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Atlanta 770 590-7880
Chicago 847 898-0211
or
1-800-665-3522
Atlanta 770 590-7880 Chicago 847 989-0211 or 1-800-MOLDLAB Same day inspections and reporting available.  Member Better Business Bureau With over 10,000 inspections completed in 10 years. Tuesday May 13th, 2008 Our
families health is worth quite a bit especially after numerous doctor visits with no results. Did you know a simple indoor
air quality inspection and microbiology testing could find the cause of sneezing, headaches, coughing, or just that sense
of not quite feeling right. Many of our clients mention that when they are at home they feel bad but once they
leave the home they feel better and returning home they feel bad again. This also holds true for people going to work once
they get to work they feel bad then leave the office and feel better. We will do a full assessment of the home
or office looking for any signs of indoor air contaminents or mold spores. Next we do air sampling by using an air pump that
literally pulls in the air and traps these contaminants. We take these spore trap samples to a microbiologist for testing
and checking for over twenty different forms of mold and allergens. We will then forward the test results to you
via email and review the findings with you and a course of remediation or clean up. If found early enough cleaning and disinfecting
is easy with most homeowners able to do this themselves. The tricky thing about indoor air quality testing is the
things we do not see in the air that can hurt us. Stachybotrys toxic mold or as it is called black mold of course will leave
signs of it's presence but many more molds just stay in the air. Petri dishes are available at Lowes and Home
Depot but they will not tell you what type mold is present nor will they tell you how much is in the air. We are in the business
of trying to make our clients feel better when they don't know which way to turn after trying numerous medications
and many doctor visits. Complete inspection, indoor air quality sampling, microbiology
testing, and full report including remediation specification. Mold testing and indoor air quality testing should be a part
of any real estate transaction. Normally we can have your inspection done and the test results available within
48 to 72 hours or earlier upon request. We handle all residential inspections, apartments, condominiums, commercial
buildings, offices, hospitals, hotels, and motels with no job being too small or too large. Make a note or bookmark
our website address and phone number which is easy to remember : www.1800moldlab.com and our phone is 1-800-MOLD-LAB or Chicago 847 898-0211 and Atlanta 770 590-7880 Many of our calls are from realtors,
buyers, and sellers trying to make a real estate transition and mold spots are detected. Normally if this is caught early
enough it is not a big deal we sample it, test it, and report how to clean it properly. Our company is a totally
independant third party indoor air quality inspection company which means we have no vested interest in repairs or clean up.
If cleaning is needed by a professional company we will give you a name of a remediation company to clean and disinfect as
needed per our reporting. So this means you are protected from companies that do the inspection, testing, and repairs which
usually means thousands of dollars of unneeded repairs or cleaning costs. We have over 20 years expertise in moisture
inspections, indoor air quality inspections, amd mold inspections. We are a member the Better Business
Bureau having been in business as All Stucco and Mold Inspections Inc. since 1997. My name is Scott Zaeske President
of All Stucco and Mold Inspections with over 10,000 inspections completed and reported we are the number one indoor air quality
specialists having done more inspections than all other companies combined. Look for us in your yellow pages or call 1-800-MOLD-LAB
or Atlanta 770 590-7880 or Chicago 847 898-0211 or online at: www.allstucco.com/chicago.htmlSymptoms of possible sick building syndrome: shortness of breath and/or exhaustion after minor exercises such as
walking, a burning and watering of the eyes and nose, hoarse and sore throat and chronic cough, frequent headaches, chronic
fatigue, difficulty concentrating, dizziness, unexplained nausea, heart palpitations, sensitivity to odors, and nosebleeds.
If you believe you have sick building syndrome or have health problems related to mold toxins you should contact
us to set up a inspection.770.590.7880 847 989-0211 or 1.800.665.3522 Sick building syndrome refers to an alarming
trend among office workers who experience acute illness that researchers believe is linked toxins in the air supply of a building.
Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) has been documented across the country and typically involves a large number of building workers
or residents who experience ill health effects while working or living in the building. Lawyers across the country have successfully
represented people adversely affected by SBS. There are believed to be many causes of sick building syndrome including
mold. Many of the conditions leading the the problem are a result of negligent design and maintenance. The primary causes
of Sick Building Syndrome are: poor ventilation, little air movement, excessive humidity, airborne pollution, and mold and
mildew contamination. The building industry in the last two decades has designed buildings that have efficient ways
of holding air inside a structure to save on air conditioning costs. Unfortunately the trapped air is often not filtered properly
or circulated. The buildings are tightly sealed, but often lack adequate ventilation, leading to moisture buildup.The air
control system can become invaded by mold spores leading to a rash of Sick Building Syndrome. The symptoms of Sick
Building Syndrome include common maladies such as headaches as well as respiratory infections,asthma and serious allergies.
Additional symptoms related to SBS include cough, chest tightness, fever, chills, muscle aches, and allergic reactions such
as mucous membrane irritation and upper respiratory congestion. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, estimated
that as many as a third of the 70 million Americans work in buildings that are contain air quality problems and contaminants,
including molds and bacteria. Tell your relatives and friends to call 1-800-MOLD-LAB or visit our web site
at www.1800moldlab.com * Mold Remediation Contractor *Global Prevention Services Mr. Dan Ortega Phone : 678 414-0458 www.nomold.com Please review some of the links below to help educate yourself about mold and some of the health risks associated with
it.
