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Author: Martine Davis

Nashville commercial air quality testing

Critical Alert: Nashville Commercial Air Quality Issues Could Be Costing You More Than You Think

Written by Martine Davis on . Posted in Air Quality Testing, Nashville, TN. No Comments on Critical Alert: Nashville Commercial Air Quality Issues Could Be Costing You More Than You Think

Poor Nashville commercial air quality isn’t just uncomfortable—it can silently impact productivity, trigger chronic health problems, and expose businesses to liability risks. Whether you manage a corporate office, retail store, school, medical facility, or industrial building, indoor air quality (IAQ) should never be an afterthought.

At Indoor Environmental Testing, we help businesses throughout Nashville identify hidden air quality issues and develop data-driven strategies to improve workplace safety and comfort. Our testing is 100% objective—we don’t sell remediation—so you get honest answers, not scare tactics.

Why Indoor Air Quality Is a Business Essential—Not a Luxury

Today’s employees, customers, and tenants expect more from the buildings they occupy. And they should. Contaminants in commercial environments can build up quickly and affect large groups of people, sometimes without anyone realizing it until symptoms worsen.

Common contributors to poor Nashville commercial air quality include:

  • Mold or mildew in ceiling tiles, drywall, and HVAC systems
  • Off-gassing from office furniture, carpets, or paint
  • Inadequate fresh air exchange from aging or undersized ventilation systems
  • Cleaning agents and maintenance chemicals releasing VOCs
  • Renovation or construction debris left behind in air ducts or wall cavities

Many of these problems remain invisible unless professional testing is performed—making air quality an unseen but very real threat.

Who Needs Commercial Air Quality Testing?

We provide Nashville commercial air quality testing for a wide range of industries and facilities, including:

  • Corporate offices concerned about employee wellness and productivity
  • Medical clinics and dental offices aiming to maintain clean clinical environments
  • Schools and daycares where children may be more vulnerable to pollutants
  • Retail stores and restaurants aiming to improve customer comfort and satisfaction
  • Apartment complexes and property managers addressing tenant concerns
  • Warehouses and manufacturing plants where dust and VOC exposure is common

If you’re in charge of a shared space and have never had a professional IAQ evaluation, now is the time.

What Are the Signs of Poor Commercial Air Quality?

You don’t need visible mold or a strange smell to have an air quality problem. Consider scheduling a test if you’ve noticed:

  • An increase in employee absenteeism
  • Recurring respiratory complaints or allergy-like symptoms
  • A pattern of “sick building syndrome” complaints
  • A recent water leak, HVAC problem, or renovation
  • Difficulty maintaining consistent temperature and humidity levels

These indicators could point to ventilation imbalances, elevated CO₂ levels, or hidden contamination—and they rarely resolve on their own.

What We Test For in Commercial Buildings

Our commercial assessments are comprehensive and customized. Depending on your property and concerns, we may test for:

  • Mold spores in the air or on surfaces
  • Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) from furniture, adhesives, and cleaners
  • Particulate matter (PM2.5 / PM10), especially in industrial or dusty environments
  • Carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide levels
  • Relative humidity and temperature fluctuations
  • Formaldehyde and other hazardous off-gassing chemicals
  • HVAC performance indicators, including moisture buildup or biological growth

Our findings are presented in a detailed report with easy-to-understand language, visual data, and actionable next steps.

Compliance, Liability & Reputation: Why Air Quality Impacts All Three

From OSHA complaints to negative online reviews, poor IAQ can hit businesses where it hurts. Routine Nashville commercial air quality testing shows that you take workplace safety seriously—and it can protect you from future legal and financial headaches.

Our assessments can be used to:

  • Respond to employee or tenant complaints
  • Satisfy insurance or building inspection requirements
  • Support green building certifications or wellness initiatives
  • Verify remediation effectiveness after a mold or moisture incident

Proudly Serving the Greater Nashville Business Community

We work with clients in Downtown Nashville, The Gulch, Green Hills, Brentwood, Franklin, East Nashville, and beyond. Whether you manage a boutique storefront or a sprawling corporate campus, our team delivers reliable, science-based indoor environmental testing in Nashville tailored to your facility’s unique needs.

