Mold

Mold and Insect Resistant Building Material

2010-02-03T08:07:00.000-08:00

Turtle Clan's Compressed Agricultural Fiber Panel (CAFP) otherwise known as a Structurally Insulated Panel System (SIPS), is US GREEN BUILDING COUNCIL and Department of Energy and Department of Defense approved, while being one of THE sustainable building material of the future.

Not only is this GREEN, 13 LEEDS CREDITS product a marvelous tool for the design of the structures for many of our projects, it simplifies the structural design and allows the reduction of the number of trades and suppliers on the job.

The plenum space is freed for duct work and electrical/data distribution, which cuts time from the project schedule.

Turtle Clan is a one stop, turnkey firm that delivers a superior structural wall system to your site that is sustainable, insulated, air tight, noise resistant, mold-insect-fire-blast-hurricane-earthquake resistant and made from agricultural by-products.

Plus, it goes up 8x faster than conventional methods which saves our clients money

In high wind load zones and seismic areas the product allows less detailing and calculations to meet the structural demands.

Because of the fire rating of the panels, less material and concerns of fire proofing is eliminated. In the interior fit-out, we are able to wall mount furniture and equipment without the necessity of blocking or plywood.

For our clients, whether a single occupant or a multi-tenant building, the long term energy savings and the sustainable material is a huge benefit in tax credit, LEED certification and the speed to market.

Agricultural fiber panels manufactured from compressed wheat straw that replaces structural steel and reduces overall project cost.

These sustainable panels have several key benefits:

* Installs 8x faster than conventional methods saving clients thousands
* On site within 4 weeks of plans being approved.
* Negative carbon footprint
* Tested safe up to F5 wind conditions - Miami Dade County approved
* Fire rating of 2.5 hours for dramatic insurance savings
* Delivers up to 13 LEEDS points - halfway to USGBC LEEDS accredited status
* Thermal envelope that is 7x tighter than traditional construction
* Mold and Insect Resistant
* F 5 Category Hurricaine and Tornado Proof
* Classifies as Department of Defense Approved Blast Proof Bomb Shelter
* -Earthquake Proof
* No jobsite waste.
* Save thousands on energy bills and insurance costs on the jobs site

Currently the choice for Wells Fargo, Wachovia, Ft. Hood, US Postal Service, Cutting Edge Architects, Builders and many more discerning forward thinking clients wanting to become better stewards of the planet.

Ideal for:
Hotels, Resorts, Military Installations, Banks, Restaurants, Nursing Homes, Hospitals, Schools, Commercial Retail Spaces, High End Housing, Low Income Housing.

From the farmland to your job site, this product feeds and houses people and is the sustainable building material of the future.

Why use anything else?

Newlyweds chased from their home by mold, bacteria

2010-01-25T07:11:00.000-08:00

http://www.philly.com/philly/news/new_jersey/82575052.html

By Jan Hefler
Inquirer Staff Writer

After a honeymoon in Mexico, Danielle and David Beety returned to their dream home, a $407,000 yellow stucco on a cul-de-sac in Gloucester County. Their future seemed golden.

"We were on cloud nine," said Danielle Beety, a first-grade teacher who also coached high school field hockey. "Everything was going completely great," added David Beety, a mortgage loan originator.

That lasted two weeks.

Suddenly, Danielle Beety was stricken with severe throat pain and developed flulike symptoms. Her baffled doctors ordered myriad tests. Three times they admitted her to Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia. She required two operations to remove a 5-centimeter abscess inside her neck.

"It was like living a live episode of House," David Beety said, referring to the Fox TV show in which the eccentric Dr. House diagnoses mystery illnesses. Each time Danielle Beety returned to their home on Shira Court in Paradise Homes in West Deptford, her fever returned. Her neck would stiffen with such pain she would cry out when she moved.

Their house emerged as a suspect when they received an urgent phone call from an environmental engineer who did air and wipe testing in their leaky basement.

Michael Stocknoff, owner of A&M Engineering Services in Cherry Hill, reported that he had found elevated levels of mold and gram-negative bacteria - a resistant group of superbugs that can cause respiratory and other ailments. He said they should grab their dog and move out immediately. Doctors seconded the advice.

That was nearly a year ago. The couple moved in with Danielle Beety's parents, leaving all their belongings behind. Her health quickly improved, but now the couple struggle to pay mounting bills and to replace their possessions.

Last week, the Beetys received notice from PHH Mortgage/Charles Schwab that foreclosure on their vacant house would begin next month. David Beety said that could jeopardize his license and job, under new regulations on lenders, plunging them into deeper debt.

Paradise Realty Group L.L.C., the Lakewood, N.J., builder, disputes that the house caused the illness. The company has built seven other homes on the court and says it has received no other complaints.

Chin S. Yang, an internationally known microbiologist with Prestige EnviroMicrobiology laboratory in Voorhees, sees a link between the housing boom and an uptick in environmental-health issues similar to what the Beetys described.

Though he has not examined their house, Yang said he had been involved in numerous "sick building syndrome" and similar cases across the country in which he found toxic bacteria and mold to be a trigger of health problems, including homes contaminated as a result of Hurricane Katrina.

"When the housing market was hot, everyone was in a rush to finish a house and go on to the next," Yang said. Workmanship suffered, he said, and construction defects allowed moisture to creep inside and create a petri dish for mold and bacteria.

"By the time the homeowner finds out, the house may have been leaking for months," Yang said.

Susceptible people, including those with compromised immune systems, breathe bacteria, mold, and the endotoxins the bacteria give off and may develop flulike symptoms, infections, and other problems, he said. Other occupants may not be affected.

Yang said the Beetys' story was one of the more horrific he had heard because of the operations and was relatively rare.

The Environmental Protection Agency says indoor pollution may be as much as 100 times more contaminated than outdoor air. There is increasing awareness of the issue, the EPA says, but no federal standards have been established.

If your home, office or lodge shows signs of mold contamination, contact Turtle Clan Environment Testing. Turtle Clan follows the IAQA, IESO, AMIAQ Council and AIHA recommendations for testing indoor environments with mold contamination.

Mold Testing Sharon, CT
Mold Testing, Sharon, Connecticut

Know Thy Mold or Pay a Hefty Price

2010-01-15T17:14:00.000-08:00

Mold Damage Report Causes Concerns and Questions
http://www.news-gazette.com

January 15, 2010

A $24,236 study of mold and microbiological growth at the 138-room lodge wasn't submitted to state officials until Tuesday.

"We got the mold assessment report back a little later than we thought and we wanted to give people ample time to review it," said Chris McCloud, a spokesman for the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, which is maintaining the property that was closed by a court order last July.

The report estimates that it would cost $892,500 just to remove mold-damage infrastructure and contents from the resort.

Among the costs: $200,000 to remove 60 percent of the gypsum wallboard at the resort, $122,500 to tear out carpeting and padding, $100,000 to remove materials in the indoor swimming pool area and clean it, and $125,000 to clean the contents of the resort, including linens, towels, drapes and furniture.

The mold assessment, performed by D.A.S. Consulting Services of Springfield, a certified industrial hygienist, also concluded there could be more damage at the resort.

"It should be noted that since water intrusion issues have not been addressed and repairs have not been conducted, the amplification of microbiological growth will continue," said the report. "Therefore, removal of additional building materials will probably be necessary."

Further, no cost estimate was offered for new construction and replacement of furnishings in the 23-year-old resort.

The new delay makes it virtually certain that reopening the resort this year – which IDNR officials had publicly hoped for last summer – won't occur.

"We hoped the process would allow for that but this isn't something that we do all the time," McCloud said. "We had to go through a process and there were some things that we needed to make sure that we addressed, things that were expressed to us. Our goal is to have (Eagle Creek) open. We know that's important. But we have to give the person or persons who would run it as much information as they need."

McCloud said the mold assessment was done because "people have expressed concern that in order to lay money on the line or get a loan from banks, they needed detailed information about exactly what kind of mold issue there was."

One potential bidder for Eagle Creek, Dennis Fayhee, owner of the Sullivan Marina and Campground, said he fears the new report could damage any hope of rehabilitating the resort, once considered a vacation gem in central Illinois.

"They've basically, maybe not intentionally, put a bulls-eye on that thing, by having that study done the way it was," Fayhee said.

"To me, anyone who stays there now and who gets sick, they're going to sue you," I don't think anyone's going to be able to get loans on it now, the way that report is written."

