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Mold In Your Home - What To Do about it?

Mold is a scary word. Whenever it’s around, it means something has gone bad. It’s a shame, really, because it sounds like and is spelled similar to “mole,” which carries an entirely different connotation. Moles, as in the animal, are cute.

But no one thinks mold is cute. And the side effects it causes aren’t either.

Stop Denying It

You may think, “So what’s a little mold?” Well, you won’t think that after you develop allergic reactions like asthma and other breathing problems. It’s time to stop blaming the pets and start considering that maybe, just maybe, your home has mold in it.

How Can I Tell If There Is Mold In My Home?

One telltale sign that may point to a mold infestation in your home is the smell. Mold smells like, well, mold. It’s musty and gross. When you’ve cleaned out the entire house and made sure all the trash is taken out and the plumbing is clear, and you still detect an odor coming from an area with moisture in it like a bathroom or kitchen, you might have mold.

Another obvious indicator is, of course, little black or green or white fuzzy things growing on any of your surfaces. You’ll typically find these in areas where moisture collects, like the walls in bathrooms. But if you don’t see it, don’t think it’s not there. It could still be in the ceiling, in the walls or under the floorboards.

Finally, if you’ve developed allergic reactions and respiratory problems that you never had before, and nothing else in your house has changed… you guessed it: you may have mold in your home.

Okay, I Admit There Might Be Mold In My Home. Now What?

If you think there might be mold in your house, the best thing you can do is call a professional. Now, hold on. You might be thinking, “Why can’t I just clean it up myself?” We’ve got three good reasons why you shouldn’t do that.

1. A professional mold inspector can find the mold 95% of the time, no matter where it’s growing. You can go nose to nose with your bathroom all day, but you probably don’t know how to check for it in other unlikely places, like the attic or the walls. Mold inspectors use special tools that help them find the mold in your house, wherever it may lurk.

2. A professional mold inspector will identify the mold and decide how best to remove it. They can also teach you how to prevent it from coming back.

3. A professional mold inspector can recommend a mold remediation contractor. A mold remediation contractor can remove the growth.

Better Call BNF

If you have mold, you’ve come to the right place. We here at BNF Consulting are expert mold inspectors. Schedule a free call with us today at 914-297-8335 to learn more.

About Authors:

Justin H. Joe, PhD, CIH, CSP, CPE, is a Certified Industrial Hygienist and

a principal consultant of BNF Consulting, Inc. Dr. Joe graduated from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign with PhD and MS degrees in nuclear engineering. Dr. Joe has provided industrial hygiene consulting as a core function with his diverse background of experience and education.

For more details on our products and services, please feel free to visit us at:  black mold,   air quality testing,   mold test,  environmental testing &  mold removal.

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Why Waste Money on Mold Test Kits?

When you think that your property has mold in it, it is important to know what you are dealing with so that you can tackle it effectively. There are many home improvements and renovations that can be tackled on your own in order to save money. However, when it comes to mold you may be putting your family’s health at risk. Many studies [1] have shown the links between mold and a variety of health problems including childhood asthma.

If you are looking to identify the presence of mold in your home, there are some home mold test kits that you can use yourself, or you can call in the experts who will conduct a mold inspection and mold testing. Before you try an at home kit, it is important to keep a few things in mind.

Home Mold Test Kits

Home mold testing is a cheaper alternative to calling in professionals, however, they come with a variety of flaws that mean you could get inaccurate results or results that are not useful, therefore meaning that they are a waste of money.

Many experts also do not recommend home mold test kits. In a book by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists known as ‘Bioaerosols: Assessment and Control’ [2] this government agency advises against using the type of sample taken using these home mold kits. But don’t just trust the scientists, Consumer Reports [3] also advise against all home mold test kits. In an experiment they tried several, which all had some kind of fault. They even sent an unused test plate to one of the home mold labs, which came back positive, despite not being used.

In addition to this, with many home mold test kits, you are simply told whether mold is present or not, rather than identifying the type of mold and if it is dangerous. Some companies will offer to send this away to a lab for you, however this will come with an extra hidden costs. By simply mailing your test samples, they can get damaged or contaminated on the way to the lab, leading to inaccurate or false results.

A Mold Inspection

Mold inspections that are carried out by professionals, on the other hand, can tell you much more information. These experts are trained in mold and mold growth – even when it can’t be seen in your home. Not only will the professionals test visible mold growth, but they may also ask questions about the history of your building, take samples from various places known to be breeding grounds for mold, and ask about any symptoms of the occupants of the building.

Mold inspectors will also take into consideration factors that affect moisture levels in your building that at at-home test cannot. They understand that mold is apparent in almost every home – there is even mold present in the air outside. A physical inspection can tell experts a lot about the mold spores located on your property and whether these should be of concern to you and your family.

Mold inspectors can also conduct multiple different types of test and can evaluate which types are best for your specific property.

Firstly, air samples can be taken to identify the types of mold spores in the air – this is important as this is what you and your family are breathing in. The most common type of test conducted is a spore trap. Spore traps work by allowing the air in your home to flow through a sticky surface that traps the air particles. These can then be sent to the lab, which can identify the number of mold spores in the air, and the type of mold.

Secondly, mold inspectors can also collect surface samples from a variety of surfaces in your home. There are three main types of surface samples:

Swab samples – Swabs of surfaces are taken with an instrument like a cotton bud and sent away to the lab.

Tape samples – If a small amount of mold is present on a surface, mold inspectors may collect some of it by placing clear tape on top of it, removing a sample and sending it off for inspection.

Bulk samples – For larger mold growths, a piece of the area it is growing on can be physically removed or cut away and sent for testing.

These samples will then be tested and a detailed report sent out to you, including recommendations on which course of action to take, to best tackle the specific types of mold in your home.