770 590-7880 or 1-800-MOLDLAB
Stucco EIFS Dryvit Inspections
Mold Inspections
| Stachybotrys mold at home |
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| Window leakage and moisture damage. |
| Stachybotrys Mold at School |
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| Water leaks not repaired. |
| Is it worth $300.00 for an inspection |
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| I truly believe it is... |
| Lithonia GA Public Housing Unit |
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| And little babies live here. |
| Aspergillus and Penicillium Mold off the chart... |
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| Cladosporium Mold and Scopulariopsis. |
Lithonia Georgia "DANGEROUS" Mold Story click here
Air Quality in the Home
Quick Facts...
- Indoor air quality can be worse than that of outdoor air.
- Problems can arise from moisture, insects, pets, appliances, radon, materials used in household
products and furnishings, smoke and other sources.
- Effects range from minor annoyances to major health risks.
- Remedies include ventilation, cleaning, moisture control, inspections, and following manufacturers'
directions when using appliances and products.
Research has shown that the quality of indoor air can be worse than that of outdoor air. Many
homes are built or remodeled more tightly, without regard to the factors that assure fresh and healthy indoor air. Our homes
today contain many furnishings, appliances and products that can affect indoor air quality.
Signs of indoor air quality problems include:
- Unusual and noticeable odors.
- Stale or stuffy air.
- Noticeable lack of air movement.
- Dirty or faulty central heating or air conditioning equipment.
- Damaged flue pipes or chimneys.
- Unvented combustion air sources for fossil fuel appliances.
- Excessive humidity.
- Presence of molds and mildew.
- Health reaction after remodeling, weatherizing, using new furniture, using household and hobby
products, or moving into a new home.
- Feeling noticeably healthier outside.
Common Sources of Air Quality Problems
Poor indoor air can arise from many sources. At least some of the following contaminants can
be found in almost any home:
- Moisture and biological pollutants such as molds, mildew, dust mites, animal dander and cockroaches
from high humidity levels, inadequate ventilation, and poorly maintained humidifiers and air conditioners.
- Combustion products, including carbon monoxide, from unvented fossil fuel space heaters, unvented
gas stoves and ovens, and backdrafting from furnaces and water heaters.
- Formaldehyde from durable press draperies and other textiles, particle board products such as
cabinets and furniture framing, and adhesives.
- Radon, a radioactive gas from soil and rock beneath and around the home's foundation, groundwater
wells and some building materials.
- Household products and furnishings such as paints, solvents, air fresheners, hobby supplies, dry-cleaned
clothing, aerosol sprays, adhesives, and fabric additives used in carpeting and furniture which can release volatile organic
compounds.
- Asbestos found in most homes more than 20 years old. Sources include deteriorating, damaged or
disturbed pipe insulation, fire retardant, acoustical material and floor tiles.
- Lead from lead-based paint dust created when removing paint by sanding, scraping or burning.
- Particulates from dust and pollen, fireplaces, wood stoves, kerosene heaters and unvented gas
space heaters.
- Tobacco smoke, which produces particulates, combustion products and formaldehyde.
Remedies to Indoor Air Quality Problems
Living Areas
Paneling, pressed-wood furniture and cabinetry. These products may release formaldehyde gas.
Remedy: Ask about formaldehyde content before buying furniture or cabinets. Some types of pressed-wood
products, such as those with phenol resin, emit less formaldehyde. Also, products coated with polyurethane or laminates may
reduce formaldehyde emissions. After installation, open windows. Maintain moderate temperature and humidity.
Carpet. Biological pollutants can grow on water-damaged carpet. New carpet can release organic
gases. Remedy: Promptly clean and dry water-damaged carpet, or remove it altogether. If adhesives are needed,
ask for low-emitting ones. During installation, open doors and windows, and use window fans or room air conditioners. Vacuum
regularly. Consider area rugs instead of wall-to-wall carpet. Rugs are easier to remove and clean, and the floor underneath
also can be cleaned.
Floor tiles. Some contain asbestos. Remedy: Periodically inspect for damage
or deterioration. Do not cut, rip, sand or remove any asbestos-containing materials. If you plan to make changes that might
disturb the asbestos, or if materials are more than slightly damaged, contact a professional for repair or removal. Call your
local or state health department or the Environmental Protection Agency.
Moisture. Moisture encourages biological pollutants, including allergens such as mold, mildew,
dust mites and cockroaches. Remedy: If possible, eliminate moisture sources. Install and use exhaust fans.
Use a dehumidifier if necessary. Remove molds and mildew by cleaning with a solution of chlorine bleach (1 cup bleach to 1
gallon water). Maintain good fresh air with natural and mechanical air circulation.
Fireplace. Your fireplace can be a source of carbon monoxide and combustion pollutants. Remedy:
Open the flue when using the fireplace. Have the flue and chimney inspected annually for exhaust backdrafting, flue obstructions
or cracks, excess creosote or other damage. Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
Air conditioner. This can be a source of biological allergens. Remedy: If there
is a water tray, empty and clean it often. Follow all service and maintenance procedures, including changing the filter.
