Let's cover the basics of mold growth and how to prevent it from causing damage. If you already have mold or moisture problems in your house, do not hesitate to call us.
Our services always include a free estimate, with our team going to the property and conducting a thorough inspection. We will then recommend the best course of action to remove mold and restore your home.
There are many different types of mold, and they can all cause various problems for your health, not to mention the costly repairs and restorations that usually come with mold damage. When concentrated indoors, mold spores affect indoor air quality and cause allergic reactions, respiratory problems, and even skin infections.
Bio-One specializes in mold removal. We have the experience and knowledge to safely and effectively remove mold from your home. We use state-of-the-art equipment, EPA-approved chemicals, and the latest techniques to ensure that your home is adequately disinfected and decontaminated.
1. What is mold?
Mold is a type of fungi that grows in moist environments. Mold is part of the natural environment, as it decomposes dead organic matter like wood, trees and leaves, and animals. Mold spores travel through the air, so it's impossible to stop them from entering indoor environments. We are constantly exposed to mold, but they don't represent a problem at minimum levels.
Water and Mold Damage - Cause & Effect Problems
Have you ever heard of hidden mold? It refers to mold growth that is not easily visible and often occurs in damp and humid places, such as basements, bathrooms, and kitchens.
If you suspect or notice mold growing inside your house, it is most likely a water damage problem. Mold thrives in moist environments, so a damp location is typically the most suitable area for mold growth.
The main problem most homeowners face when there's water damage in their houses is that mold consumes the surfaces where it's growing, especially porous materials like walls and insulation panels. Mold can cause severe structural problems as it rots damp wood, affecting house foundations and other critical areas of the house.
To effectively remediate mold from your house, you first need to tackle the water problems.
2. What are the different types of mold?
There are many different types of mold, but some of the most common include Stachybotrys chartarum (also known as black mold), Aspergillus, Cladosporium, and Penicillium. These and other molds can be found both indoors and outdoors and can cause various health problems in people who are exposed to them, and some spores can also cause allergic reactions in people who are sensitive to them.
Stachybotrys chartarum
Stachybotrys chartarum, also known as black mold, is a type of mold that can grow on damp surfaces. It is often found in homes and buildings that have been water damaged or have high humidity levels.
Stachybotrys chartarum produces toxins called mycotoxins that can cause many health problems in people exposed to it. These health problems include respiratory problems, skin irritation, and headaches. In some cases, exposure to Stachybotrys chartarum can lead to serious health problems such as neurological disorders.
If you think you may have Stachybotrys chartarum in your home or workplace, it is crucial to have a black mold removal company to help you clean it up.
Aspergillus
Aspergillus is a genus of molds, or asexual fungi, containing many medically relevant species. Some members of the genus can cause human disease, while others are used to produce antibiotics or are being investigated for their ability to degrade environmental pollutants. Many Aspergillus species are saprophytes, meaning they can live on dead or decaying organic matter.
Others are parasites of plants or animals, and a few species are known to cause disease in humans. Aspergillus species are found in nearly every habitat around the world, from the Arctic to the equator. They are prevalent in soil and warm, moist environments. Many Aspergillus species are capable of causing disease in humans, although some are more pathogenic than others.
Cladosporium
Cladosporium is a genus of mold that is commonly found indoors and outdoors. The most common species is Cladosporium cladosporioides, which can be found on various surfaces, including walls, floors, and furniture. Cladosporium molds are typically dark green or black, and they can cause allergic reactions in some people. In addition, Cladosporium molds can also produce mycotoxins, which can be harmful to humans and animals.
Penicillium
Penicillium is a genus of ascomycetous fungi that contains over 300 species. Many members of this genus produce penicillin, a molecule used as an antibiotic. Other well-known members of Penicillium include P. notatum, the fungus from which penicillin was first isolated, and P. roqueforti, which is used in the production of blue cheese.
While most Penicillium species are harmless saprobes, some members of this genus can cause human diseases, such as histoplasmosis. Penicillium species are found worldwide, in soil, on plants, and indoors. They are characterized by a white, fuzzy growth known as mycelium.
What to do if you find mold growth in your house?
Regardless of the species, mold growth is a sign of water damage and potential health complications. If you have a mold problem in your house, the best thing to do is hire a professional mold remediation company to remove it. Mold exposure may result in various health issues, especially if not cleaned properly.
3. What are the health effects of mold exposure?
Mold is known to produce allergens that may affect people in different ways. Not everyone experiences the same health symptoms associated with mold exposure, but those with asthma or other respiratory conditions may be especially sensitive to the poor indoor air quality.