He said he believes cost estimates for the mold remediation are "exaggerated," and that conditions at the facility "aren't as bad as this indicates. I'm more concerned now about the public's reaction to this."

But state Sen. Kyle McCarter, R-Lebanon, whose district includes Eagle Creek, said it was important for the state to be honest and transparent with potential bidders."

"The truth is, there's mold," he said. "I don't think anyone would want us to hide the fact that there's mold there. How many people would be upset if it looked like we were trying to cover it up?

"I'd rather extend the (bid) deadline and do this the right way."

Fayhee said he believes some Eagle Creek bidders may only propose to operate its 18-hole golf course and possibly a marina.

"If you just bid on the golf course and maybe the marina, who has the liability for the buildings?" Fayhee said. "Who will tear it down and do whatever they have to do with it?"

He said the state would be better off taking legal action against Barry Shiffman and Edwin Edelberg, the former owners of Eagle Creek.

"I just don't understand why they don't try to recover the money," Fayhee said.

If your home,office or lodge shows signs of mold contamination, contact Turtle Clan Environment Testing. Turtle Clan follows the IAQA, IESO, AMIAQ Council and AIHA recommendations for testing indoor environments with mold contamination.

Mold Testing...Testimonials

2010-01-13T15:21:00.000-08:00

If you have a Mold Problem you need to company that:

A. Cares
B. Has Been in Your Shoes
C. Is Honest
D. Has No Strings Attached (i.e. $$$) to the Mold Remediation Job

Turtle Clan saved me thousands and kept me from getting ripped off!!!By BillSchallmo - October 25, 2009

My house looked like something out of New Orleans! Mold Everywhere!! That's why I didn't blink an eye when a remediator ran out of my house throwing himself on my lawn telling me to run for the hills that I was in danger and could die....and that it was going to be $150,000 thank you very much and he proceeded to praise Jesus!!!!

I didn't know you need to test your mold BEFORE you clean it so you can know where and how to clean it...duh! It never occurred to me a lot of mold is invisible, so how would a cleanup crew know how to clean what they couldn't see??

Anyway, so I don't go on and on, I got my test results back from Turtle Clan who was also recommended to me by a friend who used them. Turns our my mold was non-toxic, smelly and easy to clean myself for around a hundred bucks! Turtle Clan Helped me from getting ripped off!

Turtle Clan is simply the BEST MOLD TESTING COMPANY!!! By Jongustin - October 9, 2009

I had a serious mold issue in my attic; the smell from my attic was horrendous. I searched online for a mold removal company and found out mold had to be tested first before it could be cleaned. After calling around I found Turtle Clan and was really pleased by how knowledgeable they were. They gave me information I needed that kept me from hiring a remediation company that was going to charge me $35,000 before they even looked at my house! I never knew you had to test mold first!!

I scheduled an appointment with them and Matt came out and yes he is a big Gentle Giant!! Love you Matt! He used infrared cameras and other moisture meters to find there was a leak in my roof which was the cause for the mold. They also showed me the extent of the mold that had already grown in my house.

After the inspection about 3 days later I received a report with pictures and a process to remove the mold without any deconstruction. I scheduled a removal the next week with a company they recommended who was not affiliated with them since that's where all the conflicts of interest lie. I left my house for the weekend so I can get away from the mess and when I came home and went into the attic the terrible smell was gone.

I scheduled a roofer to fix the breach. It's been a year since and I still haven't had an issue with the attic again. These guys know what they are doing, and I recommend them to anyone who has any sort of mold issue.

Turtle Clan are Mold experts!‎ And Nice People!
By Jessesgirl - September 27, 2009

There was a serious mold issue in my basement; there was a terrible smell of sewage coming from around the basement sewage drain. I called five companies before I chose TC. Leslie was the reason. She spent a lot of time with me, and I can see from the other reviews, this seems to be pretty consistent. She made me a mold expert'with all the info she sunk into me so I felt I really got the bigger picture of what was going on.

I definitely didn't feel like I was going to get taken advantage of anymore! I got an appointment in a day and Matt came out, he's Dr. Snows son.

Really big bearded guy, a little intimidating at first, but such a nice fellow! Extremely professional, knowledgeable. Really nice folks over there. Got my samples back in 24 hours, but paid a little more for a rush which was ok since I was pretty concerned. I feel like I was in extremely good hands and trust them and recommend them.

Turtle Clan solved my allergy issues‎
By JoanneK - April 18, 2009

I recently began sneezing and coughing constantly. And I never got sick. I went to an allergist who said I needed to get my home tested, like a lot of the other people I see in these reviews. I called about 4 companies until I landed on Turtle Clan who were simply enchanting! So knowledgeable, so patient. I was able to get an appointment on the day I requested and opened the door to find a lovely gentleman by the name of Dr. Albert Snow on my doorstep who looked like a professor I had in college. Turns out he is a professor at McGuill University in Montreal! Anyway, he took some samples and got the results back to me in 3 days and told me there was nothing toxic in the house, but that the non-toxic species that was found can indeed result in allergic symptom I was suffering from. I had my home cleaned the way they told me to and I've been fine ever since! They are truly a wonderful company that seems to really care about their clients! I would definitely recommend them and am happy to give them my 5 star rating!

Professional Service‎By JaneD - Jan 24, 2009

I just bought a new condo in the Financial District of Manhattan. I was suspicious of some water issues so the association called a mold company to have it checked out who said it was fine. But something inside me said it wasn't right, the condo is expensive and I've heard nightmare stories about mold. So I hit the internet and decided to call Turtle Clan for a second opinion upon recommendation of the CEO of my company. They did some clean testing for him about a year ago so I felt good and in trusted hands. I am GLAD that I did because they confirmed what others could not. Dr Snow found high levels of Aspergillus/Penicillum in the air in my soon to be bedroom and kitchen! He assured me it was not the end of the world and could be cleaned easily and recommended some other clean-up companies to check out.

Like others have said before me, make sure you don't use a company that tests for mold AND cleans it up!!! I never knew this! I got a bid for the clean up and took it to the negotiating table. Thank goodness I listened to my little voice and called Turtle Clan.

Allergy Specialist‎
By Dwight1956 - Apr 4, 2008

I had allergies was really sick, my doctor said I might have a mold problem I called these guys they came down right away to do a test and had the lab results back in 2 days, went over everything with me line by line since I'm pretty dim when it comes to science and told me I only had low numbers of a non toxic kind of mold that didn't need to be professionally cleaned. That was good news. These are good guys.

I recommend Turtle Clan!! 5 Stars!!!‎
by katylady - Jan 7, 2008

I just bought a home in Greenwich, CT. When we moved in after about a week my family started complaining about respiratory problems, headaches etc.... When my children went to school the symptoms seemed to stop, when they'd come home, it would start all over again! So far that I've know my children had no allergies. Our family doctor recommended that I have our home tested.

I did a Google search and was really impressed by what I found at Turtle Clan. They spent 45 minutes on the phone with me and answered all of my thousands of questions very patiently, I believe the woman's name was Lisa it might have been Leslie, it started with an L, but who ever she was, she was great! Really calmed me down and informed me!

Dr. Snow came over the same day I called and was like a father figure, very extremely knowledgeable. I felt like I got a microbiology lesson!

When the results came back, it was found to be a non toxic mold and was very easy to clean ourselves. I had a remediation company over who told me it would be $6.500 to clean it, I cleaned it for $100! Proof that testing mold first is the only way to go! 5 stars for Turtle Clan!

I suffered from Mold Sickness‎
By KathleenHoward - Nov 24, 2007

I was breaking out with rashes and went to the hospital where the doctor told me it could be mold related, so I went online and found the Turtle clan. Dr. Snow came out and inspected my home and discovered that the air conditioning units were wet and filled with something he sampled that later turned out to be Stachybotris(?). I was freaked out but they managed to calm me down and referred me to a Dr. Santilli in B-Port who was able to help. I got the ducts cleaned by Duct Doctors who were also really good. Lot's of doctors! But I don't have any rashes any more!! YAY!

Turtle Clan is Excellent
By sarahD - Oct 25, 2007

I noticed my child was breaking out with rashes, had problems breathing and there was strange smell throughout my house. I was scared for my child and went to the hospital. The doctor told me it could be mold related, so did some research online. I stumbled upon the Turtle Clan site and saw their information about symptoms and saw that I had a lot of them in my house.