Gas or kerosene space heater. These devices can release carbon monoxide and combustion pollutants.
Remedy: Never use unvented kerosene or gas space heaters. In the room where the heater is located, provide
fresh air by opening a door to the rest of the house, turning on an exhaust fan and slightly opening a window.
Tobacco smoke. Smoke contains harmful combustion and particulate pollutants, including carbon
monoxide and combustion byproducts. Remedy: Do not smoke in your home or permit others to do so, especially
near children. If smoking cannot be avoided indoors, open windows or use exhaust fans.
Draperies. New draperies may be treated with a formaldehyde-based finish and emit odors for a
short time. Remedy: Before hanging, air draperies to ventilate odors. After hanging, ventilate the area.
Maintain moderate temperature and humidity.
Lead-based paint. Paint manufactured before l978 may contain lead. Remedy: Leave
lead-based paint undisturbed if it is in good condition. Before removing paint, test for lead. Do-it-yourself lead test kits
are available from hardware or building supply stores. Do not sand, burn off or remove lead-based paint yourself. Hire a person
with special training to correct lead-based paint problems. For more information, call 1-800-LEAD-FYI.
Animals. Many animals leave allergens, such as dander, hair, feathers or skin, in the air. Remedy:
Keep pets outdoors as often as possible. Clean the entire house regularly. Deep clean areas where pets are permitted. Clean
pets regularly.
House dust mites. Biological allergens can trigger asthma. Remedy: Clean and
vacuum regularly. Wash bedding in hot water above 130 degrees F. Use more hard-surface finishes; they are less likely to attract
and hold dust mites.
Kitchen
Household cleaners. Unhealthy or irritating vapors may be released from chemicals in products.
Remedy: Select nonaerosol and nontoxic products. Use, apply, store and dispose of them according to manufacturers'
directions. If products are concentrated, label the storage container with dilution instructions. Completely use up a product.
Pressed-wood cabinets. These can be a source of formaldehyde vapor. Remedy:
Maintain moderate temperatures (80 degrees maximum) and humidity (about 45 percent). When purchasing new cabinets, select
solid wood or metal cabinets or those made with phenol resin; they emit less formaldehyde. Ventilate well after installation.
Unvented gas stove and range. These are a source of carbon monoxide and combustion byproducts.
Remedy: Keep appliance burners clean. Periodically have burners adjusted (blue flame tip, not yellow). Install
and use an exhaust fan. Never use a gas range or stove to heat your home.
Bathroom
Personal care products. Organic gases are released from chemicals in some products, such as deodorant
and hair sprays, shampoos, toners, nail polish and perfumes. Remedy: Select odor-free or low odor-producing
products. Select nonaerosol varieties. Open a window, or use an exhaust fan. Follow manufacturers' directions when using the
product and disposing of containers.
Air freshener. These products can release organic gases. Remedy: Open a window
or use the exhaust fan instead. If you use air fresheners, follow manufacturers' directions. Select natural products.
Bedroom
Humidifier/vaporizer. Cold mist vaporizers can encourage biological allergens, including mold,
mildew and cockroaches, that can trigger asthma and encourage viruses and bacteria. Remedy: Use and clean
them according to manufacturers' directions. Refill daily with fresh water.
Moth repellents. These often contain the pesticide paradichlorobenzene. Remedy:
Avoid breathing vapors. Place them in tightly sealed trunks or other containers. Store separately, away from living areas.
Dry-cleaned goods. Chemicals used in the cleaning process release organic gases. Remedy:
Bring odors to the attention of your dry cleaner. Try to air out dry-cleaned goods before bringing them indoors. Seek alternatives
to dry cleaning, such as hand washing items.
Utility Room
Unvented clothes dryer. Gas dryers produce carbon monoxide and combustion byproducts and can
be a fire hazard. Remedy: Regularly dispose of lint around and under the dryer. Provide air for gas units.
Vent the dryer directly to the outside. Clean vent and ductwork regularly.
Gas or oil furnace/boiler and gas water heater. Air quality problems include backdrafting of
carbon monoxide and combustion pollutants. Remedy: Have your heating system and water heater, including gas
piping and venting, inspected every year.
Asbestos pipe wrap and furnace insulation. These can release asbestos fibers into the air. Remedy:
Periodically look for damage or deterioration. Do not cut, rip, sand or remove any asbestos-containing materials. If you plan
to make changes that might disturb the asbestos, or if materials are more than slightly damaged, contact a professional for
repair or removal.
Basement
Ground moisture. Moisture encourages biological allergens like mold and mildew. Remedy:
Inspect for condensation on walls, standing water on the floor, or sewage leaks. To keep basement dry, prevent outside water
from entering by installing roof gutters and downspouts, not watering close to the foundation, grading soil away from the
home, and applying waterproofing sealants to basement interior walls. For standing water, consider installing a sump pump.
If sewage is the source, have drains professionally cleaned. If moisture has no obvious source, install an exhaust fan controlled
by humidity levels. Remove mold and mildew. Regularly clean and disinfect the basement floor drain. A dehumidifier is a must
in hot humid days to remove moisture from the air.