Take Away

Overall, home mold test kits will not give you the detailed answers that you need to tackle the types of mold in your home. An inspection of yourhome by an expert is of much greater value than any home testing kit. Many at home tests do not provide accurate and specific results, and instead simply tell you if mold is present or not. Mold inspectors will be able to identify where you have mold (even if it cannot be seen), what type of mold is in your home, and most importantly, how to effectively get rid of it. While mold inspection and testing can cost more, the positive impact it could have on your family’s health is priceless.  BNF Consulting, Inc. is a licensed mold inspection company that abides by New York State & US EPA regulations for mold inspection and testing. Does your home or business have a mold problem? Our company can provide a reliable mold inspection to determine potential risks. Call us today at 914-297-8335 for a free phone / Video consultation!

For more details on our products and services, please feel free to visit us at:  mold inspection,   mold testing,   mold inspector,   mold assessor   &  mold remediation.

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Can mold make my pet sick? Effect of Mold on Pets

Pets can be affected by mold from their indoor home environment is similar to humans. The negative effects for pets are unique compared to humans, with symptoms appearing as allergies or more severely, respiratory diseases or toxic reactions. Monitoring changes in your pet may indicate poor health within the home caused by mold. Understanding the effects of mold on your pets may be essential to maintain their health and wellbeing them and the health of the household.

Common Sources

Like humans, exposure to molds can be harmful to pets. Generally molds grow easily in warm and humid conditions with organic materials, which can be food for the molds. Especially, there are some additional sources of mold for pets as below:

Manufactured pet food stored improper place

Trash container

Pet’s water bowls, favorite towel or toy and bedding.

Pet’s fur and dead skin flake: pets can be a source of mold itself. Their furs and dead skin flakes are good food for mold. Once mold is present in their body, they often carry a variety of molds and release these molds into their indoor air.

 Exposure Route

Pets are likely to spend more time in the environment that could be contaminated by mold. They are prone to mold exposure due to their habits such as chewing on toys, clawing tree stumps, or grooming themselves. The two primary exposure routes of mold in pets is inhalation and digestion.

 Inhalation: the animal inhales floating spores released by mold colonies

Being in a house where mold exists already

Sniffing moldy surfaces

 Digestion: Pets are more likely to chew or ingest things they can find around them.

Eating moldy food, compost piles, and stump

Taking care of themselves through grooming

Symptoms in Pets

Common symptoms among pets are dissimilar to symptoms experienced in humans. Symptoms may be categorized differently, based on the severity and type of malady: respiratory distress, allergic reactions, or toxic reactions.

- Allergic symptoms of mold exposure in pets include but are not limited to:

Pruritus: excessive itching

Papules: razor burns, insect bites, skin tags, etc.

Alopecia: a disease causing fur loss

Hyperpigmentation

Excoriation: chronic skin picking

Skin infection

Scaling

Lesions

- Respiratory distress symptoms include:

Constant sneezing/coughing

Nasal discharge

Watery eyes

Fatigue

Bleeding from mouth or nose

- Toxic reactions include:

Gastrointestinal complications

Decreased appetite

Vomiting

Shaking/tremors

Neurological problems: may include odd behavior or loss of functions

Monitoring these symptoms are essential to protecting your pet’s health and understanding the health and conditions of the home.

For more details on our products and services, please feel free to visit us at:  black mold,   air quality testing,   mold test,  environmental testing &  mold removal.

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Dogs Are More Sensitive to Mold

Dogs are particularly sensitive to mold exposure, similar to humans. Because of their weaker immune systems, they are susceptible to mold-related illnesses. Certain breeds exhibit symptoms and allergies worse than others, though all dog breeds are affected by mold poisoning. For example, respiratory diseases are easily found in dogs with relatively broad, short skulls (brachycephalic breeds). It is recommended that if symptoms are apparent, it is best to consult a veterinarian before taking any other action.

Concerning mold issues with unique pets, consulting a veterinarian or specialist is ideal, as the effects of mold are not well understood for animals that are not conventionally owned.

Reducing Risk of Exposure/Health Effects

As mold exposure deteriorates the health of your pet, there are several measures that may be taken to reduce the effects:

If mold growth is suspected, schedule an inspection with a licensed mold inspector

Avoid contact between the pet and moldy foods/environments

If the pet is exhibiting severe symptoms, take them to the vet

Clean toys/beds/other belongings in hot water

Takeaways

Common sources of mold that increase exposure to pets include: trash containers, improper storage of moist pet food, pet dander, etc.

Exposure route of mold is primarily through inhalation or digestion

Symptoms in pets are categorized as allergic symptoms, respiratory distress, or toxic reactions

While pets may show symptoms to mold exposure, these symptoms are unique from human symptoms

Dogs are especially sensitive to mold due to weaker immune systems

To reduce the risks of mold exposure, maintaining cleanliness and taking action is essential

How can BNF Consulting help with Mold?

BNF Consulting, Inc. is a licensed mold inspection company that abides by New York State & US EPA regulations for mold inspection and testing. Does your home or business have a mold problem? Our company can provide a reliable mold inspection service to determine potential risks.

If you are concerned for you and your family’s safety or curious about air pollution in your home, schedule a free call with us today at 914-297-8335 to learn more about our services. We also offer a free phone/video consultation.

About the Authors:

Nicole Lee is a sophomore environmental science major at Rutgers University and BNF Consulting internship program participant.

Lucas Kim graduated from Pohang University of Science and Technology with PhD and MS degrees in chemistry and BNF Consulting Environmental Consultant.

For more details on our products and services, please feel free to visit us at:  mold testing,   mold inspector,   mold assessor,   mold remediation   &  black mold.

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How does mold in the ventilation systems affect me?

While the presence of mold is greater in more damp rooms, such as basements, mold in air conditioners can be more detrimental to your household’s health.