I called them for an inspection and they were able to came the next day. They discovered that there was mold issues due to a broken pipe inside my water closet I never knew about. They used some kind of moisture meters and saw water all over the house!!! I then asked them if they could remove it by the end of the week. They told me it would be a huge conflict of interest if they cleaned it after they tested it and to look to the IICRC for contractors instead.

I thought it was going to cost and arm and a leg, but the test actually helped me save money since the remediators had to use it as a guide of where to clean and didn't just come in and take me down to studs. They came back to test after it was cleaned and everything was fine! Since then my child has been fine! Thanks Turtle Clan.‎‎

Turtle Clan had great customer service and patience
By Michelle - Oct 2, 2006

I was extremely concerned with the mold problems in growing in my home. I screamed and yelled at the poor hygienist who only tried to help me. They discovered the source of mold problem and provided several remediation companies separate from them for me to choose from. I think I was a real pain, but they were really patient with me and held my hand through the entire ordeal. Leslie and Matt were the best! I can truly say That Turtle Clan does a great job and give them 5 stars.

Turtle Clan Environment Testing inspected my home.‎
By Lguinn - Aug 22, 2006

Shortly after I moved into my apartment I was having many health problems from a huge on going mold issue. I was ready to move out until I called Turtle Clan.

Matt came out and inspected my apt and figured out the source in less than an hour and directed me in how to get it cleaned by a different company than theirs since it would be a conflict of interest to use the same company that tested, to clean it. I did not know this!!

They were honest,excellent with being discreet and patient with all my questions. Now I am feeling so much better and the problem is gone. Since then I have not had any health problems and my home feels safe secure clean and healthy again.‎‎

Turtle Clan saved my life!
By Patricia.Nelson - Dec 29, 2009

I have lived in my house for about four years now. Shortly after I moved in, I noticed what appeared to be mold growth in my basement that expanded to the walls of my kitchen on the main floor of my house. I didn't think much about it, cleaned it and went on with my life. Except that I started not feeling well. Everyone thought I was losing my mind, but I knew my headaches and coughing were the real deal.

A friend actually recommended Turtle Clan saying how wonderful they were. I am writing this to tell you that they are THE BEST!! I feel like they saved my life!!! They found high counts of Aspergillus Penicillium all through my house that my home inspector seemed to 'miss'...I went to an allergist who found the same mold in my blood. I was scared to death!!! But after getting it all cleaned up and following Dr's orders, I am fine and healthy again, and I owe it all to Turtle Clan!‎‎

Mold Testers with no conflicts of interest
By James.Bachman - Dec 12, 2009

As a property manager, I have seen first hand the damage cause by water and all the mold that goes along with it. I have experienced many water damages in my apartment over the last couple of years and was struggling with the owners to do repairs. Finally I got the go ahead and called Turtle Clan who I had heard about through other property managers. I was told that Turtle Clan comes in and are 3rd party testers which is apparently important in that they have no vested interest in your mold. They don't perform remediation, so there's no conflict of interest. The results are unbiased, so it helps you feel like your in competent hands. The hygienist that came out was extremely knowledgeable and professional, prompt, stuff that matters to me. I was able to get a detailed report that gave me instructions on next steps. They were there for me from the beginning . Great work ethic. Highly recommend. Thanks Turtle Clan!‎‎

Thank god for Turtle Clan Environment Testing!
By NancyRN - Dec 1, 2009

I had a serious case of mold in my home. I was so scared to see this huge patch of mold behind my dryer. I went online and called the first company I saw, which was a huge mistake! They tested And cleaned and were talking about charging me thousands before they even stepped into my house! I called around a little more and when I reached Turtle Clan, I knew I had the right company. I'm a huge stickler for customer service and they were hands down the best of the group. I was able to get an appointment when I wanted one and was impressed with how knowledgeable the hygienist was since I have a medical background. I got my samples back in a couple days and found that it was non toxic and that I could clean it myself with some Murphy's soap! If I hadn't found Turtle Clan, I can only imagine how much money I would be out by all the rip offs out there! Thank God for Turtle Clan!

My home smelled HORRIBLE and I was getting sick!!!‎
By motherof3 - Nov 11, 2009

I had a bad mold and mildew problem in my attic and basement both from leakage and from water damage due to having an old house that needed many repairs .I didn't know what to do! The mold was apparently starting to spread more and more and making my home smell terrible. I also have children that were feeIing symptoms that were related and had me worried about their well being and health.So I asked around did research and found Turtle Clan Environment Testing. After speaking to a bunch of mold testing companies that only seemed to care about money, Leslie from Turtle Clan treated me like in the old days when companies really cared about you. Dr. snow came to my home to test the air for mold and actually taught me what was going on and showed me what to do and fix so it wouldn't come back. Fortunately for me I made the right choice by calling them because I no longer have any problems in my home. I would recommend this company to anyone with a mold problem.

My home was infested with mold...‎By Jongustin - Nov 1, 2009

Turtle Clan mold specialist was so patient and serviced me with professionalism and quality work. They answered all my questions and resolved the problem very quickly. I was almost thinking about moving out of my home the issue was so bad .But now I no longer have a problem thanks.‎

Proof Covering up Mold is Harmful

2010-01-12T07:53:00.000-08:00

Former Employee:"In the summertime, the improper ventilation system allows the walls inside to become so saturated that after a few short weeks, thick black mold begins to grow in the vent ducts and over doorways. Many days we’d all go home with pounding headaches from using bleach all day to cover up this toxic situation. But we always felt it was better to do than allow the mold to get worse…of course you can only clean so much but there’s the stuff you don’t see further into the ducts that would surely cause respiratory issues in both humans and animals."

OSHA Inspection Obstructed By Connecticut Humane Society President, Workers Claim
By George Gombossy | Jan 10, 2010
Copyright © 2010, CtWatchdog.com

Sept. 11, 2009 is a date remembered by many workers at the Connecticut Humane Society (CHS).

It was also the date the two inspectors from the the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration came to the Newington headquarters to check out the facilities after a worker suffered breathing problems from inhaling harsh chemicals. One worker said staff was required to use full strength bleach to scrub floors without proper safety equipment and without additional ventilation.

Former Employee:
"I would just like to mention not only were the employees affected by these harsh chemicals, but the animals are often left in these areas when the cleaning is going on, sitting in enclosed cages for hours breathing these toxic fumes. Many of the cats would have cronic respritory problems while at the shelter but more often than not once they got adopted and were in a new enviorment they would recover."

A manager and an assistant, the workers said, intercepted the inspectors and delayed and sidetracked them while Johnston and others rushed around covering up potential OSHA violations.

Labels were put on unlabeled bottles, gloves and and goggles suddenly appeared in storage areas, the workers told me as well as officials of the machinists union. The union is organizing the staff at the multi-million-dollar-a-year agency.

The state Attorney General’s office – which began an investigation after I forwarded signed complaints from fired workers – is also being apprised of the OSHA cover-up.

Johnston and another manager – according to one worker – hid bottles of unmarked bleach under their clothing and moved them to a closet in a garage. Johnston even barged into the women’s locker room, without checking to see if anyone was inside, a worker told me, so he could search if anything OSHA might be interested in was in the room.

The Humane Society had no response to the allegations of obstructing the OSHA investigation. It has blamed allegations of wrongdoing provided to me as simply the fallout from the union organizing effort. It threatened libel actions.

--------------------------------------

If your office shows signs of mold contamination, contact Turtle Clan Environment Testing. Turtle Clan follows the IAQA, IESO, AMIAQ Council and AIHA recommendations for testing indoor environments with mold contamination.

Mold Inspection Testimonial

2010-01-11T17:03:00.000-08:00

January 11, 2010

Turtle Clan Environmental
611-B Cherokee Lane
Stratford, CT 06614

Dear Folks,

It is with pleasure that I am writing this letter recommending Turtle Clan. I have been a full-time Realtor for the past 10 years and have had very little experience with mold. So, when a recent inspector raised the mold question I did not have a clue where to turn. My client found a remediator on line and we had them come out. They were quick to say we had a mold problem and quote us a price for remediation before we even had test results back. This didn’t sound right to me so I spent some time researching companies and found Turtle Clan. Leslie’s knowledge and information was a wonderful resource and she was advised that all mold can be remediated and that this was not a major problem.

Matt came out and made an assessment of the home, took some swabs and in the process gave my client and I a quick course in mold and quickly put us at ease that we were in honest and capable hands.