Radon. This invisible, radioactive gas poses a lung cancer risk. Remedy: Test
your home for radon. Do-it-yourself kits are easy and inexpensive. Have an experienced radon contractor fix your home if your
radon level is 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher. For more information call 1-800-SOS-RADON.
Hobby products. Chemicals in products such as solvents, paint, glue and epoxy release organic
gases. Remedy: Follow manufacturers' directions for use, ventilation, application, clean-up, and container
storage and disposal. Use outdoors when possible. Indoors, open a window, or use an exhaust fan. Reseal containers well. Clean
tools outside or in a well-ventilated area.
Garage
Car and small engine exhaust. These are sources of carbon monoxide and combustion byproducts.
Remedy: Never leave vehicles, lawn mowers, snowmobiles, etc., running in the garage.
Paint, solvent and cleaning supplies. These products may release harmful vapors. Remedy:
Provide ventilation when using them. Follow manufacturers' directions. Buy only as much as you need. If the products contain
methylene chloride, such as paint strippers, use them outdoors. Reseal containers well. Keep products in their original, labeled
containers. Clean brushes and other materials outside.
Pesticides and fertilizers. Yard and Garden chemicals may be toxic. Remedy:
Use nonchemical methods when possible. Follow manufacturers' directions for mixing, applying, storing and using protective
clothing. Mix or dilute them outdoors. Provide ventilation when using them indoors. Store them outside of the home in their
original, labeled containers. After using the product, remove your shoes and clean your hands and clothing to avoid bringing
the chemicals into your home.
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
- Install a smoke detector in each bedroom or in the adjacent hallway.
- If you have gas or other fossil fuel appliances in the house, install carbon monoxide detectors
in these locations.
- Combination smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are available.
- Check the batteries frequently.
Amount of Ventilation
If too little outdoor air enters a home, pollutants can accumulate to levels that can pose health
and comfort problems. Unless they are built with special mechanical means of ventilation, homes that are designed and constructed
to minimize the amount of outdoor air that can "leak" into and out of the home may have higher pollutant levels than other
homes. However, because some weather conditions can drastically reduce the amount of outdoor air that enters a home, pollutants
can build up even in homes that are normally considered "leaky".
How Does Outdoor Air Enter a House?
Outdoor air enters and leaves a house by: infiltration, natural ventilation, and mechanical ventilation.
In a process known as infiltration, outdoor air flows into the house through openings, joints, and cracks in walls, floors,
and ceilings, and around windows and doors. In natural ventilation, air moves through opened windows and doors. Air movement
associated with infiltration and natural ventilation is caused by air temperature differences between indoors and outdoors
and by wind. Finally, there are a number of mechanical ventilation devices, from outdoor-vented fans that intermittently remove
air from a single room, such as bathrooms and kitchen, to air handling systems that use fans and duct work to continuously
remove indoor air and distribute filtered and conditioned outdoor air to strategic points throughout the house. The rate at
which outdoor air replaces indoor air is described as the air exchange rate. When there is little infiltration, natural ventilation,
or mechanical ventilation, the air exchange rate is low and pollutant levels can increase.
Indoor Air Pollution and Health
Health effects from indoor air pollutants may be experienced soon after exposure or, possibly,
years later.
Immediate effects
Immediate effects may show up after a single exposure or repeated exposures. These include irritation
of the eyes, nose, and throat, headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. Such immediate effects are usually short-term and treatable.
Sometimes the treatment is simply eliminating the person's exposure to the source of the pollution, if it can be identified.
Symptoms of some diseases, including asthma, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, and humidifier fever, may also show up soon after
exposure to some indoor air pollutants.
The likelihood of immediate reactions to indoor air pollutants depends on several factors. Age
and pre-existing medical conditions are two important influences. In other cases, whether a person reacts to a pollutant depends
on individual sensitivity, which varies tremendously from person to person. Some people can become sensitized to biological
pollutants after repeated exposures, and it appears that some people can become sensitized to chemical pollutants as well.
Certain immediate effects are similar to those from colds or other viral diseases, so it is often
difficult to determine if the symptoms are a result of exposure to indoor air pollution. For this reason, it is important
to pay attention to the time and place symptoms occur. If the symptoms fade or go away when a person is away from home, for
example, an effort should be made to identify indoor air sources that may be possible causes. Some effects may be made worse
by an inadequate supply of outdoor air or from the heating, cooling, or humidity conditions prevalent in the home.
Long-term effects
Other health effects may show up either years after exposure has occurred or only after long
or repeated periods of exposure. These effects, which include some respiratory diseases, heart disease, and cancer, can be
severely debilitating or fatal. It is prudent to try to improve the indoor air quality in your home even if symptoms are not
noticeable.
While pollutants commonly found in indoor air are responsible for many harmful effects, there
is considerable uncertainty about what concentrations or periods of exposure are necessary to produce specific health problems.
People also react very differently to exposure to indoor air pollutants. Further research is needed to better understand which
health effects occur after exposure to the average pollutant concentrations found in homes and which occurs from the higher
concentrations that occur for short periods of time.
Serving all Atlanta Georgia locations including Marietta, Roswell, Alpharetta, Dunwoody, Cartersville,
Stone Mountain, Lilburn, Tucker, Avondale Estates, Buckhead, Sandy Springs, Cumming, Powder Springs, Austell, Mableton, Fayetteville,
Newnan, Suwanee, Rome, Acworth, Kennesaw, Fayetteville, Dallas, Hiram, Douglasville, Carrollton, Cobb County, Fulton County,
Cherokee County, Paulding County, Gwinnett County, Forsyth County, Bartow County and much more...