In any ventilation system where mold is present, air blowing through the grills of an air duct or air conditioning unit will disturb any surface spores. Because air ducts are connected throughout the home, an HVAC system infested with mold growth may spread the spores when air is blown out through the vents. As a result, occupants may experience allergic reactions or more severe respiratory consequences.

Remediation and Maintenance

While there are home remedies to remove mold in HVAC systems, the EPA highly recommends that mold remediation in HVAC systems should only be performed by qualified and licensed professionals. To address mold in air conditioning systems, a mold inspector evaluates the potential source of mold and takes samples. These samples include surface swab and/or spore count air samples. Surface swab samples are taken from areas where mold is visible or suspected to be growing. Spore count air samples measure mold spores lingering in a room as surface spores are disturbed and dispersed through air ducts. Once samples are taken, they are analyzed by a lab and received by the inspector. The inspector then evaluates the concentration of spores and recommends remediation plans to be completed by qualified contractors.

Qualified contractors loosen and remove debris using HEPA vacuuming equipment. In severe cases, parts or the whole HVAC system may be replaced if the components are outdated or are functioning improperly.

To prevent further growth of mold in the HVAC system, it is recommended that the following measures be taken:

Routine inspections and regular duct cleaning

Observing moisture patches

Changing AC filters on a regular basis

Monitoring humidity levels

Monitoring allergies and symptoms for mold

Takeaways

Mold in air conditioning systems is very common, especially with regular use or when inactive. It can be detected primarily through smell, appearance, and health symptoms.

The most common mold types in HVAC systems are aspergillus, Cladosporium, and black mold. While Aspergillus and Cladosporium are common allergens, black mold is highly toxic and should be remediated professionally immediately.

Regular maintenance and inspection is required to prevent further mold growth.

How can BNF Consulting help with mold in HVAC systems?

BNF Consulting, Inc. is a licensed mold inspection company that abides by New York State & US EPA regulations for mold inspection and testing. Does your home or business have a mold problem? Our company can provide a reliable mold inspection service to determine potential risks.

If you are concerned for you and your family’s safety or curious about air pollution in your home, schedule a free call with us today at 914-297-8335 to learn more about our services. We also offer a free phone/video consultation.

For more details on our products and services, please feel free to visit us at:  mold remediation,  black mold,   air quality testing,   mold test   &  environmental testing.

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How Does Mold Grow in HVAC Systems?

Air conditioning or HVAC systems are an ideal solution for humid, hot summer weather. However, these units are a breeding ground for mold growth, as it provides the ideal conditions for it to flourish. Oftentimes, mold is undetected by occupants within a household. HVAC systems are connected throughout the home, allowing disturbed mold spores to disperse in rooms where air ducts are present. The dark space in air vents, debris buildup, moisture, and oxygen provide ideal mold growth conditions. It is essential that HVAC systems are routinely inspected, especially with regular use to ensure the safety of your family.

Recognizing mold in air conditioners

The presence of mold may not always be easy to detect, as the individual spores are microscopic. However, several factors may be considered when determining and locating mold growth in the HVAC system:

Smell: oftentimes, a musty smell will linger where mold is present, especially where the AC unit or vents are located within a room.

Appearance of mold reservoirs: surface mold growth will appear on grills of the vents or air conditioner unit. Sometimes, black dust will be visible on and around air vents which may indicate black mold. However, mold may not always be apparent on the surface of the grills but rather, inside the heart of the unit or HVAC system.

Health symptoms: Another way to check the presence of mold in your air conditioners is to check for health symptoms such as:

Allergic symptoms: Itchy, irritated eyes, sneezing, or irritation to mucous membranes of the throat and nose, or rashes.

Respiratory symptoms: Chronic coughing or difficulty breathing,

Gastric symptoms: Nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea.

Nonspecific symptoms: Fatigue, headaches, or impaired concentration.

Causes of mold growth in air conditioners

Mold growth is more likely to occur in HVAC systems as the ideal thriving conditions are satisfied within ducts. These necessities include:

Oxygen

Moisture

Organic matter (dust)

Dark spaces

Most commonly, mold growth is present on the evaporator coil and/or blower fan of the HVAC system. Due to condensation, mold will attract on colder, moist surfaces.

Common mold types in air condition systems

The most common types of mold found in air conditioning units are:

Aspergillus: common allergen

Cladosporium: common allergen

Stachybotrys Chartarum: also known as black mold; a harmful mold that releases mycotoxins

For more details on our products and services, please feel free to visit us at: mold inspection,   mold testing,   mold inspector,    mold assessor   &  mold remediation.

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Mold In Your Home - What To Do about it?

Mold is a scary word. Whenever it’s around, it means something has gone bad. It’s a shame, really, because it sounds like and is spelled similar to “mole,” which carries an entirely different connotation. Moles, as in the animal, are cute.

But no one thinks mold is cute. And the side effects it causes aren’t either.

Stop Denying It

You may think, “So what’s a little mold?” Well, you won’t think that after you develop allergic reactions like asthma and other breathing problems. It’s time to stop blaming the pets and start considering that maybe, just maybe, your home has mold in it.

How Can I Tell If There Is Mold In My Home?

One telltale sign that may point to a mold infestation in your home is the smell. Mold smells like, well, mold. It’s musty and gross. When you’ve cleaned out the entire house and made sure all the trash is taken out and the plumbing is clear, and you still detect an odor coming from an area with moisture in it like a bathroom or kitchen, you might have mold.

Another obvious indicator is, of course, little black or green or white fuzzy things growing on any of your surfaces. You’ll typically find these in areas where moisture collects, like the walls in bathrooms. But if you don’t see it, don’t think it’s not there. It could still be in the ceiling, in the walls or under the floorboards.

Finally, if you’ve developed allergic reactions and respiratory problems that you never had before, and nothing else in your house has changed… you guessed it: you may have mold in your home.

