CertainTeed Insulation Mold Awareness Month Press Release 9-2-11

September 2, 2011
 
September is Mold Awareness Month
 
Through recent storms, exceptionally rainy weather and, of course, Hurricane Irene many homes throughout the country have been exposed to excess moisture and water — which could lead to mold growth if not handled properly. Some types of mold can be a detriment to a healthy home, leading to eye irritation, wheezing and nasal congestion.  To help raise awareness, the U.S Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) dedicates the month of September as National Indoor Mold Awareness Month. 
 
To help homeowners ensure a healthy home, CertainTeed Corporation — North America’s largest building product manufacturer — offers the following tips:
 
Fix leaks. Homeowners should check for leaky roofs, foundations, faucets and pipes on a regular basis, making sure they aren’t allowing extra moisture to accumulate in these areas. Leaks should be fixed as soon as they are found.
 
Keep humidity under control. The ideal humidity for a home is between 30 and 50 percent. Relative humidity can be measured with an inexpensive moisture or humidity meter, available at most hardware stores. Membrain™ Smart Vapor Retarder and Air Barrier aids in humidity control by reacting to moisture levels in the wall cavity.  This allows for water vapor to escape insulated areas and increases drying potential within the wall.
 
Stop mold before it can get started. For new homes and even if you are remodeling or repairing your home after storm-related damage, there is an innovative product available only from CertainTeed. FortiCel™ and FortiCel™ Crawlspace can be sprayed by certified professionals on wall studs, wood framing, concrete and floor joists to prevent the growth of mold on these surfaces and is backed by an industry-leading 25-year warranty.
 
Plan your foundation. Homeowners should make sure that the ground slopes away from the building foundation, so that water cannot collect around or enter the foundation.  
 
Keep it dry. Homeowners should clean and dry any damp furnishings within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mold growth.
 
Check for odors. If you have had a leak, then the first sign of mold may be musty or moldy odors in the vicinity of the leak. Keep in mind you do not want to sniff for mold, or touch for mold — if you suspect a mold problem contact a certified mold inspector.
 
Select the right products. If you are replacing drywall, look for products that inhibit mold growth, such as M2Tech® gypsum board and finishing products. The M2Tech system is moisture and mold resistant, and is GREENGUARD Indoor Air Quality Certified.  Incorporating these products into your home will provide added
peace of mind in the event that inclement weather strikes again. 
 
Watch for ground water. Checking the exterior of homes regularly will help avoid the accumulation of ground water, which can cause mold. If found, homeowners should route water away using downspouts and re-grade to slope water away from
the home.