Stucco EIFS Dryvit Hard Coat
Chicago - Atlanta
Stucco Home Inspections
EIFS Building Inspection
Stucco Inspections
Mold Inspection
Radon Testing
Asbestos inspections
At All Stucco and Mold Inspections Inc. our name preceeds us in quality, honest, timely, and courteous service as we
are dedicated to you our customer.
Our mission at All Stucco Inspections Inc. is working for you as a independent third party stucco or EIFS home inspection
company.
We have no vested interest in repairs but we can give you a list of contractors if needed and we will protect
you from companies in Atlanta doing stucco inspections and repairs.
If you do not hire us be sure you hire a company like us as an independent thrd party.
We can save you money and answer your questions about stucco, eifs, synthetic stucco,hardcoat, water damage, termite
infestation, elastomeric coatings, Dow Corning caulking, moisture free warranty, and stucco bond.
Many home inspection companies are new to stucco or eifs which could hurt in the sale of a home or cost homeowners a
lot of money in repair costs.
We have inspected over 10,000 stucco homes in the city of Atlanta and suburbs.
Our experience in eifs and stucco home inspections, chemistry, litigation, manufacturing, technical specifications, research,
and development in this industry is unsurpassed.
Stucco homeowners or buyers rest assured that if these products are installed and maintained properly they will last
as long if not longer than brick, wood, vinyl, or any siding system.
All Stucco Inspections Inc. does the following:
*Full moisture testing and inspection.
*Photographs of any needed upgrades.
*Written report documenting observations.
*Stucco
report is ready the very same day as inspection.
*List of independant certified contractors.
*Follow-up inspection after
any upgrades are completed at 1/2 the price of the original inspection cost.
Compare our services to any other stucco inspection
company in Atlanta and find out that All Stucco Inspections does the most for your dollar and no other company has as much
experience as we do.
We also offer a follow-up inspection at half the original price of the initial inspection. Meaning if you did have
work done on your home we will come back to make sure the stucco contractor did it right.
We also inspect commercial buildings including shopping centers, malls, hotels, motels, hospitals, industrial buildings,
and high rises.
We are also certified to do mold inspections of black mold, stachybotrys mold, and toxic mold along with indoor air quality
and sick house syndrome testing.
Click here for mold inspections.
Click on our link below for more information on black toxic stachybotrys mold inspections.770.590.7880 847 989-0211
or 1-800-MOLD-LAB
We bring peace of mind to our clients in offering services no other Atlanta stucco home inspection company can offer.
EIFS means Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems
you will see EFIS, EEFS, IFIS, or FEIS.
Hardcoat stucco means cement, lime, and sand
you will see stuco, stuko, stucko, or stucc-o.
Please note:Testing equipment is 50% of the stucco inspection the other 50% is our experience.
Can you trust your lifetime investment with novice home inspectors or repair companies?
"We know stucco..."
Beware of stucco repair companies doing stucco inspections which is a conflict of interest costing Atlanta area homeowners
on average between $5000.00 and $7000.00 of unneeded repairs.
Be sure to call us first or as a second opinion to these
stucco companies.
If you do not use All Stucco Inspections be sure who you hire is a totally independant third party inspection which our
company always has been and always will be. We have no vested interest in repairs and high repair bills as we work for you
to save money.770.590.7880
Fact: Infrared testing has been found inconclusive. Stucco litigation and class action does not recognize infrared moisture
testing and neither should you.
We offer follow-up inspection at 1/2 the price of the original inspection charge.
We have inspected many stucco and eifs products:
Dryvit Drivit Thorowall Finestone Sto Stow Stowe Senergy Acrocrete Premix Marbletite Parex Shield
Industries Shields SIR Stucco Bonsal Fuller Eurocoat Best Colormatch Color Guard Masterwall R
Wall USG Celotex Quick R Stucco Sir Densglass Gold Durock Drivet Pro Stucco Drivett Drivette Dryvet Dryvette Termite
Inspectors Termite Bond Termite cutting of stucco and many more... No matter how you spell it... We know "stucco".