Okay, I Admit There Might Be Mold In My Home. Now What?

If you think there might be mold in your house, the best thing you can do is call a professional. Now, hold on. You might be thinking, “Why can’t I just clean it up myself?” We’ve got three good reasons why you shouldn’t do that.

1. A professional mold inspector can find the mold 95% of the time, no matter where it’s growing. You can go nose to nose with your bathroom all day, but you probably don’t know how to check for it in other unlikely places, like the attic or the walls. Mold inspectors use special tools that help them find the mold in your house, wherever it may lurk.

2. A professional mold inspector will identify the mold and decide how best to remove it. They can also teach you how to prevent it from coming back.

3. A professional mold inspector can recommend a mold remediation contractor. A mold remediation contractor can remove the growth.

Better Call BNF

If you have mold, you’ve come to the right place. We here at BNF Consulting are expert mold inspectors. Schedule a free call with us today at 914-297-8335 to learn more.

About Authors:

Justin H. Joe, PhD, CIH, CSP, CPE, is a Certified Industrial Hygienist and

a principal consultant of BNF Consulting, Inc. Dr. Joe graduated from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign with PhD and MS degrees in nuclear engineering. Dr. Joe has provided industrial hygiene consulting as a core function with his diverse background of experience and education.

For more details on our products and services, please feel free to visit us at:  mold remediation,   black mold,  air quality testing,   mold test  &   environmental testing.

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What is Black Mold, Why It's Bad

Black mold is like your in-laws. It comes into your home, camps out in your bathrooms, and doesn't want to leave. If you leave it alone long enough, it reproduces, creating more black mold. Before you know it, it's everywhere you look. Unlike with your in-laws, you can't file a restraining order on it or lock the front door to keep it out. When black mold comes, it comes to stay.

But we don't want it to stay. We want to get rid of black mold as soon as we see it. Because if we let it linger, in addition to growing and making our home look gross, it can produce a lot of nasty side effects in our bodies. That's why it's important to know what black mold is when we see it, why it's bad, and how to get rid of it.

What Is Black Mold?

The substance that we typically think of as "black mold" is called Stachybotrys chartarum (S. chartarum). It is a fungus, and it thrives in areas of stagnant moisture. This is why you might see it in your bathroom or kitchen walls and floors, or any drywall or wood where moisture is prevalent. The bathroom, in particular, is a common site for black mold growth because it is not always properly ventilated.

Why Is Black Mold So Bad?

Black mold spores can cause allergic reactions in people who are sensitive to them. People who are exposed to black mold might experience respiratory issues like asthma or sinus problems, including sneezing and a runny nose. It can also affect your pets. In other words, just like your in-laws, black mold can cause extreme discomfort.

How Do I Get Rid Of The Black Mold In My Home?

If there is not much black mold growth, you can remove it using hot, soapy water and scrubbing it away. Make sure you wear gloves. A face mask might also be a good idea to wear so that you don't accidentally inhale any mold spores.

But if you notice a lot of black mold growth, or if you still experience an allergic reaction whenever you enter your bathroom or another area that collects moisture, it might be time to call a mold inspector.

Call Us Today To Consult About Your Black Mold Problem

A mold inspection service, like what we offer here at BNF, can suss out the source of the mold growth in your home 95% of the time. We can also recommend professional mold remediation contractors who have the proper protective gear and the knowledge to treat every type of mold appropriately.

Schedule a free call with us today at 914-297-8335 to learn more about our mold inspection services. We offer a free phone / Video Consultation

BNF Consulting, Inc. is a licensed mold inspection company that abides by New York State & US EPA regulations for mold inspection and testing. Does your home or business have a mold problem? Our company can provide a reliable mold inspection service to determine potential risks. Call us today at 914-297-8335 for a free phone consultation!

For more details on our products and services, please feel free to visit us at:  mold inspection,   mold testing,   mold inspector,   mold assessor   &  mold remediation.

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Does Homeowner's Insurance Cover Mold?

It is important that any mold growth is taken care of as quickly and efficiently as possible. A build-up of mold can and will affect the structural integrity of materials that it has grown upon. If there has been significant water intrusion that has led to the possibility of mold - those first 48 hours are crucial in stopping and containing the spread of the mold.

Do not exaggerate, guess, or speculate the value of your losses over any item or property.

In most states, a substantial or minor misrepresentation, concealment, or omission–even an accidental one–made in conjunction with the claim (for example, insisting that an item was damaged when it actually was not), or considerably overstating the cost of a damaged item–may supply your insurer a legitimate excuse to deny the claim and even revoke the policy.

This is perhaps a common tactic employed by adjusters and claim representatives who are predisposed to reject or lowball a claim. For the purpose of ferreting out even minor inconsistencies between your first recorded statement and succeeding recorded statements, and arguing that these discrepancies create material misstatements sufficient enough to renounce your claim. Don’t give them the opportunity by doing this.

Make it transparent to your insurer when your memory may not be wholly reliable, and that you are estimating a price roughly, it’s okay to note down "To Be Determined" for the price of items you're not sure about. If you don’t hold receipts to prove what an item cost, gather catalogs, statements from retail clerks, bank statements, credit card statements or allegations from family members or friends. If all else fails, get a formal appraisal. Keep this as a last resort, because your insurer will customarily decline to compensate you for the costs of hiring your own appraiser and consultants.

Avoid any further damage to your home

We’re not saying that you have to hire a contractor to come and start work straight away, especially if you can’t afford it. Make sure the insurance assessor or ‘adjustor’ has come to inspect the value of the damage first before any repairs take place. However, do take some actions in order to prevent any further damage from occurring. If you would like to, you may hire a public adjustor (a paid consumer advocate who recovers funds for damages for a policyholder from their own insurance company). Essentially, they will act for you and at time can recover amounts significantly higher than what an insurance company would initially be willing to give out.

