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The Perfect Property Podcast: An Atlanta Real Estate Guide - MOLD! And what you should know with the EPA:  Part 1
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MOLD! And what you should know with the EPA: Part 1

08/03/23 • 32 min

The Perfect Property Podcast: An Atlanta Real Estate Guide

The Perfect Property Podcast

With Host Juli St George

GUEST: Mary Reynolds, Physical Scientist at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Summary:

Mold isn’t good but it’s also nothing homeowners need to fear – once they get educated! We’re finding out about all things MOLD on this episode of The Perfect Property Podcast. Host Juli St George gets the low-down from Mary Reynolds, a scientist with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Atlanta regional office. You’ll learn what to do when you suspect mold, when it’s time to call in a professional and why it’s so important to be tested if you’re having physical symptoms. Don’t miss a great overview of a common household problem (especially in the humid south) as well as actionable tips, strategies and resources to stop mold in its tracks!
What You’ll Learn: All About Mold!
o What causes it: Persistent water or moisture.
Why We Want to Get Rid of Mold:
o Asthma is directly triggered by mold.
o It’s a long-term irritant to eyes, nose, throat and respiratory systems.
o If you have symptoms, consult with a physician.
Is Black Mold Just Media Hype?
o All mold has potential health impacts – regardless of color.
About Mold Testing:
o If there’s visual evidence, there’s no need for mold testing. It’s there!
What’s the Best Way to Remediate?
o If you see mold growing, clean it up!
o Address water leaks
Special Advice for Your Basement or Crawl Space:
o Trace the source of moisture.
o Constantly run a dehumidifier (especially in summer) to reduce high humidity.
o Vapor barriers in crawl spaces help keep moisture down.

· How to Protect Air Quality Inside Our Homes:
o Combat humidity with strong dehumidifiers throughout the house.
o It’s possible to integrate a dehumidifying function into HVAC systems.
o Air scrubbers – gas or particulate filtration – are highly effective.
o When replacing filters, look for a label indicating MERV 13 or above.
o The EPA does not oversee certification processes, but there are reputable bodies including:
§ American Council for Accredited Certification (ACAC)
§ National Association of Mold Professionals (NAMP)
§ National Association of Mold Remediators & Inspectors (NAMRI)
§ Institute of Inspection, Cleaning & Restoration Certification (IICRC)
§ American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA)

Relevant Links/Further Resources:
· American Council for Accredited Certification (ACAC)
· National Association of Mold Professionals (NAMP)
· National Association of Mold Remediators & Inspectors (NAMRI)
· Institute of Inspection, Cleaning & Restoration Certification (IICRC)
· American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA)
· Get EPA info also applicable in residential settings from their document, "Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings."

https://linktr.ee/julistgeorge

plus icon
bookmark

The Perfect Property Podcast

With Host Juli St George

GUEST: Mary Reynolds, Physical Scientist at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Summary:

Mold isn’t good but it’s also nothing homeowners need to fear – once they get educated! We’re finding out about all things MOLD on this episode of The Perfect Property Podcast. Host Juli St George gets the low-down from Mary Reynolds, a scientist with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Atlanta regional office. You’ll learn what to do when you suspect mold, when it’s time to call in a professional and why it’s so important to be tested if you’re having physical symptoms. Don’t miss a great overview of a common household problem (especially in the humid south) as well as actionable tips, strategies and resources to stop mold in its tracks!
What You’ll Learn: All About Mold!
o What causes it: Persistent water or moisture.
Why We Want to Get Rid of Mold:
o Asthma is directly triggered by mold.
o It’s a long-term irritant to eyes, nose, throat and respiratory systems.
o If you have symptoms, consult with a physician.
Is Black Mold Just Media Hype?
o All mold has potential health impacts – regardless of color.
About Mold Testing:
o If there’s visual evidence, there’s no need for mold testing. It’s there!
What’s the Best Way to Remediate?
o If you see mold growing, clean it up!
o Address water leaks
Special Advice for Your Basement or Crawl Space:
o Trace the source of moisture.
o Constantly run a dehumidifier (especially in summer) to reduce high humidity.
o Vapor barriers in crawl spaces help keep moisture down.