Schedule Your Nashville Commercial Air Quality Test Today

In a competitive market, clean air is a competitive advantage. Don’t wait for complaints or code violations to take action.

Contact us today to schedule your Nashville commercial air quality test and get the information you need to improve indoor conditions—before small issues become big problems.

Nashville air quality test

Breathe Easier: Why a Nashville Air Quality Test Could Transform Your Health

Written by Martine Davis on . Posted in Air Quality Testing, Indoor Environmental Testing, Nashville, TN. No Comments on Breathe Easier: Why a Nashville Air Quality Test Could Transform Your Health

You might be surprised to learn that indoor air can be two to five times more polluted than outdoor air — even in a clean, modern home. If you’ve been struggling with allergies, fatigue, or unexplained health issues, a professional Nashville air quality test could be the game-changer you need.

At Indoor Environmental Testing, we provide thorough, science-based air quality assessments that help you uncover hidden pollutants and create a healthier living or working space.

What’s Lurking in Your Indoor Air?

Invisible particles in your home or office air may include:

  • Dust and dander
  • Mold spores
  • Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
  • Cleaning chemical residues
  • Pollen and allergens
  • Combustion byproducts (e.g., carbon monoxide)

A Nashville air quality test helps identify these contaminants, giving you the information you need to breathe easier and live better.

Signs You May Need an Air Quality Test

You don’t have to see pollution to feel its effects. Here are some signs it’s time to schedule a professional Nashville air quality test:

  • Headaches or brain fog that improve when you leave the house
  • Itchy eyes, sinus congestion, or frequent sneezing indoors
  • Persistent fatigue or sleep issues
  • Musty smells or past mold issues
  • Recent renovations or new furnishings that could off-gas VOCs

These symptoms are often misattributed to seasonal allergies or stress—but your indoor air might be the real culprit.

What We Test For

We offer comprehensive air quality testing that can include:

  • Mold spore concentration
  • VOC levels from furniture, paint, and flooring
  • Allergen levels (pollen, pet dander, dust mites)
  • Particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10)
  • Temperature, humidity, and CO2 levels
  • Carbon monoxide and formaldehyde (upon request)

All tests are performed with high-quality, calibrated equipment and results are reviewed by a certified environmental expert.

Trusted by Nashville Families and Businesses

We’ve helped homeowners, schools, offices, and healthcare facilities throughout Middle Tennessee improve their indoor air. Whether you’re in East Nashville, The Nations, Franklin, or Mount Juliet, we bring the same level of professionalism and care to every property.

If you’re looking for comprehensive indoor environmental testing in Nashville, we’re here to help you get the clarity you deserve.

Schedule a Nashville Air Quality Test Today

Stop guessing about what’s in your air. Schedule your professional Nashville air quality test today and start building a safer, more breathable environment.

Contact us about our indoor environmental testing in Nashville

Nashville mold testing

Worried About Mold? Nashville Mold Testing Can Give You Peace of Complete Mind

Written by Martine Davis on . Posted in Mold Inspection, Mold Testing, Nashville, TN. No Comments on Worried About Mold? Nashville Mold Testing Can Give You Peace of Complete Mind

If you’ve been feeling unwell at home or noticing strange odors that won’t go away, it might be time to consider Nashville mold testing. Even if you can’t see mold, it could still be affecting your air quality — and your health.

At Indoor Environmental Testing, we help homeowners and business owners across Nashville uncover mold issues with precision, honesty, and no hidden agendas. Our testing process is designed to deliver clear answers you can trust.

The Power of Knowing What’s in Your Air

Mold spores are microscopic — and once they’re airborne, they can spread throughout your space and even into your HVAC system. You might not always see mold, but its effects can be felt in:

  • Respiratory problems or chronic coughing
  • Persistent allergy symptoms indoors
  • Musty or earthy smells
  • Water damage that was never professionally addressed

With professional Nashville mold testing, you can detect problems before they spiral into costly repairs or health issues.

