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Mold and Your Health Connection: Toxic Mold and Depression

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Have You Been Experiencing Upper Respiratory Symptoms?

Mold and Depression

It seems that hardly a week can go by without a story concerning toxic mold discovered in homes or schools and other public buildings. While you may be aware of mold as an allergic health threat, did you know that a link has been discovered between toxic mold and depression?

Tracking the Connection Between Toxic Mold and Depression

Over a period of time, a number of studies conducted in the United Kingdom demonstrated an association between mold and depression. A research team headed up by Edmond Shenassa, an epidemiologist from Brown University, decided to challenge this conclusion by conducting their own test.

To their surprise, the team discovered that the results of their study, which were published in 2007 in The American Journal of Public Health, actually supported the earlier findings. Participants included more than 6,000 European adults, and research revealed evidence of a clear link between interior mold and residents exhibiting symptoms of depression.

“Good” and “Bad” Mold

Mold and mold spores are present everywhere, and they play an important role in nature by aiding in decomposition of organic matter such as dead leaves and tree trunks. Problems arise from indoor development of mold containing mycotoxins, which are known to cause allergies and illness in humans and animals.

Contact Stern Mold for Effective and Eco-Friendly NYC Mold Treatment

Don’t wait until you and your family begin showing symptoms of mold exposure. Our professionally-trained technicians use our proprietary MoldExterm system to provide non-invasive NYC mold treatment that includes a polymer sealer to guard against future infestations. Visit our website to learn more and schedule a free mold inspection.

Posted in Mold & Your Health, Mold Information, News

Did You Know Mold Testing Has to Be Done by a Separate Firm?

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Did You Know Mold Testing Has to Be Done by a Separate Firm?

Did You Know Mold Testing Has to Be Done by a Separate Firm?

Sloppy and ineffective removal of mold and fungus can end up making the problem worse instead of resolving it. New York is one of several states that have enacted training requirements to protect consumers.

New York Adds Strict Regulations for Mold Assessors and Contractors

Here are the significant points of the mold law that took effect in New York during the past year.

• As of January 1, 2016, anyone working in the mold remediation industry must be properly trained and licensed. This includes assessors, contractors and all of their employees.

• Any jobs involving mold remediation or disturbance must be reviewed by a licensed mold assessor at both the start and completion of the project.

• All mold removal and clean-up jobs must be conducted by a licensed remediation contractor.

• According to the mold legislation, anyone holding a license to perform mold-related services is specifically barred from conducting both the assessment and the remediation.

• Violations of the mold law can result in civil penalties that range from $2,000 to $10,000.

Stern Mold: The Leading Mold and Fungus Removal Service in NYC

If you suspect the presence of mold and fungus in your NYC home or business, you need a company that you can trust. Using our proprietary MoldExterm system, our friendly and professionally trained technicians usually take only one day to effectively solve your mold problem.

MoldExterm is a two-step treatment that removes mold from affected surfaces and then applies a patented polymer sealer to prevent mold from returning for up to five years. Contact us to schedule a free mold inspection and learn more about the MoldExterm difference.

Posted in Mold Identification, Mold Law, Mold Treatment, MoldExterm, News

The Power of Images – Mold Remediation in Action

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We Are Number One in Mold Treatment!

We Are Number One in Mold Treatment!

While there have been numerous stories about the dangers of interior mold, it’s difficult for words alone to paint the picture. Our photo gallery features before-and-after pictures that graphically illustrate the unsightly health hazard of mold and the effectiveness of our proprietary MoldExterm treatment.

Before and After: Bathroom

The first three sets of photos show a bathroom that was one of our more recent projects. Bathrooms are a common site of mold infestations due to the frequent presence of excess moisture and the lack of sufficient ventilation.

Nearly every surface of the bathroom, including walls and window frames, was covered with dark mold patches. It would have been next to impossible for the homeowner to thoroughly remove such a heavy coat of mold, and more importantly, there would be a good likelihood of mold returning.