We were able to get test results back from the lab (in fact, they arrived back quicker than the results of the first folks!); they were helpful in interpreting the lab results, including the tests from the previous folks. And best of all, since they are not remediators, they were not quick to quote us on a remediation before knowing what we were dealing with (like the first people did!).

I feel these folks are honest and knowledgeable. I cannot imagine what more I could ask for?

Sincerely,
S. J. G.
President’s Circle – Top 3% Nationally

If your home, condo or apartment shows signs of mold contamination, contact Turtle Clan Environment Testing. Turtle Clan follows the IAQA, IESO, AMIAQ Council and AIHA recommendations for testing indoor environments with mold contamination.

Mold Remediation Costs force California Tax Collection Agency from Building

2010-01-11T16:39:00.000-08:00

Irony in play???

California is the first state to enact toxic mold legislation. California’s Toxic Mold Protection Act of 2001 (TMPA), codified at Cal. Health & Safety Code § 26100- 26156 and Cal. Civ.Code § 1102.6 (real property disclosure provision), went into effect Jan. 1, 2002.

The law requires any person who sells or transfers real property to likewise disclose the presence of mold to prospective purchasers. Landlords and sellers are not required to conduct testing to ascertain whether the PELs have been met. However, there is an exemption on the disclosure requirement once remediation pursuant to the guidelines promulgated by the California Department of Health Services under Section 26130 is achieved.

Recent News:

SACRAMENTO, Calif.—California officials want to move state workers out of a moldy building in Sacramento.

Ramon Hirsig, executive director of the Board of Equalization, has persuaded lawmakers to draft a bill that would authorize his tax-collecting agency to find a new home.

Right now the agency is housed in a 24-story building in the capital's downtown. It has been plagued by leaks, falling windows and mold.

The state was supposed to have spent $15 million on mold remediation and repairs but that tab as grown to $68 million. ($68 million??!!!)

The bill is being carried by Democratic Assemblyman Dave Jones and Republican Sen. George Runner. It would authorize the agency to move out and sell or lease the building.

Information from: The Sacramento Bee, http://www.sacbee.com

If your building shows signs of mold contamination, contact Turtle Clan Environment Testing. Turtle Clan follows the IAQA, IESO, AMIAQ Council and AIHA recommendations for testing indoor environments with mold contamination.

Their Level I Environment Site Investigation provides standardized procedures to be used in the evaluation and characterization of suspected mold colonization.

These activities include:

-Non-invasive preliminary site investigation
-Temperature and humidity analysis
-Identify visible and accessible conditions
-Recommendations for further evaluation/action

Level II Environment Site Analysis involves Level I investigation plus a visual, non-invasive inspection of the residential structure with sample collection and data interpretation to rule out sources of moisture and/or mold contamination.

These activities include:

-Sampling suspected areas of mold colonization
-Interpretation of the laboratory analysis
-Present reports supported by analytical data
-Mold assessment for real estate transactions and insurance investigations

This tells you how much mold have and what kind it is. We take samples either by swabs, tape, or bulk to identify surface mold and air samples. How much is in the air? Are you breathing it? Since mold is naturally occurring everywhere in nature, all homes and businesses have some mold. An outside air sample is used as a base for comparison.

For comprehensive, cost-effective answers contact us today at 914-361-9703 or turtleclanmold@aol.com.

Museums and Mold

2010-01-05T15:45:00.000-08:00

Houses aren't the only buildings that are in danger of Mold Contamination.

A Scientific Mystery Stalks Stockholm's Ailing Modern Museum
New York Times - Dec 10, 2001
A mysterious mold has attacked Stockholm's new Moderna Museet, which was designed by architect Rafael Moneo and inaugurated only three years ago. The building was recently closed after a number of museum staff members came down with illnesses linked to the mold. The cause of the problem is unknown. The New Museum of Contemporary Art in New York dealt with a similar situation in 1994.

Lodi science museum struggles with launch
Sacramento Bee - Jan 13, 2009
The museum will expand to 12000 square feet once a mold problem in another building is corrected...

Mold closes part of library's collection
The Gazette - NewsBank - Sep 4, 1990
"People don't think of mold as being that serious a problem...

Mold Attacking Ancient Terra Cotta Army
Chicago Tribune - ProQuest Archiver - Sep 19, 2000
The Terra Cotta Warriors and Horses Museum signed an agreement last week with Belgium-based Janssen Pharmaceutical NV to combat the mold...

Mold problem could damage books Library volumes stored in basement
Republican-American - NewsBank - Sep 28, 2005
Extended exposure to even low concentrations of certain mold spores on library collections can cause respiratory problems, infections and skin and eye...

Hundreds of Art Works Damaged By Mildew in Museum Warehouse
New York Times - Jul 10, 1988
Museum conservators said that the seriousness of the mold could be determined ... ''This board is living with problems that built up for years that we never addressed.'

If your museum building shows signs of mold contamination, contact Turtle Clan Environment Testing. Turtle Clan follows the IAQA, IESO, AMIAQ Council and AIHA recommendations for testing indoor environments with mold contamination.

Their Level I Environment Site Investigation provides standardized procedures to be used in the evaluation and characterization of suspected mold colonization.

These activities include:

-Non-invasive preliminary site investigation
-Temperature and humidity analysis
-Identify visible and accessible conditions
-Recommendations for further evaluation/action

Level II Environment Site Analysis involves Level I investigation plus a visual, non-invasive inspection of the residential structure with sample collection and data interpretation to rule out sources of moisture and/or mold contamination.

These activities include:

-Sampling suspected areas of mold colonization
-Interpretation of the laboratory analysis
-Present reports supported by analytical data
-Mold assessment for real estate transactions and insurance investigations

This tells you how much mold have and what kind it is. We take samples either by swabs, tape, or bulk to identify surface mold and air samples. How much is in the air? Are you breathing it? Since mold is naturally occurring everywhere in nature, all homes and businesses have some mold. An outside air sample is used as a base for comparison.

For comprehensive, cost-effective answers contact us today at 914-361-9703 or turtleclanmold@aol.com.

For Renters- Mold Testing is Essential

2010-01-02T11:14:00.000-08:00

As the story below shows, it is important to get a professional Mold Assessment, especially if you are a renter. This renter did not and paid a heavy price- eviction and two children sick from toxic mold exposure.

If she had spent a little money and got a professional Mold Assessment on her apartment she most certainly would have had a much stronger case against the apartment owner.

Dispute emerges over mold concerns

By Cheryl Mercedes

GONZALES, LA (WAFB) - People living in The Palms apartment complex recently found mold growing in and outside their living quarters, but according to the owner, tenants might be partially to blame for the problem.

Mold has taken over the walls, ceiling and even some of the furniture in Nordeya Lawson's apartment. She said she first found it when she started moving her furniture this week. She is moving out of the complex. According to Lawson, she reported the moldy mess to Tonya Hurt, the property manager of the complex.

Lawson admitted apartment workers responded to a work order, but with what she called a quick sweep of the place and some of the mold still remains. According to Hurt, she just recently learned of the problem and has seen photos of the mold. She also agrees there is a mess and the complex wants to fix it.

John Sanford, the property owner, claimed Lawson is moving because she was evicted. He said her apartment was cleaned and inspected before she moved in and the same will happen once she moves out. Sanford noted residents should take some responsibility by doing things like wiping windows after they shower to prevent mold growth.

Two of Lawson's three children were sick recently. She said they suffered symptoms of blurred vision, dizziness, memory loss and bad headaches. She ended up taking at least one of the children to the hospital. She believes the crud that covered her apartment made her daughters sick.

"I called the doctor and asked and they told me it was probably the cause of them being sick because mold is very toxic," she said.

Copyright 2009 WAFB. All rights reserved.

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If your rental home or apartment shows signs of mold contamination, contact Turtle Clan Environment Testing. Turtle Clan follows the IAQA, IESO, AMIAQ Council and AIHA recommendations for testing indoor environments with mold contamination.

Their Level I Environment Site Investigation provides standardized procedures to be used in the evaluation and characterization of suspected mold colonization.

These activities include:

-Non-invasive preliminary site investigation
-Temperature and humidity analysis
-Identify visible and accessible conditions
-Recommendations for further evaluation/action

Level II Environment Site Analysis involves Level I investigation plus a visual, non-invasive inspection of the residential structure with sample collection and data interpretation to rule out sources of moisture and/or mold contamination.

