A+ Inspections

When heavy rains come, we often find minor to major leaks in a home or building.  These leaks provide the needed moisture for mold to grow.   Wherever warmth, dampness and organic materials come together there is the possibility of mold.  Molds are in the air we breath, on our skin, in our hair and almost everywhere.

Not all molds are bad.  For example penicillin is a mold that grows on bread and is used to save lifes.  Cheeses are furmented and grow mold, example blue cheese.

When are molds a problem?  When they affect the health of the buildings occupants and when they destroy building materials.  For more information about this visit:

http://www.aplusinspections.net/html/mold_indoor_air_quality.htm

Tags: air, building, building materials, buildings occupants, destroy building, heavy rains, intrusion, intrusion bring mold, leaks, mold, molds, organic materials, rain and water intrusion bring mold, water intrusion
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When you sell your home, the process is almost like going to a job interview.  Selling a home involves presentation, which is one of the key factors that determine the outcome.  Although this may sound a bit weird, presentation is a way of life in the world of real estate.  Buyers in today’s market look for good presentation – many basing their final decisions on it.

Curb appeal is extremely important.  If your house does not look good from the street few people will bother to look any further.  When a potential buyer first pulls up to your home; the first thing he will see is your lawn.  If your lawn is trimmed and well taken care of, he will get a good impression right off the bat.  If your lawn is a wreck, he may immediately pull away.  To give the best impression to the buyer, you should put some thought into how things look.  You can always plant flowers around the walkway and throughout the yard, which will look great to a potential buyer.  If the paint is not just perfect give the house a fresh coat of paint. These two items alone will make a tremendous difference in first impressions.

You should also make sure that the entrance into your home is a positive as well.  The front door should be in great shape, as well as the entry area into the home.  You can add some plants, paintings, and rugs to ensure that your buyer gets a good impression. When the buyer walks through the entry way into your home, you should make sure that the view he or she takes in is a good one.  Remove all the clutter, show off the roominess and uncluttered nature of the home, so that the potential buyer can imagine their belongings and furnishings in the home.  Make sure the carpets and floors are clean and in good shape, that it smells fresh and clean as well as looks fresh and clean thru out the entire home without clothes on the floor, dirty dishes on the counter or in the sink, bath rooms and kitchens without clutter or dirty anything.  It must be immaculate to make the right impression.

If your home is clean, you can use lighting to bring out the best features in your home, and ensure that they stand out to the buyer.  Your biggest goal when showing your home is to ensure that the buyer is pleased.  Most homes have some truly outstanding features inside of them.  You should always do your best to highlight the best features of your home, instead of just hoping that the buyer understands what they are.  The ideal way to bring out the best features of your home is to use the proper lighting.

If the property you are selling comes with a garage, you’ll need to go through your garage before you sell your home.  Chances are that you store things in your garage, which can easily pile up over time before you realize it.  If your garage is in a messy condition, you’ll obviously want to clean it up.  Buyers look for homes that are in perfect condition, and anything less than perfect will look bad in the eyes of the buyer.

Keep in mind that it may take some time to sell your home.  These days, homes can sit on the market for months at a time before they actually sell. If you are having trouble selling your home, you can always reduce the price or simply go back to the basics.  Eventually you will sell your home – although it may take more time than you think.

If after doing all the above you want to sell it 50% faster – get a pre-inspection by a certified inspector.  The finished inspection report will show you what needs to be repaired before showing the house for sale.  When you have fixed everything the inspector found, have the inspector return and update the report showing the current condition of the house as MOVE-IN READY.  The finished report can be made available to potential buyers to show the excellent condition of the home and that it is ready for them to move right in.

A+ Inspections has such a program of pre-inspection available and ready for you to use. Visit http://www.aplusinspections.net/html/pre.htm to learn more about pre-listing inspections and the “MOVE-IN CERTIFIED” program available to our clients.