How Our Mold Testing Works

Our team uses industry-standard techniques including:

  • Air sampling to test for airborne mold spores
  • Surface sampling from walls, vents, or suspect materials
  • Humidity and moisture readings to locate hidden problem areas
  • Clear, lab-verified results with detailed reporting

We are a test-only company—meaning we do not sell mold remediation services. That ensures our results are impartial and focused entirely on your best interest.

When Is Mold Testing Necessary?

Consider using our Nashville mold testing services if you’ve experienced:

  • Recent flooding or pipe leaks
  • Ongoing allergy symptoms that improve when you’re away from home
  • A mold remediation project that needs post-clearance verification
  • Real estate transactions or pre-listing inspections
  • A general concern for indoor air quality and health

Serving the Greater Nashville Community

We proudly serve all areas in and around Nashville, including Bellevue, Hermitage, Mt. Juliet, Antioch, and more. Our clients include homeowners, landlords, real estate agents, and businesses who want accurate, science-backed information about their indoor environment.

As part of our commitment to environmental safety, we offer complete indoor environmental testing in Nashville that includes mold, allergens, VOCs, and more.

Schedule Your Nashville Mold Testing Appointment Today

Don’t let invisible threats linger in your air. Contact us today to schedule expert Nashville mold testing and take the first step toward a healthier home or workplace.

Contact us to schedule your appointment for indoor environmental testing in Nashville.

Nashville Mold Inspection

Nashville Mold Inspection Guide: Discover the Alarming Signs You Can’t Ignore

Written by Martine Davis on . Posted in Mold Inspection, Nashville, TN. No Comments on Nashville Mold Inspection Guide: Discover the Alarming Signs You Can’t Ignore

Mold can be more than just a nuisance—it can seriously impact your home’s structure and your family’s health. Whether you’re noticing musty odors, unexplained allergy symptoms, or signs of water damage, a professional Nashville mold inspection is your first line of defense.

At Indoor Environmental Testing, we provide thorough, unbiased mold inspections throughout the Nashville area to help you identify issues early and take control of your indoor environment.

Why Mold Inspections Matter in Nashville

Nashville’s climate is warm and humid for much of the year—conditions that are ideal for mold growth. Add in frequent rain, aging infrastructure, and occasional storm damage, and you have a perfect storm for moisture-related problems.

Common reasons local residents book a Nashville mold inspection include:

  • Recent water leaks or flooding
  • New or ongoing respiratory symptoms
  • Visible discoloration or spotting on walls, ceilings, or floors
  • Real estate transactions requiring pre-purchase inspection
  • Peace of mind after remediation or repairs

What to Expect From a Professional Mold Inspection

Our inspections begin with a visual assessment, but we don’t stop there. We use moisture meters, infrared cameras, and air sampling equipment (when needed) to uncover what the eye can’t see.

What sets us apart:

  • We do not offer remediation services—so our findings are 100% objective.
  • We provide easy-to-understand reports with actionable recommendations.
  • We inspect for mold growth, hidden moisture sources, and potential contamination zones.

If you’ve been searching for an honest and science-driven Nashville mold inspection, you’ve come to the right place.

When to Schedule a Mold Inspection

Not sure if it’s the right time to call? Here are a few red flags that suggest a mold problem might be hiding in plain sight:

  • Musty or earthy smells, especially after rain or humidity
  • Recent plumbing issues or appliance leaks
  • Recurring headaches, fatigue, or allergy-like symptoms indoors
  • Past mold remediation without recent follow-up testing
  • Water stains or warped building materials

Serving Greater Nashville With Integrity

From Germantown to Green Hills, and from East Nashville to Brentwood and beyond, we help homeowners and property managers across the metro area get clear answers and peace of mind. Our team brings years of experience in indoor environmental testing in Nashville, using state-of-the-art tools and protocols.

Schedule Your Nashville Mold Inspection Today

Don’t let mold go undetected. Schedule a professional Nashville mold inspection today and get the answers you need to protect your health and your home.