These activities include:

-Sampling suspected areas of mold colonization
-Interpretation of the laboratory analysis
-Present reports supported by analytical data
-Mold assessment for real estate transactions and insurance investigations

This tells you how much mold have and what kind it is. We take samples either by swabs, tape, or bulk to identify surface mold and air samples. How much is in the air? Are you breathing it? Since mold is naturally occurring everywhere in nature, all homes and businesses have some mold. An outside air sample is used as a base for comparison.

For comprehensive, cost-effective answers contact us today at 914-361-9703 or turtleclanmold@aol.com.

The Importance of Venting Bathroom/Kitchen Fans

2009-12-26T13:29:00.000-08:00

From the Seattle Times:

The purpose of the bathroom fan is to ventilate the moisture normally generated by bathing or showering. When moisture is directed to a cool, closed attic, it will condensate back to a liquid and soak the wood framing and insulating materials. Mold and decay is a major concern in damp attics.

Normally, the bathroom vent fan is located near an outside wall of the home where the bottom of the roof system is closer to the attic floor. The fan will direct all the moisture to one spot on the roof's sheathing where a dark stain of decay or mold is often found. When an attic has loose-fill insulation, the airflow from the fan will create a void in the insulation, leaving a bare spot on the attic side of the bathroom ceiling. The non-insulated spot is now cooler than the remainder of the ceiling, and condensation naturally forms in the cooler areas. An unvented fan can cause as much damage as an unattended roof leak.

The kitchen fan is intended to remove odors and moisture from the kitchen, and it also needs to be vented to the exterior of the home. In modern homes, the kitchen vent fan is located in a hood above the gas or electric range. Over the years, grease and oils will accumulate inside the fan hood, which becomes a major fire hazard. If the fan is vented to the attic, a cooking fire can soon spread to the entire attic through the vent for the hood.

A range fan must vent through approved metal pipe all the way to the exterior of the home. Whether vertical through the roof or horizontal through a wall or foundation, the range fan must vent to the outside.

- Dwight Barnett is a certified master inspector with the American Society of Home Inspectors. View more of his articles at the Seattle Times.

If your home is not vented and you would like to know how the lack of proper ventilation has effected your home's air quality... Turtle Clan Environment Testing follows the IAQA, IESO, AMIAQ Council and AIHA recommendations for testing indoor environments with mold contamination.

Their Level I Environment Site Investigation provides standardized procedures to be used in the evaluation and characterization of suspected mold colonization.

These activities include:

-Non-invasive preliminary site investigation
-Temperature and humidity analysis
-Identify visible and accessible conditions
-Recommendations for further evaluation/action

Level II Environment Site Analysis involves Level I investigation plus a visual, non-invasive inspection of the residential structure with sample collection and data interpretation to rule out sources of moisture and/or mold contamination.

These activities include:

-Sampling suspected areas of mold colonization
-Interpretation of the laboratory analysis
-Present reports supported by analytical data
-Mold assessment for real estate transactions and insurance investigations

This tells you how much mold have and what kind it is. We take samples either by swabs, tape, or bulk to identify surface mold and air samples. How much is in the air? Are you breathing it? Since mold is naturally occurring everywhere in nature, all homes and businesses have some mold. An outside air sample is used as a base for comparison.

For comprehensive, cost-effective answers contact us today at 914-361-9703 or turtleclanmold@aol.com.

Mold and House Damage

2009-12-18T07:30:00.000-08:00

Mold damages your home as it grows. When mold starts to reproduce inside a home, it can eat away at the structure.

Clean it up as soon as possible.

In small areas you can do it yourself:

1. Wear goggles, gloves, and breathing protection while working in the area. For large consolidated areas of mold growth, you should wear an Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) approved particle mask.

2. Seal off area from the rest of your home. Cover heat registers or ventilation ducts/grills. Open a window before you start to clean up.

3. Remove all your furnishings to a mold-free area. Clean the surrounding moldy area then follow cleaning directions below for the items you removed and the new space.

4. Bag all moldy materials and tie off the top of the bag. Bring them outdoors and place in your garbage container right away.

5. Wash surfaces.

5a. First, wash with a mild detergent solution, such as laundry detergent and warm water. Allow to dry.

5b. Then wipe with a solution of 1/4 cup bleach to one gallon of water. Wait 20 minutes and repeat. Wait another 20 minutes.

5c. Last, apply a borate-based detergent solution and don't rinse. This will help prevent mold from growing again. A borate-based laundry or dish washer detergent has "borate" listed on the ingredients label.

5d. Give the entire area a good cleaning, vacuum floors, and wash any exposed bedding or clothing.

If you have a lot of mold damage (more then ten square feet) consider hiring an independent, 3rd Party, Certified Residential Mold Inspector to conduct a thorough site assessment. Turtle Clan will take the necessary and appropriate actions to assure proper IESO, IAQA, ACGIH, IICRC, ISO, NADCA, ASHRAE, OSHA, EPA, AIHA and all State and local governmental protocol is followed in all investigations.

Phone: 914-361-9703
E-mail: info@turtleclan.com

To prevent Mold growth in the Winter months keep your humidity in check

2009-12-14T09:09:00.000-08:00

With Winter officially here in the Northeast, we're all cranking the heat to stay warm. The problem is indoor heat sources- oil burners, electric heaters, wood stoves - dry out the air we breathe, so we end up with dry skin, chapped lips, a sore throat, and/or a dry cough.

Many turn to humidifiers, which add moisture back into the air, but in the process of adding humidity are opening the door to a condition much worse than dry skin... allergens.

You don't want the humidity to go above 50 percent, since that will encourage the growth of mold spores, bacteria, and dust mites.

When running a humidifier, be sure to use a hygrometer. This simple device measures how much humidity is in the air. A humidity of 35 to 45 percent is optimal.

"If there were just two simple things I could do to really fix a building, it would be to change the relative humidity and any water incursion" said Matthew Snow, CIEC, CMRS, CRMI, RMS, CBST Building Scientist and Executive Vice President of Turtle Clan Environment Testing, Inc.

Dr. Snow added: "Controlling excess moisture is the key to preventing and stopping indoor mold growth. Keeping susceptible areas in the home clean and dry is very important. Lowering the humidity in the home also helps prevent condensation problems. Proper exterior wall insulation helps prevent condensation inside the home during cold weather that could cause mold growth."

Turtle Clan follows the IAQA, IESO, AMIAQ Council and AIHA recommendations for the assessment of indoor environments for mold contamination. It is important to use a firm that is certified in and follow these protocols to insure project is completed successfully.

Visit the Turtle Clan website for information on testing and removal of toxic mold from your home or business.

If you have air pollution concerns, Turtle Clan has customized air pollution purifiers and filters that have proven again and again to be the most effective on the market.

Mold for the Holidays

2009-12-11T15:43:00.001-08:00

Holiday Allergies - Health News from WSOC TV

As the winter holiday season approaches, people tend to spend more time indoors. Often, the sniffles, sneezing and tearing eyes are attributed to colds and respiratory infections. Clifford Bassett, M.D., Allergist with NYU School of Medicine in New York City, says, in some cases, allergies may be the real cause of the symptoms.

An allergy is an inappropriate reaction to a normally harmless substance (called an allergen).

The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology estimates as many as 40 to 50 million Americans have allergies. Some of the most common causes of indoor allergies are dust, mold, animal dander and cockroach droppings.

The level of indoor allergens may increase as displays of holiday decorations go up. A live tree or greens may contain mold, pollen or chemical residues from the grower. Some people are allergic to the tree sap. Artificial trees and greens aren’t necessarily better because they often are laden with dust particles. No matter whether you have a live or artificial tree, the ornaments, themselves, can also be dust collectors.

Live trees can harbor mold that releases spores into the air. If you are able, wash the tree and let it dry before bringing it indoors. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America also recommends using a very mild bleach solution (one part bleach to 20 parts warm water) to rinse the trunk and kill off any mold growth. Mold thrives in dampness. If humidity levels are high inside the home, consider using a dehumidifier to keep mold growth down.

Read full article

Concerns relating to the presence of mold in the home or dwelling requires an independent, 3rd Party, Certified Residential Mold Inspector to conduct a thorough site assessment. Turtle Clan will take the necessary and appropriate actions to assure proper IESO, IAQA, ACGIH, IICRC, ISO, NADCA, ASHRAE, OSHA, EPA, AIHA and all State and local governmental protocol is followed in all investigations.

