Mold

In recent years we have witnessed the growing concern over mold and fungus (mildew) in both residential and commercial properties. As occupants and property owners seek to remedy mold growth within their dwellings and commercial properties, it is imperative that proper scientific methodology be followed to properly address the issues at hand.

Andersen Environmental's (AE) certified staff has consulted in thousands of mold assessments and remediation projects, ranging from mild to severe, in single-family dwellings, (to) large tract house communities, high-rise condominiums and office buildings, other commercial properties, and public buildings.

Andersen Environmental professionals are trained and certified in the testing, assessment and identification of existing and potential mold and fungus issues, as well as, creating sampling and remediation plans for mold in residential, commercial and industrial properties. Andersen Environmental professionals can also provide coordination and project management of abatement contractors in the remediation process.

Relevant certifications include:

• Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH)
• Registered Environmental Assessor (REA)
• Registered Environmental Health Specialist (REHS)

Services Include:

• Site Survey
• Visual Assessment of affected/subject areas;
• Viable and/or non-viable (air) sampling;
• Specific source sampling;
• (Inspect the subject area including a) Moisture survey and mapping;
• Identification of potential sources;
• Document of visit by digital photographs.
• Verification assessments upon completion of remediation activities

Laboratory Analysis

• Analyses conducted by independent third party State certified and accredited laboratory.
• Rush sample analysis available.

Results and Report

• Design of project specific remediation protocol;
• Document project background and site/sample findings;
• Recommendation of trusted remediation companies.

Overview of Mold

Mold and mildew are simple, microscopic organisms that can grow virtually anywhere if they have adequate moisture, nutrients and appropriate temperatures. Depending on the particular mold or fungus (mildew), growing colonies can be almost any color from white to black. Most household molds and fungi (mildews) are black, grey, or charcoal colored. Spores of dozens of kinds of mold and fungus (mildew) are present at all times in indoor and outdoor air. These spores can settle, germinate and grow wherever good growth conditions are found. They can grow on soil, plants, dead plant materials, foods, fabrics, paper, wood and many other materials. Most molds are not harmful. In fact, molds have important roles in the environment and in living systems. In soil molds play a crucial part in decomposition of organic matter and in making nutrients available to plants.

Molds and fungi (mildews) however, can be very destructive to materials on which they grow, and are usually unwelcome and unhelpful in homes. They cause staining, decomposition (rotting of materials) and objectionable, musty odors. Where colonies are extensive they can also produce enough spores, and by-products to be harmful to health. Many of the by-products of mold and fungus (mildew) are irritating to skin, eyes and respiratory tracts. Some molds produce true allergic sensitization and allergic reactions in susceptible people. Some molds produce toxic by-products that could be harmful to skin, and poisonous if ingested or inhaled in quantity. Persons with compromised immune systems may even experience systemic fungal infections of the respiratory tract.