Tags: coat of paint, fresh coat of paint, good impression, home, prelisting inspections, property inspections, real estate inspection, selling a home, way of life, what to do when your home selling
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With the changing seasons come indoor air quality issues. When it is cold outside, we close our windows and doors, use our heaters, cook food, light firplaces, use our washer and dryer, heat the water just a little warmer. All of these things contribute to indoor air pollution. Carbon monoxide builds up, carbon dioxide may enter from gas appliances, and any carbon fuel will add to this.

We need to exchange air with the outdoors to refresh the air indoors. We need oxygen to breathe and a fresh exchange of air which can be accomplished in multiple ways. We can open the windows and doors for just a brief time, then close up the home or office, use air purifiers to clean the air, or use the air conditioner with a HEPA filter to clean 98% of the impurities from the air. All of these will provide an exchange of air indoors.

The fall and winter seasons also bring rain, snow, sleet and ice. Any and all of these can cause problems with your home or office building. Moisture intrusion or water leaks cause potential problems within your building. Whether it be flooding or just entry into the structure. Once water comes into the structure it can cause MOLD to grow. Mold will damage the building materials used to construct your building, and potentialy cause health problems for the occupants (allergies, asthma, burning eyes, running or stuffy noses, sore throats). If you feel any of these systems or smell strange musty odors you may have a MOLD problem!

A+ Inspections is a certified indoor air quality consultancy. Which means we inspect and test for not only MOLD, but other IAQ contaminants, such as: allergens, dust mites, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, asbestos, formaldehyde, radon, lead and heavy metals, pesticides and more.

If you are in Orange or San Diego counties in So. California simply phone 1-888-239-6969 for an appointment.

Tags: air quality issues, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, cause health problems, changing seasons makes for iaq problems, iaq problems, indoor air quality, indoor air quality issues, strange musty odors, windows and doors
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You must be happy and excited about the house or property that you have decided to purchase. When you know that you have found the perfect house that you always dreamt of, it’s certainly something to be happy about. But it is always best to have it inspected before you finalize the deal, because purchasing a house is a big investment and every buyer wishes to get the most of what they are purchasing. Pre-purchase house inspection is a precautionary measure that you have to take in order to ensure you invest the money in the right property and you get the maximum return out of it.

Make sure you hire the services of professional and qualified inspectors to conduct building and property inspection for the house you intend to buy. Professional and qualified inspectors know exactly what areas need to be examined. Structural integrity is one such important aspect, and they explore the property in search for indications of structural integrity. Interior walls, exterior sidings, floors, roofing, foundations are few major structural elements they examine. If the area the property is located is a cold weather area, they will perform a chimney inspection additionally. By checking these features the inspectors try to identify the damages caused by water, molds or decay.

Larry Steevan is PR Manager at All Check Property Inspections. It is a Melbourne based Property inspectors who specialized for pre-purchase inspections, property inspections, pest control, building inspection, pest inspection, building inspection specialists, timber pest inspection, building inspectors , renovation

Tags: building and pest inspections, check property inspections, home inspection, infrared inspection, melbourne based property, pest inspection, pre-purchase house inspection, prepurchase building and pest inspections what is it and why you need it, property inspections, real estate inspection
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The impact of the rapidly increasing global prevalence of Bedbugs cannot be underestimated. Once close to eradication in the late 1940′s, bedbugs have made a staggering resurgence particularly in the United States over the past 10 years but also in western European countries including Ireland and the UK where infestation report rates are increasing and distribution areas are expanding. Although the basis and point source for this resurgence is unclear, large bedbug infestations have been attributed to increased worldwide travel, altered insecticide management, and increased resistance to widely used broad spectrum insecticides. High resistance has been reported to many of the more limited insecticides still available to combat them.

Two species of bedbugs targets humans as their preferred host of: the common bedbug (Cimex lectularius) which has worldwide distribution, and the tropical bedbug (Cimex hemipterus) which is found primarily in tropical regions. Traditionally regarded as a pest control problem exclusive to areas of low socioeconomic status, bedbug infestations have been reported in the finest hotels and housing facilities in the US and Europe.