Are We Eating Mold?

2009-12-08T16:36:00.000-08:00

Mycotoxins in Food Are an Underrated Worldwide Health Problem

In a recent article entitled "Mycotoxins and human disease: a largely ignored global health issue", authors Christopher Wild and Yun Yun Gong go on to explain how Mycotoxins are a diverse group of toxic chemicals produced by molds (fungi) and how almost any foodstuff can become contaminated with molds and mycotoxins.

Mycotoxins from many different kinds of mold can have adverse health effects. Aflatoxins are very toxic mycotoxins produced by some Aspergillus species.

Corn and peanuts are the crops most often affected by Aflatoxins.

Eating Aflatoxin contaminated food can increase risk of lung and liver cancer.

Aflatoxins can also suppress the immune system and increase risk of infections.

Aflatoxins can also cross the placental barrier and enter the blood stream of unborn children.

Some Aspergillus also produces a Mycotoxin called Sterigmatocystin that can suppress the immune system and may increase cancer risk.

Fumonisins are a family of mycotoxins produced by certain Fusarium species. Fusarium commonly grows on cereals like corn and also on many fruits and vegetables.

Fumonisins increase the risk of several forms of cancer and also increase the risk of neural tube defects (such as spina bifida) when unborn children are exposed.

To reduce your exposure to molds and mycotoxins in food,REFUSE to buy or throw out any food with visible mold growth. Store fruits and vegetables carefully in the refrigerator. Limit consumption of peanuts, corn products and grains...as these crops are often contaminated with mycotoxins.

Do you see mold on your walls or ceilings?

Turtle Clan follows the IAQA, IESO, AMIAQ Council and AIHA recommendations for the assessment of indoor environments for mold contamination.

First we find the cause.

Next we test to see how much mold do you have and what kind it is.

Turtle Clan provides 3rd party testing services. While we provide remediation and abatement services for large scale nuclear and toxic as well, we assure you we do NOT test our own work. That would be a huge conflict of interest, so make sure when interviewing companies, you ask them about their policy with regards to this. You can be assured that our goal is to provide you with sound, unbiased test results ONLY. Your health and safety is our main concern.

Mold Could Cost Maine Town $20,000

2009-12-02T14:57:00.000-08:00

Mold a problem at future library site
Growth considerably worse than noted at time of purchase

November 26, 2009

SOUTH BERWICK, Maine — A significant presence of surface mold has been found in the basement of the former St. Michael's Church on Young Street, future home of the South Berwick Library. Its removal could cost the town an estimated $20,000.

Town Manager John Schempf and several town councilors recently toured the building to look at the extent of the problem. When it was purchased in 2008, the town was aware of the existence of mold due to poor property drainage, but officials didn't anticipate the problem growing as fast as it has since the initial discovery, Schempf said.

"We knew the building had a moisture problem," Schempf said. "(The problem) has gotten much worse, much quicker than anyone expected."

On Nov. 20, Schempf led the councilors and several South Berwick residents to the basement to view the mold, which is concentrated on the walls, cabinets and ceiling tiles.

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It takes only 60% relative humidity to have a very significant mold colonization inside your home within 24-48 hours.

Common sources of indoor moisture that can cause mold problems include flooding, roof and plumbing leaks, damp basement or crawl spaces, or anywhere moist air condenses on cold surfaces.

Concerns relating to the presence of mold in the home or dwelling requires an independent, 3rd Party, Certified Residential Mold Inspector to conduct a thorough site assessment. Turtle Clan will take the necessary and appropriate actions to assure proper IESO, IAQA, ACGIH, IICRC, ISO, NADCA, ASHRAE, OSHA, EPA, AIHA and all State and local governmental protocol is followed in all investigations.

Mold Fact

2009-11-30T10:06:00.000-08:00

Mold requires moisture to grow.

It takes only 60% relative humidity to have a very significant mold colonization inside your home within 24-48 hours.

Turtle Clan's Dr. Matthew Snow offers the following advice for home owners' on making their Indoor Environment Healthier:

Keep the HVAC system clean. Use an air filter that kills particulates instead of just trapping them.

Keep roof drainage at least 6 feet away from foundation

Maintain all plumbing and fixtures in good working order. In high humidity areas, wrapping pipes with insulation will prevent excessive water dripping.

Have the HVAC system and ductwork inspected and/ or cleaned yearly by an ASHRAE or NADCA Certified Contractor. These should also be wrapped in insulation in high humidity areas.

Make cerain there is proper roof ventilation.

Make certain all kitchen and especially bathroom exhaust ventilation is vented to the outside. NOT the attic!!

Concerns relating to the presence of mold in the home or dwelling requires an independent, 3rd Party, Certified Residential Mold Inspector to conduct a thorough site assessment. Turtle Clan will take the necessary and appropriate actions to assure proper IESO, IAQA, ACGIH, IICRC, ISO, NADCA, ASHRAE, OSHA, EPA, AIHA and all State and local governmental protocol is followed in all investigations.

Mold...The Toxic Top Five

2009-11-24T15:46:00.000-08:00

What are the 5 MOST TOXIC TYPES of MOLD?

Stachybotrys
Stachybotrys is the bad boy of them all.

There are some species in the Aspergillus family that are just as toxic as Stachybotrys such as Aspergillus Versicolor and Aspergillus Fumigatus.
The toxins produced can cause diarrhea and upset stomach. It is reported to be a kidney and liver carcinogen.

Aspergillus Fumigatus is one of the most ubiquitous of the airborne saprophytic fungi. Humans and animals constantly inhale numerous conidia of this fungus. However, there has been a dramatic increase in severe and usually fatal invasive aspergillosis, now the most common mold infection worldwide.

But when people talk about toxic black mold, Stachy is the one they're talking about.

Penicillium/Aspergillus
Both of these types of mold are ubiquitous in the environment. Aspergillus tends to colonize continuously damp materials such as damp wallboard and fabrics. Penicillium is commonly found in house dust, wallpaper, decaying fabrics, moist clipboards, etc.

Chaetomium
Unlike most other mold pathogens, there is medical evidence to suggest that people who are exposed to Chaetomium may be predisposed to permanent neurological damage of the myelin sheath. Therefore, a noticeably high incidence of autoimmune diseases have been linked to exposure of this mold such as Multiple Sclerosis, Lupus, etc. It has also been linked to certain forms of Cancer.

On a scale of worst to more mild in effects on human health, contrary to what many believe; Chaetomium would be second or possibly third to Aspergillus only to Stachybotrys.

Ascospores
Ascospores are prominent in nature commonly found in the outdoor environment. Some fungi that belong to the Ascomycete family include the sexual forms of Penicillium/Aspergillus, Chaetominum, etc that may be frequently found growing on damp substrates.

Fusarium
Fusarium is a hydrophilic mold that requires very wet conditions and is frequently isolated from plants and grains. They colonize in continuously damp materials such as damp wallboard and water reservoirs for humidifiers and drip pans.

People who have trauma to the eye, certain eye diseases and problems with their immune system may be at increased risk for these types of infection.

Symptoms of exposure to mycotoxins include coughing, wheezing, runny nose, irritated eyes or throat, skin rash and diarrhea.

Concerns relating to the presence of mold in the home or dwelling requires an independent, 3rd Party, Certified Residential Mold Inspector to conduct a thorough site assessment. Turtle Clan will take the necessary and appropriate actions to assure proper IESO, IAQA, ACGIH, IICRC, ISO, NADCA, ASHRAE, OSHA, EPA, AIHA and all State and local governmental protocol is followed in all investigations.

Damp Buildings and Mold

2009-11-20T15:13:00.000-08:00

Since every home's indoor air is filled with a ‘stew' of sorts, molds, air pathogens, volatile organic compounds, dust mites; it is impossible to view it as a one size fits all. There are simply too many variables.

But the one thing they all seem to have in common is Water.

Wet. Moisture. Damp. Humid.

"If there were just two simple things I could do to really fix a building, it would be to change the relative humidity and any water incursion" said Matthew Snow, CIEC, CMRS, CRMI, RMS, CBST Building Scientist and Executive Vice President of Turtle Clan Environment Testing, Inc.

"Seeking out and repairing the source is key. Moisture leads to conditions that are conducive to dust mites and mold, as well as bacteria, yeast and many other living organisms."

Snow pointed to dust mites and mold as particularly worrisome.