Learn more about our indoor environmental testing in Nashville

Nashville EMF Testing

Hidden Dangers? Why Nashville EMF Testing Is Gaining Urgent Attention

Written by Martine Davis on . Posted in EMFs & Electro-Pollution, Nashville, TN, RF (microwave) Radiation. No Comments on Hidden Dangers? Why Nashville EMF Testing Is Gaining Urgent Attention

In today’s tech-saturated world, we’re surrounded by wireless signals, electronic devices, and high-voltage equipment—all of which emit electromagnetic fields (EMFs). While some exposure is unavoidable, elevated or chronic EMF levels in homes and workplaces are raising serious health concerns. That’s why Nashville EMF testing has become an increasingly important service for safety-conscious residents and businesses.

At Indoor Environmental Testing, we provide professional, unbiased EMF assessments using high-precision equipment and clear, science-backed reporting. If you’ve ever wondered whether EMF exposure could be affecting your health or comfort, we’re here to help you find out.

What Are EMFs—And Why Should You Care?

Electromagnetic fields are invisible waves of energy produced by:

  • Power lines and circuit breakers
  • Wi-Fi routers and smart home devices
  • Cell towers and 5G infrastructure
  • Computers, TVs, and game consoles
  • Microwaves, cordless phones, and Bluetooth devices

While EMFs are part of modern life, research has linked high levels of exposure to sleep disturbances, headaches, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and more. For people with EMF hypersensitivity, even low levels can be deeply disruptive.

Who Should Consider Nashville EMF Testing?

Our clients seek Nashville EMF testing for many different reasons, including:

  • Unexplained sleep problems, anxiety, or fatigue
  • Recent home upgrades involving smart tech or solar panels
  • Proximity to cell towers, substations, or high-tension power lines
  • New baby or pregnancy concerns
  • Chronic health issues with no clear source
  • Peace of mind before purchasing or leasing a new property

In commercial settings, EMF exposure may also affect sensitive equipment or create workplace discomfort that goes unnoticed until it becomes a pattern.

What Happens During an EMF Assessment?

Our EMF evaluations include:

  • Magnetic field testing (low-frequency EMFs from wiring, transformers, etc.)
  • Electric field measurements (from appliances, outlets, or lighting systems)
  • Radiofrequency (RF) exposure (from wireless routers, cell towers, smart meters)
  • Mapping of EMF “hot spots” throughout your property
  • Clear explanations of what’s normal, what’s not, and what can be mitigated

We use industry-leading meters and record data across a full spectrum of EMF frequencies—something smartphone apps and DIY meters simply cannot match.

We Test—We Don’t Sell Fear

Indoor Environmental Testing is a testing-only company. That means we don’t sell shielding products, remediation services, or gadgets. Our job is to help you understand your exposure, so you can make informed decisions—not to upsell you on expensive solutions you may not need.

And as part of our broader approach to healthy buildings, we offer full-spectrum indoor environmental testing in Nashville to assess mold, VOCs, allergens, and more.
Serving Homes, Schools, and Workplaces Across Nashville

We provide EMF testing in Nashville and surrounding communities, including Franklin, Brentwood, East Nashville, and Bellevue. Whether you’re concerned about a child’s bedroom near the breaker panel or want to ensure your office space is safe and balanced, we tailor each assessment to your environment.

Ready for Real Answers? Schedule Your EMF Testing Today

If you’re concerned about invisible energy sources affecting your home or workplace, don’t guess—get clarity. Our Nashville EMF testing services are designed to uncover hidden exposures and give you practical insights, not hype.

Learn more about our indoor environmental testing in Nashville and contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Mold in Rentals: What Are Your Rights as a Tenant?

Written by Martine Davis on . Posted in Indoor Environmental Testing, Mold Illness Mold Sickness, Mold Inspection, Mold Prevention.

Mold in a rental home is a serious issue that can pose health risks and damage property. If you’re a tenant dealing with mold, it’s essential to understand your rights and the steps you can take to ensure your living environment is safe and healthy. Remember: a safe home is a right, not a privilege.

Here, we’ll explore the professional, scientific, and legal aspects surrounding tenant rights concerning mold.

