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RTS Environmental Newsletter, February 2009

Mold and Its Effects On Your Basement

A basement can be a wonderful component to any home. Whether you are entertaining guests or providing a play space for your kids, a basement adds to the overall livable space in your home. But basement areas require a little more care and understanding than upper level living areas. Why? Because basements are where mold tends to grow the most.

The more you know about keeping your basement dry and mold free...the better. RTS Environmental Services wants to assist you in this process by providing you the FACTS about Mold by performing a Mold inspection meant to educate you. Presented below is the third part of a series of common questions asked by our customers and real estate partners about household mold issues. If you plan on spending any significant time in your basement, it may be a good idea that this area be inspected for mold. Due to the normal conditions of a residential basement, mold grows quickly and is not always easily detected.

What Is Indication Of Mold?

Any place that is wet and damp is potentially conducive for mold growth to occur, some of which can be an air quality irritant or major health concern such as black mold (Stachybotrys), or mildew (typically Penicillium/Aspergillus group molds). Basements are by nature a damp environment due to lack of sunlight, high relative humidity, and condensation affect. When coupled with stagnate air and cool temperatures, this creates the ideal environment for mold growth. Mold growth is rampant in organic materials such as wood, paper products, or fabrics. Mildew like odors, rotting wood, cracked and worn paint are indicators of the presence of moisture which lead to mold growth. Using your sense of sight and smell it is possible to detect the presence of mold. If you have carpeting lining your basement floor, check under the carpeting for dark stains or blotchy patches. Furniture also has the ability to harbor mold spores. If the furniture has come in contact with moisture and has had the opportunity to site, you may want to consider getting rid of that item or stuff you no longer need to store in your basement. Let RTS know if we can help!

What Are The Health Risks Of Exposure To Mold?

Itching eyes, sneezing and coughing as well as serious allergic reactions such as asthma attacks and lung irritation are all concerns related to prolonged exposure to mold spores. Many of us are not affected by molds, but a small portion of the population are highly sensitive. Moreover, with prolonged exposure to mold spores, many people become progressively irritated by it. This is why prevention of moisture entry and understanding why mold develops is so important! Read about one family's exposure to mold:

If you or a potential homebuyer suspects that there may be a mold problem in a property, it is wise to schedule a mold inspection to determine the severity of the problem. Mold grows in damp and dark areas of the home that may not be easily seen and it is better to determine if there is a problem before a house is sold. To discuss this with a certified mold inspector, please contact RTS Environmental Services at 1-800-722-5589 or visit our website at www.rtsenvironmental.com.

RTS Environmental has provided thousands of mold in sections for real estate professionals and buyers throughout the greater Washington Metropolitan area to provide thorough, honest, and practical inspections and solutions.

Contact Information
RTS Environmental Services, Inc.
Tel: 1-800-722-5589
301-607-6276 Maryland Line
Fax: 301-831-6235
Email: info@rtsenvironmental.com

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