Mold resources
Useful Links
EPA - https://www.epa.gov/mold
IICRC - https://www.iicrc.org/
10 Things to Know About Mold From the EPA
1. Potential health effects and symptoms associated with mold exposures include allergic reactions, asthma and other respiratory complaints.
2. There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to
control moisture.
3. If mold is a problem in your home or school, you must clean up the mold and eliminate sources of moisture.
4. Fix the source of the water problem or leak to prevent mold growth.
5. Reduce indoor humidity (to 30-60%) to decrease mold growth by:
o Venting bathrooms, dryers
and other moisture
generating sources to the
outside
o Using air conditioners and
de-humidifiers
o Increasing ventilation
o Using exhaust fans
whenever cooking,
dishwashing and
cleaning
6. Clean and dry any damp or wet building materials and furnishings within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.
7. Clean mold off hard surfaces with water and detergent, and dry completely. Absorbent materials such as ceiling tiles, that are moldy, may need to be replaced.
8. Prevent condensation: Reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces (i.e., windows, piping, exterior walls, roof, or floors) by adding insulation.
9. In areas where there is a perpetual moisture problem, do not install carpeting (i.e., by drinking fountains, by classroom sinks, or on concrete floors with leaks or frequent condensation).
10. Molds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any substance, providing moisture is present. There are molds that can
grow on wood, paper, carpet, and foods.
For More Information - EPA Guide to Mold, Moisture and Your Home
https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2016-10/documents/moldguide12.pdf
Is it DIY?
Mold exposure can cause serious adverse health effects when ingested into your body through the respiratory system and skin. Proceed with caution prior to attempting any DIY remediation as the full extent of the issue may be more than you initially expected. As a general rule of thumb, visible mold growth represents about one third of the total amount of mold present on building materials (especially if there is an active moisture source and the mold is actively growing). There is potentially two thirds of growth that you don't see. If you see mold on a drywall surface in a bedroom, it is potentially also behind the drywall, behind the baseboards, in the carpet, on the tack strips, and in the sub floor and framing. It is also crucial to understand remediation protocols and how to protect yourself and others with the proper use of personal protective equipment. Review the EPA guidelines on cleaning mold https://www.epa.gov/mold/mold-cleanup-your-home AND consult with a professional mold assessor when in doubt.
How to Find a Qualified Remediation Professional
The state of Virginia does not currently license the mold remediation industry. It is very important to search for a remediation professional that adheres to established industry standards such as those set forth by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification https://www.iicrc.org/
Ask a potential remediator what standards they practice during the consultation process.
As of 2016, the District of Columbia established licensure for all mold professionals wishing to perform mold assessment or mold remediation work in the DC. The District’s mold law and regulations establish workplace standards for mold professionals. Confirm a professional's license prior to hiring in DC.
radon resources
What does the EPA say about Radon?
Health Effects of Radon Gas
Radon gas is the second leading cause of lung cancer - only second to smoking. In the U.S. alone, 21,000 annual deaths are caused by lung cancer from radon gas exposure. Radon gas is odorless and colorless and cannot be detected without the use of specialized testing equipment.
How to find a qualified remediator
Visit NRSB.ORG and search for a Radon Mitigation Specialist in your area.
How often to test
-If you have never had your home tested, you should do so immediately.
-If your home was tested one time when you purchased it and the radon levels were under 4.0 pCi/L - Do NOT assume that the levels are still low. Radon levels fluctuate drastically by season and even throughout the 24 hour day. A prior test reading under 4.0 pCi/L could easily be double the initial reading upon a second test. Have your home tested again, especially if the initial level were close to the action level.
-If you have a radon mitigation system installed in your home, it is wise to have the home tested every one to two years to ensure the system is operating properly.
home maintenance tips
Maintenance Prevents Major Repairs!
When neglected, a minor maintenance repair can easily lead to a major repair. Following a home maintenance schedule can help to identify issues and correct them prior to additional damage occurring.
Typical lifespan of major appliances and systems
Appliances are not permanent - they all will eventually fail. Knowing when your appliances are reaching the end of their typical lifespan can help manage repairs, budget for replacement and avoid catastrophic failure - like the water heater leaking. Of course, appliance lifespans vary by the quality of the manufacturer and how much they are being used. Below is a list of typical lifespans of some common appliances and systems.
-Dishwasher: 8-10 years
-Refrigerator: 12-15 years
-Oven/Stove: 12-15 years
-Food Waste Disposal: 4-8 years
-Microwave Oven: 8-10 years
-Air Conditioner: 10-15 years
-Electric Heat Pump: 12-15 years
-Gas Furnace: 15-20 years
-Water Heater: 8-12 years
-Clothes Washer:
-Clothes Dryer:
-Garage Door Opener: 10-15 years
-Windows and Skylights: Aluminum 15-20 years, wooden 20-30 years, vinyl replacement 25-40 years (highly depends on quality)
-Roof: Slate, metal, clay 50+ years; 3 Tab asphalt - 20 years; Dimensional asphalt 25-40 years; Flat rolled roofing 10-15 years.
-Wooden Decks: 20 years