Steps to Identify Mold and Its Health Risks

Mold can thrive in damp, humid conditions, often found in areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. Signs of mold growth include:

– A musty odor
– Visible mold patches (often appearing as black, green, or white spots)
– Water stains on walls or ceilings, delamination on wood, bubbling paint, cracks in drywall, discoloration of paint
– Signs of water damage like leaks, water seepage, decay on wood material

Mold exposure can lead to various health issues, especially for individuals with respiratory problems or compromised immune systems. Symptoms may include allergic reactions, headaches, skin irritation, and respiratory difficulties. Some mold can affect the  neurological system and cause brain fog, dizziness, tremors,  migraines/headaches, etc. These symptoms are similar to microwave radiation poisoning from wi-fi, wireless printers, cordless phones, etc. so make sure you keep these appliances at a distance.

What are your legal rights as a tenant?

In many jurisdictions, tenants have specific rights when it comes to hazardous living conditions, including mold. Here are some general legal protections you should be aware of:

1. Implied Warranty of Habitability: Most states require rental properties to meet certain health and safety standards. This means that if a property is uninhabitable due to mold, you may have grounds to request repairs or even terminate your lease. Always do this in writing!

2. Duty to Notify: Tenants are typically required to inform their landlord of any problems with mold or water damage as soon as they are discovered. Documenting your communication—through emails or written notices—can be vital if legal action or mediation becomes necessary later.

3. Right to Withhold Rent: In some cases, if a landlord fails to take action after being notified of a mold issue, tenants may have the right to withhold rent until the problem is resolved. However, this action comes with risks and should be pursued with caution and preferably with legal advice first because the landlord can start eviction proceedings for non-payment.

4. Retaliation Protections: If you report mold issues, your landlord cannot retaliate against you by raising rent, evicting you, or refusing to renew your lease. If you feel you are being retaliated against, document each incident carefully.

Taking Action Against Mold

1. Document Everything: Keep records of mold sightings, health issues, and communication with your landlord. Photos, emails, and written notices are invaluable.

2. Request Repairs: Formally request your landlord to address the mold issue. This should be done in writing and detail the potential health impacts. How the landlord reacts to your request will tell you how to proceed. If they respond in a responsible and professional manner, they will hire a mold professional to investigate. Let them know you would like a copy of the inspection report. 

TIP: Beware of Mold Inspections that consists of simple air sampling in the middle of a room or “tape lifts” from general surfaces. Hidden molds inside ducts, in carpeting or inside wall cavities are rarely detectable with this methodology.

3. Seek Professional Help: If the landlord or Management Company doesn’t respond appropriately, or if you are not able to sufficiently document the mold problem, consider hiring a professional mold inspection company like Indoor Environmental Testing to provide an objective assessment and help bolster your case if you need to pursue further action. This step would likely be necessary if you plan to pursue legal action so confirm that the inspection company offer litigation support. The advantage here is that you will receive the inspection reports with the inspector’s findings.

If a mold problem is found, ask for reimbursement for your expenses related to the mold. Request that the mold problem be addressed according to the recommendation outlined in the inspection report.

The biggest and most common mistake landlords make at this point is to have their maintenance staff handle the remediation. This is a high risk step for all because improper handling of mold contaminated materials can cause cross contamination to the HVAC system and severe damage to the tenant’s furnishing and belongings. If this happens, cover all your belongings and furniture with plastic and have a mold professional test them when the remediation has been completed to verify that your things were not contaminated.

4. Legal Consultation: If your landlord does not respond appropriately, seek legal advice. A lawyer specializing in tenant rights can guide you on how to proceed, whether that involves mediation or filing a lawsuit.

Conclusion

Mold in your rental apartment, condo, town home or house is more than just an annoyance; it’s a potential health hazard that demands immediate attention. Understanding your rights as a tenant is crucial in addressing this issue effectively. By documenting your situation, communicating with your landlord in writing, and taking appropriate action, you can work towards ensuring a safe and healthy living environment. Always consider consulting a legal professional if you’re unsure about your rights or the best course of action.

For further assistance or to discuss your situation, feel free to reach out. Let’s ensure your living space stays safe and healthy! For a mold inspection, contact us at 1.800-692.4783 (serving Madison, WI, Knoxville and Nashville, TN)

Here are some possible contacts for legal advice.