Some steps to ensure further damage is stopped:

Turn off any water leakage that occurs from broken appliances or pipes.

Take any required emergency measures to preserve the building and personal property from any additional harm.

Do not discard anything away until you have the approval of the insurance company, and you have documented its status and condition.

It is encouraged that you hang on to contaminated items until they can be mold inspected and tested by a licensed mold inspector or company for mold content. If in doubt, cover the items in plastic or foil and seal them away in a plastic bag for storing.

If there is roof deterioration over your house, you may need to hire a constructor to wrap it with a plastic tarp or tent your home to shield you against bad weather.

BNF Consulting, Inc. is a licensed mold inspection company that abides by New York State & US EPA regulations for mold inspection and testing. Does your home or business have a mold problem? Our company can provide a reliable mold inspection service to determine potential risks. Call us today at 914-297-8335 for a free phone consultation!

For more details on our products and services, please feel free to visit us at:  mold inspection,   mold testing,   mold inspector,   mold assessor  &  mold remediation.

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Mold Test Kits – Are these useful?

When you think that your property has mold in it, it is important to know what you are dealing with so that you can tackle it effectively. There are many home improvements and renovations that can be tackled on your own in order to save money. However, when it comes to mold you may be putting your family’s health at risk. Many studies [1] have shown the links between mold and a variety of health problems including childhood asthma.

If you are looking to identify the presence of mold in your home, there are some home mold test kits that you can use yourself, or you can call in the experts who will conduct a mold inspection and mold testing. Before you try an at home kit, it is important to keep a few things in mind.

Home Mold Test Kits

Home mold testing is a cheaper alternative to calling in professionals, however, they come with a variety of flaws that mean you could get inaccurate results or results that are not useful, therefore meaning that they are a waste of money.

Many experts also do not recommend home mold test kits. In a book by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists known as ‘Bioaerosols: Assessment and Control’ [2] this government agency advises against using the type of sample taken using these home mold kits. But don’t just trust the scientists, Consumer Reports [3] also advise against all home mold test kits. In an experiment they tried several, which all had some kind of fault. They even sent an unused test plate to one of the home mold labs, which came back positive, despite not being used.

In addition to this, with many home mold test kits, you are simply told whether mold is present or not, rather than identifying the type of mold and if it is dangerous. Some companies will offer to send this away to a lab for you, however this will come with an extra hidden costs. By simply mailing your test samples, they can get damaged or contaminated on the way to the lab, leading to inaccurate or false results.

A Mold Inspection

Mold inspections that are carried out by professionals, on the other hand, can tell you much more information. These experts are trained in mold and mold growth – even when it can’t be seen in your home. Not only will the professionals test visible mold growth, but they may also ask questions about the history of your building, take samples from various places known to be breeding grounds for mold, and ask about any symptoms of the occupants of the building.

Mold inspectors will also take into consideration factors that affect moisture levels in your building that at at-home test cannot. They understand that mold is apparent in almost every home – there is even mold present in the air outside. A physical inspection can tell experts a lot about the mold spores located on your property and whether these should be of concern to you and your family.

Mold inspectors can also conduct multiple different types of test and can evaluate which types are best for your specific property.

Firstly, air samples can be taken to identify the types of mold spores in the air – this is important as this is what you and your family are breathing in. The most common type of test conducted is a spore trap. Spore traps work by allowing the air in your home to flow through a sticky surface that traps the air particles. These can then be sent to the lab, which can identify the number of mold spores in the air, and the type of mold.

Secondly, mold inspectors can also collect surface samples from a variety of surfaces in your home. There are three main types of surface samples:

Swab samples – Swabs of surfaces are taken with an instrument like a cotton bud and sent away to the lab.

Tape samples – If a small amount of mold is present on a surface, mold inspectors may collect some of it by placing clear tape on top of it, removing a sample and sending it off for inspection.

Bulk samples – For larger mold growths, a piece of the area it is growing on can be physically removed or cut away and sent for testing.

These samples will then be tested and a detailed report sent out to you, including recommendations on which course of action to take, to best tackle the specific types of mold in your home.

Take Away

Overall, home mold test kits will not give you the detailed answers that you need to tackle the types of mold in your home. An inspection of yourhome by an expert is of much greater value than any home testing kit. Many at home tests do not provide accurate and specific results, and instead simply tell you if mold is present or not. Mold inspectors will be able to identify where you have mold (even if it cannot be seen), what type of mold is in your home, and most importantly, how to effectively get rid of it. While mold inspection and testing can cost more, the positive impact it could have on your family’s health is priceless.

 BNF Consulting, Inc. is a licensed mold inspection company that abides by New York State & US EPA regulations for mold inspection and testing. Does your home or business have a mold problem? Our company can provide a reliable mold inspection to determine potential risks. Call us today at 914-297-8335 for a free phone / Video consultation!

For more details on our products and services, please feel free to visit us at: mold remediation,   black mold,   air quality testing,  mold test   &  environmental testing.

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Lead Poisoning in Children: How Does It Happen and How Can I Prevent It? Part 2

What can I do to protect my child from lead?

Fortunately, lead-contaminated sites can be remediated and restored.

You can take these measures to ensure you and your family’s safety:

Wash hands and toys often, especially after playtime

Mop floors often and use damp cloths to clean windowsills

Reach out to a certified testing center to take dust, paint, and/or water samples to ensure community safety

Ask your landlord or realtor about lead in the building before renting or buying

Avoid purchasing products like jewelry or furniture and toys that contain lead

Let tap water run for 1 minute before use to clear out lead

Keep children away from peeling paint and windowsills

Use only cold water for cooking and food preparation since lead dissolves easily into hot water

Eat foods high in iron, calcium, and vitamin C can help prevent lead poisoning

If your home was built before 1978, these measures are especially recommended to follow.