Feeding behaviours:
Bedbugs are hematophagous i.e. they feed primarily on human blood. Their mouth parts are specially evolved to pierce human skin and withdraw blood quickly and discretely. Anticoagulants and anaesthetic compounds are injected with salvia during biting effectively numbing the bite area while maximizing blood flow from the host. Feeding can last up to ten minutes for an adult before a fully engorged state has been reached.
Adult bed bugs fast running wingless insects, 4-5mm long when fully grown and rust brown in colour. They are dorsoventrally flattened and extremely thin, facilitating their ability to hide in the narrowest of cracks close to the sleeping host. The undersides of mattresses, within furniture structures, under floorboards, behind skirting, and in carpets in various cracks are popular locations for bedbugs to be found.
Heavy infestations have a distinctive sweet smell; blood spots would be evident on the bedding surfaces and increased biting experienced by the occupants of the house.

Geraldine Hughes is a Scientist at airmid healthgroup, and is Head of Bed Bug Research. Currently, Geraldine works in both the Allergen testing laboratory and the Microbiology laboratory. She is also responsible for Bed Bug research and testing.

Tags: asbestos, bed bug research, bedbug, bedbug infestations, bedbugs target humans, large bedbug infestations
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The process of buying a property can be very stressful especially during the 10 day inspection period. The inspection period is the allowed time frame to have the property inspected by a home inspector, pest control expert, mold inspectors and radon technicians.

Almost all lenders require home inspections, termite inspections and many also mold inspections. A home buyer cannot close on the property until a proper home inspection is completed. But what does a home inspection report disclose? Home buyers are often clueless about home construction and its components, and have difficulty interpreting home inspection reports. Many don’t know how to figure out which types of defects are serious or whether their home inspector checked all the essentials in the home or not.

An inspector should at least inspect the roof, basement, heating system, water heater, air-conditioning system, structure, plumbing, electrical, and many other aspects of buildings, looking for structural damages, building defects, those items that require extensive repairs, as well as some fire and safety issues. However, it should also be noted that a home inspection is not technically exhaustive and does not imply that every defect will be discovered. Among the list of exclusions are indoor environmental hazards such as mold problems. If you are an individual prompt to heath issues related to mold exposure, if you are purchasing a foreclosure property, or notice water damages, visible mold growth, musty odors or any other red flags during the showing or disclosed by your home inspector it is strongly recommended that the property is inspected by a certified mold inspector.

Certified Indoor Environmentalist with over 12 years of experience in air quality, mold testing and microbiology.

Tags: buying a property, certified mold inspector, home inspection, home inspection reports, home inspector, mold free property, proper home inspection, property inspection, quick guide to buying a mold free property, real estate inspection, visible mold growth
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Mold and water damaged building materials

When leakage occurs it results in the growth of mold that in turn results in the release of pungent smelling and irritating volatile organic compounds, and allergenic mold spores into your air. Persons with allergies or asthma often have reactions to such contaminates in the air while others may have no reaction at all. People with compromised immune systems may even contract infections from some molds. Some of the most common mold related infections are chronic allergenic fungal sinusitis, this is a type of allergic like reaction and infection that results from spores germinating in the sinuses, the agent of infection is usually Alternaria mold spores. Other persons may develop lung infections caused by certain species of Aspergillus growing in the lungs. Fungal infections are more a product of a person’s poor health than of the environment they are in. Home inspectors, s and other building investigators may use a moisture meter to detect moisture hidden inside water damaged building materials.

Infrared cameras can also be used to detect moisture hidden inside walls and other areas by measuring very slight temperature differentials between cooler wet surfaces and warmer dry surfaces. Where there is moisture mold is often not far away. Drying up water within 24 to 48 hours and repairing leaks can go a long way in preventing mold problems.

Dust dust mites and particulates

Air contaminated with excess particles can also cause negative reactions. Some particles cause direct irritation when levels are elevated. In the case of house dust people do not typically have a direct allergenic or irritation related reaction. Common dust is as much as 80% dead human skin cells thus the dust itself is not seen as a forging invader by your body. When people have allergic reactions to common household dust it is not the dust causing the problem but allergenic proteins found in dust mite feces. Particles counters can be used to measure airborne particulates, particle counters are highly sensitive scientific instruments that use an internal laser to count particles passing through it that are of a predetermined size range. Good quality pleated filters at your AC unit return can help reduce dust, also use a good quality vacuum that is equipped with a hepa filter. A bad vacuum cleaner will remove dust from your carpets then blow it into your face.

