Mold dangers and remediation after Sandy

Last Updated on Saturday, November 17, 2012 10:35 am Written by Michael Feely Saturday, November 17, 2012 01:00 am

Many of the island’s families had a rude visitor after the recent visit of Superstorm Sandy. Mold, like a relative that just won’t leave, is an inevitable result of the flooding that plagued the island particularly in the north end and the golf course areas.

Mold produces spores that spread easily through the air to form new mold colonies. Growth begins between 24 hours and 10 days from the exposure to water. It produces a mycotoxin which is injurious to health, particularly among those with respiratory issues.

The following information, courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, may help readers of The Beachcomber News who are concerned about mold in their homes or are unsure how to remove it safely. See www.cdc.gov/mold for more details.

People with asthma, allergies, or other breathing conditions are likely to be more sensitive to mold. They may experience stuffy nose, irritated eyes, wheezing, or skin irritation. People allergic to mold may have difficulty breathing and shortness of breath. It is not something to ignore.

Mold can be identified visually, by discolorations on walls and ceiling, or by a musty, earthy or foul odor. There is no need to identify the precise species of mold; if mold is present, it should be removed at once.

A flooded building needs to be cleaned up and dried out quickly by opening doors and windows and using fans to clear out moisture. It is important not to ignore the crawl space of a house. Pump out any standing water, and use fans where possible.

Remove all porous items that have been wet for more than 48 hours and that cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. When in doubt, take it out! These items can remain a source of mold growth and should be removed from the home. Porous, non-cleanable items include carpeting and carpet padding, upholstery, wallpaper, drywall, floor and ceiling tiles, insulation material, some clothing, leather, paper, wood and food. Removal and cleaning are important because even dead mold may cause allergic reactions in some people.

To prevent mold, clean wet items and surfaces with a non-phosphate detergent or a mixture of bleach and water. Never mix bleach with ammonia, acids or other household cleaners – this will produce dangerously toxic fumes.

While working, open windows and doors to provide fresh air, wear non-porous gloves and protective eyewear. It is recommended that you wear a mask/respirator model N95 when working indoors.

The Consumer, Environmental and Occupational Health Service at the New Jersey Department of Health recommend paying particular attention to wallboard and insulation. Even if only the bottom of the wallboard is wet, the wallboard draws up moisture like a wick and is notoriously hard to dry.

There are companies that specialize in mold remediation, but homeowners can do the work themselves. Homeowners are recommended to be aware of possible scams dealing with mold treatments. There are no federal or state accreditations, so ask for recommendations.

If the area to be cleaned is more than 10 square feet, you can consult the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency guide titled ‘Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings.’ Although focused on schools and commercial buildings, this document also applies to other building types. You can get it free by calling the EPA at (800) 438-4318 or online at www.epa.gov/mold/mold_remediation.html.