Nashville:

  • Ann Peldo Cargile: Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP.
  • Connie Chadwick
  • Robert E. Lee Davies, Jr.: Puryear, Newman & Morton
  • Freeman & Fuson
  • Davis Law Firm

Madison:

  • Linda Monroe, Monroe Law Office
  • Community Justice, Inc (CommunityJusticeInc.org)
  • Steven C. Wheeler, Wheeler Equal Rights Law
  • Damon Etawlyah & Marin Smith, Small Axe Cooperative (Sliding Scale Available) 

Knoxville:

In Tennessee, contact

  • Tennessee Consumer Affairs Division for mediation services
  • Tennessee Fair Housing

In Madison, WI, contact The Tenant Resource Center Rental Rights Hotline 608-257-0006
Toll-Free: 877-238-RENT (7368)

For reliable information about mold, visit these websites:

  • https://www.epa.gov/mold/mold-cleanup-your-home
  • https://www.cdc.gov/mold-health/about/clean-up.html

Mold Health Effects: 5 Tips to Stay Safe

Written by Martine Davis on . Posted in Mold Prevention, Uncategorized.

Mold—a word that might make you shudder, and for good reason. Often lurking in hidden corners or damp spaces, mold is more than just an unsightly inconvenience. It can pose serious health risks, especially to certain vulnerable groups. In this blog, we’ll explore how mold affects health, who is most at risk, and what you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones.

What is Mold and Where Does it Grow?

Mold is a type of fungus that thrives in damp, humid environments. Found both indoors and outdoors, it spreads through airborne spores. Common indoor sources include leaky pipes, poorly ventilated bathrooms, and basements with moisture issues.

Fun fact: Did you know that mold spores are nearly everywhere, but they only grow into colonies when given the right conditions? Unfortunately, those “right conditions” often overlap with our living spaces!

The Health Risks of Mold Exposure

Mold exposure can lead to a range of health problems, depending on the type of mold, the level of exposure, and an individual’s susceptibility. Here’s a breakdown of common effects:

Respiratory Issues: Mold spores can irritate the respiratory system, causing coughing, sneezing, and throat irritation.

Allergic Reactions: Many people are allergic to mold, which can trigger symptoms like itchy eyes, a runny nose, or skin rashes.

Asthma Complications: For those with asthma, mold can exacerbate symptoms or even trigger attacks.

Chronic Effects: Prolonged exposure to toxic molds, like *Stachybotrys chartarum* (commonly known as “black mold”), has been linked to more severe issues like memory problems, fatigue, or lung inflammation.

Children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems are particularly vulnerable to mold’s effects.

Signs of Mold in Your Home

Mold doesn’t always announce itself with a musty smell or visible patches. Other signs include:

– Persistent water stains or peeling paint.

– Increased humidity or condensation on windows.

– Health issues among family members that improve when they’re away from home.

Preventing and Addressing Mold

To keep mold at bay, try these tips:

1. Control Humidity: Aim for indoor humidity levels below 60%, ideally between 30-50%.

2. Fix Leaks Promptly: Whether it’s a dripping faucet or a roof leak, address moisture sources quickly.

3. Ventilation is Key: Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens, and ensure proper airflow throughout your home.

4. Regular Inspections: Check damp areas like basements, under sinks and behind toilets sinks for early signs of mold.

Thermal imaging device

5. Professional Help: If mold infestation is significant, consult a mold expert. A few hundred dollars for a mold inspection can end up saving thousands of dollars in damage

Conclusion

Mold is more than just a household nuisance; it’s a genuine health concern that warrants attention. By understanding its risks and taking proactive measures, you can create a safer and healthier environment. Remember, the battle against mold starts with awareness. Share this blog with friends and family—they might thank you for it!

For more information about Mold’s Health Effects, visit the CDC web page about mold

Should you buy a house with a crawl space?

Written by Martine Davis on . Posted in Air Quality Testing, Mold Prevention, Uncategorized.

