International Environmental Diagnostics, Inc.
90 Highland Lane, Irvington, NY 10533
Tel: 914-591-6651, Fax: 914-478-1895
Links.
For testimonials on our knowledge and experience you may click http://www.naeti.com/ and then click www.neti.com. We will soon be providing important and educational links related to our business and industry. Coming soon!
Some Frequently Asked Questions.
Q : How much mold can make me sick?
A: It depends. For some people, a relatively small number of mold spores can trigger an asthma attack or lead to other health problems. For other persons, symptoms may occur only when exposure levels are much higher. Nonetheless, indoor mold growth is unsanitary and undesirable. Basically, if you can see or smell mold inside your home, take steps to identify and eliminate the excess moisture and to clean up and remove the mold.
B: It also depends what type of mold it is present and not only "how much mold."
Q: Are some molds more hazardous than others?
A: Yes. In addition to their allergis properties, certain types of molds, such as Stachybotrys, Penicillium, etc. may produce compounds that have toxic properties, which are called mycotoxins. Mycotoxins are not always produced, and whether a mold produces mycotoxins while growing in a building depends on what the mold is growing on., conditions such as temperature, pH, humidity, or competition from other molds. When mycotoxins are present, they occur in both living and dead mold spores and may be present in materials that have become contaminated with molds.
Q: Who is at greater risk when exposed to mold?
A: Significant exposure to mold is not healthy for anyone. Therefore, it is always best to identify and correct high mositure conditions quickly before mold grows and problems develop. However, sensitized individuals and immunoproblematic individuals are at higher risk.
Q: What are the most common symptoms and complaints caused by poor indoor air quality?
A: Headaches, eye-nose-throat dryness, dizziness, drowsiness and fatigue.
Q: Do I have to be concerned just with mold after water damage or water incursion in my house?
A: Yes, but not just mold. Gram-negative bacteria, producing endotoxins and new toxic chemicals are also a result of water impact on interior surfaces. Just be aware that the water intrusion is not always visible to the naked eye.
Q: What are the risks associated with indoor bacteria?
A: It is very common that after water incursion, the wet or damp materials turn into microbial media, fostering and supporting mold and bacterial growth. Pathogenic bacteria, as part of their life cycle produce endotoxin. Endotoxins have been associated with poor indoor air quality. They have been thought to be responsible for fever, cough, headache, dyspnea, nausea, chest tightness and shortness of breath, reduced lung functions and flu-like signs.
Q: Is your company testing the air for endotoxins?
A: Yes, we are testing for endotoxins, chemicals, microscopic particles and allergens in built environments.
Q: Many companies have nice Web sites with proud boasts of a lot of experience, but how do I know if they are qualified?
A: Many companies have impressive, colorful Web sites but are not qualified to solve your mold/air quality problems. Always ask for credentials, proven experience and the qualifications of their staff prior to hiring an "expert." Only testing by a professional expert can uncover the real answers you need regarding mold. Your health is too important to take a chance on an advertised gadget. Would you use a kit instead of going to a doctor if you were sick? Always ask for credentials, certification, experience, and recommendations.
Q: What are the risks of hiring the wrong people for (a) mold testing (b) mold remediation?
A: To avoid errors and mistakes, it is important to know WHAT, WHEN, WHERE and WHY to test, What collection medium to use and for How long, etc. This requires a qualified professional.
B: When the remediation people do not "hit" the source or perform an incomplete remediation, there can be a mold reoccurrence.
Q. What areas do you service? Is Intern'l Environmental Diagnostics, Inc. just a local company?
A: We offer our services on a nationwide level, but are more concentrated in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut.
Q: I really need to have a full mold assessment but have hesitated because of pricing concerns; is it expensive to hire your services?
A: Certainly not. Our knowledge will save you money; with our expertise, we can complete the work without spending your time and money on unnecessary sampling. Unqualified companies can cause additional problems that not only will waste your time and money, but much more importantly can put you, your family, and your co-worker's health at risk.
Q: Why hire your services?
A: Quick test results and reliability.
Q: Why do I need a company with experience in indoor Air Quality Testing and Indoor Air Quality Restoration if I have a mold problem?
A: Mold is only one part of the Indoor Air puzzle; mold is mostly the result of moisture or water penetration. We are the ONLY company that has the complete knowledge and experience to deal with all three fields, we can give you the right answer and solution to achieve indoor air quality.
Q: Why is it important to test indoor air after fire or water damage?
A: New chemicals, some very toxic, may be produced as a result of prolific (break-down) reactions with components of construction materials. Mold also may result in a short time, usually within 24-48 hours after water damage occurs. Mold spores may germinate within 12 hours if they have enough water. Pathogenic bacteria producing endotoxins are common after water damage.
Q: Why/when is testing for mold recommended?
- To confirm or eliminate client concerns about mold.
- To provide information to physicians regarding health issues.
- To locate hidden microbial colonization (mold, bacteria), and their potential for amplification.
- To identify the quantity and type of microbes.
- To determine corrective actions.
- Clearance for reoccupancy following mold removals.
Q: How am I exposed to indoor molds?
A: Everyone is exposed to some mold on a daily basis without evident harm. It is common to find mold spores in the air inside homes. Most of the airborne spores found indoors come from outdoor sources. Mold spores cause health problems when they are present in large numbers and people inhale many of them. This occurs primarily when there is active mold growth within the home, office or school where people live or work. People can also be exposed to mold by touching contaminated materials and by eating contaminated foods.
Q: Can mold become a problem in my home?
A: Molds and bacteria will grow and multiply whenever conditions are right - sufficient moisture is available and organic material is present. Be on the lookout in your home for common sources of indoor moisture that may lead to mold problems:
- Flooding
- Leaky Roofs
- Outdoor Sprinklers
- Plumbing Leaks
- Overflow from Sinks
- Damp Basement or Crawl Space
- Steam from Shower or Cooking
- Humidifiers
- Wet Clothes Drying Indoors or Clothes Dryers Exhausting Indoors
- Condensation
- Sewer Issues
Q: Should I be concerned about mold in my home:
A: Yes. If indoor mold contamination is extensive, it can cause very high and persistent airborne spore exposures. Persons exposed to high spore levels can become sensitized and develop allergies to the mold or other health problems. Mold growth can damage your furnishings and carpets. Unchecked mold growth can cause serious damage to the structural elements in your home.
B. Yes, if you see one or more of the following, you should test for mold: warping floors and discoloration of walls and ceilings. This can be an indication of moisture problems. Condensation in wondows or walls is also an important indication, but it can sometimes be caused by an indoor combustion problem!
Q: What symptoms are commonly seen with mold exposure?
A: Molds produce health effects through inflammation, allergy, or infection. Allergic reactions and sensitivity reactions are most common following continuous mold exposure. Other reported symptoms are:
- Respiratory problems such as wheezing, difficulty breathing, and shortness of breath.
- Nasal and sinus congestion.
- Dry, hacking cough
- Eye, nose or throat irritation
- Skin rashes or irritation
Headaches, memory problems, mood swings, nosebleeds, body aches and pains, and fevers are occasionally reported in mold cases, but their cause is not understood.
Q: Do you offer any discounts?
A: Yes, a 10% discount to former customers and retired individuals. We also offer a 10% discount to schools, medical facilities, and non-profit organizations.
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