What are health care providers doing to prevent lead poisoning?

New York State Public Health Law and Regulations require health care providers to:

Obtain a blood lead level test for all children at age 1 and again at age 2

Assess all children aged 6 months to 6 years for risk of lead exposure annually as part of routine care and obtain a blood lead level test on children found to be at risk

Take follow-up testing measures and medical management if a child has an elevated lead level

Provide anticipatory lead exposure prevention guidance to all parents of children under 6

How can BNF Consulting help with lead poisoning problems?

BNF Consulting offers many services to test for leads in residential and commercial buildings. BNF Consulting offers lead paint chip testing, lead dust testing, lead water testing, and lead soil testing done by professional, certified inspectors.

If you are concerned for your child’s safety or curious about lead exposure in your home, schedule a free call with us today at 914-297-8335 to learn more about our lead testing services. We also offer a free phone/video consultation.

BNF Consulting, Inc. is a US EPA and NY lead risk assessment company that is qualified to inspect your home, office building, or healthcare facility. In an initial mold inspection, we conduct a visual analysis, moisture survey, and mold sampling. If mold is detected, we are also licensed to perform safe and effective remediation of the mold according to US EPA regulations. Call us today at 914-297-8335 for a free consultation!

For more details on our products and services, please feel free to visit us at: air quality testing,  mold test,    environmental testing,   mold removal   & mold inspection.

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Lead Poisoning in Children: How Does It Happen and How Can I Prevent It? Part 1

Lead poisoning is the number one environmental poison for children in New York State. Lead is a toxic material that was historically used in paint, plumbing pipes, solder joints, and service lines before limits were set in 1986. However, metal accumulation, corrosion of old lead-based pipes and solders, lead-based paint, and lead service lines can still lead to lead entering your home through water, air, and soil.

What is lead anyway?

Lead is a potent neurotoxin that can cause irreparable harm to one’s brain, especially to infants’ brains, causing them lifelong behavioral, physical, and neurological impairment.

 How can my home allow for lead exposure?

The most widespread and dangerous high-dose source of lead exposure is lead-based paint. Contaminated dust, chipping, and soil from lead-based house paint can allow for lead poisoning and can be extremely dangerous. Before it was banned in household paints in 1978, lead was a common ingredient in paints applied to both the interior and exterior of homes. If your home was built before 1978, it is likely to contain at least some lead-based paint.

 Lead can enter drinking water from lead pipes, lead-based solder on pipes, and corroding metals like brass. Even if you get your water from a well, lead may be present due to absorption by the presence and accumulation of metals like iron or manganese onto pipe walls.

Lead can also be present in the soil as lead-based paint on the exterior of buildings chip, peel, or dust off.

How can my children be affected by lead?

Lead can harm a young child's growth, behavior, ability to learn and can also cause anemia, kidney damage, and hearing loss. Even small amounts can cause many health problems, including harming your child’s ability to learn and read, attention deficits, hyperactivity, and neurological impairment. Therefore, their chances of swallowing lead dust, paint chips, toys, and soil that may contain lead are very high.

What is the main source of lead exposure in children?

The main source of lead exposure in children is lead-based house paint and contaminated dust it generates when the paint peels, chips, or is disturbed. Although lead-based paint was banned by the federal government and NYS decades ago, many homes contain old lead paint which remains dangerous and toxic.

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How Does Mold Grow in HVAC Systems? Part 2

How does mold in the ventilation systems affect me?

While the presence of mold is greater in more damp rooms, such as basements, mold in air conditioners can be more detrimental to your household’s health.

In any ventilation system where mold is present, air blowing through the grills of an air duct or air conditioning unit will disturb any surface spores. Because air ducts are connected throughout the home, an HVAC system infested with mold growth may spread the spores when air is blown out through the vents. As a result, occupants may experience allergic reactions or more severe respiratory consequences.

Remediation and Maintenance

While there are home remedies to remove mold in HVAC systems, the EPA highly recommends that mold remediation in HVAC systems should only be performed by qualified and licensed professionals. To address mold in air conditioning systems, a mold inspector evaluates the potential source of mold and takes samples. These samples include surface swab and/or spore count air samples. Surface swab samples are taken from areas where mold is visible or suspected to be growing. Spore count air samples measure mold spores lingering in a room as surface spores are disturbed and dispersed through air ducts. Once samples are taken, they are analyzed by a lab and received by the inspector. The inspector then evaluates the concentration of spores and recommends remediation plans to be completed by qualified contractors.

Qualified contractors loosen and remove debris using HEPA vacuuming equipment. In severe cases, parts or the whole HVAC system may be replaced if the components are outdated or are functioning improperly.

To prevent further growth of mold in the HVAC system, it is recommended that the following measures be taken:

Routine inspections and regular duct cleaning

Observing moisture patches

Changing AC filters on a regular basis

Monitoring humidity levels

Monitoring allergies and symptoms for mold

Takeaways

Mold in air conditioning systems is very common, especially with regular use or when inactive. It can be detected primarily through smell, appearance, and health symptoms.

The most common mold types in HVAC systems are aspergillus, Cladosporium, and black mold. While Aspergillus and Cladosporium are common allergens, black mold is highly toxic and should be remediated professionally immediately.

Regular maintenance and inspection is required to prevent further mold growth.

How can BNF Consulting help with mold in HVAC systems?

BNF Consulting, Inc. is a licensed mold inspection company that abides by New York State & US EPA regulations for mold inspection and testing. Does your home or business have a mold problem? Our company can provide a reliable mold inspection service to determine potential risks.

If you are concerned for you and your family’s safety or curious about air pollution in your home, schedule a free call with us today at 914-297-8335 to learn more about our services. We also offer a free phone/video consultation.