When buying a house with a crawl space, potential extra costs include: crawl space encapsulation (to prevent moisture and pests), repairs for existing moisture damage like wood rot, additional insulation, pest control treatments, and potential structural repairs related to water damage; all of which can significantly add to the purchase price of the home.

Moisture is the plague of crawl spaces everywhere and is a big deal because it can impact finances and physical health. So what are the consequences of moisture in a crawlspace?

#1: Energy Costs

Vented dirt crawl spaces are costly since they create damp conditions upstairs, which requires more energy to heat. Damp air also puts more strain on an HVAC system.

Taking care of humidity problems in a crawlspace can save 15-25% depending on the size of the house, whether ducts are located in the crawl, how many stories the house has, etc.

Simply caulking around windows doesn’t fix the problem.

#2: Pests

A moist and moldy crawl space attracts pests. Rodents, insects, snakes and more can make their way into the home; some die in the crawlspace. As they decay, they create offensive odors that rise into the occupied space.

High humidity conditions in the living space invite dust mites and their droppings. These droppings exacerbate symptoms for allergy and asthma sufferers.

A moist crawlspace also favors termites due to the abundance of wet wood and since homeowners rarely visit their crawlspace, they don’t know that the home is being eaten away from the inside.

#3: Mold

Moisture settles on exposed surfaces, including joists, beams, fiberglass insulation, and drywall. As long as moisture is present, mold grows and spreads. If you’ve ever visited an older home and smelled a musty odor, mold probably was the culprit and 9 times out of 10, that musty odor comes from a basement or crawl.

Photo courtesy of Santa Fe Dehumidifiers

Mold in the crawl (or basement) has a direct impact on people living in the home. Because of the “stack effect,” air moves from below-grade spaces into the upper levels of the house. Warm air travels upward and escapes through cracks, windows, vents, and other openings. As the air rises, it carries allergens, spores, soil gases like radon, mold gases, dust, and harmful elements that infiltrate the living space. This often causes asthma, allergies, and respiratory problems for occupants.

#4: Rot

Moisture leads to mold and mold leads to rot. Rot eats away at wooden joists, beams, and drywall. It causes structural issues, like spongy floors, doors and windows that don’t close properly, buckling or sagging floors.

The options are to fix the moisture problem or replace floors and repair the foundation. 

Controlling humidity and water intrusion are essential. To accomplish that, an encapsulation system, dehumidifier and sump pump are usually recommended.

The Solution

Crawlspace encapsulation by a crawlspace expert will insulate damp earth and keep the area airtight, dry and energy efficient. A vapor barrier is installed on the walls and floors of the crawl, preventing water vapor and humidity from reaching vulnerable surfaces like joists and subfloor. The liner is mold and mildew resistant and usually comes with a 25-year warranty. This liner creates an inhospitable environment for pests and prevents summer heat and winter cold from invading.

Then a large dehumidifier is installed. These are usually efficient, low-maintenance systems that come with a 5-year warranty and are designed for usage in below-grade spaces. Ideally, the contractor will install a crawl space door composed of inorganic materials (foam board or plastic) not susceptible to rot and rust. It’s crucial to create an airtight seal between the crawl and outside air.

If necessary, your contractor may also recommend a drainage matting system to be installed underneath the liner to direct water to a perimeter drain and sump pump system to keep water from pooling and creating long-term damage.

The adage “you pay now or pay later” certainly applies to crawl spaces!

For more information about crawlspaces visit https://www.fema.gov/about/glossary/crawlspace and