· How to Protect Air Quality Inside Our Homes:
o Combat humidity with strong dehumidifiers throughout the house.
o It’s possible to integrate a dehumidifying function into HVAC systems.
o Air scrubbers – gas or particulate filtration – are highly effective.
o When replacing filters, look for a label indicating MERV 13 or above.
o The EPA does not oversee certification processes, but there are reputable bodies including:
§ American Council for Accredited Certification (ACAC)
§ National Association of Mold Professionals (NAMP)
§ National Association of Mold Remediators & Inspectors (NAMRI)
§ Institute of Inspection, Cleaning & Restoration Certification (IICRC)
§ American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA)

Relevant Links/Further Resources:
· American Council for Accredited Certification (ACAC)
· National Association of Mold Professionals (NAMP)
· National Association of Mold Remediators & Inspectors (NAMRI)
· Institute of Inspection, Cleaning & Restoration Certification (IICRC)
· American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA)
· Get EPA info also applicable in residential settings from their document, "Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings."

https://linktr.ee/julistgeorge

Previous Episode

undefined - What you should know about Roofing with Rosie's Roofing

What you should know about Roofing with Rosie's Roofing

Summary:
On this episode of The Perfect Property we’re tackling all things roofs and roofing – a subject that can be intimidating, anxiety-provoking or both. But our guest, Charlie Yood, is here to educate and empower us to take charge of perhaps the single most important element of our homes – before it’s too late. As president of Rosie’s Roofing and Restoration, he’s all about demystify the components of roofing and helping us avoid making costly mistakes. Charlie shares with Host Juli St. George his top tips for protecting our homes, saving money and asking the right questions when we’re in the process of purchasing a new home. You’ll come away with a comprehensive overview of roofing as well as empowering action items that will extend the life of your roof – and increase the value of your home!
What You’ll Learn:
 All About Charlie: A former professor with a PhD in history, he founded Rosie’s 13 years ago and has since been a community resource in and around Atlanta.
 About asphalt-based shingles (most common in Atlanta and nationwide):
o Entry level: 3-tab shingles. Durable but with a relatively short life expectancy.
Typically come with a 25-year material warranty
o Next tier: Architectural shingle. Laminated layers that provide texture and depth
as well as longevity.
 About modified bitumen (rolled roofing product):
o Tailored to withstand stress on flat roofs
o Similar to a swimming pool liner.
o Compatible with shingles for homes with both.
 Alternative roofing options:
o Single-ply roofing (energy-efficient “cool roof” TPO materials).
o Slate tiles or Spanish barrel tile roofs.
o Classic slate.
o Composite synthetic tiles or slate (much lighter).
o Metal roofing (exposed fastener or standing seam – and it’s important to know
the difference!)
 Whether the orientation of your home impacts your roof’s lifespan. (Hint: Yes!)
 What to expect with Rosie’s inspection process:
o A holistic approach that assesses all components of the roof.
o A physical appraisal conducted by an actual human walking the area.
o Video recordings that enable clients to see exactly what’s going on.
o An emphasis on transparency at every stage.
 Why satellite and drone images are not enough to accurately assess what’s going on
with your roof – or identify next steps indicated!
 Top Three Things to Know About Roofing:
o #1: Roofs are not zero maintenance! They have to be kept clean, especially
removing debris from flat roofs and in critical “valley” areas.
o #2: Roofs should be inspected on a regular basis. While your shingles might look
great, the various components holding them together degrade and break down.
o #3: If you see something that looks troubling, don’t procrastinate! Be proactive
about addressing leaks and other issues before they start to spiral.
 Bonus Tips for Homebuyers:
o Don’t rely on general inspections to identify roof issues.
o Find out from previous owners what company installed the current roof, which
may still be under warranty.
 About Rosie’s Nonprofit: Raise the Roof!
 How horror stories are always the result of delayed maintenance – especially on houses with complicated roof profiles.
 Solar Update: The most exciting trend is towards new shingles that integrate into roofing rather than add-on panels.
Notable Quotes:
 “The orientation of your house really matters! If you have slopes in your roof that are southern facing and western facing, they will not last 25 years.
 “You can’t diagnose a leak by sending up a drone. You have to get up there and – on
the roof, looking at it – really figure out what the issue is.”
 “Water will destroy your house so – if you see a leak – get on it right away!”
 “Want to save money? don’t put off maintenance!”

