Mold Remediation Services in Ellicott City, MD

Mold can wreak havoc in your home or office, causing structural damage and causing people, and even pets, to become ill. By the time the mold is discovered, the problem is already much bigger than what is visible. Mold is a fungus that thrives in cool to warm, moist environments. Even a small amount of continuous moisture can cause mold to grow and reproduce. Just one square inch of mold may contain up to 1 million microscopic spores. The slightest disturbance can send the spores flying, landing all over the place, creating new cultures of mold growth. As a decomposer, the molds' food source is often wood or drywall. Over time, the substrate that the mold lives on breaks down and becomes weak. 

Mold exposure has also been blamed for symptoms such as sneezing, red, itchy eyes, skin rash, wheezing and generally feeling unwell. Symptoms tend to clear in environments that are free of mold. 

There is a common misconception that cleaning the mold with bleach will take care of the problem. However, the mold that is visible is often just a small part of the actual area affected. Mold likes nooks and crannies, such as the inside of walls or floorboards, behind tile, attics, and basements or crawl spaces. Professionals, such as those at Best Option Restoration of DMV, are trained and certified for the safe removal of mold and mold remediation. It takes specialized equipment and chemicals to effectively locate and remove all of the mold and mold spores from the affected areas, including the air. 

What Types of Mold Are Dangerous?

While there are many types of mold that can be found in your homes, these 5 are the most dangerous:

1. Stachybotrys chartarum (Black Mold): Black mold is often cited as one of the most concerning types of household mold due to its ability to produce mycotoxins. Mycotoxins are toxic compounds that can potentially lead to serious health problems, especially when there is prolonged exposure. 
2. Aspergillus fumigatus: This mold is commonly found in soil and decaying organic matter. While it is widespread and usually not a problem for healthy individuals, it can be harmful to people with weakened immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or individuals with severe respiratory conditions.
3. Fusarium: Some species of Fusarium can produce mycotoxins, and exposure to these toxins can lead to health issues, especially in individuals with compromised immune systems. Fusarium is often found in water-damaged buildings and on food products.
4. Penicillium and Aspergillus species: Certain species within these genera can produce mycotoxins that may be harmful when ingested or inhaled, particularly in large quantities or over extended periods.
5. Chaetomium: While Chaetomium is not as commonly associated with mycotoxins as some other molds, it is often found in water-damaged buildings and may contribute to indoor air quality issues.

Signs of a Mold Problem

In some cases, you won’t see mold that is obvious. However, there are a few indications that you may have a mold issue. 

• Visible Mold Growth: The most obvious sign of a mold issue is the presence of visible mold growth. Mold can appear as black, green, brown, white, or gray patches on walls, ceilings, floors, or other surfaces. It may have a fuzzy, slimy, or powdery appearance.
• Musty Odor: Mold often emits a musty, earthy, or stale odor. If you notice an unpleasant, persistent smell in certain areas of your home, it could be a sign of hidden mold growth.
• Water Damage: Any previous water damage, such as leaks from roofs, pipes, or plumbing fixtures, can create conditions for mold growth. Discoloration, water stains, or warping of materials like drywall, wood, or ceiling tiles can indicate past or ongoing water issues that may lead to mold. If you have had water damage occur recently, we will address that issue first. If you had water damage in the past that was not handled by a professional, or was not properly handled by a professional, there is a good possibility that there is mold growth. 
• Peeling or Bubbling Paint and Wallpaper: Mold can cause paint and wallpaper to peel, bubble, or become discolored. If you notice these issues, especially in areas prone to moisture like bathrooms and kitchens, it may indicate a mold problem behind the surfaces.
• Condensation: Excessive condensation on windows, walls, or pipes can create a damp environment ideal for mold growth. Check for condensation in areas with poor ventilation.

• Allergic Reactions: If you or your family members experience unexplained allergy-like symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, or skin rashes, it could be due to mold exposure.
• Respiratory Issues: Prolonged exposure to mold can lead to more severe respiratory issues, especially in individuals with preexisting conditions like asthma. Symptoms may include difficulty breathing, wheezing, chest tightness, and increased coughing.
• Health Problems: Mold exposure can lead to a variety of health issues, including sinus infections, headaches, fatigue, and skin irritation. If multiple family members experience similar health problems that improve when they are away from home, it may be worth investigating for mold.
• High Humidity: Mold thrives in high humidity. If your home consistently has elevated humidity levels (above 60%), it can create an environment conducive to mold growth.
• Previous Mold History: If your home has had a previous mold problem that was not adequately remediated, there's a higher likelihood of recurrence.

Mold should be addressed sooner rather than later and will not go away on its own. Mold problems will compound and become worse if left untreated. Mold spores can be dormant for years waiting for the right conditions to grow. Best Option Restoration of DMV starts by locating the source of the moisture and addressing it, then removes the mold and any mold damaged objects. We use specialized vacuums and cleaning agents before testing to ensure the mold is gone. We will offer tips on how to prevent future mold growth and fully repair the area. 

Having mold remediated by the professionals at Best Option Restoration of DMV ensures the job will be done thoroughly, greatly reducing the chance of the problem recurring. DIY methods typically don’t work in the long term and will end up costing you more money in the end. Your health and safety, as well as your family’s, is worth calling in the professionals. Get in touch with us today to schedule an inspection if you suspect you have mold in your home or business. The longer you wait, the worse it will get.  

Mold Quick Guide

FACTORS THAT CAN LEAD TO MOLD DEVELOPMENT

• Humidity that gets trapped in different spots because of poor ventilation
• Roof damage
• Plumbing system issues
• Condensation on window panes
• Inadequate ventilation that allows moisture to form, especially in basements and crawl spaces
• Cracked or chipped paint, cracks in your foundation and failed sealant on walls, crawl spaces, duct systems, and attics
• Pooling water around damaged foundations
• Leaky or lack of gutter systems

HOW TO PREVENT MOLD DEVELOPMENT

• Moderate indoor humidity levels
• Regular home maintenance and repairs to leaky roofs, cracked or broken pipes, and walls
• Drying surfaces promptly after a flood
• Ensure good ventilation, especially in attics and basements
• Install exhaust fans in bathrooms and your kitchen

DAMAGE THAT MOLD MAY CAUSE

• Structural damage to buildings
• Sinus and nasal congestion
• Nosebleeds
• Severe headaches
• Fatigue
• Breathing issues
• Worsened asthma and other chronic issues
• Eye and skin irritations
• Increased risk of developing nervous disorders
• Can be harmful to pets, as well