For more details on our products and services, please feel free to visit us at:  air quality testing,  mold test,   environmental testing,   mold removal   & mold inspection.

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How Does Mold Grow in HVAC Systems? Part 1

Air conditioning or HVAC systems are an ideal solution for humid, hot summer weather. However, these units are a breeding ground for mold growth, as it provides the ideal conditions for it to flourish. Oftentimes, mold is undetected by occupants within a household. HVAC systems are connected throughout the home, allowing disturbed mold spores to disperse in rooms where air ducts are present. The dark space in air vents, debris buildup, moisture, and oxygen provide ideal mold growth conditions. It is essential that HVAC systems are routinely inspected, especially with regular use to ensure the safety of your family.

Recognizing mold in air conditioners

The presence of mold may not always be easy to detect, as the individual spores are microscopic. However, several factors may be considered when determining and locating mold growth in the HVAC system:

Smell: oftentimes, a musty smell will linger where mold is present, especially where the AC unit or vents are located within a room.

Appearance of mold reservoirs: surface mold growth will appear on grills of the vents or air conditioner unit. Sometimes, black dust will be visible on and around air vents which may indicate black mold. However, mold may not always be apparent on the surface of the grills but rather, inside the heart of the unit or HVAC system.

Health symptoms: Another way to check the presence of mold in your air conditioners is to check for health symptoms such as:

Allergic symptoms: Itchy, irritated eyes, sneezing, or irritation to mucous membranes of the throat and nose, or rashes.

Respiratory symptoms: Chronic coughing or difficulty breathing,

Gastric symptoms: Nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea.

Nonspecific symptoms: Fatigue, headaches, or impaired concentration.

Causes of mold growth in air conditioners

Mold growth is more likely to occur in HVAC systems as the ideal thriving conditions are satisfied within ducts. These necessities include:

Oxygen

Moisture

Organic matter (dust)

Dark spaces

Most commonly, mold growth is present on the evaporator coil and/or blower fan of the HVAC system. Due to condensation, mold will attract on colder, moist surfaces.

Common mold types in air condition systems

The most common types of mold found in air conditioning units are:

Aspergillus: common allergen

Cladosporium: common allergen

Stachybotrys Chartarum: also known as black mold; a harmful mold that releases mycotoxins

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The Rise of Candida Auris

Another fungal infection that has spread at an alarming rate during the COVID-19 pandemic is caused by Candida auris. There are three main concerns about the C. auris mold, as described below:

1. In many cases, C. auris is multi-drug resistant, meaning that many of the medications used to treat Candida infections are ineffective for this particular sub-species. Reports suggest that some types are even immune to all three classes of anti-fungal drugs.

2. This particular fungal infection is extremely hard to identify with standard laboratory methods, making it very common to misidentify without specific technology. As may be expected, this misidentification often leads to inadequate management of the infection.

 3. C. auris has caused various outbreaks in healthcare settings. Swift identification of this fungal infection in a hospitalized patient is necessary to promptly carry out the proper precautions that will stop the spread.

The Candida auris fungal infection is known to spread quickly in long-term care facilities. However, during the pandemic there has been an increasing number of reports of C. auris in COVID-19 acute care units. Researchers suspect that these outbreaks may be related to changes in routine infection control practices due to the health crisis. For example, there is a limited availability of gloves and gowns and there is a possibility of faulty cleaning and disinfection practices.

 There have been multiple reports of new C. auris infections that were not associated with previously identified cases. This suggests an increase in undetected infections. The exact percentage of infection caused by C. auris is unknown, however, many patients are instead diagnosed with unidentified antifungal-resistant lung and blood infections (6).

 Fungal Infections Can Be Prevented

One of the best ways to avoid a fungal infection superimposed on COVID-19 is to ensure your environment is free of these molds. Many homes, office buildings, and healthcare facilities contain dangerous molds that have never been detected. Molds thrive in moist environments; therefore, it is commonly found where a leak has occurred.

If indoor mold is discovered, it is recommended to hire a professional to perform mold inspection and remove the infestation. Attempting to remove mold on your own can sometimes lead to further damage.

BNF Consulting, Inc. is a licensed mold inspection company in New York that is qualified to inspect your home, office building, or healthcare facility. In an initial mold inspection, we conduct a visual analysis, moisture survey, and mold sampling. If mold is detected, we are also licensed to perform a safe and effective remediation of the mold according to US EPA regulations. Call us today at 914-297-8335 for a free consultation!

For more details on our products and services, please feel free to visit us at: mold test,   environmental testing,   mold removal,   mold inspection   & mold testing.

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The Rise of Fungal Infections

The COVID-19 global pandemic has impacted almost every aspect of our society. Many of the secondary effects of this virus are still on the verge of being discovered. One identified risk of contracting COVID-19 is the subsequent manifestation of a co-infection. Research is now showing that patients diagnosed with COVID-19 have a greater risk of fungal infections. These fungal infections are caused by various types of mold that are present in the patient’s surrounding environment. With a proper mold inspection, you can ensure your home or commercial building does not put you at risk of this severe co-infection.

The range of symptoms caused by COVID-19 is wide, though severe cases are characterized by acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) secondary to inflammation of the lungs. These symptoms are typically treated with mechanical ventilation or supplemental oxygen. However, 72% of COVID-19 patients also report undergoing antimicrobial therapy as medical professionals seek to remedy new-found risks of superimposed infections (1). Despite these advances in the handling of COVID-19 cases, another dangerous, yet under-studied, possibility of co-infection that has risen to light recently is that of fungus related diseases such as pulmonary aspergillosis. With the increasing evidence of these type of infections emerging among COVID-19 patients, there is a great need for mold inspections in healthcare facilities and individual homes.

What is a Co-Infection?

