Molds have the potential to cause health problems.  The destructive, and sometimes toxic, dangers of hidden mold spores have gained widespread media attention in recent years.  Fueling the recent rise in mold problems are recent Federal Regulations relating to energy conservation, which have changed the way houses are built in the U.S. New construction methods and materials create buildings don't "breathe" as freely, trapping moisture vapors inside. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), we spend about 90% of our time indoors but are not aware of the health hazards created by this pollutant. Molds produce allergens, irritants, and in some cases, potentially toxic substances.  While everyone is affected differently by mold, people with existing respiratory concerns, such as asthma, are likely to be extremely sensitive to it.

Health problems that are commonly attributed to mold exposure include:

• Memory lapses
• Fatigue
• Digestive problems
• Chronic aches and pains
• Itching or irritation of the eyes, nose, throat and skin
• Sinus infections and sinusitis
• Skin rashes
• Upper and lower respiratory infections
• Headaches
  
  

What causes mold?

Molds are everywhere in our environment. In nature, they play an important role by breaking down organic matter. Indoors, they have the potential to cause major destruction. They grow and multiply whenever sufficient moisture is available and organic material is present.  Common sources of indoor moisture that may lead to mold problems include:

• Flooding
• Humidifiers
• Leaks from plumbing, roofs, windows or gutters
• Overflow from sinks, tubs or sewers
• Wet clothes drying indoors
• Damp basements
  
  

You can prevent damage to your home and furnishings, save money, and avoid potential health problems by controlling moisture and eliminating mold growth. Mold growth is inhibited by cleaning spills quickly, ensuring proper gutter cleaning and maintenance, keeping indoor humidity low and making sure the ground slopes away from your building’s foundation.

If your home or place of business is found to have unusual levels of mold, it can be removed and brought back to its original condition. If water intrusion has caused the mold problem, it must be remedied prior to the mold removal, or the mold will grow back. AES offers complete mold inspection, remediation and post-clearance testing services, as well as water intrusion solutions, to ensure the thorough, permanent removal of any mold that may be detected.