A damp building with high humidity may lead to increased levels of dust mites and mold, leading to increased allergic respiratory symptoms, as well as the worsening of Asthma.

It is a vicious cycle!

"And even if someone is not allergic, molds may produce mycotoxins and microbial volatile organic compounds (MVOCs) that smell bad and may cause respiratory irritation," he said.

Nearly half of all young people with asthma are allergic to dust mites; aproximately 10 percent of the population is allergic to dust mites.

Mold requires moisture to grow.

It takes only 60% relative humidity to have a very significant mold colonization inside your home within 24-48 hours.

Common sources of indoor moisture that can cause mold problems include flooding, roof and plumbing leaks, damp basement or crawl spaces, or anywhere moist air condenses on cold surfaces. Bathroom showers and steam from cooking might also create problems if not well ventilated.

How Do I Control Moisture?

Indoor Sources:

Fix plumbing leaks, drips or "sweating" pipes
Limit sources of indoor humidity/dehumidify indoor air
Improve air movement in poorly ventilated areas
Increase fresh air ventilation when outdoor air is not humid
Warm cold surfaces where condensation occurs
Outdoor Sources:

Maintain roof and gutter/downspout system.
Direct runoff away from foundation by grading, drain tile, landscaping, etc.
Use air conditioning and keep building closed during high outdoor humidity
Prevent leakage around windows, doors, flashing, etc.
Waterproof foundations

Concerns relating to the presence of mold in the home or dwelling requires an independent, 3rd Party, Certified Residential Mold Inspector to conduct a thorough site assessment. Turtle Clan will take the necessary and appropriate actions to assure proper IESO, IAQA, ACGIH, IICRC, ISO, NADCA, ASHRAE, OSHA, EPA, AIHA and all State and local governmental protocol is followed in all investigations.

Phone: 914-361-9703
E-mail: info@turtleclan.com

Removing Mold with Dry Ice Blasting

2009-11-20T14:10:00.000-08:00

The claims are: "Dry ice blasting completely removes spores from the wood in less time, and with less effort."

It certainly sounds good...

"The process is non-toxic, non-corrosive, non-abrasive and non-conductive – using thermal shock to clean in most applications. However, it uses kinetic energy when blasting on wood. As the dry ice (-78.5 C) blasts against the mold infested wood, it removes the top 1/16 inch of wood, and the mold along with it."

"Dry Ice blasting’s ability to clean mold-infested surfaces thoroughly and efficiently is becoming the method of choice for mold remediator around the county – equipment costs being mitigated with the increased amount of mold remediation projects a firm can perform."

Two weeks ago Turtle Clan performed an air quality test on my house and there is a significant mold issue present, especially in the basement. I'm in the process of researching mold remediation options and just came across Dry Ice Blasting. I'll let you all know if I decide to go that route.

If you believe you have a mold, radon, or general air quality problem call Turtle Clan. It is essential to choose a reputable, certified and trustworthy environmental inspector. Turtle Clan is an Independent 3rd Party Certified Mold Inspector. They adhere to the IESO, EPA, OSHA, IAQA, AMIAQ Council and AIHA recommendations.

Office Phone (860) 364-4694

Indoor Air Quality

2009-11-17T07:47:00.000-08:00

Air quality is a key factor in the greening of the home. Newer homes are more air tight than houses built even 20 years ago, according to the EPA, which is good for heating and cooling purposes, but really bad for indoor air quality. In fact, the EPA estimates that indoor air quality is up to 10 times worse than out door air quality on the smoggiest day.

Considering Americans spend 90% of their lives indoors, it's clear why this is a key issue in designing healthy spaces. Additionally, air quality is not a stand-alone issue; rather, every other component of the home can have an impact on overall air quality.

Air quality can be compromised by off-gassing from cabinetry, countertops, flooring, wall coverings or fabrics; by cooking by-products released into the air, or by MOLD caused by excess moisture or poor ventilation

Proper ventilation is critical, but air quality can be tricky. Just as too little ventilation can lead to compromised air quality, if too powerful a fan is installed in a forced-air HVAC system, volatile organic compounds can be drawn out of furniture, fabrics, carpets and cabinetry.

While air quality is a big-picture issue impacting healthy design, every component of the home can have a positive or negative impact on how healthy or green a space is.

Concerns relating to the air quality in your home or dwelling requires an independent, 3rd Party, Certified Residential Air Quality Inspector to conduct a thorough site assessment.

Turtle Clan will take the necessary and appropriate actions to assure proper IESO, IAQA, ACGIH, IICRC, ISO, NADCA, ASHRAE, OSHA, EPA, AIHA and all State and local governmental protocol is followed in all investigations.

Contact us for additional information:

Phone: 914-361-9703
E-mail: info@turtleclan.com

Read more about Air Quality and Air Quality Solutions at our website.

Is Mold Testing Really Necessary?

2009-11-14T17:43:00.000-08:00

I've visited several conversations on Active Rain and various other sites where people are saying mold and mold testing is a bunch of hoo-ha.

Well I have to admit, a long time ago I used to think and say the same thing!

That is, until someone I loved went through it. When you see someone suffering from the effects of mold contamination, you turn into a believer!

That's when I started believing the link between the environment and our health and understanding from a scientific perspective that mold contamination really is a really big deal for some people.

Testing is the ONLY way to see if the mold is toxic or not which will tell you who's hands need to clean it up..If it's non-toxic, some elbow grease and Murphy's Soap are a wonderful solution, much more effective than bleach. If it's toxic, then it is considered a HAZMAT MATERIAL and needs to be professionally remediated

This is where the hoo-ha comes in because of all the variables form person to person, home to home...everyone experiences mold differently. If someone is particularly sensitive, or immune compromised, very young or old, these people are more susceptible to mold contamination than others.

So often, doctors will prescribe pharmaceuticals for the symptoms of mold contamination. Doesn't it make more sense to just get rid of the contamination by cleaning up the mold?

I have seen first hand literally hundreds of peoples lives changed for the better once the mold in their homes was identified and cleaned properly. They were then able to take the test results to their physician to see if their blood was contaminated.

Mold testing will also insure the client has the proper information to effectively stop the water-moisture-humidity source and clean up infection. If the source of moisture is not identified and repaired, cleaning it up is an exercise in futility! It will keep returning again and again.

If a remediation company says they don't need to test first, it's because they don't want to be put on a leash. How will they know if it is toxic mold or not with out testing? How can they see what's in the air?

If they don't have the SCOPE OF WORK to follow, they will proceed as if it were a Condition 3 risk ( worst case scenario)and charge client much more than need be.

... Plus scaring them half to death! The numbers arm the client with information that protects them from getting ripped off. We had a client tell us that before having their home tested, a remediation company came to her home she had just purchased and quoted her $100,000 to clean up the mold.

After testing it, she realized she only needed her basement cleaned and did the entire project for $2,500.

Now you tell me what you think! Is mold testing necessary??

Turtle Clan follows the IAQA, IESO, AMIAQ Council and AIHA recommendations for the assessment of indoor environments for mold contamination. It is important to use a firm that is certified in and follow these protocols to insure project is completed successfully.

Contact us for additional information:

Phone: 914-361-9703
E-mail: info@turtleclan.com

Questions and Answers about Mold

2009-11-11T07:24:00.000-08:00

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT MOLD

Frequently Asked Questions:

Question: Why are we concerned about mold?

Small amounts of mold growth in workplaces or homes (such as mildew on a shower curtain) or workplaces are not a major concern, but no mold should be permitted to grow and multiply indoors. When molds are present in large quantities, they may cause nuisance odors and health problems for some people. Mold can damage building materials, finishes and home furnishings. Some molds can cause structural damage to wood.

Question: How do molds affect people?

Most people will have no reaction at all when exposed to molds. Allergic reactions, similar to common pollen or animal allergies, are the most common health effects for individuals sensitive to molds. Flu-like symptoms and skin rash may occur. Molds may also aggravate asthma. Fungal infections from building-associated molds may occur in people with serious immune disease but this is very rare. Most toxic mold symptoms are temporary and eliminated by correcting the mold problem in the home.

Question: Who is affected by exposure to mold?

For those who are affected by mold exposure, there can be a wide variation in how they react. People who may be affected more severely and quickly than others include:

Infants and children
Elderly people
Pregnant women
Individuals with respiratory conditions or allergies and asthma
Persons with weakened immune systems (for example, people with HIV infection, chemotherapy patients, or organ or bone marrow transplant recipients, autoimmune diseases.)

