its peak medicinal levels.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is highly impressive in it’s anti-fungal qualities. Studies show that this oil is known for being effective in against one of the most common fungal infections, Candida albicans. This study shows a huge reduction of colonization of C. albicans in mice with the use of coconut oil. There are more studies that show it’s possibilities with other fungal infections as well.

Coconut oil contains Lauric acid and Caprylic acid, and these fatty acids act by poking holes in the cell walls of Candida albicans, destroying the fungus and stopping the overgrowth.

Try to use coconut oil in place of other oils in cooking and baking. It can also be used as a butter replacement on toast, with a little sea salt!

Ginger

Ginger is famous traditionally for treating many different ailments. It is often a go-to treatment for nausea, stomach upset, increasing circulation, and anti-infammatory relief. Ginger is also known to contain the anti-fugal compounds gingerol and shagelol, which helps it inhibit the growth of C. albicans and supports a healthy balance of bacteria to prevent overgrowth.

A great way to include more ginger in your diet is to make a fresh ginger tea.

Always consult your health care provider before changing your diet, or if you have any symptoms of fungal or mold infections.

Sources

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4016684/ Inhibitory effect of allicin and garlic extracts on growth of cultured hyphae

https://msphere.asm.org/content/1/1/e00020-15 Manipulation of Host Diet To Reduce Gastrointestinal Colonization by the Opportunistic Pathogen Candida albicans

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17651080 In vitro antimicrobial properties of coconut oil on Candida species in Ibadan, Nigeria.

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What to do if you are Quarantined in a Moldy House

The world is fast changing as we deal with things we have never had to experience in our lifetime. It can seem overwhelming to process and change our lives so quickly, but is important to not let stress overtake us and paralyze. Rather, let us focus on the things we CAN do to make this transition easier and more productive.

Many of us are confined to our homes for an indefinite amount of time. This can be a positive thing as we get to spend more time together as a family and do projects that maybe we never had time to do before because life kept us too busy and consumed. However, if we happen to be restricted to a house that contains toxic mold, this can have a very negative impact on our health and well being. Until things return to “normal” and we are able to get professional help with a mold infestation, it is crucial to do what we can to create the healthiest space to spend this time in quarantine due to COVID-19 pandemic.

Open the Windows

Thankfully, it is springtime and warming up in many places affected by the novel coronavirus. This allows many of us to begin opening our windows and allowing the fresh air to penetrate our homes. This fresh air can help dilute the airborne mold spores and create a healthier environment. In a time when respiratory health is so crucial, it is important to note that “fresh air helps the airways of your lungs to dilate more fully and improves the cleansing action of your lungs.” 1 It is wonderful that something so simple as opening our windows can improve our lung function and cleanse the indoor air!

Turn on the Air Filter

Not everyone can open their windows, or keep them open for long, due to heating costs, noise pollution, etc. However, many people can use a HEPA air filter to improve the indoor air quality, especially when we are all spending so much time in our homes to flatten the curve of COVID-19. Air filters can help clean the air we breath each day, and lessen the mold we are inhaling into our lungs.

Boost the Immune System

So, while it is important to reduce the mold you are breathing in your home, it is also a good idea to avoid moldy foods, and focus on eating foods that actually help the body deal with mold. Thankfully, we have lists of foods to eat, as well as ones to avoid that you can check out. It is probably a good idea to practice healthy eating habits as much as possible during this time, which also translates into the body being able to better manage any toxins that we may be exposed to in our homes.

Balance Your Humidity

You may want to investigate if your mold issue is coming from high humidity levels in the home. High humidity levels can often be a contributing factor or cause of mold growth. 2 The EPA suggests reducing humidity levels to 30-60% indoors (ideally 30-50%) to decrease and prevent mold. A simple dehumidifier can help reduce the humidity in your home to be less inviting to mold growth. If you think your humidity is too high, and can’t get out of your homes right now due to the quarantine, you can hop on over to Amazon and check out the selection there. Just be sure to get the correct size for your space.

Fix Your Leaks

If your mold issue is not from high humidity, it is likely due to a leak. Is your roof leaking? Do you have some plumbing that is allowing water to escape to where it shouldn’t be? Now is a good time to do a little detective work and find the source that is feeding your mold. If you are able to fix the issue during quarantine, or at least temporarily fix it until a plumbing or roof repair can be made, that might be a good project to do while we wait to be released into the public again.

Whenever you are dealing with a repair due to mold, it is important to note that the EPA recommends that any mold problem larger than 10 square feet be examined by an expert. So keep that in mind, especially if you heave health issues or respiratory problems. In the mean time, doing our best to stay positive and keep healthy homes during this pandemic is crucial.

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