Indoor exposure to mold can cause a variety of health problems, including allergic reactions or even asthma attacks in people allergic to mold.

“If mold is hidden from site and thriving behind a wall, you may not know it exists. But, your body is the best judge of indicators,” says Eagle homeowner Betty Neal after finding and having mold removed from her family home. “Pay attention, Colorado is not immune to indoor mold. Anytime there’s a water or condensation problem, there is the potential for mold.”

SteamMaster, a local restoration company, has received confirmation from the Indoor Air Quality Association that five of its employees have eared the status of Certified Mold Remediator, or CMR. SteamMaster now employs five of the six CMRs in the region defined by the 970 telephone area code.

The CMR examination program was created in 2001 in response to demand for a testing and credential program for professionals who work in identifying and removing microbiological contaminants indoors. The certification further requires either five years of experience in a field related to the mold remediation industry, or two years of college, plus three years experience in a field related to the mold remediation industry.

In no case will a CMR have less than one year work experience in a field related to the mold remediation industry. All combined, SteamMaster’s Certified Mold Remediators” possess over 50 years of experience in the restoration industry.

“With the longstanding relationship we’ve enjoyed locally in the valley, it is our commitment to provide the highest level of service, knowledge, and quality without having to reach beyond our area to do so,” says Gary Gilman, owner of SteamMaster.

With its corporate office in Minturn and a satellite office in Frisco, SteamMaster has serviced the Central Colorado Rockies for 23 years. In February, the company expanded its facilities to include 3,500 square feet of building space in Breckenridge. SteamMaster is also available to travel and consult in Garfield, Pitkin, Routt, Chaffee, Grand and Park Counties.

Mold Remediation Tips

• Fix leaky plumbing and leaks in the building envelope as soon as possible. Watch for condensation and wet spots. Fix sources of moisture problems as soon as possible.
• Prevent moisture due to condensation by increasing surface temperature, insulate or increase air circulation. To reduce the moisture level in air, repair leaks, increase ventilation if outside air is cold and dry or dehumidify if outdoor air is warm and humid.
• Keep heating, ventilation, and air conditioning drip pans clean, flowing properly and unobstructed.
• Vent moisture-generating appliance, such as dryers, to the outside where possible.
• Maintain low indoor humidity, below 60 percent relative humidity, ideally 30-50 percent, if possible.
• Perform regular inspection and maintenance as scheduled. Clean and dry wet or damp spots within 48 hours.
• Don’t let foundations stay wet. Provide drainage and slope the ground away from the foundation.

Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency