Newspapers and television programs are increasingly reporting on mold problems with newer homes and schools.

In one such instance, this family of Texas had their home demolished in April of this year due to mold infestation that could not be removed. Their son suffered permanently scarred asthmatic lungs, while the father lost his memory and his job. The mold got so bad they needed hepa filters to enter the house.

Erin and her family are also battling mold related illnesses, like respiratory ailments and chronic headaches, to name a few. Tests on the home revealed serious construction flaws and high levels of several molds. Blood test results indicated a severe reaction to two of the molds that showed up in the home.

There are specific environmental conditions required for mold to propagate. A specific temperature range and source of food are the basic factors that must be in place, but the most important element is the presence of moisture. For more information on mold click below:

• Indoor Air Quality
• http://www.health.state.mn.us/divs/eh/indoorair/mold/index.html
• http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2002/01/31/health/main326401.shtml
• http://www.cnn.com/HEALTH/9711/05/deadly.mold/
• http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2002/01/31/health/main327526.shtml
• http://www.cal-iaq.org/mold0107.htm
• http://www.hhinst.com/
• http://www.healthhouse.org/
• http://www.moldtips.com/whatis.htm
• http://www.aiha.org

Moisture can be present within building walls, ceilings, attics, and crawlspaces via:

1. gravity
2. capillary action
3. air leakage
4. diffusion

In order to minimize the potential for mold growth, a building envelope system has to meet all of the following criteria:·

• The building envelope must prevent water from penetrating. Therefore, the structure must be properly sealed and contain an effective drainage plane / rain screen.
• The building envelope must control air leakage. Uncontrolled air leakage leads to condensation and mold growth within the building envelope. Spray foam provides a complete air seal - sprayed into the wall it expands 100:1 in seconds, adhering to all surfaces.
• The components of the building should resist moisture and once wet should then have the potential to dry quickly (they should be hydrophobic). As supported by test results from leading building product laboratories, Spray Foam Insulation does not wick or absorb water. Moisture passes through Spray Foam Insulation , and once dry, the product returns to its full performance value.
• All components should be installed with relative ease and should not be installation- dependent for their ultimate performance. Installed by a Licensed Dealer, Spray Foam Insulation is a quick and effective, one-step insulation and air barrier system. No costly additional labor is required for caulking, taping, window gap foaming, etc.

The key to winning the war against mold is to take preemptive measures for the future health of your family. For more information on how to evaluate your home for susceptibility to mold infestation, please contact us: 888-423-6264