Carbon dioxide

High carbon dioxide levels are not typically a direct threat to human health in home and commercial properties. High carbon dioxide levels usually indicate a lack of adequate outdoor air being introduced into the building. Dust, chemicals, body odors and other indoor air pollutants often build up along with carbon dioxide in poorly ventilated buildings, and it is these other indoor pollutants that result in indoor air quality complaints and health complaints. According to Parat and others “A properly maintained and operated mechanical ventilation system can reduce indoor Bioaerosols concentrations by limiting infiltration of outdoor Bioaerosols and by diluting those from outdoor sources” ( Parat et al., 1994, 1996 ).

According to American Society of Heating Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers ASHRAE 62-89 Outdoor air supply into the building should be at least 20 cubic foot per min per person in offices and thus help maintain carbon dioxide levels below 1000 ppm. Newer requirements recommend levels no more than 700 ppm higher than outdoor carbon dioxide levels. Outdoor air that is being introduced into a building must meet the US EPA National Primary Ambient Air Quality Standards is short it must be clean or it must be properly filtered.

In conclusion letting clean dry outdoor air into homes and commercial buildings can help dilute and flush out indoor pollutants.

Daryl Watters is a certified mold inspector & certified indoor environmentalist providing building inspections and IAQ testing in West Palm Beach & Ft Lauderdale. For mold test & IAQ indoor air quality information visit http://www.florida-mold-inspection.com and http://www.floridamoldinspectors.us/common indoor air quality problems.htm

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Posted in Environment |  | 1 Comment »

The pollution from formaldehyde has aroused much attention in recent years. People are seemingly familiar with this substance. But very few people know exactly what this chemical is. A recent report published by the World Health Organization in Beijing has indicated that the pollution caused by formaldehyde, which mainly exists indoors could lead to cancer. Therefore, experts advocated that consumers should strengthen the awareness of reducing formaldehyde pollution.

Last year, IARC reported the danger of formaldehyde. The result in this reported is synthesized from experiments in more than ten countries. Experts from this organization also pointed out that this very chemical would not only lead to nasal cancer, but also probably cause leukemia.

Though it is deadily, formaldehyde is still widely used in the world. It is reported that this substance is mainly used in producing wooden products, dope and plastic. Professors from Beijing argued that its annual yield in China is as large as that in America, while the number of factories is three times more. However, the techniques in these small factories are so out-of-date that the processing procedures would bring great dangers to health. He also pointed out that the formaldehyde indoors mainly comes from man-made wooden materials, which are well received by the public to make furniture.

We are gradually aware that pollution is universal and dangerous. As a result, green materials are embraced by people. It is good that people begin to protect the environment and their health. But experts tell us that green materials are not free from pollutions. By green materials, we mean the dangerous chemicals in them are under control. For example, if the release of formaldehyde in wooden materials is lower than 0.15 milligrams per stere, it is green enough. However, many consumers misunderstand the standards. They think such materials are clean and safe enough. But in fact, the accumulated pollution from them is rather terrifying. Therefore, consumers should still be cautious.

But there is no need worrying about it. There are various ways for us to avoid such pollution. Experts advise consumers to take the area and the aeration condition into consideration during the indoor decoration. They also suggest that advanced and safe techniques should be adopted in decoration in order to prevent from the formaldehyde release. Moreover, our country has ten strict standards to qualify decoration materials at present. If the formaldehyde in your house exceeds these standards, do not be afraid. Relevant eliminators are invented to diminish the formaldehyde in the materials. Meanwhile, plants like aloe and orchid can absorb this harmful chemical. In addition, opening the window now and then can help reduce the pollution.