Inhaling or having contact with moldy surfaces can cause physical symptoms like allergic reactions in some people, such as runny noses, sneezing, red eyes, and skin rashes. Some types of mold can also produce toxins that can make you sick. You should consider a mold remediation company to help you clean and remediate any mold problems.
4. How do you get rid of mold?
The first step in mold remediation is identifying and fixing the moisture source causing mold growth. Once the source of moisture has been fixed, mold should be removed using the right chemicals and detergents. If the mold is growing on wood surfaces or porous materials, these items must be replaced, as mold damage is usually irreversible.
5. How can Bio-One remediate mold growth in your house?
If you're dealing with a mold growth in your home, you should consider hiring a professional remediation company like Bio-One to help you. Our certified technicians are trained to look for mold in the most hidden places of the house, like crawl spaces, inside walls, and air conditioning systems. Remember, mold spores will land on damp areas.
Using EPA-approved chemicals and procedures, we will make sure to kill mold and restore contaminated areas effectively. Our restoration work goes beyond just cleaning up mold, and it's important for us to find the source of moisture and guide you on what to do to prevent mold from growing in the future. If you have any questions about mold remediation, please don't hesitate to contact us.
Compassion. Experience. Respect.
Bio-One of Pittsburgh is always ready to assist you with any issues arising from unanticipated events, such as death and major injury. Our expert specialists are always ready to assist you in dealing with highly pressurized situations that may be emotionally and physically draining, allowing you to focus on other vital activities while healing in a sanitary environment. Locally owned and operated, we provide the following:
Biohazard remediation and decontamination services
- Crime scene cleaning
- Blood spill cleanup
- Homicide and suicide cleanup
- Unattended death cleanup
- Biohazard cleanup
- Feces and bodily fluids cleanup
- Odor removal
- Virus Disinfection
- Fentanyl cleanup
- Tear gas cleanup
- Emergency vehicle decontamination
- Sewage backup cleanup
- Medical Waste disposal
Hoarding cleanup services
- Hoarding cleanup
- Animal hoarding cleanup
- Junk removal
- Deep cleanup
- Gross filth cleanup
- Hazardous waste removal
- Homeless encampment cleanup
Help First, Business Second!
Bio-One works closely with victim support centers nationwide and local authorities, communities, emergency services personnel, hoarding task forces, apartment communities, insurance companies, and other organizations to accomplish each customer's most efficient and superior service possible.
Many crime scene cleanup companies may face unexpected, unfortunate life events. Still, Bio-One is the right choice because of our expertise and profoundly caring and discreet specialists.
We are proud members of the NAPO Pittsburgh - National Association of Productivity & Organizing Professionals!
Serving the Greater Pittsburgh / Western Pennsylvania Area!
Bio-One of Pittsburgh serves the following Pennsylvania counties: Allegheny County, Washington County, Beaver County, Butler County, Armstrong County, Westmoreland County, Lawrence County, Greene County, Fayette County, and Mercer County.
We also serve the following cities and surrounding communities: Allison Park, Aspinwall, Avalon, Bairdford, Bakerstown, Baldwin, Bellevue, Ben Avon, Ben Avon Heights, Bethel Park, Blawnox, Boston, Brackenridge, Braddock, Braddock Hills, Bradford Woods, Brentwood, Buena Vista, Bunola, Carnegie, Castle Shannon, Cheswick, Churchill, Clairton, Coulter, Crafton, Creighton, Crescent, Cuddy Curtisville, Dormont, Dravosburg, Duquesne, East Mc Keesport, East Mckeesport, East Pittsburgh, Elizabeth, Emsworth, Etna, Forest Hills, Fox Chapel, Glassport, Glenshawock, Harwick, Heidelberg, Homestead, Homewood, Indianola, Ingomar, Ingram, Jefferson Hills, Leetsdale, McKees Rocks, Millvale, Monroeville, Morgan, Mount Oliver, Munhall, Natrona Heights, Noblestown, Oakdale, Oakland, Oakland (borough), Oakmont, Pitcairn, Pleasant Hills, Plum, Port Vue, Presto, Rankin, Rennerdale, Rural Ridge, Russellton, Sharpsburg, South Park, Springdale, Sturgeon, Swissvale, Tarentum, Turtle Creek, Verona, Wall, Warrendale, West Elizabeth, Wes Homestead, West Mifflin, West View, Wexford, Whitaker, Wildwood, Wilkinsburg, and Wilmerding!
Our technicians are available 24/7/365! Contact us at 412-414-3101.