1-800-665-3522 770 590-7880 and 847 989-0211 <BR> Serving all of Chicago land area including: <P> Elgin East
Dundee West Dundee Sleepy Hollow Cook County Algonquin Batavia McHenry St. Charles Geneva Bartlett Hanover
Park Bloomingdale Aurora Kane County Lake County McHenry County Schaumburg Hoffman Estates Carpentersville Streamwood Chicago Warrenville West
Chicago Roselle Kane County Cook County Lake County DuPage County Roselle Libertyville Wayne Naperville Palatine Hampshire Pingree
Grove McHenry County Lake Geneva Wisconsin Barrington Elburn Sugar Grove Wheaton Winfield Glendale
Heights Carol Stream Lily Lake Plato Center Arlington Heights Glen Ellyn Lombard Elmhurst Libertyville Addison Bensenville Wood
Dale Itasca Elk Grove Village Huntley Barrington Hills Inverness Lake Zurich Rolling Meadows Woodstock Mt
Prospect DesPlains Northbrook Wheeling Cary Wonderlake Fox River Grove Lakewood Bull Valley Hinsdale Oak
Brook Rosemont Dekalb Lake in the hills Crystal Lake South Elgin <P> Serving all of Atlanta and suburbs including:
Marietta
Smyrna
Alpharetta
Roswell
Duluth
Suwanee
Cumming
Decatur
Rome
Rockmart
Sugar Hill
Acworth
Kennesaw
Woodstock
Chamblee
Norcross
Tucker
Atlanta
Sandy
Springs
Buckhead
Midtown
Lawrenceville
Lilburn
Fairburn
Social Circle
Fayetteville
Peachtree City
Riverdale
Stone
Mountain
Cartersville
Calhoun
Dalton
Powder Springs
Hiram
Douglasville
Carrollton
Newnan
Emerson
Dallas
Dunwoody
Covington
Conyers
Austell
Mableton
Jasper
Dahlonega
Gainesville
Bartow
County
Cobb County
Gwinnett County
Fulton County
Fayette County
Cherokee County
Dekalb County
Rockdale
County
Forsyth County
Floyd County
Rome
Radon Testing
Liz Hoffman
Providing A Voice To Stop the Nation's 2nd Leading Cause of Lung Cancer
One in five people diagnosed with lung cancer have never smoked.
Prevention for your family starts with a simple test of your home.
My name is Elizabeth Hoffmann and I’m a survivor of radon induced lung cancer. Although, I have never smoked, my
15-year exposure to dangerous levels of radon in my home resulted in doctors having to remove the cancerous lower lobe of
my left lung prior to my 38th birthday.
Lucky for me, they caught my cancer early. The National Academy of Sciences (NAS) and EPA blame radon for the deaths
of 21,000 Americans every year. But, their deaths, like my cancer, could have been prevented. A simple radon test at the time
we bought our home in 1988 would have alerted me to fix our house before we moved in. If I’d only known...
Since few oncologists provide a potential explanation for the cause, most non-smokers diagnosed with lung cancer never
make a connection to radon exposure. I would remain clueless myself, if it hadn’t been for the determination of my family
to find out why. My cousin mentioned radon to my father, who tested my house upon my return from the hospital.
The purpose of this website is two-fold: First, to put a face on radon, empowering sufferers of an apparent radon-induced
lung cancer (and their families) with a voice. While it is obviously too late to prevent our cancer, our stories can
convince others to prevent deadly radon exposure by testing and fixing. We can also shape public policy by convincing lawmakers
and government agencies to treat the radon issue and lung cancer with the seriousness they deserve.
Second, to prevent LC victims from remaining clueless. If you or a family member has been recently diagnosed with
lung cancer, it is imperative that you test your home for radon.
If you determine radon is the likely cause of your lung cancer, we’ll simply invite you to come forward and share
your story. Together, we can make a difference for generations to come.
Doctors Warn of the Need For Prevention
People come into my office and say Doc Price I just don’t understand it.
How can this happen to me? I don’t smoke. Nobody ever smokes around me.
How can I have lung cancer?
While it is true that most of my lung cancer patients have had a lot of tobacco exposure, the ones that are especially
sad are the people who have never smoked, have never been around secondhand smoke, who have lived “good clean lives”
and lo and behold, they have a cold or bronchitis, and the chest x-ray and the cat scan show they have lung cancer.
But, it is really hard to convince the public that radon is a problem when the nation’s leading housing authority,
HUD, refuses to take action to prevent radon exposure. They require a termite letter to qualify for a mortgage, yet
to my knowledge a termite never killed anybody. Why are they not requiring a radon test?
We know the direct association between radon and lung cancer. But to the people at risk, it’s a totally unperceivable
problem because you can’t feel it; you don’t smell it and you don’t see it.
Lung cancer kills more Americans each year (160,000) than breast, prostate and colorectal cancers combined. The EPA estimates
21,000 of them are the result of radon-induced lung cancer. That’s nearly 60 per day!”
Never underestimate the importance of prevention in all aspects of your life. If you’re a lung cancer victim
aware of all the ways it is impacting you and your family – you’d be kicking yourself if you knew something a
simple as a radon detection device would have allowed you to prevent this from occurring.
Please contact us at All Stucco and Mold Inspections today 770 590-7880 and schedule a Radon test which cost only $225.00
Where Does Radon Come From?
Radon is a naturally occurring odorless, tasteless, colorless radioactive gas. It is produced by the natural breakdown
of radium in soil, rock and water. Many homes and other buildings, such as schools and offices have high levels of radon.
Because it's odorless and invisible and the lung cancer usually shows up over a long period of exposure, the danger of radon
is often underestimated.
Because of the stack effect, radon can be drawn into the home from the soil below. Common entry points are cracks in
concrete floors, utility access points, spaces around floor drains, sump pits, construction joints and tiny cracks in basement
walls. The concentration will depend on the source strength and the rate of pressure driven entry.
How Does Radon Induce Lung Cancer?
If inhaled, airborne radon decay products become deeply
lodged or trapped in the lungs, where the alphas radiate and penetrate the cells of the mucous membranes, bronchi, and other
pulmonary tissues.