https://www.energystar.gov/saveathome/seal_insulate/basement_crawlspace

WHY MYCOTOXINS NEVER DIE

Written by Martine Davis on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Indeed, mycotoxins don’t die, because …
Mycotoxins were never living organisms to begin with.
Mycotoxins are chemical substances deliberately produced by hazardous molds, mostly with the objective of inflicting damage. Why do molds produce mycotoxins?
Well molds have a great sense of survival and they will do whatever is necessary to safeguard their space, their food source and their existence.
Why do molds enter a defensive state and produce mycotoxins?
  1. Defense Mechanism — In response to threats from other microbes, mold synthesizes mycotoxins to keep the competition away. Consider it their declaration of territorial ownership.
  1. Competition for Resources – Mycotoxins keep other mold species and bacteria away to safeguard their food (dust) and habitat (damp or wet surface).
  1. Environmental Stressors: Variations in temperature, humidity, or nutrient availability may prompt mold to excrete mycotoxins as a survival mechanism.
It is crucial to acknowledge that mycotoxins may persist in your environment even after you’ve removed the mold from your house. This is why we recommend a detailed cleaning or “Bio Cleaning” after remediation. Mycotoxins are chemically very stable and will endure long after the mold has disappeared.
Mycotoxins burden the liver and kidneys, undermining your ability to eliminate toxins. This can cause a variety of symptoms even after the mold is gone. This underscores the significance of mycotoxin testing. Eliminating the sources of mold constitutes merely the initial element of the cleanup process. The second phase involves eliminating the byproducts disseminated by those sources within your residence (bacteria, beta glucans, mites, etc.).
For more information on testing your home for mold and mycotoxins, contact our office at 800-MY-AIR-TEST.
Above illustration courtesy of Mosaic Diagnostics, formerly Great Plains Laboratories

Brain Fog: Studies confirm mold causes brain inflammation

Written by Martine Davis on . Posted in Mold Illness Mold Sickness.

“Brain fog” is a general term used to describe cognitive symptoms such as confusion, difficulty concentrating, memory problems, and mental fatigue. While the exact mechanisms by which mold and its mycotoxins cause brain fog are not fully understood, it is believed that exposure to these toxins can trigger inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, including the brain. Furthermore, mycotoxins like trichothecenes can disrupt neurotransmitter function and interfere with communication between nerve cells in the brain. This disruption can lead to cognitive impairment.

For a long time now, mycotoxins were believed to be THE cause of various adverse effects on human health, including neurological symptoms. When neuroscientist Cheryl Harding set out to prove it with her study of mold exposure on the brain of mice, what she discovered was unexpected: Even when mycotoxins were removed and mice were exposed to spores only, neurological symptoms still occurred! This challenges what scientists have believed for decades: that  mycotoxins were the culprit.

Harding exposed mice 3 times a week for 6 weeks to Stachybotrys (aka “Toxic Black Mold”) OR to Stachybotrys spores with the toxins removed. Both sets of mice experienced brain inflammation, damage to brain cells, and worsening of memory. Some of the subjects exhibited behavior indicative of anxiety and overall sickness.

When the brain tissue was later examined, Harding noted a type of inflammation called innate immune activation and this was present in BOTH treatment groups, proof that even without the toxins, this mold was able to injure the immune system which then spread inflammation to the brain.

The memory part of the brain tissue also showed an increase in the brain immune cell that releases cytokines into the Central Nervous System (CNS) which, according to Harding, explained the mice “sickness behavior” of fatigue, pain and social withdrawal. 1

The results of another study published in 2020 showed that symptoms of the central or peripheral nervous system were more common among participants of the study who were exposed to mold vs. control participants who were not exposed, that is 81 vs 11% . Fatigue was reported in 77 vs. 24%  and “brain fog” was prevalent in 62 vs 11% of the study participants.2

It’s important to note that while this evidence suggests a definite link between mold exposure and cognitive symptoms like brain fog, more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms involved and to establish a definitive causal relationships.

If you suspect that mold exposure is affecting your health, it’s advisable to consult with a mold-literate healthcare professional for proper evaluation and management. A list of mold-literate docs is available on the IET website.

Harding CF, Pytte CL, Page KG, Ryberg KJ, Normand E, Remigio GJ, DeStefano RA, Morris DB, Voronina J, Lopez A, Stalbow LA, Williams EP, Abreu N. Mold inhalation causes innate immune activation, neural, cognitive and emotional dysfunction. Brain Behav Immu

2 Saija Hyvönen, Jouni Lohi, Tamara Tuuminen, Moist and Mold Exposure is Associated With High Prevalence of Neurological Symptoms and MCS in a Finnish Hospital Workers Cohort, Safety and Health at Work, Volume 11, Issue 2, 2020, Pages 173-177, ISSN 2093-7