Co-Infection refers to a situation when two or more microbes infect a body at the same time, attacking the same systems and sometimes even infecting the same individual cells. According to Bio-Med Central, “Co-infection is of particular human health importance because pathogen species can interact within the host. Interactions within the host can have either positive or negative effects on each of the co-infecting parasite species” (2). In other words, two pathogens, such as viruses, bacteria, or mold can either counteract one another, diminishing the severity of the illness, or benefit one another, increasing the harm done to an organism. In the instance of coronavirus and other diseases, most cases are worsened by the presence of a co-infection.

How Fungal Infections Manifest as a Co-Infection to COVID-19

Most forms of invasive fungi enter our bodies through airborne spores, causing an infection to arise in the respiratory system. If a patient is experiencing symptoms from COVID-19, the immune system in the lungs is already in overdrive trying to combat the virus. With the additional infestation of a differing organism, the body has a difficult time fighting off both microbes at the same time. This hampers our ability to deal with the infection. With our immune system compromised, both the virus and mold can then spread. This can greatly hurt our capacity to breathe, leading to a potentially life-threatening condition. There are several types of mold that have been prevalent as a co-infection during the COVID-19 outbreak.

COVID-19 Associated Pulmonary Aspergillosis

According to the CDC “Aspergillosis is an infection caused by Aspergillus, a common mold (a type of fungus) that lives indoors and outdoors” (3). It is common to breathe in Aspergillus spores without becoming sick. Most of the time, our body has natural defenses to avoid these spore particles from causing infiltrating our lungs. However, those with lung disease or a weakened immune system are at a higher risk of contracting an infection or developing health issues after inhaling Aspergillus spores.

COVID-19 Associated Pulmonary Aspergillosis, or CAPA, is the infection of aspergillosis in a patient already sick with COVID-19. As stated by the Imperial College of London “COVID-19 associated pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA), has been reported in up to an alarming 20-35% of mechanically ventilated patients, in European studies” (4). Knowing the significant risk of co-infection, precautions can be taken to avoid this type of further complication.

The manifestation of CAPA can often be attributed to the patient’s environment. Researchers in the European Respiratory Journal released a statement about this issue, “There is also an increased risk of Aspergillus exposure for patients who are treated in hospital wards or makeshift “hospital” facilities that do not meet ICU specifications for appropriate room ventilation and air changes” (5). The presence of this mold can largely be attributed to hospital buildings that do not comply with the proper standards.

Another factor that could influence the risk of contracting CAPA is the use of dexamethasone. This drug is a corticosteroid used primarily to reduce the mortality of COVID-19 patients on mechanical ventilation. Even though this pharmaceutical treatment can reduce the severity of COVID-19, it could also contribute to the co-infection of CAPA.

To remain proactive about the manifestation of this condition, researchers recommend that patients who are still suffering from COVID-19 symptoms be screened for CAPA. This usually involves a combination of CT, chest imaging (a type of X-ray test), antigen, and blood tests. Some even suggest a bronchoscopy, a procedure where a small camera is inserted through the throat to inspect the lungs. Although the screening procedure could lead to a further spread of COVID-19, there is a benefit to avoiding undiagnosed CAPA through awareness and preventative screening.

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Rise in offshoring a boon for IT

Indian IT industry is on the cusp of major transformation. As the ongoing pandemic accelerates the pace of digital transformation, Indian IT services providers are emerging as the major beneficiaries. Apart from benefiting from rising technology spend this year, another factor will also supplement the growth curve of domestic players. That is rising offshoring. Offshoring means more IT outsourcing work from other nations like the US and European continent comes to India for execution. Such a phenomenon has a distinct cost advantage. Firstly, domestic IT firms don't have to deploy human resources at client locations, which usually come at a higher cost. Secondly, these outsourcing projects get implemented from Indian centres where the cost of execution is usually lower than onsite locations. These factors add to the bottom line of companies as wage cost constitutes 50-55 per cent of the total cost of Indian IT companies. The trend is already visible. In the quarter ended June 2021, Infosys reported an offshore ratio of 75.9 per cent as compared to 72 per cent a year earlier. Similarly, Wipro witnessed revenue contribution from offshore locations rising to 54 per cent from 50 per cent a year ago. For mid-tier IT services firm Mindtree, the amount of work getting executed from offshore locations jumped to 83.5 per cent in Q1 of FY22 from 80.2 per cent a year ago. L&T Infotech saw its effort mix from offshore locations increasing to 82.7 per cent in the first quarter of the ongoing fiscal from 78.9 per cent a year ago. The rise in the offshoring ratio is being witnessed across the sector. Boost to offshoring is nothing new in the global technology industry. With each crisis, be it the Y2K issue or global financial crisis; companies across the world have resorted to higher outsourcing to save costs. As the current pandemic increases the cost pressure, a rise in offshoring is the natural outcome. Not only more project work is coming to India for the IT firms, but even multinational corporations are also shifting additional work to their Global Capability Centres (GCCs) or captives here in India. Around 25 per cent of Fortune 500 companies have their captives in the country. Also, about 40 new GCCs are likely to be operational this year. With more MNCs opening up captives in the country, the pace of offshoring is all set to rise. While more outsourcing work coming to Indian shores definitely augurs well for the IT industry, companies have to manage risks to take full advantage of this trend. The key risk is the rising wage cost of Indian engineers. As the demand environment remains robust, there is a talent war seen in recent times. It has resulted in higher wage costs as companies give fat compensation to attract and retain talent. If this scenario persists, then Indian IT firms may not receive the complete benefit arising from offshoring. Similarly, the strengthening of the rupee can reduce the conversion benefit that the Indian companies will get from higher offshoring. Therefore, talent management and currency hedging will sit at the core of driving maximum benefit out of the rising offshoring. Gauging the past record, Indian IT firms are savvy at handling both judiciously.

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