The ionizing radiation energy affecting the bronchial epithelial cells is believed to initiate the process of the carcinogenesis.
Although, radon-related lung cancers are mainly seen in the upper airways, radon increases the incidence of all histological
types of lung cancer, including small cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma.
What is The Evidence?
More is known about the health risk of radon
exposure than almost any other human carcinogen. In fact, the University of Iowa College of Public Health recently compiled
a bibliography of radon epidemiology research that took 192 pages just to list!
These include extensive studies of thousands of underground miners, carried out over more than 50 years worldwide, that
have consistently shown an increase in lung cancer occurrence with exposure to radon progeny.
Miner studies have produced some interesting findings. For example, at equal cumulative exposures, low exposures in the
range of EPA’s 4 pCi/L Action Level over longer periods produced greater lung cancer risk that high exposures over short
periods. Non-smoking miners were observed to have a significant increased risk, even after controlling for, or in the absence
of other mine exposures such as asbestos, silica, diesel fumes, arsenic, chromium, nickel, and ore dust. An added synergic
effect between radon exposure and cigarette smoking was also found.
The NAS has repeatedly concluded that it is reasonable to extrapolate from the miner data to a residential situation
and in doing so, consider that the effective doses per unit of exposure for people in homes is approximately 30% less than
for the miners.
Residential studies have yielded similar findings. The Iowa Residential Radon Study completed in May of 2000 determined
that even at the EPA Action Level of 4 pCi/L, an approximate 50 percent excess lung cancer risk was found among the women
in the study after correcting for the impact of smoking.
A 2002 residential study conducted in northeast Spain yielded similar results. Even at concentrations far below official
guideline levels, the Spanish study found that radon might lead to a 2.5-fold rise in the risk of lung cancer.
Exposures of animals further confirm that radon and its progeny cause lung cancer. Health effects observed in animals
exposed to radon include lung carcinomas, pulmonary fibrosis, emphysema, and a shortening of life span.
The incidence of respiratory tract tumors increased with an increase in cumulative exposure. Exposure to ore dust
and diesel fumes simultaneously with radon did not increase the incidence of lung tumors above that produced by radon progeny
exposures alone. In a study of rats exposed to radon progeny, it was observed that the risk of lung cancer was elevated at
exposure levels similar to those found in homes.
Can High Radon Levels Be Reduced?
A certified or licensed contractor can easily and affordably reduce
elevated radon levels. Most techniques prevent radon from entering your home by drawing the radon from below the house and
venting it through a pipe to the air above the house where it quickly dilutes.
Mitigation can also decrease moisture and other soil gases entering the home, reducing mold, mildew, methane, pesticide
gases and other air quality problems.
Facts About Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States.
Lung cancer kills more Americans each year than breast, prostate and colorectal cancers combined.
Lung cancer kills more women each year than breast cancer.
Lung cancer kills 85% of newly diagnosed patients within five years.
Approximately 50% of the people diagnosed with lung cancer have never smoked or are former smokers.
Lung cancer gets few of the research dollars because of the perception it is self-inflicted by smoking.
In 2003, approximately $1,740 was spent on research per lung cancer death, compared with: $13,649 per breast cancer death,
$10,560 per prostate cancer death and $4,581 per colorectal cancer death.
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770 590-7880 or 1-800-MOLDLAB
Methamphetamine Lab Assessments
| Residential commercial methamphetamine assessments |
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| Be sure before you buy that home or business... |
We also do methamphetamine testing and inspections...
Methamphetamine use today is becoming an epidemic with labs discovered in such structures as single family dwellings,
mobile homes, vehicles, hotels, open air structures; in both urban, suburban and rural areas.
Clandestine labs
have become prevalent across America. They are used for the illicit production of illegal drugs, mostly methamphetamine, PCP,
GHB, or MDA (Ecstasy). Some labs have even been found with the raw materials used to concoct homemade bombs. Law enforcement
departments have seen a significant rise in occurrences over the last ten years. The hazardous materials found on these premises
have to be properly inspected, tested, and cleaned up. In a three year span between 2000-2002 there were over 7500 removal
jobs totally over 150,000 kg of hazardous materials. A thorough understanding of the many challenges involved in working at
these sites and properly abating the hazards is crucial.
Types of hazards associated with clandestine labs Individuals
usually operate these makeshift labs with little to no training in chemistry. They employ crude homemade equipment to accomplish
complex and dangerous chemical reactions. Due to the nature of the chemicals involved there is significant risk of explosion,
fire and exposure. Clandestine lab operators have also been known to carry firearms and use booby traps; due to the paranoid
delusions associated with meth usage.
The chemical agents used in the production of illegal drugs can include common
household products such as methanol, ether, benzene, methylene chloride, trichloroethane, toluene, muriatic acid, sodium hydroxide,
table salt, and ammonia. Some of the uncommon household items used include anhydrous ammonia, red phosphorus, iodine, and
reactive metals. The poor handling, disposal, and mixing of incompatible chemicals leads to significant hazardous conditions.
Once these chemicals are mixed and used in the making or `cooking` process, the production of other potentially harmful chemicals
ensue.