Afterwards, all surfaces are back to their light color. No building materials have been removed, and a polymer sealer has been added to repel future mold infestations.

Before and After: Basement

Basements are dark, damp, stuffy spaces that provide ideal conditions for mold to multiply. The next two sets of photos depict the basement of an art gallery that was overtaken by mold colonies.

Once again, MoldExterm made quick work of the mold stains on the ceiling and walls. None of the wooden ceiling beams required removal. The anti-microbial substrate provides a protective layer over all affected surfaces.

Stern Mold: The Leader in Mold Removal for NYC and Northern NJ

Our MoldExterm process is an eco-friendly and cost-effective way to handle the toughest mold removal jobs in your home or office. Contact us to schedule a free mold inspection.

Posted in Mold & Your Health, Mold Treatment, MoldExterm

Mold Litigation – What You Need to Know to Protect Your Business

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Don't Wait until it's Too Late, Inspect Now!

Don’t Wait until it’s Too Late, Inspect Now!

If you’re a property manager, one of the things you want to avoid at all costs is mold litigation. It’s in your best interests to ensure that you promptly take care of your tenants’ mold problems, and you should also be inspecting properties regularly to watch for any signs of mold.

Protecting your business is your primary concern, and to do that, it’s important to know as much as you can about mold and fungus.

What is Toxic Mold Syndrome?

Certain types of mold can produce spores that are released into the air. They produce a toxin known as a mycotoxin, which can lead to serious health issues when the spores are inhaled. Some of the symptoms of Toxic Mold Syndrome include:

• Fever

• Body Aches

• Dizziness

• Breathing Problems

• Nausea

Some people are more susceptible to Toxic Mold Syndrome than others. Children, the elderly, and those who have weakened immune systems are at much greater risk.

How is Toxic Mold Syndrome Proven?

In order to prove that someone has Toxic Mold Syndrome, a few steps need to be taken. First, medical proof needs to be obtained. Second, the existence of mold exposure must be proven. Finally, there must be proof that a defendant was negligent in providing proper treatment to remove any mold and fungus issues that exist on the property.

It’s in your best interests as a property manager to act quickly if a mold issue is brought to your attention. That way, you can avoid costly and time-consuming mold litigation. Here at Stern Mold, we specialize in identifying mold problems and removing them. For a free inspection, contact us.

Posted in Mold & Your Health, Mold Remediation

Where to Look for Mold in NYC Apartments and Co-ops

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Know the Facts About Mold.

Know the Facts About Mold.

Due to the combination of aging buildings and increased consumer awareness, there has been a significant increase in lawsuits involving mold and fungus in NYC apartments and co-ops. Here are three red flags that could signal the right conditions for mold development.

1. Leaks from Neighboring Units

If an upstairs or next-door unit experiences a broken pipe or flooding, mold could be developing out of sight behind your apartment walls. Water leaks are actually more common in newer buildings, which use plastic instead of copper or galvanized steel for water lines.

2. Blocked PTAC Units

A packaged terminal air conditioner, or PTAC, is a self-contained heating and cooling system often found in apartment buildings and condominiums. These units are installed through the wall and require twice-yearly maintenance. If the drain becomes clogged because of a dirty filter, the condensate pan will leak and the damage can go undiscovered until it’s too late.

3. Broken Washing Machine Hose

Even today’s high-end washing machines usually come with rubber hoses that eventually develop leaks. You can head off damage by replacing the original hose with one that’s wrapped in stainless steel, which can be purchased fairly inexpensively at hardware or home improvement stores.

Stern Mold: Your #1 Choice for Mold and Fungus Removal in NYC

Traditional mold and fungus remediation involves removal of affected surfaces, which often results in scattering mold spores throughout the home. Our non-invasive MoldExterm system usually takes no more than a day and includes a polymer sealer to resist future mold infestations. Contact us to schedule your free mold inspection by our friendly and professionally-trained technicians.

Posted in Mold Identification, Mold Information, MoldExterm
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