Those with special health concerns should consult their doctor if they are concerned about mold exposure. The symptoms that may seem to occur from mold exposure can also be due to other causes such as bacterial or viral infections, or other allergies.

Question: What is mold?

Molds are forms of fungi that are found everywhere- both indoors and outdoors all year round. Outdoors, molds live in the soil, on plants and on dead or decaying matter. Another common term for mold is mildew. Mold growth is encouraged by warm and humid conditions, although it can grow during cold weather also. There are many thousands of species of mold and they can be in any color, including white, orange, green, brown, or black. Many times, mold can be detected by a musty odor. Most fungi, including molds, produce microscopic cells called "spores" that spread easily through the air. Live spores act like seeds, forming new mold growths (colonies) when they find the right conditions. All of us are exposed to fungal spores daily in the air we breathe, both outside and inside.

Question: How does mold get into a house or building?

Most, if not all, of the mold found indoors, comes from outdoor sources. It seems likely to grow and become a problem only where there is water damage, high humidity, or dampness. All molds need moisture to grow. Common sources of indoor moisture that can cause mold problems include flooding, roof and plumbing leaks, damp basement or crawl spaces, or anywhere moist air condenses on cold surfaces. Bathroom showers and steam from cooking might also create problems if not well ventilated.

Question: How can I prevent mold growth?

Controlling excess moisture is the key to preventing and stopping indoor mold growth. Keeping susceptible areas in the home clean and dry is very important. Ventilate or use exhaust fans (to the outdoors) to remove moisture where it accumulates: bathrooms; kitchens; and laundry areas. Be sure the clothes dryer vents to outside the house. Repair water leaks promptly, and either dry out and clean or replace any water-damaged materials. Materials that stay wet for longer than 48 hours are likely to produce mold growth. Lowering the humidity in the home also helps prevent condensation problems. To lower humidity during humid weather, air conditioners and dehumidifiers may be used. Proper exterior wall insulation helps prevent condensation inside the home during cold weather that could cause mold growth.

Question: Can mold be toxic?

Some molds can produce toxic substances called mycotoxins. Airborne mycotoxins have not been shown to cause health problems to occupants in residential or commercial buildings. The health effects of breathing mycotoxins are not well understood and are currently under study.

High or chronic airborne exposures, typically associated with certain occupations like agricultural work, have been associated with illnesses, although these are rare. More is known about eating mycotoxins (from humans and animals consuming moldy foods or feed) and the resulting health effects than is known about breathing mycotoxins.

Question: What is "black mold"?

The news media often refer to "black mold" or "toxic black mold." It has usually been associated with the mold Stachybotrys Chartarum, a type of greenish-black mold commonly associated with heavy water damage. However, mold is a chameleon and will turn the color of its food source.

Known health effects are similar to other common molds. It has been inconclusively associated with more severe health effects in some people. While there are only a few molds that are truly black, many can appear black. Not all mold that appears to be black is Stachybotrys.

Question: What should I do if I see or smell mold in my home?

The most important step in solving a mold problem is to identify and fix the moisture sources that caused the mold growth. For small mold problems, use detergent and water to wash mold off hard surfaces and dry completely. Porous or absorbent materials (such as ceiling tiles, wallboard and carpeting) that become moldy should be replaced. If you do not see mold growth, but notice a musty odor, mold may be growing behind water-damaged materials, such as walls, carpeting or wallpaper. Persons cleaning mold should wear gloves, eye protection and a dust mask or respirator to protect against breathing airborne spores (an N95 dust mask or respirator may be purchased in hardware stores). If you have health concerns, you should consult your doctor before doing any mold cleanup.

Question: What are Possible Sources of Excessive Moisture?

Indoors:

Humidifiers
Cooking and dishwashing
Bathing
Plumbing leaks
House plants
Firewood storage indoors
Unvented clothes dryer/indoor clothes line
Improper venting of combustion appliances

Outdoors:

Flooding
Rain or snow melt
Seasonal high humidity
Ground moisture
Wet building materials

Question: How Do I Control Moisture?

Indoor Sources:

Fix plumbing leaks, drips or "sweating" pipes
Limit sources of indoor humidity/dehumidify indoor air
Improve air movement in poorly ventilated areas
Increase fresh air ventilation when outdoor air is not humid
Warm cold surfaces where condensation occurs

Outdoor Sources:

Maintain roof and gutter/downspout system.
Direct runoff away from foundation by grading, drain tile, landscaping, etc.
Use air conditioning and keep building closed during high outdoor humidity
Prevent leakage around windows, doors, flashing, etc.
Waterproof foundations

Question: How Do I Control & Eliminate Mold Growth

Controlling mold exposure requires strategies that address removal of mold contaminants as well as the source of moisture that sustains the mold growth. The following steps should be taken to eliminate the presence of indoor molds:

Identify moisture source and correct the problem (see lists of possible moisture sources and control above). *Keep in mind that molds may be hidden.

A moldy smell with or without visual confirmation is indicative of a mold problem, particularly if accompanied by health problems. Mold may be hidden on the backside of dry wall, wallpaper or paneling, the top side of ceiling tiles, the underside of carpets or pads, etc.

Investigation of hidden mold should be undertaken with caution as disturbing some sites with extensive mold growth may result in a massive release of spores (e.g. removal of wallpaper).

Consider hiring an experienced professional if hidden mold is suspected. Once the moisture problem has been addressed, which addresses the future growth of molds, removal of the existing mold contamination can begin.

Molds can be toxic; personal protective equipment should be used to avoid excessive mold exposure during the clean-up process.

The following personal protection products/procedures are recommended:

Respiratory protection (N-95 or TC-21C dust mask)
Goggles
Rubber gloves
Washable or disposable clothing
Ventilate area well when using bleach
Establish containment around the work area for large or heavily contaminated areas to minimize spread of spores

Remove mold by cleaning and disposal *Do not paint or caulk over mold.

a. Paint applied over moldy surfaces is likely to peel.
b. Porous materials should be removed, bagged and discarded.
c. Non-porous materials may be cleaned with non-ammonia detergent and scrubbing.
d. Disinfect using household detergent.

Dry thoroughly - keep in mind wet building materials take time to dry out completely. Fans and de-humidifiers may speed the process. The use of a moisture meter to monitor the moisture content of the material may be helpful.

Turtle Clan follows the IAQA, IESO, AMIAQ Council and AIHA recommendations for the assessment of indoor environments for mold contamination. It is important to use a firm that is certified in and follow these protocols to insure project is completed successfully.

Contact us for additional information:

Phone: 914-361-9703
E-mail: info@turtleclan.com

Toxic Mold Syndrome

2009-11-11T07:14:00.000-08:00

Symptoms of Toxic Mold Syndrome

The symptoms of Toxic Mold Syndrome are varied and can mimic other problems.

Doctors are often baffled by patients' symptoms that do not seem connected yet begin appearing around the same time. Patients with a combination of any of the following symptoms should ask their doctor whether they might have Toxic Mold Syndrome:

Unusual memory loss
Anxiety that appears for no reason and has never been a problem before
Sudden onset of mental health problems such as personality disorder
Nosebleeds in a person who is not prone to them
Breathing difficulties
Pain in the abdomen
Unexplained hair loss
Rashes
Unexplained tiredness
Numbness in hands and feet
Unusual headaches
Mood instability
Pain in arms, legs, hands, or feet
Unexplained cough
Frequent sore throat
Frequent sinus problems
Bleeding from the rectum
Unexplained aches and pains throughout the body
Treatment for Toxic Mold Syndrome

The best way to eliminate or reduce the symptoms of Toxic Mold Syndrome is to get away from the mold.

If the problem is in an individual's home he will have to contact a specialist to have it removed. If the problem is beyond fixing he may have to move.

If the problem is in the workplace an employee needs to speak with their employer about remedying it, and if that does not work she should call her local health department and make them aware of the unresolved issue.

There are today only a few doctors who have discovered and repeatedly watched people suffering from Sick Building Syndrome who have made some pretty solid evidential ties between mold exposure and severe illness, even potential death!

There is a lot of money being spent right now from big companies that don't want us to know this.

While the CDC and most local medical communities are basically telling the public that mold really only effects those with sensitivities to it or those with allergies and poor immune systems, and that the symptoms are primarily congestion and typical allergic reactions, there is a lot they ignore in making these claims.

Visit our website for information on testing and removal of toxic mold from your home or business.