Tags: formaldehyde indoors, formaldehyde pollution indoors, formaldehyde release, green materials, manmade wooden materials, materials, pollution, the formaldehyde pollution indoors, wooden materials, world health organization
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Indoor air quality is a major health concern. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), pollutant levels are two to five times higher inside the home than out. These pollutants include airborne particles and particulate matter such as allergens, lung irritants, gases, toxic chemicals, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Indoor air pollution contaminates the air we breathe every day. Since you draw about 9 out of 10 breaths indoors, it’s easy to see why indoor air quality is a top health concern. You typically inhale about two tablespoons of airborne particles a day.

These pollutants put stress on your immune system, which can lead to other health problems. The effects of poor indoor air quality on an individual can vary greatly based on age and relative health. However, in general, poor indoor air quality leads to allergy symptoms, respiratory problems, and weakened immune systems. Children are especially susceptible to the health risks of polluted indoor air since their lungs are smaller and they have to take more breaths throughout the day. If you experience allergy symptoms or asthma attacks in your home, you may have poor indoor air quality. Other sources of IAQ problems may include poor ventilation, lingering odors, environmental changes like recent construction, new furniture, water damage, or a new pet.

Solutions to Indoor Air Pollution

The EPA suggests three basic methods for improving indoor air quality:

1. Control the source of air pollution.

2. Improve ventilation.

3. Purchase an air purifier.

Your first step should be an attempt to control the source of air pollution. If the pollution stems from something like mold, smoke, or chemical off-gassing, it may be possible to remove it from your home; this is most effective and lasting method of improving indoor air quality. However, some indoor air pollutants, such as dust and pollen, are too pervasive, and you can’t always get rid of the sources.

Better ventilation will improve your indoor air quality if the offending pollutant is a chemical or gas. In this case, bringing fresh air into the home can be very helpful. However, many indoor air pollutants originate outdoors, so opening a window on a high pollen-count day or in a smoggy city may not be the best idea.

The third step suggested by the EPA is to purchase an air purifier. With so many types and brands of air purifiers on the market, it’s pretty easy to find one that is well-suited to your home’s particular situation. Quality air purifiers can work wonders on IAQ. However, some popular air cleaners on the market are not very effective, and many air cleaners actually exacerbate some of the very problems they are meant to cure.

Common Indoor Air Pollutants

Thousands of different chemicals and proteins may be polluting your air. The most common complaints for allergy sufferers involve airborne particles like pet allergens, pollen, dust, mold, etc. These common allergens range in size from 0.3 to 100 microns, and they are small enough to be inhaled, but they’re too large to be easily exhaled. HEPA air purifiers represent the best method of removing common allergens.

Scott Smith is an expert on air quality and air purifiers at achooallergy.com.

Tags: air pollution, air purifier, air quality, indoor air, indoor air pollutants, indoor air pollution, indoor air quality, poor indoor air, source of air pollution, why indoor air quality is essential for good health
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Your home’s heating and air conditioning system is a vital to your comfort. But did you know it’s vital to your health?

Your HVAC system not only keeps your house at a comfortable temperature, but it helps to keep your indoor air clean and free of potentially harmful contaminants.

However, if your HVAC system isn’t properly maintained, it can actually degrade your indoor air quality and affect your health.

For instance, if your heating or air conditioning system sprouts a leak and components of your HVAC system become moist or wet, they can sprout “microbial growth” — better known as mould.

Your HVAC system can then pump the mould-infested air into your home. Some types of mould can cause allergic reactions in some people, as well as other health problems.

Mould spreads in damp environments. The mould spores ingest water and reproduce quickly. These spores can then travel through the air in your HVAC and you can eventually ingest them by breathing them in.

While mould can grow on anything from walls, to carpets, to food, it can be a particularly difficult problem in your HVAC system — which operates largely out of sight.

Tammy Scouten is a Home Comfort Advisor with Reliance Home Comfort. She specializes in Rental or financed furnaces and air conditioners, rental hot water tanks or tankless units, air quality products, equipment service protection plans, and security services. Visit her website and see what Tammy can do for you. http://www.hvacscouten.com

Tags: air quality, asbestos, indoor air quality
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