https://linktr.ee/julistgeorge

Next Episode

undefined - MOLD! And what you should know about mold testing:  Part 2

MOLD! And what you should know about mold testing: Part 2

Summary:

On this episode of The Perfect Property Podcast – the second in a special two-part series – we learn why there’s no reason to be intimidated by mold. Help is on the way! Host Juli St George welcomes Jordan Bailey, owner of Atlanta-based Serenity Home Inspections, an unbiased go-to resource when it comes to assessing air quality and levels of mold in your home. He explains why it’s important to have testing done by a certified professional and how to follow up with remediation executed by an independent third-party. You’ll find out all about efflorescence (not as intimidating as it sounds) and exactly what you can expect when it comes to pricing, timeline and outcomes following mold testing. It’s key, Juli and Jordan agree, to be proactive about identifying potential problems. As we learned on Part I of this series, featuring EPA scientist Mary Reynolds, the health impacts can be significant. So find out what you’re dealing with and seek mitigation – especially before closing on the home of your dreams!

Click here to listen to Part I of this series, featuring Mary Reynolds, a physical scientist with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and expert on mold growth and its health consequences.

What You’ll Learn:
Which Level of Mold Testing Do You Need:
o Level I: Complete inspection provides a holistic evaluation of the total property.
o Level II: Limited inspection focused on one room or particular leak.
What Constitutes a Legitimate Mold Inspection?
o International Association of Indoor Air Quality Consultants sets a standard.
o Anyone with this credential will know how to provide required services.
o Mold inspections are not typically a standard part of home inspections.
o There are thousands of types of mold and lots of ways to test for it, so a level of expertise is absolutely essential.
o Fungal growth can be inside walls and other places that aren’t readily visible
More About What Testing Looks Like:
o Direct testing of mold growth itself.
o Evaluation of humidity levels.
o Identification of areas prone to moisture and dampness.
o Determination of patterns and indicators for future mold growth.
o Testing through a specially designed pump that takes individual samples of air throughout the house and compares to a baseline taken from outside the home.
o Pricing varies depending on whether it’s a limited or comprehensive inspection.
Your Home’s Most Mold-Prone Locations:
o Basements (especially those vulnerable to water intrusion).
o Crawlspaces (especially those without a vapor barrier).
o HVAC systems (which may be sucking mold from inside a crawl space and blowing it throughout the house).
o Damp dry wall and other areas impacted by a plumbing or roof leak.
What is Efflorescence?
o Mold is all in the fungal microbial growth family and has lots of nicknames.
o Efflorescence is different! It’s a white mineral residue that is the result of moisture that passes through and settles into foundation walls.
o If the humidity in the home is high enough, mold can feed off of it and grow.
o Mineral residue and mold growth can both be white in appearance, which is why testing is important
What Lab Results Will Tell You:
o The difference in air quality between outdoor and indoor samples.
o Whether any specific types of mold are elevated.
o Whether types of mold present are associated with known health hazards.
Things Homeowners Want to Know:
o There are species of mold in every house, no matter the circumstances.
o Fungal growth makes up 25% of the world’s bio-mass,

https://linktr.ee/julistgeorge

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