Oak Leaf Environmental delivers fair-priced, professional services by certified and licensed experts for your environmental needs.
If you believe that you have mold growing within your property, let the mold experts at Oak Leaf Environmental in Centre Hall, Pennsylvania, identify the mold as soon as possible. As mold can cause various health issues and damage structures if left untreated, it's essential to test and remediate mold as quickly as possible if you suspect a mold infestation.
Mold describes a wide range of micro-organisms that can be found nearly anywhere that moisture and oxygen are present. More specifically, mold is a type of fungi. Outdoors, these organisms play a vital role in breaking down decaying matter. Indoors, however, mold can cause signifcant health problems.
Mold generally falls into one of three categories:
Allergenic – These molds are also known as common allergens. They are not toxic but can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive people.
Pathogenic – These molds can cause infections and other diseases in humans. They are especially dangerous to those with weakened immune systems or other illnesses.
Toxigenic – These are the most dangerous types of mold because they create their own toxins. Exposure to these molds can potentially be fatal.
Exposure to molds can lead to symptoms such as stuffy nose, wheezing and red or itchy eyes, or skin. Some people, such as those with allergies to molds, may have more intense reactions.
People with immune suppression or underlying lung disease are more susceptible to fungal infections. Individuals with chronic respiratory disease such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) or asthma may have trouble breathing.
We collect air samples in the affected areas using a sampling pump with a cassette on the end. We close the cassette and mail it to the lab. Results are generally available within 2 days once the lab receives them. Rush analysis is available at an increased cost.
Bruce came to my home today to give an estimate for radon mitigation. He arrived as scheduled and was very informative and professional.
- Barbara Dromazos
Aspergillus are pathogenic molds commonly found in HVAC systems and water-damaged buildings. Although some members of the Aspergillus genus are non-toxic, they can trigger allergic reactions, respiratory irritation, lung infections and asthma. Other examples from the genus Aspergillus are toxigenic and can produce
Stachybotrys is a toxigenic mold found in damp areas and ventilation systems. Of the dozens of types of Stachybotrys, Stachybotrys chartarum and stachybotrys chlorohalonata are also known as toxic black mold. This mold is dangerous enough that it should be removed only by licensed remediation specialists along with a strategy to eliminate excess moisture.
Aflotoxins is an allergenic mold commonly found in bathrooms and on damp windows. It causes allergic reactions in people, and can also trigger hypersensitive conditions such as hay fever and asthma. This organism can infect people whose immune systems are impeded.
Ulocladium as a common allergenic mold found in damp appliances, bathrooms, carpet and drywall. Its presence is indicative of water damage. Although this mold is black, its not as dangerous as the “black mold” Stachybotrys.
Chaetomium is an allergenic mold and the most common mold to grow in houses damaged by flooding or large water leaks. It often starts as a fuzzy white growth but can darken over time and sometimes be mistaken for black mold.
Alternaria is an allergenic mold commonly found in bathrooms and on damp windows. It causes allergic reactions in people, and can also trigger hypersensitive conditions such as hay fever and asthma. This organism can infect people whose immune systems are impeded.
Don't live in fear of wondering what environmental danger there could be lurking within your home or business. Our experts will work with you to help understand and control whatever pollutants may be on your property and remove them in a timely manner so that you no longer have to worry about your health. Call us today at 814-876-2228 to schedule your environmental testing as soon as possible.
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