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Mold Removal and Mildew Removal

Mold Inspection, Mold Identification and Mold Testing

Mold Prevention

Humidity in the Home

Asbestos

Home Air Quality

Glossary Of Terms

Accredited Laboratory — A lab that has been accredited by a recognized agency to the ISO 17025 Standard.

Aflatoxin — A Mycotoxin which is known to be one of the most toxic naturally occurring substances which is from Aspergillus flavus mold growth.

Allergen — A substance such as mold or pet hair which can cause an allergic reaction.

Ambient air — Outdoor air or representative of a general volume of indoor air.

Amplification of molds — Any indoor scenario which may increase the concentration of molds such as moisture in a wall cavity or mold growth in an HVAC system.

Anti-fungal treatment — Any mold remediation activity which removes, disinfects, or treats surfaces contaminated by mold.

Asbestos — A naturally occurring mineral fiber used in hundreds of building and insulation materials. Exposure to asbestos is a known health risk for cancer especially due to occupational contact. Asbestos is a regulated material and professional removal using engineering controls is recommended in most cases.

Asthma — A condition of respiratory sensitivity when lung tissue swells in reaction to exposure to particles which irritate the small passages of the lung tissue.

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What is Black Mold?

Virtually every household has one type or another of mold growing somewhere within the home. Not all types are toxic, but it is important to determine if any mold growth is harmful. One harmful type of mold is known as black mold or Strachybotrys chararum or Strachybotrys atra. Black mold is a thin, black fungal growth that can usually be found in places with high humidity or poor ventilation. Black mold can grow and settle anywhere throughout a home and on just about any type of surface, including clothes, curtains, rugs, carpets, furniture, tiles, carpets, walls, ceilings, and so on.

Black Mold Symptoms

Black mold, characterized by its slimy, greenish-black appearance, is toxic and can fatally affect the lungs. Black mold spores are easily inhaled and can lead to nose bleeds and internal bleeding in the lungs. People affected by long-term exposure to black mold can develop respiratory problems, sinus problems, headaches, asthma, skin problems, and mental deterioration and instability. Those who have allergies or any kind of respiratory disease of immune suppressing disease should be extremely cautious around black mold. Symptoms of black mold poisoning include development of rashes and hives, nausea, memory loss, lethargy, dizziness, cough, eye irritation, blood pressure irregularity, internal pain, notably in the liver, and lack of concentration.

Black Mold Remediation

As soon as you see any mold growth on your clothes, household items, or walls and ceiling, it should be immediately removed. While black mold removal and remediation is possible, prevention is a better approach for the health of your home and those living in the home. To prevent future growths of black mold, you must eliminate the source of dampness, which may translate to home renovations.

Black Mold Remediation Experts

If you suspect any type of mold growth in your home, contact RTS Environmental to perform a complete mold inspection or for advice on mold removal. Serving Washington DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia, RTS Environmental has completed thousands of thorough mold and asbestos inspections and solutions. Contact us today for an inspection and solution analysis.