Oftentimes, abatement workers focus strictly on the chemical hazards. However, there may be drug addicts and
other visitors coming to the lab expecting it to still be operational. Wandering meth users tend to be dillusional, paranoid
and desperate. Your personal protection can be at stake.
Health effects related to exposure
Working in clandestine
drug labs poses significant dangers that one must be aware of or serious health effects could develop including the most extreme
case of death. Knowledge of basic toxicology is crucial. The effect of a chemical can differ significantly depending on how
it enters the body. Entry routes include inhalation, dermal absorption, and ingestion. Inhalation is the most common route
of entry since we are continuously breathing. Noxious chemicals that are breathed in can rapidly enter the circulatory system
(blood) and get transported throughout the body. Since we are performing manual labor during abatement of the lab our respiratory
rate is higher leading to greater exposure. Inhalation exposure also depends on the size of the inhaled particles and the
properties of the exposed chemical. Chemicals with higher solubilities tend to get absorbed into the blood system faster.
Toxins can also be absorbed through the skin. Although one may not feel pain or discomfort when the chemical contacts the
skin, once it is absorbed it can travel throughout the body in the blood. Ingestion is the least likely exposure method but
workers should be wary of eating and drinking within the confines of the lab.
Solvents such as acetone, ether, freon,
hexane, methanol, and toluene target the eyes, skin, respiratory system, central nervous system, liver, and kidneys causing
such symptoms as irritation to skin, eyes, nose and throat; headache; dizziness; central nervous system depressant/depression;
nausea; vomiting; and visual disturbance. Corrosive chemicals such as anhydrous ammonia, hydrochloric acid, sodium hydroxide
(lye), sodium thiosulfate, sulfuric acid (drain cleaner) target the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract causing symptoms such
as irritation to upper respiratory tract; cough; eye and skin irritation, inflammation and burns; gastrointestinal disturbances;
thirst; chest tightness; dyspnea; muscle pain; syncope; and convulsions. Metals such as iodine, lithium metal, red phosphorus,
yellow phosphorus, sodium metal used in the process can target the eyes, skin, respiratory system, central nervous system,
liver, kidneys, blood, cardiovascular system causing irritation to eyes, skin, nose and respiratory tract; lacrimation; headache;
chest tightness; cutaneous hypersensitivity; abdominal pain; and jaundice.
Sampling and laboratory analysis (basic,
short and sweet)
Many States have specific guidelines for clearance testing associated with clandestine laboratories.
For clandestine methamphetamine operations, the clearance contractor is usually required to wipe surfaces and send the samples
to an accredited laboratory. NIOSH and OSHA have not published validated methods for the analysis of methamphetamine in air.
OSHA has published a CSI (Chemical Sampling Information) procedure that utilizes gas chromatography with flame ionization
detection (GC/FID). However, most states require gas chromatography with mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Detection limit requirements
are sub microgram methamphetamine per wipe.
Samples can be taken from kitchen areas of the home where cooking activities
are intensified. The clearance contractor should take samples from the refrigerator (inside and out), the stove/oven, and
the gap between the counter and the stove where those nasty little toast crumbs build up.
Testing should also be performed
where a wall or floor meets a cold/warmer exterior. The meth will tend to crystallize out at these temperature transition
interfaces. HVAC ductwork should be inspected as well for settled residue. The vehicles used in transportation, if clearance
is required, may need wipe testing. Dashboards and seats can be wiped and submitted for testing.
When searching for
testing services, it is important to make sure your laboratory is aware of the clearance testing requirements for your State´s
program. Also, make sure that the required instrumentation is available for use. Lastly, make sure the detection limits will
meet your clearance needs.
Other types of laboratory testing may also be required that are related to the chemicals
used in the manufacture of the illegal drug. The alchemist cooker may have used a variety of solvents and reactive metals
to produce his/her illicit powders. Be sure to consult RCRA and State regulations regarding the testing and disposal of drummed
wastes, building materials, carpet, wallboard, ceiling tiles, furniture, and appliances.
There may be toxic materials
buried or dumped in the surrounding grounds. A thorough investigation of the entire property is required.
Abatement
& Hazardous Materials Handling Guidelines
Only trained personnel should be handling any chemicals. These individuals
must be able to recognize chemical names and understand the effect of chemical combinations. Separating any incompatible chemicals
can reduce the risk of explosion. Ventilate all confined spaces thereby limiting the concentration of explosive fumes and
turn off any heat sources. Make sure all the lab equipment is turned off and no longer heating the
chemicals.
Household
materials, including carpets, sheetrock, ceiling tiles, upholstery, and draperies, may become contaminated with chemicals
requiring abatement. During cleanup and removal of contaminated materials, workers should have personal protection equipment.
This includes eye, hand, and foot coverings. Disposable gloves and a Tyvek jumpsuit are good precautions for direct contact
exposure but if toxic fumes are suspected then a suitable breathing apparatus is needed. More often then not, abatement includes
removal of contaminated materials, and scrubbing and painting solid surfaces. Depending on the site and extent of contamination,
soil and groundwater may need extensive cleanup.
Atlanta
770 590-7880 or 770 826-3575 Chicago
847 989-0211
1-800-665-3522
Stucco Inspections
Mold Inspections
Methamphetamine Lab Assessments
Phone:1-800-665-MOLDLAB
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